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Green New Year’s Resolutions

Posted on 29. Dec, 2010 by Nora Betz in Real-World Ideas

New years eve is almost here and it’s time for the annual and ever-so-important “new years resolutions.” When thinking of ways to improve your property management business, so many things come to mind like acquiring new owners, investing in web-based property management software, putting a smile on your face Monday morning, shedding a couple of those holiday lbs, etc. While some resolutions are geared towards personal improvement, other ideas could be outlined as office goals for 2011. Below are a couple of green initiatives to get your creative juices flowing.

1. Collect Rent and Pay Bills Online
A great way to run a more efficient office and go green, is to eliminate the use of paper checks. Step 1, encourage renters to pay their rent online. Step 2, pay owners and vendors online. With fewer paper checks going in and out of the office, you will be saving time and the environment. Going Paperless is a great office goal for 2011.

2. Maximize the use of natural light in the office
Most people will admit that the presence of natural light creates a more pleasant work environment. You can supplement the natural light you have with low-level task lighting. Try exposing all exterior windows, turning off overhead lights, and adding a desk lamp to your work station. If your windows face a busy street or parking lot, consider using a sheer material for your shades that protects your privacy yet allows light to pass through. This is a great way to go green and create a nicer working environment for you and your property management staff. Encourage your team to turn off the office lights whenever possible too. If you are heading to a long lunch or a work meeting, shutting off all interior lights can help save valuable resources.

3. Give up 2 degrees
This may sound like the ultimate sacrifice in terms of comfort but just 2 degrees in heating and cooling can go a long way in terms saving the environment. One idea is to set the office thermostat to one temperature and keep it consistent. One predictable temperature will also lay to rest the debate on what is an appropriate climate for the office. Truth be told: “some like it hot, and some like it cold.” During the winter, try 68 degrees F during the day and you can stay comfortable by dressing in layers. When summer rolls around you can adjust the indoor air temp to a slightly warm 78 degrees F. If this seems hot, consider using a fan instead of the air conditioner. Although you are still using electricity, there is definitely a savings in energy.

4. Carpool to work
You can help save the environment and precious gas money by organizing a carpool. Sure it’s nice to have your car when you’re at work because you have the flexibility to come and go as you please, but also consider the certain amount of daily stress that comes from morning traffic and looking for a good parking spot. If you live in a big city and need to take the freeway to work, going green may help you get to your destination faster by flying by cars in the carpool lane. With careful planning, you can get on a carpool rotation and cut back on your driving. Maybe there is a bus stop near your co-worker’s neighborhood that would be a convenient meeting spot. Perhaps you can split the cost of bridge tolls, fast lane passes, and parking garages.

As 2011 approaches, why not make some of your property management office goals geared toward growing and improving business as well as saving the environment. It feels good to plan out all the positive changes we hope to make in the new year and who knows, maybe 2011 will be the best year yet!

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Tags: Energy Efficient, environmentally conscious, Green Living