Recent Commercial Posts

2024 Trends in Commercial Property Management

1/4/2024 (Permalink)

Trends in Commercial property management. A commercial building. Stay ahead of the curve with 2024's Commercial Property Management Trends

Commercial property managers have had their hands full over the past few years, responding to the pandemic and all the resulting changes. In 2024, as the commercial property rental landscape continues to evolve and adapt, property managers can take proactive steps to find and take advantage of the opportunities within these challenges.

The dynamics of the economy, changing tenant expectations, and continual technology innovations have combined to create a profound transformation in commercial real estate. Innovation and adaptation are the friends of commercial property managers, and the following points discuss some of the trends to look for in 2024.

Advancements in Technology and Automation

Technology for Tenants

As people shop online more and package stealers continue proliferating, many properties have added smart-locker storage for tenants to receive their packages safely. This trend is expected to grow, and tenants will look for additional technology integration, such as SMS notifications and other tech-related options that enhance their convenience.

Keyless entry is another growing trend that tenants appreciate. More commercial properties offer digital amenities like free WiFi and 5G integration, and this trend is expected to continue. For areas where theft is an issue, video doorbells and security cameras can set your property apart. Landlords and property managers can also use security cameras to manage and monitor the property around the clock remotely.

Operational Software

Operating commercial properties involves many moving parts, and commercial property management trends in 2024 will continue to emphasize automating, streamlining, and improving workflows with SaaS and cloud-based software platforms. Cloud-based property management software connects operational teams online, increases effective communication, and offers tenant portals for more efficient repair requests and other tenant needs.

Managing properties using virtual tools such as Zoom interviews or property tours is becoming a norm, and integrating AI and IoT will continue to grow. IoT, or Internet of Things, refers to tools that typically use WiFi or Bluetooth to automate activities. Property managers are implementing IoT tools such as automated or smart lighting, smart laundry, smart locks, automated lawn care, and smart temperature control.

AI will enhance property management by refining processes such as more personalized tenant experiences where AI anticipates tenant needs and preferences. Property management software may also use AI to improve virtual property tours to help tenants more effectively imagine themselves in the unit. AI tools may offer insights that drive coordinated smart building systems, such as assisting in adapting their operation to environmental conditions based on the property’s occupancy patterns. These adjustments can save on energy consumption and other resources while reducing costs.

Continued Evolution of Tenant Preferences and Market Dynamics

More Multifamily Units

The rents for multifamily units often cost less than those for single-family dwellings, driving increased demand for additional multifamily units. Renters are also migrating to states with lower taxes, and while they want the lower rents of a multifamily unit, they also want more spacious homes with additional amenities. Tenants for all types of rental properties also demand more services and amenities in exchange for the rising cost of rent, including high-speed internet, in-unit washers/dryers, and HVAC.

More Property Management Services

Demand for more professional property management services should continue to increase in 2024. Tenants expect and desire the expertise of knowledgeable management, especially when dealing with property repairs, disputes, and other issues in multi-unit settings. Tenants also demand the technological tools often provided by professional property management, such as online portals for repairs, questions and issues, and the ability to pay their rent online.

Commercial property management trends in 2024 also emphasize using tools like improved and streamlined tenant screening processes and advertising available units on multiple platforms, including social media.



Updating Business Strategies and Addressing Economic Factors

Managing Costs to Improve Profit

In 2024, commercial property managers will benefit from prioritizing profitability while keeping costs under more strict control. Acquiring new properties can increase revenue and profits through operational synergies. In contrast, new services like outsourcing to high-quality vendors such as a reliable restoration company can save on labor costs and keep properties in tip-top shape to command improved rents. Adopting technology such as specialized property management software can also reduce labor costs by automating some of the back-office administrative work of property management.

Considering Economic Factors

During rising inflation, property managers must constantly monitor and reduce costs wherever possible. Additionally, the new year is a great time to focus on scaling up the business by implementing growth-hacking strategies and considering refinancing options to take advantage of potential federal interest rate cuts.

For 2024, although there is no guarantee, sources predict the Fed will continue to reduce mortgage interest rates. Savvy property managers and owners will poise themselves to refinance more expensive loans and leverage the increased value and higher equity in existing properties to make additional investments. Lower interest rates often stimulate economic activity, which may create opportunities to improve occupancy rates and achieve higher rents, especially if the rental market remains tight.

Political and Regulatory Challenges

Taxes (and Other Costs) Go Up While Loopholes Disappear

Commercial property management trends in 2024 include strategies to offset the effects of rising taxes and closing financial loopholes for commercial property landlords. Property managers can expect changes such as government measures attempting to capture more real estate-related revenues. Governments may pressure property managers and landlords to lower or normalize rents to aid housing crises in higher-priced housing markets.

