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How Can Real Estate Agents
Help Clients With Multiple Chemical Sensitivities?
By: Dr. Gloria Gilbere
Kootenai Valley Times, December 2000
People with multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS) need their home to be a sanctuary where they can avoid or recover from chemical exposures. They need it to be their "safe" haven. They need a place with relatively clean air, away from busy highways, and with freedom from insecticide spraying and weed killers. They prefer homes with hardwood or ceramic tile floors, with natural wood rather than plywood or other pressed-wood products that contain glues, solvents and formaldehyde. The structure should be at least 10-15 years old with no recent renovation, so that most of the problem chemicals will have out-gassed from the building materials. The MCS client does not tolerate a modular type home because of the building materials used. The home must have good ventilation, windows that open, and freedom from mustiness and molds. The home must have all electric appliances and preferably not forced air. If the home has old wallpaper, it is imperative that it be inspected to assure there isn't mold underneath. If the client is extremely hypersensitive, you might suggest that mold testing be ordered. The test is very easy, takes about one hour and costs approx. $30. per room. The results however take from 6-8 weeks until the culture stops growing. People with acute allergies and MCS have life-threatening conditions and their requests must be met with seriousness. A realtor educated in the special needs of these clients is an invaluable asset and a necessity. A person with MCS may have other specific requirements, depending on the severity of their condition. With an estimated 28 million afflicted with MCS in the U.S., realtors need to be informed, or the informed realtor will be the "closer". The following are realtor suggestions shared from my personal experience and those of my MCS clients and colleagues:
If you're the client, copy this and give it to your realtor. If you're the realtor, be compassionate and learn all you can about the needs of people challenged with MCS. Naturally.
This article is for the purpose of education and to provide support to the millions afflicted with allergies and multiple chemical sensitivities. To share your stories of challenges, solutions and living with these disorders, please mail to: MCS Stories, P.O. Box 3220, Bonners Ferry, ID USA 83805 or email: secondhandreactions@drgloriagilbere.com
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