8 Ways to Cut Energy Costs This Summer
Ascent Property Management • July 24, 2023
As the temperature rises, so do the energy bills. Summer can be challenging for homeowners and renters as they strive to keep their living spaces cool and comfortable without breaking the bank. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to cut energy costs while still beating the heat. Let's explore eight ways to do just that!
Embrace Natural Ventilation
Take advantage of cooler mornings and evenings by opening windows and allowing fresh air to circulate through your home. Place box fans strategically to push warm air out while pulling cool air in, creating a natural breeze without relying heavily on air conditioning.
Optimize Your Thermostat
Invest in a programmable thermostat and set it to higher temperatures during the day when you're away. Set the thermostat to a lower temperatue just before you return home. This will help you use your air conditioning more efficiently and save on costs.
Use Fans Wisely
Ceiling fans and portable fans can provide significant relief during the summer. When using your air conditioner, run the fans concurrently to circulate cool air more effectively, allowing you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.
Seal Air Leaks
Inspect doors, windows, and other potential openings for air leaks that allow cool air to escape and hot air to enter. Apply weatherstripping and caulking to seal these gaps, keeping your home more energy efficient and comfortable.
Utilize Shades and Blinds
Keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out direct sunlight and prevent your home from turning into a sauna. Opt for light-colored window coverings to reflect heat away from your living spaces.
Be Mindful of Appliance Usage
Run heat-generating appliances like ovens, dryers, and dishwashers during early morning or late evening. This will prevent additional heat buildup in your home and reduce the load on your air conditioner.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Consider replacing old, energy-draining appliances with newer, Energy Star-rated models. Energy-efficient appliances can significantly reduce your electricity consumption and save you money in the long run.
Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Don't neglect your air conditioning unit! Schedule regular maintenance to ensure it operates at peak efficiency. Clean or replace filters to maintain smooth airflow and lower energy usage.
Ascent Property Management
By making a few simple adjustments and adopting energy-saving habits, you'll reduce your environmental footprint and enjoy significant savings on your energy expenses. Beat the heat without breaking the bank!
If you need rental property tips, we can help! Schedule a free consultation with us today.
Owning a rental property can be an exciting step in building long-term wealth, but it also comes with a wide range of responsibilities. While managing your own property may seem straightforward at first, the day-to-day demands can quickly add up. From handling maintenance requests and communicating with tenants to addressing unexpected issues and staying compliant with local regulations, landlords often find themselves juggling more than they anticipated. Many property owners choose to self-manage, while others work with a professional property management company. The amount of time required to manage a rental can vary widely depending on the number of properties you own, your systems, and the level of tenant involvement needed. How much time does self-managing really take? Industry research suggests that landlords who manage their own rentals typically spend several hours each month per property. Time is often divided among addressing tenant concerns, coordinating repairs, collecting rent, handling paperwork, and managing inspections or marketing when a unit becomes vacant. While this may sound manageable for a single property, the workload increases with each additional unit you own. It’s also common for landlords to feel stretched thin, especially when property management responsibilities are added on top of a full-time job or other commitments. Why time commitments vary No two rental properties are the same. Seasonal maintenance needs, tenant turnover, and regional factors can all impact how much attention a property requires. A rental in Southern California, for example, has very different upkeep needs than one in a colder climate. The systems you have in place (such as automated rent collection or maintenance tracking) also play a major role in how efficiently you can manage your investment. When professional management makes sense For many property owners, self-managing simply isn’t the best use of their time. Partnering with a professional property management company allows you to hand off the day-to-day responsibilities to experienced experts. A property manager can oversee maintenance, tenant communication, compliance, and financial reporting, giving you peace of mind and more time to focus on other priorities. Ascent Property Management Being a landlord requires a significant time investment, especially when managing multiple properties or balancing other professional obligations. While tools and systems can help, the right support can make all the difference. With professional management and the right resources in place, the challenges of rental ownership become far more manageable, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of your investment without the constant demands on your time.
