Going green in real estate management: This will be part of our lives from this point forward

The Dove Organization has been managing real estate property for over 25 years and it is our responsibility as a property management to advise and instruct landlords of energy conservation solutions with creative ideas. By implementing some key strategies that will not cost a great deal of revenue will keep your investment properties on the cutting edge. High energy cost can cripple monthly cash flow and lower your return on your investment significantly. To circumvent economic pitfalls, landlords must start to make the necessary changes to the degree their economic status will allow. A step in the right direction and having some real bona-fide goals will help immensely. Decades ago landlords where not guided, simply because there were not any solid remedies strong enough to meet the challenge. With soaring energy prices climbing to new heights, landlords are forced to make the necessary changes to counteract this prevailing ongoing dilemma. It is smart to gain some insight from the professional energy consultants, but having advice from a hands on real estate management firm is golden and can also be a great source of information. Older buildings can benefit as well by going green. Strong examples of this for immediate results are as follows: * Upgrading the quality of the lighting fixtures both inside and outside of building; * Installing operable windows for fresh air; * Installing energy efficient ceiling fans instead of keeping the air conditioning running; * Better weatherproofing with superior building insulation; * Solar panels on the roof of premises; * Using green cleaning products in the interior of the buildings, lobbies, offices, waiting areas, bathrooms, treatments, etc. Everyone benefits in the long run by these simple eco friendly changes. Proven success over many years of experience cannot be taken lightly. Gimmicks and fraudulent representations are on the rise and it is important to investigate and to ask the right questions and to rely on the professional that have years of success and a good reputation. Utilities companies in conjunction with the state are offering numerous new rebates and incentive programs that are unprecedented. Going green is a phase that will be part of our lives from this point forward. With environmental issues continually being brought to the forefront one must take the necessary steps to maintain and preserve their investments. A failure to do so will have a negative impact on your investment. Going green will not only reduce your operational expenses, but will attract quality discriminating tenants. Quality buildings that are updated will attract the cream of the crop and produce tenant's that will remain for the long term. Tenants today are highly selective and are looking for green products that are cost effective and health conscious. It is of my professional opinion that there may be new bank requirements in the near future that buildings will have to adhere to and "Go Green" to be eligible to get refinancing for commercial properties. This is really not such an alien concept considering building management and owners have to have their buildings in perfect mechanical working order today for such financial requirements. Patrick Caroleo is the president and CEO, The Dove Organization, Ltd. Ronkonkoma, NY