Acquisition News Jan15

Acquisition News

Leading real estate technology provider Yardi® announced today that it has acquired Deskpass (U.S.) and Hubble (U.K.) to meet the evolving and diverse needs of workspace users. As workspace policies continue to evolve post-pandemic, businesses require flexible access to space that best suits their way of working – whether they are remote-first, hybrid, or fully office-based. The acquisitions mark a significant step forward in aligning commercial buildings with the increasingly agile needs of office users. Yardi, as a service provider to building owners, operators and occupiers for 40 years, welcomes the Deskpass and Hubble teams to meet the evolving needs of professionals and businesses. These acquisitions enhance existing Yardi Commercial and Yardi® Kube solutions as the technology backbone for flexible workspace operators, building owners and occupiers to support a wide variety of use for flexible workspace. Deskpass is a leading booking platform in North America for coworking and flexible workspace. Deskpass’ global network of partner locations enables individuals and enterprise clients to instantly book desks, meeting rooms and private offices on demand. Hubble is the U.K.’s leading online marketplace for coworking and flexible workspace. The platform enables individuals and employers to book on demand or flexibly contract for coworking desks, private offices, managed offices, part-time offices, meeting rooms and event spaces. Hubble customers include forward-thinking SMEs and corporates in the U.K. and worldwide. Yardi platform CoworkingCafe is the most comprehensive global marketplace for listing and booking coworking and flexible workspaces. With over 21,000 locations listed, CoworkingCafe provides operators unparalleled marketing reach for their spaces and seamless integration with Yardi Kube’s space management platform to support contracting, membership management, billing, accounting and reporting. Yardi Kube is the largest global platform for managing coworking and flexible office operations by powering end-to-end contracting, membership management, billing, accounting, reporting and more. The Yardi Kube platform seamlessly integrates with CoworkingCafe to provide unparalleled marketing reach, lead generation and on-demand revenue insights. Bringing together market leaders in Deskpass, Hubble and CoworkingCafe to expand the size, quality and ease of booking across the marketplace is critical to meet the increasing need for flexible space driven by professionals and corporations. Yardi will continue to collaborate with space providers and technology partners to deliver an industry-leading experience. “We are excited to build a global infrastructure to connect office users with space from the best office owners and coworking operators,” said Robert Teel, president of Yardi Global Solutions. “The Deskpass and Hubble teams bring a wealth of customer and industry knowledge about flexible marketplaces to help us service this evolving customer need.” “We’ve spent the last decade building Hubble into the UK’s leading marketplace for flexible workspace. As a business, our vision has always been to enable businesses to find workspace solutions that are accessible and adaptable to their teams’ unique ways of working. We’re incredibly excited to continue to scale this vision as part of Yardi,” said Tushar Agarwal, CEO and co-founder of Hubble. “Joining the Yardi family is a monumental step forward for Deskpass,” said Sam Rosen, CEO and co-founder of Deskpass.“Yardi’s vision for the future of our industry, paired with their global reach and deep relationships within the real estate industry, provides the perfect platform to supercharge our mission of offering businesses and individuals access to high-quality, flexible workspace solutions, anytime and...

Meet Senior CRM

Have you explored RentCafe Senior CRM, our prospect-centric customer relationship management solution for senior living? Senior CRM has fresh and exciting features designed to provide seamless experiences for both sales counselors and prospective residents.  Meet Senior CRM At Yardi, we prioritize listening to client feedback. We’ve taken thoughtful comments on Senior CRM — and gathered insights on what CRM functionality is missing in the industry — to create a fresh, enhanced product. Senior CRM includes an attractive user interface, new features and evolved communication capabilities. Note that we kept well-loved dashboards, but we’ve added a whole new level of functionality and made things more user-friendly. There’s a range of exciting workflows in the product, but as a highlight, Senior CRM clients have access to: A Communication hub: Send and manage all communications with prospective residents including calls, texts and emails from one convenient location. Lead stages: Unlock lead stages functionality that guides sales teams through the entire prospect journey. Benefit from seamless automation for common tasks at every stage, from lead all the way to move-in. A prospect overview page: See the prospect overview at the click of a button with a centralized, easy-to-access page that presents impactful data. Intuitive dashboards: Manage your digital forms in one place with a comprehensive dashboard that shows every document and its various stages. Enjoy additional dashboards for managing waitlists, occupancy and more. Campaigns: Benefit from new functionality that makes it easy to send email and text blasts, then track successes such as click and open rates. You have access to premade templates, or you can create campaigns on your own. Electronic leasing: Save time on paperwork and streamline your move-in workflow with electronic leases. Enjoy simplified workflows for every step of the move-in process. Move-in readiness: Review...

