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8 Ways You Can Run a Greener Property Management Business

Posted on 17. Aug, 2010 by Nora Betz in Green Trends

You have probably heard that being “green” is a valuable marketing tool for property managers to use in order to attract new business and retain residents.  However, maybe you don’t know where to begin?  Below are some specific things you can do to green your office and your properties that will help the environment while saving you money long term.

4 ideas for property managers on how to green the office:

1. Go Paperless  – Use the Internet! Pay owners online, email residents and owners whenever possible,  email Owner statements or post them online, avoid faxing paper work-orders…email them instead and offer your residents free online rent payments. Eliminating paper saves trees, time, and definitely saves you money.
2. Get rid of junk mail that comes to your office. There are many services that can help you get rid of junk mail.  This saves the planet resources and will save you the time it takes to go through the mail and discard the trash.
3. Don’t get a paper phone book and use an online directory instead. Online search engines like Google, Yahoo, and Bing are convenient and easy to use and will help you run a green office.
4. Buy Rechargeable Batteries. Even though rechargeable batteries cost more up-front, you will replace them less, which is an investment worth making.

4 ideas for property managers on how to green rental properties:

1. Encourage residents to walk or ride their bikes when possible. Find some space along side the building and build a bike rack for residents to store their bicycles. By doing this, you not only encourage healthier and more environmentally friendly behavior, you help eliminate miscellaneous bikes resting in the front lawn or by the cars.  Clear signage along with an organized spot for people to lock-up their bikes will encourage residents to go green and keep the property looking its best.
2. Replace incandescent lamps with fluorescent bulbs. Start by putting fluorescent bulbs in all outdoor lights and because they use less energy and have a longer life, you will save money by not having to replace them as often.
3. Improve the insulation of buildings and turn down the thermostat. Walk the property quickly with new residents and give them ideas on ways they can keep their homes insulated.  While the heater is on, closes exterior doors and windows and the flu of the fireplace so that warm air does not escape.
4. Plant a new tree on the property. A beautiful tree can increase your property value over time. The tree can add to the curb appeal of the building and fresh air to the environment.

Related Posts
Going Green in Property Management: Interview with Bob Machado, Owner of HomePointe Property Management
6 Green Ideas for Your Residents
6 Ideas to Green Your Property Management Office
5 Ways To Attract more Residents with Green Marketing
Survey Results: Going Green in the Property Management Industry

Tags: Conservation, Green Living, paperless, Residents