How Property Managers Can Go Green for a Competitive Edge

Green property management is good for both managers and residents alike.

A lower carbon footprint, a healthier environment, energy and water conservation, and saving money are just some of the benefits of green property management practices. One main benefit that green property managers enjoy is competitive advantage. Property managers can differentiate their properties from competitors with green practices.

The Green Difference

Properties with energy and water saving appliances may have the same monthly rental fee as surrounding properties but save tenants money with lower utility bills. Health-minded, environmentally-conscious renters will chose a less toxic indoor environment that adheres to practices such as low-VOC paint and healthier outdoor environments that utilize an integrated pest management system rather than one managed with pesticides and chemicals. A rental community with green areas such as bike paths and trails, and green community practices such as a recycling program or a green advisory council attracts tenants over neighboring properties that lack these options.

Best way to advertise your house for rent is by promoting the green practices. This will create a competitive advantage and makes green properties stand out from competitors. Some ways property managers can go green and create a competitive advantage include offering green moving options to tenants, implementing an organized recycling program and installing energy saving appliances and water saving toilets and showers.

The American Apartment Owners Association not only provides a host of helpful services such as tenant screening but also offers a green mission statement to assist landlords and property managers who want to convert to greener practices. They also provide resources and information about environmentally-friendly practices and vendors.

Green Moving Options

Property managers can help tenants green their move-in by offering responsible move-in and moving services such as Zipp Go, Rentacrate and JuggleBox Moving. Renters using cardboard packing boxes contribute to the waste stream of recyclable materials that end up in landfills each year, of which paper makes up more than 70 million tons.

A green option for moving is using reusable packing containers such as plastic cartons. Property managers who provide new tenants with the option of renting moving containers instead of using cardboard boxes create a double benefit: the convenience of not having to dispose of cardboard boxes after a move and a less environmentally damaging move.

Recycling Options

Providing tenants with an easy, efficient way to recycle can be as simple as contacting the local waste management company to arrange for recycling containers. If your community doesn’t have curbside recycling, your local or state recycling coalition or association is a resource for how to offer recycling options to your tenants.

Make sure recycling containers are large enough for the number of residents and put them in convenient locations. Arrange for regular pickup so recycling containers and areas stay neat and organized without overflow. Post clear, attractive signage to instruct people about the importance of recycling and how to prepare materials for collection.

Energy Efficient Appliances and Plumbing

Installing energy efficient appliances and plumbing features saves resources and money and provides competitive advantage by attracting tenants who are eco-conscious and want to save money on utilities. The return on investment of efficient toilets, faucets and showers is well worth it, as the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Portland, Oregon found. Both realized thousands of dollars in savings per year after installing low-flow toilets, faucets and showers, more than doubling the return on investment in water saving features.

FAQ’s Green Property Management

1. What is green property management? Green property management involves implementing environmentally-friendly practices and features in a property to reduce its carbon footprint, conserve energy and water, and create a healthier living environment. This approach is beneficial for both property managers and residents.
2. How does green property management provide a competitive advantage? Green property management can help differentiate properties from competitors. Features like energy and water-saving appliances not only help save the environment but also reduce utility bills for tenants. Creating a healthier living environment with low-VOC paint and integrated pest management systems can also attract environmentally-conscious renters.
3. What are some green practices that property managers can adopt? Property managers can offer green moving options to tenants, such as using reusable packing containers instead of cardboard boxes. Implementing an organized recycling program and installing energy-saving appliances and water-saving toilets and showers are other effective green practices.
4. What are green moving options? Green moving options involve using environmentally-friendly methods during the moving process. For example, property managers can offer tenants the option of renting reusable packing containers instead of using cardboard boxes, which contributes to waste and often ends up in landfills.
5. How can property managers facilitate recycling in their properties? Property managers can arrange for recycling containers from local waste management companies. They should ensure the containers are large enough for the number of residents and placed in convenient locations. Regular pick-up should be arranged to keep the recycling area neat and organized. Clear signage explaining the importance of recycling and how to prepare materials for collection can also be posted.
6. How do energy-efficient appliances and plumbing benefit a property? Energy-efficient appliances and plumbing fixtures can conserve resources, save money, and attract eco-conscious tenants. They can also result in significant savings, as demonstrated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Portland, Oregon, who saw thousands of dollars in annual savings after installing low-flow toilets, faucets, and showers.

About the Author: Rudy Tran

Rudy is a passionate eco-advocate who has dedicated his life to exploring sustainable practices. After making the decision to “go green,” he has tirelessly sought out eco-friendly ways to enhance every aspect of daily living. His journey has led him to advocate for everything from sustainable business models to greener lifestyle choices. Rudy continuously shares his discoveries and insights through his writing, hoping to inspire others to embrace environmentally friendly habits. His work serves as a guide for those looking to navigate their own green journey, providing practical tips and innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.