CRE Report 3.21.2011 – Spring Cleaning: Maintenance tips for owners.

Bob – Walt, as we head into springtime, are their some spring cleaning details commercial properties owners should be thinking about?

Walt – Good morning Bob, yes there are and it is a good time to think about some preventive maintenance items.  As the weather starts to warm up and with the time change it is time for maintenance and here are a few items to consider.

1.Check the timer for outside lighting so it is coming on and going off at the correct times.

2.Change batteries in any systems that require it, for example smoke detectors, backup batteries for lighting interior lighting and any other critical systems that require batteries.

3.Many events are scheduled throughout the year, but use the time change for fire inspection, alarm inspections, elevator inspections, and parking lot inspection for restriping or sealing.

4.It’s also time to service the refrigeration equipment for air conditioners and coolers for the upcoming warm up.  Make sure filters and evaporative coolers are serviced and for refrigerated air conditioning it is important to clean the coils and change the filters.  The systems will run much more efficiently with regular maintenance.

Bob – So the saying an ounce of prevention….

Walt – Yes it really is amazing, if an owner will spend a few dollars on periodic maintenance how much it will save in the long run. One area this is very evident is on roofs. During the spring and fall when we don’t get much rain it gives the roofer time to inspect the roof and do the preventative maintenance required. Maintaining roofs twice a year will save thousands of dollars over the life of the roof.  Don’t forget to inspect the roof or gutters for leaves or any debris that might clog up a roof drain or canale.

Bob – Anything else for us today?

Walt – I would like to mention that we manage almost 600,000 square feet of commercial space and if anyone is thinking about a need in commercial real estate property management services, give me a call and we can set up a meeting to discuss our services.

Bob, I also want to talk about some bank owned properties we are selling.  The first is 3701 San Mateo a 12,000 square foot office building for $1,200,000.  The second is 521 Rankin an industrial property just south of Comanche, west of I-25 7,800 sf for $544,000 and we also have a 3,000 square foot restaurant on Zuni just east of San Pedro.  Call me for details.

Bob – How can people reach you today?

Walt – Thanks Bob, call Walt Arnold with Sperry Van Ness, my direct line is 256-1255, website is waltarnold.com, you can also follow me on twitter @waltarnold. We know commercial real estate we do it all day, every day, and very well, give us a call.  Go Lobos.  Bob, have a great week!