Property investment and sustainability
Smart property investment choices involve a forward-thinking strategy that account for a variety of economic factors.
Projected supply and demand, industry prospects and commercial growth all influence the degree of success and potential returns of your investment choice.
Another aspect that is fast-becoming more relevant as we get deeper into the 21st century is sustainability.
Earth Hour is coming up this weekend (March 31) and it serves as a reminder that it is possible to contribute to the energy-saving effort by choosing green strategies in your investment projects.
Whether you choose to invest in real estate that has existing energy-efficient features over a property that does not – with all other factors being equal – or you opt for environmentally-friendly technologies when you renovate your property, there is always an opportunity to make a difference.
And the best part is, these energy-saving strategies often save you money in the long run.
Embarking on renovation projects like adding insulation, replacing windows and installing water-smart plumbing systems will likely pay themselves off quickly in the form of lower monthly water and electricity bills.
Most major cities in Australia have made a commitment to development sustainability and certain states even offer grants to encourage more individuals and businesses to participate.
As an example, New South Wales for example established a $700 million Climate Change Fund in July 2007 to put towards energy-saving technologies in businesses, households, schools, communities and government.
A portion of $170 million is allocated to NSW Home Saver Rebates, which provide rebates for hot water systems, hot water circulators, rainwater tanks and dual flush toilets. The government alerts the public to when funds become available for application.
As thousands of cities across the world join together to switch off their lights for one hour this Saturday beginning at 20:30, Australian investors may wish to think about how they can do their part in saving energy.
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Thanks for reminding me of the Earth Hour. Our property developments are earth-friendly too–they’re designed to utilise the Ecological Sustainable Design (EDS) principles which the Australian Housing Industry has established. What better date to market that than on march 31. :)