2012 Resolution: Green Property Management

The following post is a re-print of a post that originally appeared on the property management in orange county blog on Dec. 16, 2011.

Property owners of residential houses and apartment complexes are making a wise choice when they decide to “go green” and upgrade their rental properties to a small ecological footprint. This move has long range and short benefits. For the long view, everyone gains when the environment is healthy. Eliminating chemical-based materials used in insulation, HVAC and plumbing, as well as lawn and landscape care will create a more stable soil and air quality for the property and its neighbors. Chemical-based materials, especially prevalent in older structures, have health hazards and their removal can be a legal matter for which there are penalties for non-compliance. Residents, insurance companies and an overburdened legal system benefit, not to mention the owner’s financial stability.

Insulation and electronic internal HVAC controls monitor and adjust the internal temperature to keep it within comfort bounds while reducing energy consumption. Energy efficient appliances, doors, windows with the use of solar and wind options where possible pay off in tax breaks and fuel consumption costs.

Property management services that are the most profitable are informed and up to date on the latest research for energy saving products and materials. Knowing which appliances such as washing machines in the laundry room, what type of lighting is most efficient and where to get the best buy and service is an essential management tool.

In the short run, green apartment complexes and energy efficient rental homes attract a more responsible clientele. They are ecologically and financially responsible usually making them ideal tenants. Green rental property management helps the environment, the neighborhood, the renter and the property owner. A healthy environment, elimination of health hazards within the property, a responsible tenant and a reasonable fiscal and legal balance for the owner add up to making green property management a number one 2012 resolution.