Our Sustainability Principles

The following principles underlie our stance on sustainability and inform what we believe to be right- so that we know from where we are coming and where we aim to head.

General

1. We respect the Earth and its life, both for its intrinsic value and for present and future generations.
2. We assert that justice is needed both for the human and non-human world, and that both are interdependent.
3. We accept that we contribute to environmental problems, and accordingly we will seek solutions.
4. We understand that the pressures on the environment will increase in coming years unless human attitudes and actions change.

Ecological Footprint

5. We know that all life on Earth depends on nature and the 'ecosystem services' it provides.
6. We believe that ecosystem services (i.e. benefits nature provides to human society - in both rural and urban settings - including: purification of air and water; mitigation of floods and droughts; detoxification and decomposition of wastes; generation and renewal of soil and soil fertility; pollination of crops and natural vegetation; control of potential agricultural pests; dispersal of seeds; maintenance of biodiversity; protection from solar ultraviolet rays; moderation of urban microclimate e.g. heat island effect; support for diverse human cultures; and, aesthetic and intellectual stimulation) should cease to be perceived as free and limitless.  Their full value, and the costs incurred by damaging them, should be taken into account.
7. We seek to help protect and restore the Earth's ecological integrity, biological diversity and natural processes.
8.  We promote the study and understanding of ecological sustainability and the sharing of knowledge gained.
9. We uphold the principles intra- and inter-generational equity, of fairness of how resources are distributed within this generation and between this and future generations.
10. We adopt the precautionary principle, so that those proposing development will need to show their actions are without significant harm to the environment, rather than the community needing to demonstrate absolute proof of cause.

Climate Change

11.  We act on the premise that there is still time to avoid the worst impacts of climate change through taking action now -  building resilience and adaptive capacity.

Economic and Social

12. We recognize that sustainability will happen faster if local communities become champions of sustainability, share the benefits and are involved in the decisions affecting sustainability.
13. We strive to work together will individuals, communities, business and sections of local government to reach sustainability.

(Adapted' from UN Millenium Assessment; Stern Review; 'Our Common Future)

John Couper really understands his market. He is very professional and has years of experience. We have found his insight invaluable. Our house sold very quickly, and we attribute this to John and Jan's excellent expertise in the local real estate market. They are always available to answer questions, and help the process move smoothly. This is our second transaction with the Couper's and we highly recommend them.

John was the obvious agent to manage the sale of my apartment at Moonah Links due to his unique knowledge of the setting. I would not have had confidence in another agent who did not specialise in property sales there. The timing of the sale was not ideal as lockdown followed soon after sales contract was signed but John remained confident. John always got back to me quickly with my enquiries into the progress of the sale.

As I live overseas I had real piece of mind dealing with John. He handled everything from getting the property ready for sale up to completion. John communicated regularly with me and advised me on all aspects of the process, I found him efficient, professional and most of all trustworthy. Thank you John

We have used Coupers Realty several times, we have sold three homes with them and bought two. Every time John has been very supportive and helpful. He knows everything about Fingal and the broader Mornington Peninsula area. John offers great advice and professional service in a friendly and engaging way. Nothing is too much trouble for John. John is a great agent but he is always humble and he really listens to ensure that his services match your needs.

John is a highly professional and committed Real Estate. John has assisted us with several sales and purchases in Fingal and has always acted with the highest level of integrity and professionalism. He strives for provide superior outcomes for both parties in the selling and buying journey. His local knowledge is second to none and his agency ensures that the entire experience is seamless and stress free. We would highly recommend John and will continue to engage his services into the future.

I have bought and sold numerous properties in Fingal and other parts of the Peninsula.By far the most industrious and hard working Agent with the utmost integrity, would be, John Couper.He works tirelessly for the vendor and is always respectful of the buyer.A rare gift in the Realestateindustry.