By Marc Courtenay
While vacancy rates are low many property managers are focusing attention on effective ways to retain good residents and proactively please their clients. Saving money is one of the most popular ways.
The cost of energy to heat and cool buildings is rising once again. With seasonal variations and the extreme temperature changes many are facing, now’s an auspicious time to consider an energy-efficiency campaign. There are still many subsidized programs sponsored by utilities, manufacturers and the government that reward the use of the latest, energy-saving windows, doors, insulation, furnaces and appliances.
Some encourage water savings in drought stricken areas like California, which according to the San Francisco Chronicle is experiencing the most severe drought in over 1,200 years. Low volume toilets, shower heads and drought tolerant landscaping are some of the suggestions being implemented.
One way to begin is to visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense website. WaterSense, a partnership program, “…seeks to protect the future of our nation’s water supply by offering people a simple way to use less water with water-efficient products, new homes, and services.”
The EPA also has its popular EnergyStar program to help find countless ways to save both energy and money. The U.S. Department of Energy collaborates on the website and programs. Now in its 23rd year, EnergyStar is “…a voluntary program to identify and promote energy-efficient products and buildings in order to reduce energy consumption, improve energy security, and reduce pollution through voluntary labeling of or other forms of communication about products and buildings that meet the highest energy efficiency standards.”
The list of certified EnergyStar products is remarkable. It includes water heaters, lighting and fans, heating and air-conditioning systems, building products and even offers a list of office equipment and electronics that save energy and money.
Many utility companies, municipalities and state governments offer rebate programs to reward energy efficiency. My local utility offers rebates on EnergyStar appliances, ducted heat pumps, windows and storage tank water heaters.
Use Energy Efficiency and Money-Saving Ideas to Create Client Conversations
Your owner-clients will always be impressed when you contact them with ideas to retain residents and save money. Some are probably thinking, “What’s my property manager doing to keep my business?”
That thought alone may motivate you to call or write your clients with energy-saving tips and proactive suggestions to make their rental units more attractive and less costly. Begin by calling your local utility companies and finding out what incentive programs and rebates are available in your area. Tell clients about the EnergyStar program and how it can save them money.
Be a reliable source of innovative ways to deal with the challenges of climate change. Initiate a dialogue with your clients to see if they have any questions or if they’d like to learn more. The good news is that money is available to offset the costs of energy-saving upgrades for rental homes and apartments. Let them know about the opportunities and keep them informed. You’ll strengthen relationships; build more credibility, while contributing to the solutions to
From:: Property Management