Additionally, landlord insurance for rental properties is undergoing changes that affect tenant evictions and other issues while becoming more costly. Commercial property managers can potentially lower the cost of the policy by increasing the deductible, prioritizing as many safety features on the property as possible, and requiring renters to carry renter’s insurance. Safety features include updates like carbon monoxide sensors, tankless water heaters, and fire-resistant roof coverings.

Political Motivations

Politicians may focus on a growing homelessness problem and the lack of affordable rents in many areas. Leading up to the 2024 election, some politicians may highlight a need to enforce regulatory compliance among landlords and property managers as part of their platform.

A Consolidating Industry

The entry of large corporate property management companies may challenge independent or smaller property management firms. Sometimes, these larger companies have more extensive resources to provide cost-effective services, increased marketing resources, and value-added options such as financial reporting for multi-unit properties or property portfolios. These firms may also offer lead-generation services and additional brand-building for properties under their management.

Win by Staying Ahead of the Changes

Successfully navigating the changing climate of commercial property management relies on property managers recognizing trends and proactively embracing and managing them. While preparing to take your properties into 2024, consider these trends and how to extract opportunities from them to improve and grow your business.

From integrating technology that automates operational work and provides additional tenant amenities to anticipating and staying ahead of economic shifts, vigilance is critical. Reducing costs by outsourcing work to commercial restoration services and other third parties is one of many strategies that can help you leverage innovation and position your business to handle the changing landscape in property management more effectively.

Stay agile and informed; the coming year of challenges and opportunities will reward your property management business with success and prosperity. At SERVPRO of Alhambra, we can help you with water damage cleanup, mold remediation, cleanup from fire and other damage, and general cleanup. Call us today at (626) 283-5875!

Protect Your Commercial Building

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

Protecting your business from potential damages should always be your number one priority. Stay one step ahead by making sure your business has all the correct tools and gear needed!

In the unfortunate event of a fire in your commercial building make sure to have on hand:

  • Fire Extinguisher- Having this near by will limit the area of potential damages
  • An Emergency Exit Plan- This will keep you and your employees safe in case the fire is too large to put out on your own. Make sure this is written out and given to all employees. Doing an emergency exit drill every few months would be beneficial as well.
  • Documents Backed Up- Making sure all your important paper work and documents are backed up to the cloud or having extra copies in a separate location to ensure you don't lose important paperwork. 

These are just a few tips to keep in mind in case of a fire. If you experience damages due to fire in your commercial building SERVPRO of Alhambra is always available 24 hours a day at (626) 283-5875

Mold in Commercial Buildings

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings are often overlooked when it comes to mold. Hidden pipes in the ceilings that may be damaged can slowly leak and goes undetected causing mold growth.

Mold is a type of fungus. It can be found both indoors and outdoors. Research has shown that mold grows best in humid, warm and moist environments. 

Common types of mold found in commercial buildings:

  • Aspergillus - grows on dust, food made from powder, and most commonly found on drywall.
  • Cladosporium - can grow in both cool and warm environments and is typically found on fabric and on the surface of wood.
  • Penicillium - often has a blue or green color and is typically formed on objects that have been affected by water. 
  • Alternaria - is found in most common damp areas, such as showers or under sinks.

SERVPRO of Alhambra is open 24-hours, don’t hesitate to call us at anytime. We can have a team of professional technicians, to start on your mold remediation right away. We’ll make it, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO ERP

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ERP logo SERVPRO of Alhambra

If your business was hit by an unexpected disaster today, would you know how to respond? It is important to be prepared for a disaster no matter how big or small. Whether it is a minor leak, a large fire, heavy flooding, or an earthquake, preparation is key. It is estimated that 50% of businesses do not reopen after a water or fire disaster. Call SERVPRO of Alhambra to schedule an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your commercial/ residential structure and make sure your business is properly prepared.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile is a free assessment of your property which will serve as a quick reference of important building and contact information. The ERP is a concise profile document containing only the crucial information needed in the event of an emergency. It includes facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. It helps employees determine the line of command for authorizing repair work to begin. The ERP can also serve as a helpful addition to any existing emergency preparedness procedures.

The ERP will establish SERVPRO of Alhambra as your professional disaster mitigation and restoration provider. By working with SERVPRO of Alhambra to develop your personalized Emergency READY Profile, you can help minimize your business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your building. SERVPRO is a trusted leader in water and fire damage response area and we can help you get your property back in working order as soon as possible.

Being prepared is essential to making it through any size disaster. Don't wait until disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Alhambra at 626-283-5875 today to get your personalized Emergency Ready Profile for your business. We’ll make sure you are “Ready for Whatever Happens.”

The New and Improved Commercial Gear

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Alhambra only uses the latest and most advanced technology in restoration equipment. Every year our franchise owners go to the SERVPRO national convention to personally pick out the newest products to best serve our customer’s needs.

