Introduction
In an increasingly demanding real‑estate market, controlling operating costs has become a strategic imperative. Whether an office building, residential portfolio or public facility, operating cost management directly influences profitability, asset value and sustainability. This article unpacks optimisation levers, tracking tools and best practices to adopt.
⚙️ What are operating costs?
Operating costs cover all expenses related to the day‑to‑day running of a property:
- Technical charges: maintenance, repairs
- Energy charges: electricity, heating, water, gas
- Occupant services: cleaning, security, waste management
- Management fees: professional fees, insurance, taxes
🧮 Why optimise operating costs?
✅ 1. Improve net profitability
Rigorous management raises net rental yield without impacting rents.
🏢 2. Enhance the property
A well‑managed, economical and energy‑efficient building gains market value.
📉 3. Reduce vacancy risk
A building with optimised charges is more attractive to tenants, especially in the tertiary sector.
🔍 Identify and track key costs
Analytical monitoring by cost centre is essential. Key items:
| Item | Objective |
|---|---|
| 🔧 Maintenance | Reduce expensive corrective interventions |
| 🔥 Energy | Monitor consumption via an energy dashboard |
| 🧼 Services | Assess provider value for money |
| 📜 Taxes | Optimise recoverable charges and local taxes |
🧰 Digital tools for cost management
📊 1. Property‑management software
Tools like Synergie, Plexpro allow you to:
- Automate invoicing and accounting
- Analyse budget variances
- Produce detailed reports
🌿 2. Energy monitoring via BMS
Building Management Systems provide real‑time insight into energy consumption:
- Detect over‑consumption
- Smart control of lighting and heating
📈 3. Performance indicators (KPIs)
Set up KPIs such as:
- Operating cost per m²
- Recoverable charge rate
- Evolution of maintenance contracts
🔧 Best practices to optimise costs
- 🗓️ Implement a preventive maintenance plan
- 📦 Pool service contracts across buildings
- 🌞 Invest in energy renovation (medium‑term ROI)
- 📊 Renegotiate contracts annually
- 📝 Conduct a cost audit every 2–3 years
Conclusion
Operating cost management is essential for optimising profitability, mitigating risks and enhancing assets. With digital tools, rigorous maintenance and proactive budgeting, real‑estate managers can turn their buildings into models of efficiency.