Things are looking a little bit greener, even in the property management industry. Introducing sustainable practices, eco-friendly supplies, and energy efficiency into rental homes is more than a trend; it’s a smart business decision. Tenants are looking for rental homes that leave less of a footprint on the fragile planet. 

Landlords in Santa Cruz have an opportunity to not only contribute to a better environment but also improve their rental properties and attract tenants who are concerned with environmental sustainability and smart stewardship.

Upgrading your property to an eco-friendly standard will require an investment. However, these changes are likely to result in lower operating costs, higher rents, and a competitive advantage in a shifting rental market. 

The practices that you invite into our rental property and your operating procedures can be as huge as installing solar panels or as subtle as switching to LED light bulbs. Every little step helps.

As you position your rental property for a new and more sustainable world, we have some recommendations for eco-friendly property management practices that you can use in your Santa Cruz rental properties.

Here are some promising starting points.

Energy-Efficient Windows for Lower Electric Bills

Replacing windows is one of the most effective ways to upgrade your rental property’s energy efficiency. In Santa Cruz, we are lucky to have a pretty mild climate all year long. But, those heat waves have been showing up in California more and more, and winters can see dipping temperatures, too. Keeping the air in your rental property insulated depending on the season will not only save money on energy bills but also contribute to a more comfortable living environment for your residents. 

Energy-efficient windows reduce heating and cooling costs, improve your home’s durability, and contribute to tenant satisfaction. Consider investing in double pane or triple pane windows that contain Low-E glass. These types of windows will keep the home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter while minimizing UV rays that can damage furniture and carpets.

There’s more good news about these upgraded windows: your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard when it’s heating or cooling your property. With HVAC repairs being some of the most expensive maintenance items you’ll face as a landlord, keeping that system in good condition will benefit you financially in the long term.

Benefits of LED Lighting 

As Santa Cruz property managers, we’re encouraging all landlords to use light bulbs that require less energy and need to be changed less frequently. 

Switching all the lights in your rental property to LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs is an eco-friendly and cost-effective upgrade. LED lights use at least 75% less energy and up to 90 percent less energy than other types of lights. They also last 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. 

Upgrading to LED lights will reduce your energy consumption and lower your energy bill. You can also install smart lighting systems that can be controlled remotely, which can reduce energy waste.

Introducing SMART Thermostats to Rental Homes

Smart home technology is gaining in popularity, and it’s also helping landlords to deliver more sustainability to their properties. By accessing intuitive, integrated tech into rental homes, you’ll find residents are prioritizing your property. They want this sort of modern amenity. 

One good way to offer technology and environmental sustainability is with a programmable thermostat. These can help you manage your tenant's energy usage and costs. 

Smart thermostats are designed to automatically adjust the temperature of the home when tenants are not at home or asleep, reducing energy waste. They can also be controlled remotely via a smartphone or tablet, giving tenants control over their energy usage and costs. Ultimately, these thermostats can save hundreds of dollars a year on heating and cooling costs. This is good news for your tenants when they’re responsible for the energy bills, but it also works for you, too. You’ll be responsible for heating and cooling your property during turnover periods, and this will save you money during those instances. 

Santa Cruz Rental Home Appliances and Energy

Replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models can be another way to prioritize green property management strategies. These upgrades also add value to a property and make your rental home far more attractive to prospective and current tenants. Attractive, functional appliances are essential when you’re marketing your home and trying to keep your vacancy and turnover rates low. Tenants want appliances that look good and work well. When they’re likely to use less energy, you’re in an even stronger position. 

Kitchen appliances are especially important; if it’s close to time to replace those aging refrigerators and stoves, you’re well-positioned to look for efficient, modern models. In-unit laundry is also essential to modern tenants, so don’t forget your efficient washers and dryers. Stackable models are small and can save space as well as energy.

ENERGY STAR-rated appliances use less energy than older models, so you’ll want to look for those brands. According to the Department of Energy, replacing a refrigerator that is over 10 years old with a new ENERGY STAR-rated one can save you an average of $270 over 5 years on electric bills alone. 

Sustainable Rentals and the Future