The dehumidifier is arguably the most essential part of the drying process in water restoration. Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air. There are two main types of dehumidifier technology that do this: Desiccant and refrigerator coil technology.  In today’s spotlight, we have the Evolution LGR dehumidifier which uses the refrigerant technique.

What does it do?

The Evolution LGR dehumidifier is used to reduce moisture levels in the air and accelerate the drying process altogether. The dehumidifier reduces humidity in enclosed structural environments by removing water vapor from the air. With proper use, the Evolution LGR can help dry wet materials like carpet, carpet pad, floors, walls, building contents and more. Using dehumidifiers may also prevent secondary damage caused by high humidity.

How does it work?

Every dehumidifier has a substance in it known as the low grain refrigerant (LGR) which is responsible for precooling incoming air. The incoming air then passes ever a cold evaporator coil set a temperature 20 – 30F below the dew point, which causes the moisture to freeze on the coil. At intervals, the machine will go into defrost mode, warming the frost back to water. The cold coil condenses water vapor into water that collects inside a condensate pump which later has to be removed through a drain hose. The air is reheated and exhausted to collect more moisture.

For more information about the types pf products we use or any water drying concerns, call SEVRPRO of Alhambra at (626) 283-5875.

We service commercial properties too!

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

raining on home painting Rainfall on home

Here is a real life scenario that occurred recently to  one of our commercial clients. With the inconsistent weather that we experience in Southern California, the chances of rain are unpredictable and inevitable! 

Since here in Southern California rain does not come too often, it's best to be prepared!

Our client experienced a major roof leak which was discovered shortly after a hard rainfall. The water traveled throughout the second floor ceiling causing it to collapse. The water then traveled down to their first floor damaging several offices and hallways in their building.

Here are some tips to avoid this type of situation:

  • Annual Roof Inspections
  • Repair any damages to roof
  • Be sure all vents are properly installed 

If you are in need of assistance after a water damage occurs in your building call us, we are here to help! (626) 283-5875

Leaky Air Conditioner Unit?

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Air conditioners that are installed today are usually located on the ceiling or roof of your home or business. However, they can sometimes be faulty and leak water down and can cause water damage to your ceiling. If you find that your air conditioner is leaking water, it is important to immediately look into this issue and call a professional for repairs because it can cause serious damage to your ceiling and can cause it to collapse. Here are some reasons why an air conditioning unit might leak:

  1. Clogged condensation drain line
  • It is one of the most common causes of water leaking from an air conditioning unit. This can be caused by dust or dirt that gets clogged into the drain line. A solution can be to vacuum this out but calling a professional is the best way to solve this problem.
  1. Damaged/rusted drain pan
  • Older air conditioning units usually have this problem. If this is the case, the drain pan should be replaced.
  1. Dirty air filter
  • A dirty air filter can block the airflow to the evaporator coil which then gets too cold. When the AC unit is not being used, it starts to melt and then can drip more water than the drain pan can handle. If this is the case, this would need to be replaced immediately.

If your air conditioning unit was caused some water damage to your ceiling, call SERVPRO of Alhambra at (626) 283-5875 to assess the damage and for a free estimate.

SERVPRO of Alhambra's Commercial Services

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial properties usually experiences wear and tear from dirt and grime that accumulates from ordinary use over time. You can always count on SERVPRO of Alhambra to make sure that your commercial property look its best. Profession cleaning will help you protect your property and increase its life-span so you do not have to worry about common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Alhambra for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

When it comes to your commercial property, you need a company that can minimize the disruption to your clients while delivering superior results and SERVPRO of Alhambra is the company to do it. Whether you need professional cleaning to make your business shine, or emergency water restoration services, SERVPRO of Alhambra has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Here are some properties that we offer cleaning services to. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business.

  • Apartment Buildings
  • Small Office Buildings
  • Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
  • Restaurants
  • Hotel/Motels
  • Small Retail Stores
  • Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
  • High-Rise Residential
  • Manufacturing & Industrial
  • Apartment Buildings

Some services that we provide are:

  • Air Ducts and HVAC
  • Biohazard and Sewage
  • Trauma and Crime Scene
  • Carpet and Upholstery
  • Drapes and Blinds
  • Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
  • Odor Removal and Deodorization
  • Vandalism

If you have any questions, please call us at (626)283-5875.

SERVPRO of Alhambra's Emergency Response Profile

5/24/2018 (Permalink)

Your business has just been hit by an unexpected disaster, do you know how you would respond. It is always important to be prepared for any disaster in your business no matter how big or small it was. Whether it is a small leak to a heavy flood, or an earthquake, it is always important to be prepared for it is estimated that about 50% of businesses that have been affected by water or fire disasters do not reopen so we highly recommend that you call SERVPRO of Alhambra to schedule an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) so that we can help make sure your business or home is properly prepared for any disaster.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a free assessment of your property which is a quick reference of building and contact information. The ERP is a profile document that contains crucial information about the property building in the event of an emergency. It also includes facility details such as shut off valve locations and priority contact information. It also helps our employees determine what to do and how to authorize repair work. The ERP also serves as an emergency preparedness procedure.

