Running a real estate business or any business for that matter gets pricey. I'm always looking for new ways to cut back on my monthly expenses and keep them in line. Here a couple of tips and tricks I've learned and I hope you'll add your thoughts to the list:
Breakfast appointments: Early morning breakfast appointments is a great use of time in my opinion. It makes sure I am up and out early in the morning and I can be back at the office by prime time to jump into my to-do pile. Instead of eating breakfast at the restaurant, I'll have something at home before I go. If you still feel like you want to partake in the breakfast fare along with coffee, grab a muffin or something small that doesn't impair your wallet too badly.
Breakfast appointments: Early morning breakfast appointments is a great use of time in my opinion. It makes sure I am up and out early in the morning and I can be back at the office by prime time to jump into my to-do pile. Instead of eating breakfast at the restaurant, I'll have something at home before I go. If you still feel like you want to partake in the breakfast fare along with coffee, grab a muffin or something small that doesn't impair your wallet too badly.
Open Source Software: Check out OpenOffice3 and like software. There are some fantastic offerings out there. One of my favorite resources is http://www.techsupportalert.com/ - Gizmo Richard lists and rates many freeware and shareware packages.
Utilize your local library: It's easy to get carried away buying business books. Some books you'll read once and never touch again while others you'll refer to on a constant basis. Why not borrow them from the library first and then decide if it's worth the purchase?
Energy savings: Be sure to check out companies like Viridian to see how they can save you money on your electric bill. There's usually no cost to sign up - just your time to fill out the paperwork. Go to http://www.viridian.com/ for more information.
If you own your building, take it one step further and check out retrofit programs such as one offered by Efficient Lighting and Maintenance. They can "retrofit" your existing equipment and lights and make them as energy-efficient as they can be without sacrificing the existing lighting levels of your business allowing you to have the newest, most energy-efficient technology available today, without the costly need for a major renovation, and in most cases with little to no out-of-pocket expense. Check them out online at www.el-m.net/
Communication Savings: Check out Covoda! They offer the delivery and management of integrated voice and data telecommunication services, providing you with a cost effective option to handle your incoming and outgoing calls. Their services incorporate many additional features with the additional fees and long distant rates at a cost savings of up to 50% off the competition. For more information, visit www.covoda.com or call Glenn at 203-672-0260.
Have more tips and tricks to add? Send me your thoughts!
Be well,
Rhonda