Buying your first rental property is an exciting step toward building long-term wealth, but it’s also a decision that requires clear planning, realistic budgeting, and a strong understanding of local regulations. At Ascent Property Management, we’ve helped new investors navigate these decisions every day. Here’s what you should know before taking the leap into rental ownership. Understand the True Costs of a Rental Property The financial structure of a rental home is very different from owning a primary residence. Expenses extend far beyond your mortgage payment, and it’s important to budget for all of them upfront. Rental properties typically require different insurance coverage than an owner-occupied home, landlord insurance often costs more because it must cover tenant-related risks, property damage, and sometimes vacancy. You’ll also need to factor in ongoing wear and tear , which tends to be higher in rentals due to turnover and general use. Additionally, if you plan to use a professional management company , build in monthly management fees and the cost of maintenance coordination. These expenses are predictable and often well worth it, but they should be part of your initial investment analysis. A rental property may look profitable on paper, but the numbers only work if you’ve accounted for the full picture. Know Your Landlord-Tenant Laws Real estate laws change frequently, and rental laws change even faster. Before purchasing a rental home, familiarize yourself with local landlord-tenant regulations, including habitability requirements, notice periods, eviction procedures, and security deposit rules. Many new investors underestimate how critical this step is. Even small mistakes, such as using the wrong lease agreement or mishandling a deposit, can result in penalties or legal issues. Staying informed protects both you and your future tenants. If you choose to work with a property management company, they will typically stay up-to-date on all regulations on your behalf. Keep Emotions Out of the Process It’s natural to have emotional reactions when you’re buying or renting out a property, but investment decisions should be guided by data, not feelings. Whether you “love” the home or feel frustrated by tenant damage, emotions shouldn’t influence your long-term strategy. Successful rental ownership is built on objectivity : Does the property cash flow? Does the location support strong rental demand? Does the condition of the home align with your budget? Answering these questions clearly will set you up for sustainable results. Ascent Property Management At Ascent Property Management, we help new and experienced investors navigate every stage of owning a rental property, from screening tenants and coordinating maintenance to ensuring full legal compliance. Our team stays current on local and state regulations, manages day-to-day operations, and provides transparent reporting so you can focus on building long-term wealth with confidence. Whether you’re purchasing your first rental or expanding your portfolio, APM is here to support you every step of the way.
San Diego may be known for its sunshine year-round, but fall still brings one of the season’s best traditions: pumpkin patches. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings or just the perfect pumpkin, San Diego has plenty of options. At Ascent Property Management, we pride ourselves on being more than rental experts—we’re also local experts, keeping up with everything from community happenings to housing market data. Here are some of the top spots to visit this pumpkin season. Bates Nut Farm – Valley Center Bates Nut Farm is a San Diego institution. Families travel from all over the county to enjoy hayrides, a straw maze, live music, and of course, an impressive selection of pumpkins. It’s one of the best places to experience fall traditions in Southern California. Pumpkin Station – Multiple Locations With convenient locations in Del Mar, Mission Valley, Bonita, and Rancho Bernardo, Pumpkin Station makes celebrating fall easy no matter where you live in San Diego. Each spot features rides, games, and plenty of pumpkins to choose from. Oma’s Pumpkin Patch – Lakeside Oma’s has been bringing fall fun to San Diego families for years. Kids love the cottonseed mountain, tractor rides, and themed play areas, while adults appreciate the variety of pumpkins and gourds available. Mountain Valley Ranch – Ramona For those up for a scenic drive, Mountain Valley Ranch delivers a true country pumpkin patch experience. Along with rows of pumpkins, visitors will find a corn maze, sunflower fields, and even a petting zoo. Why We Share Local Insights At Ascent Property Management, we know that being successful in San Diego real estate means more than understanding contracts and rental laws—it’s about understanding the community. From seasonal events like pumpkin patches to important housing data, we make it our job to stay connected to what’s happening locally. This knowledge helps us guide property owners with confidence, ensuring their investments thrive in the unique San Diego market.