When you set up an ERP with SERVPRO of Alhambra, we will be your professional disaster mitigation and restoration provider. By working with SERVPRO of Alhambra, you will be minimizing your business interruption by having an immediate plan of action for your building.

Being prepared is essential to making it through any size disaster. Don't wait until disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Alhambra at 626-283-5875 today to get your personalized Emergency Ready Profile for your business. We’ll make sure you are “Ready for Whatever Happens.”

Training for SERVPRO Employees

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

When you’re having trouble deciding which restoration company will best suit your needs, remember that SERVPRO is an international company but each franchise is independently owned and operated. This means you get the best of both worlds, a leading brand you can trust and the intimacy of a local business. Every SERVPRO technician is required to complete a training course administered by The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC certifies and sets the standards for the entire cleaning and restoration industries. Our franchise professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

IICRC Certifications

  • Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) - This four-day course covers mold and sewage remediation techniques and how to perform these procedures in the field while protecting the health and safety of workers and occupants on your property.
  • Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) - Technicians learn to dry water-damaged structures efficiently and effectively using monitoring devices, extraction systems, and drying equipment. This three-day course includes comprehensive classroom and hands-on training to develop technical and practical drying expertise.
  • Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) - This two-day course covers pre-inspection, fabric identification, cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning techniques for residential and commercial applications.
  • Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) - Technicians will learn about types of smoke and fire damage, job planning, equipment, and practical cleaning procedures in fire and smoke settings. This two-day course also includes instruction on odor and deodorization concepts.
  • Odor Control Technician (OCT) - Technicians learn to address odors and deodorization techniques. This one-day course covers odor control caused by biological sources such as decomposition, urine contamination, mold, and other sources.
  • Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician (UFT) - Technicians learn fiber identification and upholstery cleaning methods. This two-day course also covers identifying upholstery cleaning problems before fabrics shrink, bleed, crown, or distort.
  • Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) - This three-day course covers the concepts of water damage and its effects in residential and commercial settings. Technicians learn techniques and procedures to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold.

If you need any cleanup or restoration work done at your property, trust SERVPRO of Alhambra and our highly trained franchise professionals to make it look “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Franchise History

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

Life happens. Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents and homes get dirty. SERVPRO of Alhambra has the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic cleaning service. You know SERVPRO as a leader in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration, but our professional cleaning services can also make a dirty carpet "Like it never even happened."

The first SERVPRO was opened in 1967 as a painting business in Sacramento, California by Ted and Doris Isaacson. With a background in cleaning and restoration, however, Ted and Doris soon transformed the company into a franchisor of cleanup and restoration specialists.

After selling its first Franchise in 1969, SERVPRO continued to grow, acquiring its 175 Franchises in 1979. More than 1,700 Franchises are operating nationwide, and SERVPRO continues to grow. With a proud history, a successful present and a bright future, SERVPRO has become a leader in cleaning and restoration. Since each SERVPRO is independently owned and operated, customers get the professionalism of an international franchise with the intimacy of a local company.

SERVPRO of Alhambra was started in March of 2014. Whether you are dealing with extensive water damage or just getting your property cleaned, we will treat each job with the same urgency and scrutiny. SERVPRO of Alhambra monitors and documents the process to verify your property is taken care of properly and thoroughly. We will even do our best to make sure the entire process with your insurance company is a stress free claims process. You can trust SERVPRO of Alhambra to respond promptly in your time of need and get the job done as efficiently as possible.

SERVPRO Commercial Services

7/21/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Services

Every commercial property experiences wear and tear, including dirt and grime that accumulates from ordinary use. You can count on SERVPRO of Alhambra to make your workspace look its very best. Professional cleaning helps to protect your carpet and upholstery and increase its life-span.  You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Alhambra for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

When it comes to your commercial property, we mean business. You need a company that can minimize the disruption to your clients while delivering superior results. Whether you need professional cleaning to make your business shine, or emergency water restoration services, SERVPRO of Alhambra has the training and expertise to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Alhambra offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:

Places:

  • Apartment Building
  • Small Office Building
  • Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
  • High-Rise Residential
  • Apartment Buildings
  • Restaurants
  • Hotel/Motels
  • Small Retail Stores
  • Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
  • Manufacturing & Industrial

 Services:

  • Air Ducts and HVAC
  • Biohazard and Sewage
  • Trauma and Crime Scene
  • Carpet and Upholstery
  • Drapes and Blinds
  • Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
  • Odor Removal and Deodorization
  • Vandalism

Have Any Questions? Call Today – (626) 283-5875.