Our latest #AptChat featured special questions submitted by Virginia Tech students studying Managing Affordable & Specialized Housing. Our conversation focused on sustainable and affordable housing…check out the highlights below:
Question 1: What are the tops trends you’re seeing related to sustainable/green housing for conventional, student & affordable markets?
For #studenthousing, building for top LEED certifications and frequent green initiatives across the country (on and off-campus). #aptchat
— Craig Meddin (@CraigMeddin) November 30, 2012
In #seattle we are required to report our utility usage. #aptchat
— Paul Petersen (@ptothesquared) November 30, 2012
University of Minnesota among other colleges are building dorms with energy and water saving features #VTMASH #aptchat
— Kevin Campbell (@kevo8764) November 30, 2012
I’ve seen a push for green initiatives even in the smallest places (ex. dual-flush toilet conversions to save water). #aptchat
— Craig Meddin (@CraigMeddin) November 30, 2012
Question 2: Foreclosed/abandoned houses are a huge problem, but also an opportunity. Should property mgrs offer them as affordable rentals?
Transforming abandoned houses into affordable apts is a great idea, I have read several articles about this being a success #AptChat #VTMASH
— Anni Simcox (@_aannii) November 30, 2012
Its said that the greenest buildings are already built. Abandoned houses are a great opportunity to be green and save money #vtmash #aptchat
— Kristen Fulmer (@KristenFulmer) November 30, 2012
SWAP inc., is a nonprofit organization designed to Stop Wasting Abandoned Properties by turning them into afford housing. #VTMASH #AptChat
— Anni Simcox (@_aannii) November 30, 2012
@go_hokies Houses are a lot harder to manage than complexes. Simple principle of economy of scale. #aptchat
— Paul Petersen (@ptothesquared) November 30, 2012
Question 3: What is the impact of affordable housing (or lack of) on a community (arts, economy, culture, education)? Multifamily’s role?
@aptchat Communities with mixed incomes supply a blend of ppl, skills, cultures, etc. MF can provide that social/fiscal opp. #aptchat vtmash
— Kimberly Mitchell (@Go_Hokies) November 30, 2012
If rents were more affordable in high demand areas it’d benefit the community’s economy as a whole and increase income for business #APTCHAT
— Megan Bryant (@MeganBryant213) November 30, 2012
Question 4: Selfish question to the #vtmash students: If you needed to search for an apartment today, what sources would you use?
@30lines Always think asking trusting people is best first step-Hate to admit it, I look at craigslist, and also google by places #AptChat
— Kristen Fulmer (@KristenFulmer) November 30, 2012
@ptothesquared I don’t call to learn info about a prop, I call after I have looked online and want to set up a visit #Aptchat #VTMASH
— Anni Simcox (@_aannii) November 30, 2012
@30lines #VTMASH #AptChat First look is always google for me. Search engine optimization seems to be invaluable.
— C.J. Raimondo (@Raimondo24) November 30, 2012
What would you add to our conversation? Leave a comment and let us know!
Join our next #AptChat on Friday, December 7 at 4 pm EST.