Owning rental property in San Diego has its perks. Sunshine year-round, mild weather, and steady rental demand. But while we may not face snowstorms or freezing pipes, landlords still need to prepare their properties for the shift into winter. Those rare seasonal rains, shorter days, and cooler nights can expose small issues that lead to big repairs if they’re ignored. Here are the top maintenance tasks San Diego landlords should tackle before winter hits. Clear Gutters and Check Drainage Even though rain is infrequent in San Diego, when it comes, it can be heavy. Clogged gutters or poor drainage around the property can lead to water pooling near the foundation, roof leaks, or flooding. A quick clean-out and inspection can save you thousands in repairs down the road. Inspect the Roof Summer heat can take a toll on shingles and tiles. Before the rainy season arrives, it’s smart to check for cracks, loose materials, or signs of wear. Even a small leak can cause major damage if a storm rolls through. Service Heating Systems San Diego winters may be mild, but tenants still rely on their heaters when the nights get chilly. Schedule a routine HVAC inspection to make sure the system is clean, efficient, and safe. A well-maintained system reduces tenant complaints and helps avoid emergency repair calls during a cold snap. Test Weatherstripping and Windows Drafty windows or worn-out weatherstripping can make a rental feel less comfortable and drive up utility bills. Replacing seals and caulking around windows and doors is a low-cost way to improve energy efficiency and keep tenants happy. Trim Trees and Landscaping Fall is a great time to prune back overgrown trees and shrubs. Not only does this boost curb appeal, but it also reduces the risk of branches breaking during a storm and causing damage to roofs, fences, or vehicles. Final Thoughts Proactive seasonal maintenance protects your investment and keeps tenants satisfied. In San Diego, that means getting ahead of rain, cooler weather, and shorter days. By tackling these tasks before winter, landlords can avoid costly repairs, reduce turnover, and ensure their rental properties are safe and comfortable year-round.
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Owning a rental property can be an exciting step in building long-term wealth, but it also comes with a wide range of responsibilities. While managing your own property may seem straightforward at first, the day-to-day demands can quickly add up. From handling maintenance requests and communicating with tenants to addressing unexpected issues and staying compliant with local regulations, landlords often find themselves juggling more than they anticipated. Many property owners choose to self-manage, while others work with a professional property management company. The amount of time required to manage a rental can vary widely depending on the number of properties you own, your systems, and the level of tenant involvement needed. How much time does self-managing really take? Industry research suggests that landlords who manage their own rentals typically spend several hours each month per property. Time is often divided among addressing tenant concerns, coordinating repairs, collecting rent, handling paperwork, and managing inspections or marketing when a unit becomes vacant. While this may sound manageable for a single property, the workload increases with each additional unit you own. It’s also common for landlords to feel stretched thin, especially when property management responsibilities are added on top of a full-time job or other commitments. Why time commitments vary No two rental properties are the same. Seasonal maintenance needs, tenant turnover, and regional factors can all impact how much attention a property requires. A rental in Southern California, for example, has very different upkeep needs than one in a colder climate. The systems you have in place (such as automated rent collection or maintenance tracking) also play a major role in how efficiently you can manage your investment. When professional management makes sense For many property owners, self-managing simply isn’t the best use of their time. Partnering with a professional property management company allows you to hand off the day-to-day responsibilities to experienced experts. A property manager can oversee maintenance, tenant communication, compliance, and financial reporting, giving you peace of mind and more time to focus on other priorities. Ascent Property Management Being a landlord requires a significant time investment, especially when managing multiple properties or balancing other professional obligations. While tools and systems can help, the right support can make all the difference. With professional management and the right resources in place, the challenges of rental ownership become far more manageable, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of your investment without the constant demands on your time.
