Going Green: Reducing Your Rental Property’s Impact 

Going green is not just a real estate fad these days. As the times change, people want to adapt to them. Homeowners, rental tenants, landlords, and even property management groups have adopted the practice of being environmentally friendly. Many tenants now prioritize landlords who are climate-friendly, so it has become a way to stand out from the crowd. 

Plus, tenant acquisition isn’t the only reason to buy into green practices. The energy we use daily produces waste and pollution, and all that affects your bottom line. So, even small efforts to increase energy efficiency can save money in the long run and appeal to quality, eco-conscious tenants at the same time. 

Even just a few small fixes, like choosing certain appliances, can go a long way. Take notes from professional property managers in Maryland about how you can turn your units into eco-friendly rental properties. 

You and Energy Efficiency  

Most people underestimate their carbon footprint and costs. When you consider property maintenance choices, from purchased appliances to water consumption, and trash accumulation, it becomes increasingly clear that you might be using more fuel and funds than you need. Luckily, there are many simple ways you can cut costs. 

By implementing some easy, environmentally friendly maintenance tips, you can increase your image as an eco-friendly landlord and save money for both you and your tenant in the long run.  

10 Environmentally Friendly Tips for Rental Properties 

There are a lot of ways in which you can make your rental home more eco-friendly. Let’s look at some of the easiest and most helpful ways to make your rental property a greener home. 

1. Repaint your home using low- or no-VOC paints. 

To attract tenants, you can cut down the organic pollutants that VOC-containing paints emit into your rental home by using low to no-VOC-containing paints.   

Since you must maintain your property’s paint, you might as well take advantage of this costly endeavor by turning it into a marketing point. After all, tenants expect their landlords to be socially responsible more than ever. Such attention to detail can attract potential tenants with a passion for going green.  

2. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). 

CFLs provide the same amount of light as traditional light bulbs with a fraction of the energy. This means that you will have lower electricity expenses. Due to this, you should replace all the light bulbs in your rental space with CFLs and encourage your tenants to do the same. 

3. Use low-flow water fixtures and toilets. 

If you use low-flow water structures, you will feel the effects trickle down to your wallet. Plus, your tenants may not notice the difference in water flow. Overall, this little trick is a win-win. 

4. Install programmable thermostats. 

This is a great way to create savings on your (and your tenant’s) energy bills. It allows you and your tenants to use the air conditioning mindfully. You can control the costs that otherwise might unnecessarily accumulate.  

5. Use ENERGY STAR appliances in your rental property. 

Government ENERGY STAR-rated appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, and dryers use significantly less water and energy. Furthermore, you can earn a rebate and tax credits by using many of their devices.  

6. Insulate your water heaters. 

Investing in an inexpensive insulation blanket can give you sizable savings on energy use. This would be especially useful in the colder months when water takes a longer time to heat. Plus, this helps you preserve the lifespan and health of your property equipment. 

7. Consider producing energy via a solar panel, wind turbine, or geothermal unit. 

In Maryland, you may qualify for renewable tax credits if you install environmentally friendly energy storage systems on your rental property. This way, you can benefit from energy efficiency both monetarily and with an eco-friendly reputation.  

8. Recycle 

Your tenants can easily participate in recycling and help cut down on waste accumulation. Various areas in Maryland, offer an “all together” recyclable bin to place recyclable paper, plastic, metal cans, cardboard, and glass. As a property owner, doing your part signals your character and commitment to citizenship to potential tenants.   

9. Provide rain barrels for your tenants to use. 

Prospective tenants who go gaga over going green will be impressed when you go the extra mile for the environment. If you encourage your tenants to use rain barrels for water conservation, that will display thoughtfulness about sustainability. You can encourage your tenants to make use of that water in a pinch instead of plastic bottles. 

10. Look at Government Resources 

Individual counties may have additional resources that can help you market yourself as a champion of energy efficiency. For example, Howard County has resources that can help you increase your eco-conscious living. 

Enhance Energy Efficiency with BMG Property Managers 

When you put in just a small bit of work into going green, you could reap benefits tenfold. Your property and personal brand could become more marketable. Even better, you can experience financial benefits through tax returns and lower bills.  

All this work can be even easier and more bankable if you partner with people who have broad connections and resources built in. This is where property managers come in. The professionals at Bay Management Group can handle tenant acquisition and retention for you, so you don’t have to. Contact us today to make life simpler as a landlord.