CREJ - Property Management Quarterly - January 2018
As we start the year, it’s always nice to set goals and resolutions. As property managers, there are numerous responsibilities and relationships that can benefit from this type of planning. This issue lays out a number of suggestions. For long-term budgetary goals, the authors in this issue challenge managers to consider the return on investment of incorporating smart technologies into their building systems and to consider how well an asset is prepared for changes and challenges that will come about as Colorado adjusts to climate variations. The recently passed Denver Green Roof Initiative also requires proper planning on the part of management staff, because existing buildings will be required to meet the mandate in two circumstances – roof replacements on buildings that meet the square footage parameters and when additional square footage is added, which brings a building’s total square footage into the outlined parameters. As the author writes on Page 4, it is not unreasonable to think that retrofitting projects could now come with unanticipated costs. For goals that will benefit the asset and ownership immediately, property managers are encouraged to educate themselves on their building’s insurance coverage and commercial property taxes. As the advocate for the asset, it’s up to the manager to be knowledgeable about rises, gaps and inconsistencies. Maintenance programs that can be implemented today are highlighted in articles beginning on Page 16. Tips to help your team grow and remain loyal are shared on Page 14, while ideas for tenant retention through the enhancement of community well-being are highlighted on Page 20. One goal that benefits the building’s community is an unfortunate, but important issue – preparation for active threats – which is addressed on Page 22. The Red Cross offers training sessions free to businesses and nonprofit organizations of all sizes that are designed to prepare organizations to recognize when an event is happening, teach steps for response, and includes basic training on first aid and bleeding control. Looking beyond your asset, property managers are encouraged to get involved in their community. One of the most pressing issues facing management is the potential decision to move Energy Star out of the Environmental Protection Agency’s domain. With more than 450,000 commercial buildings using Energy Star to benchmark their energy use, the article outlining how and why the program is critical on Page 12 is a can’t miss. Whatever your 2018 goals may be, we hope you’ll find this issue helpful. As always, thanks for reading. Michelle Z. Askeland maskeland@crej.com 303-623-1148, Ext. 104