Libby Hunter: Realtor, EcoBroker

Name: Libby Hunter
Title: Realtor, EcoBroker, Volunteer, Mom
Age: 43
Neighborhood: Northside

What do you do? 
I work in residential real estate, my niche is sustainable urban redevelopment. Focusing on urban infill, energy efficiency, green building advocacy. I have been very active with the US Green Building Council, and founding member of the National Association of Realtor's Green ReSource Council. For next year, I have exciting plans in the works for a new direction in residential real estate, unique to our area. We'll have a big unveiling spring of 2012.

Why do you do it? 
We absolutely have to change the way we think about our residential spaces, how we live in our homes, the types of homes we build, where and how we build, retaining and re-purposing existing structures and vastly improving upon their energy consumption. Working to create unique spaces that are financially accessible, environmentally low-impact and design-forward is a huge passion. It's all about the triple bottom line - the environmental, social and economic win. 

Why Cincinnati? 
I am a native. I managed to "escape" for 10 years when I left for college, overseas work, grad school. I wanted to run as far away as possible. I came back over 15 years ago because it was an easy place to live, and the recession was still strong in New England where I had been living.   

What do you love about the city? 
I have a soft spot for certain types of architecture, abandoned buildings and once-grand neighborhoods. Wandering through empty buildings and marginalized neighborhoods became a fascination from teenage years on. There is an incredible integrity in our urban spaces - history, community, social fabric. Seeing organizations and individuals working to actively restore this based on a re-thinking of how we use existing structures and infill spaces, I am constantly inspired by the momentum this city is gaining, the level of commitment I see to principles of smart growth and sustainable redevelopment.

What are you trying to change about the city? 
To assist the movement to keep the environment at the forefront of the city's big decisions, which means a lot of education and advocacy efforts. Helping to raise awareness on sustainable practices on both business and individual levels. 

What's next?
A few days off would be nice :)  I have been spending a lot of time looking at our changing needs as a community, population shifts, the economic uncertainty -- all requiring a shift in our thinking, our priorities. I am certain there will be those who thrive in this new economy, businesses and individuals who rise to meet our changing needs in light of a new pragmatism, a return to austerity, stewardship, frugality and a reawakening of community. With these things in mind, I have an exciting shift in my residential work coming in early 2012. Keep your eyes peeled...