RENT Magazine Q3 '24

In today’s real estate landscape, sustainability is top of mind. The main quandary isn’t a question of why to implement more eco-friendly practices but how to do it without negatively affecting the bottom line. EMBRACE SUSTAINABILITY AND BOOST LONG-TERM PROFITS GREEN RENTALS:

As overhead costs have risen and market shifts have begun to squeeze, property owners wonder if the best move is to invest in sustainable solutions now or hold off until green practices are required. Historically, resistance to change has been a barrier in the adoption of new practices in the multifamily sector. Mainly in the last five years, there has been a very noticeable shift towards more environmentally friendly practices. But with the rising costs of labor, materials, and utilities, it's not always easy to implement changes when NOI is a priority in the day to day. Maintaining decent profit margins requires trimming expenses across the board and eco-friendly upgrades can easily be put on the back burner or become an afterthought.

Best practice, if viable, is to look beyond immediate financial gains and consider the long- term benefits of sustainability. While short-term costs may seem daunting, the value of integrating eco-friendly practices is increasingly clear. Various government grants at the national and local level are available to offset expense. The time for change is now, the green rental market is evolving and has the potential for long- term savings. From class A to D assets, there are sustainable options available that enhance both a property's environmental impact and its financial performance. The most impactful long-term investments that will improve NOI in the long run are the installation of LED lighting and solar. These property upgrades will significantly reduce energy costs.

EV charging stations and smart home technologies are also soon-to-be industry standards. A few other trends that are slower to adopt but gaining more visibility are sustainable building materials, water conservation systems and green roofs. These green-friendly additions are projected to become more prevalent in the market in the next 3-5 years. By leading the way in sustainability, property owners not only enhance their financial performance but also contribute to meaningful, quantifiable environmental improvements. Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it's a transformative approach that has the potential to yield lasting benefits.

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