Buying your first rental property is an exciting step toward building long-term wealth, but it’s also a decision that requires clear planning, realistic budgeting, and a strong understanding of local regulations. At Ascent Property Management, we’ve helped new investors navigate these decisions every day. Here’s what you should know before taking the leap into rental ownership. Understand the True Costs of a Rental Property The financial structure of a rental home is very different from owning a primary residence. Expenses extend far beyond your mortgage payment, and it’s important to budget for all of them upfront. Rental properties typically require different insurance coverage than an owner-occupied home, landlord insurance often costs more because it must cover tenant-related risks, property damage, and sometimes vacancy. You’ll also need to factor in ongoing wear and tear , which tends to be higher in rentals due to turnover and general use. Additionally, if you plan to use a professional management company , build in monthly management fees and the cost of maintenance coordination. These expenses are predictable and often well worth it, but they should be part of your initial investment analysis. A rental property may look profitable on paper, but the numbers only work if you’ve accounted for the full picture. Know Your Landlord-Tenant Laws Real estate laws change frequently, and rental laws change even faster. Before purchasing a rental home, familiarize yourself with local landlord-tenant regulations, including habitability requirements, notice periods, eviction procedures, and security deposit rules. Many new investors underestimate how critical this step is. Even small mistakes, such as using the wrong lease agreement or mishandling a deposit, can result in penalties or legal issues. Staying informed protects both you and your future tenants. If you choose to work with a property management company, they will typically stay up-to-date on all regulations on your behalf. Keep Emotions Out of the Process It’s natural to have emotional reactions when you’re buying or renting out a property, but investment decisions should be guided by data, not feelings. Whether you “love” the home or feel frustrated by tenant damage, emotions shouldn’t influence your long-term strategy. Successful rental ownership is built on objectivity : Does the property cash flow? Does the location support strong rental demand? Does the condition of the home align with your budget? Answering these questions clearly will set you up for sustainable results. Ascent Property Management At Ascent Property Management, we help new and experienced investors navigate every stage of owning a rental property, from screening tenants and coordinating maintenance to ensuring full legal compliance. Our team stays current on local and state regulations, manages day-to-day operations, and provides transparent reporting so you can focus on building long-term wealth with confidence. Whether you’re purchasing your first rental or expanding your portfolio, APM is here to support you every step of the way.
San Diego may be known for its sunshine year-round, but fall still brings one of the season’s best traditions: pumpkin patches. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings or just the perfect pumpkin, San Diego has plenty of options. At Ascent Property Management, we pride ourselves on being more than rental experts—we’re also local experts, keeping up with everything from community happenings to housing market data. Here are some of the top spots to visit this pumpkin season. Bates Nut Farm – Valley Center Bates Nut Farm is a San Diego institution. Families travel from all over the county to enjoy hayrides, a straw maze, live music, and of course, an impressive selection of pumpkins. It’s one of the best places to experience fall traditions in Southern California. Pumpkin Station – Multiple Locations With convenient locations in Del Mar, Mission Valley, Bonita, and Rancho Bernardo, Pumpkin Station makes celebrating fall easy no matter where you live in San Diego. Each spot features rides, games, and plenty of pumpkins to choose from. Oma’s Pumpkin Patch – Lakeside Oma’s has been bringing fall fun to San Diego families for years. Kids love the cottonseed mountain, tractor rides, and themed play areas, while adults appreciate the variety of pumpkins and gourds available. Mountain Valley Ranch – Ramona For those up for a scenic drive, Mountain Valley Ranch delivers a true country pumpkin patch experience. Along with rows of pumpkins, visitors will find a corn maze, sunflower fields, and even a petting zoo. Why We Share Local Insights At Ascent Property Management, we know that being successful in San Diego real estate means more than understanding contracts and rental laws—it’s about understanding the community. From seasonal events like pumpkin patches to important housing data, we make it our job to stay connected to what’s happening locally. This knowledge helps us guide property owners with confidence, ensuring their investments thrive in the unique San Diego market.
