Continuing on the topic we discussed last week, we want to delve into how sustainability impacts the operation of your short-term rental. Embracing eco-friendly practices not only helps the environment but can also enhance the appeal of your property to increasingly eco-conscious travelers. To provide you with actionable insights, we reached out to Borrum Energy Solutions, a leading expert in sustainable energy solutions, who shared some valuable tips for property managers.

Borrum Energy Solutions emphasizes the importance of incorporating energy-efficient technologies and practices in your rental property. Simple changes like installing LED lighting, optimizing heating and cooling systems, and using smart thermostats can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower utility costs. Additionally, implementing water-saving fixtures and promoting recycling and waste reduction can further enhance your property’s sustainability profile.

Moreover, Borrum Energy Solutions suggests highlighting these eco-friendly features in your property listings to attract guests who prioritize sustainability. By showcasing your commitment to green practices, you can differentiate your rental from others and appeal to a growing segment of environmentally-conscious travelers.

Incorporating these sustainable practices not only contributes to environmental conservation but also positions your property as a responsible and forward-thinking choice. This can lead to higher guest satisfaction, positive reviews, and potentially increased bookings from guests who value eco-friendly accommodations.

Sustainability

Being a property manager or a landlord may seem simple, but there are many additional responsibilities and costs associated with this role. Maintenance and updates are a huge cost for landlords plus there are government regulations put in place to ensure these are upheld. This means the property manager does not simply walk away with whatever their renters paid. This money is further divided into paying property taxes, maintenance updates (i.e., painting, repairs, new appliances, etc.) along with other surprise expenses. That being said, if these updates are consistent, it creates property value which is beneficial for both the renter and the tenant.

Switching to sustainable microgeneration energy can be a great way to save on costs and that can otherwise be the owner’s profit or even used as an emergency fund for the property. Additionally, if your property is listed as an environmentally friendly dwelling, it increases the renter attraction. It’s a simple give and take; if you are offering ecofriendly amenities, you will require less effort to acquire renters/sublets. Tenants will be proud to know they are using green energy which is also beneficial to our community and our wallets. Eco friendly homes tend to fall into their own niche making them appealing.

There are many options available to pursue this sustainable path. Microgeneration wind power is a viable possibility depending on the wind profile of your residence. If you are interested in learning more about this option, be sure to check out this Canadian made wind turbine: The Anorra. This microgeneration turbine has been tested to survive even the harshest Canadian winters, making it a durable product to invest in. For the price of a depreciating jacuzzi, you can invest in appreciating energy sources.

If you have any questions regarding microgeneration or aspects of becoming a greener, more sustainable host, feel free to visit Borrum Energy Solutions’ website or email us at contact@ensoconnect.com.

With yesterday being Earth Day, we thought it would be fitting to talk about becoming a greener host.

What’s involved in becoming a green host

Being a property manager is simple right? You post you property online, people come, people leave, you make money… not exactly. As current property hosts can attest, there are endless hidden utility expenses that need to be managed, and with those come hidden costs. To name a few: gas, water, plumbing, telephone, waste management, cable TV, streaming services, security systems, WIFI and the list goes on. But wait, we are missing one… electricity.

Electricity is often an overlooked but essential component of managing rental properties. It’s not just about having the lights on; it’s about ensuring all electrical systems are functioning properly to provide a comfortable and safe environment for your guests. From heating and cooling systems to kitchen appliances and entertainment systems, electricity plays a pivotal role in every aspect of your property.

Managing electricity expenses involves regular monitoring of usage, investing in energy-efficient appliances, and occasionally updating electrical systems to meet modern standards. This not only helps in controlling costs but also enhances the overall guest experience. For instance, installing smart thermostats and energy-efficient lighting can reduce utility bills and add value to your property.

To effectively manage these hidden costs, consider implementing energy-saving measures and keeping a close eye on utility bills. Regular maintenance and upgrades can prevent unexpected expenses and ensure your property remains attractive to potential guests. By being proactive in managing these utility costs, you’ll be better equipped to handle the financial aspects of property management and maximize your profitability.

So, what makes electricity different?

For most if not all of the utilities previously mentioned above the user is at the mercy of the provider. If you don’t pay your bills at the prices set by the provider, you no longer get the luxury of receiving that service. For the longest time electricity had been no exception to this rule but, recent technological developments have made it possible for users to break free from this unfair arrangement.

Introducing microgeneration. Microgeneration is the production of electricity at the point of consumption using methods such as solar, wind, tidal, geothermal, etc. With electricity rates on a steep rise in the coming years it may be time to invest in an energy solution that will allow you to sell excess energy back to the grid and actually profit on your tenant’s energy usage!

Additionally, properties listed as being environmentally friendly are viewed as favorably compared to ones that are not. It’s a simple give and take; if you are offering ecofriendly amenities, you will require less effort to acquire renters/sublets. Tenants will be proud to know they are using green energy while you, the host, profits from lower electricity costs.

If you have any questions or are looking for more about microgeneration and its benefits visit Borrum Energy Solutions.