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The landscape of community living is shifting as associations grapple with rising energy costs, climate pressures, and ever evolving resident expectations. In this episode of Take It To The Board, host Donna DiMaggio Berger sits down with Nicolas Milo, Senior Director at KW Property Management, to explore how sustainability is more than just an environmental initiative -- it’s also a smart financial strategy.

No longer limited to “going green” for responsibility’s sake, today’s forward-thinking boards see that sustainability brings immediate cost savings, operational efficiencies, healthier environments, and stronger property values. Donna and Nicolas discuss the beauty of this approach and its flexibility where communities can start small by fine-tuning existing systems and then scale to more advanced technologies.

For boards wondering where to begin, Nicolas recommends a phased approach: first, ensure existing systems operate at peak efficiency according to manufacturer specifications. Then explore strategic upgrades like building management systems, water flow meters, or LED lighting with motion sensors. Low-hanging fruit includes domestic water filters to reduce plastic waste, comprehensive recycling programs that generate rebates, and community engagement initiatives like neighborhood cleanups or garden projects.

Technology is opening new doors for associations -- from EV charging stations with minimal upfront investment to advanced trash management solutions. Nicolas also shares personal insight from serving on his own condominium board, where a community garden and composting system has strengthened community bonds while reducing environmental impact and even food costs.

Whether you manage a high-rise condominium or a sprawling HOA, this episode delivers actionable strategies to create greener, more cost-effective communities. The bottom line: sustainability is good for residents, good for property values, and good for the planet.

Conversation Highlights Include

• Impactful and cost-effective upgrades for condos and HOAs
• Resident support for sustainability versus the need for persuasion
• Balancing upfront costs with long-term savings
• Real examples of green initiatives lowering utility costs
• Challenges unique to high rises versus large HOAs
• Keeping pace with Florida’s stricter building codes and energy requirements
• Resident involvement and the rise of green committees
• How sustainability boosts satisfaction and resale values
• The next wave of green living—solar, EV charging, water reclamation, and smart tech
• Bonus: The one sustainable feature Nicholas believes every condo or HOA should adopt if he had a magic wand

Related Links:

• Podcast: Revolutionizing Coastal Defense, 3D-Printed Living Seawalls with Anya Freeman of Kind Designs
• Podcast: Navigating the Negative Impacts of Sea Level Rise with Professor Harold R. Wanless and Dr. Esber Andiroglu
• Podcast: Successful Community Association Living Starts With the Purchase Decision with Marisa DiLenge, Founder, DiLenge Real Estate Team (Part I)