Resolutions to Habits    Jan10

Resolutions to Habits   

Every new year starts with a “new year, new me” plan, which typically fades by the Spring. Let’s discuss how to turn resolutions into habits for an energy-efficient and sustainable 2025. Sustainable resolutions for an energy-efficient year begin with making practical resolutions that anyone can adopt to make their home or lifestyle more energy-efficient. Start by decluttering the physical space with an energy-efficient mindset. Get rid of unused electronics, which can reduce phantom load. Phantom loads sometimes referred to as vampire loads, are any electricity an appliance or device consumes, even when turned off. Reduce phantom load by always remembering to turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Printers, gaming devices, computer monitors, TVs or cable systems pull electricity from the grid even when not operating. Always have devices grouped on a power bar or strip. Recycle or donate old appliances and opt for energy-efficient ENERGY STAR®-rated replacements. Wash clothes in cold water and line dry when possible. Washing clothes in warm or hot water risks shrinking them. Install programmable or smart thermostats. Smart thermostats allow owners to control the temperature using settings on their smart devices. “An ENERGY STAR® certified smart thermostat offers more convenience, energy savings, insight, and control than manual or programmable thermostats. Homes with high heating and cooling bills and unoccupied homes for much of the day can save approximately $100 a year with an ENERGY STAR®-certified smart thermostat.” Reorganize spaces to optimize airflow and heating efficiency. Change air filters out regularly and tune HVAC equipment yearly. Seal heating and cooling ducts. “Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent,” according to ENERGY STAR®. Workplace energy goals. Businesses and employees should collaborate on energy-saving resolutions to promote sustainability. To reduce office energy use, encourage hybrid work schedules. Upgrade to energy-efficient office lighting and HVAC systems. Implement office-wide reminders to power down equipment at the end of the day. Margaret Mead, the esteemed environmentalist, once stated, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” This powerful sentiment rings true for social movements and businesses determined to combat climate change. Host a few sustainability challenges to engage employees in green practices. The power of teamwork is key here, as it engages employees in sustainability and involves them in business carbon reduction efforts. For example, create “green teams” responsible for developing and implementing sustainable practices within the team or department. Organize friendly competitions to encourage employees to adopt eco-friendly habits such as reducing paper usage, carpooling or minimizing waste. Recognize and reward participants for contributing to a positive and engaging ecosystem, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility. Form sustainable energy routines to build new habits. If daily habits do not change, you will never have a new year. Start with setting reminders or automating tasks like adjusting the thermostat when leaving home. Use apps to track electricity consumption and set usage goals. Energy Tracker on Apple IOS or Google Play is a good app to easily add, manage and evaluate meter readings and record electricity, water, gas and heat consumption. Make it fun for the family and create a rewards system for household members who consistently practice energy efficiency. One must better understand the psychology to break old habits. Habit formation is the process where repeated actions become automatic over time. This happens because the brain creates neural pathways that make these behaviors easier to perform without much thought. When a behavior is repeated enough, the brain learns to conserve energy by turning it into a habit. Patience is needed to overcome bad habits since solidifying them takes 18 to 254 days. Focus on consistency and avoid getting discouraged if instant results don’t happen. Keep tracking progress, stay committed and give yourself and others grace and time to let the...

2024 Yardi Highlights

As 2024 comes to a close, let’s take a look and reflect on Yardi’s achievements and accomplishments. Here are a few of the highlights.   A Milestone Anniversary 2024 was a milestone year for Yardi as we celebrated the company’s 40th anniversary. Clients that attended our Yardi Advanced Solutions Conference (YASC) events and employees worldwide received a special anniversary silver coin. These commemorative coins signify the milestone anniversary and mark Yardi’s four decades of real estate industry leadership. We look forward to another 40 years of providing outstanding products, services and support to our valued clients. Glassdoor Employees’ Choice Award Starting 2024 with a bang, Yardi was again named a winner of Glassdoor’s 16th Employees’ Choice Awards, honoring the Best Places to Work 2024. This recognition is evidence of the positive work environment and culture we have collectively built at Yardi, making each of us a part of this success. The Glassdoor Employees’ Choice Award is based solely on the input of employees who voluntarily provide anonymous feedback by completing a review about their job, work environment and employer on Glassdoor, the worldwide leader in insights about jobs, work environments and companies. “We are humbled to be included with so many great organizations and by the consistent, positive support of our global employees, which resulted in this honor,” said Kevin Yardi, vice president at Yardi. “For over 40 years, we have achieved steady growth by taking care of our customers, employees and communities. If you are looking for a great place to grow your career, Yardi is hiring in many offices worldwide.” Find career opportunities at careers.yardi.com. ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year In the spring, Yardi was honored to receive the 2024 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy for the sixth consecutive year since 2019. The Sustained Excellence Award, presented to Yardi for the fourth time this year, is a prestigious acknowledgment of the company’s consistent leadership and ongoing commitment to energy efficiency in real estate. “We are proud to have played a pivotal role in benchmarking and certifying buildings across the industry and worldwide in 2023. As a witness to our clients making progress toward and achieving their efficiency and reporting goals, we continue to advocate for the value of the ENERGY STAR program for building owners and managers,” said Joe Consolo, industry principal at Yardi. Forbes Cloud 100 Streak Continues In the summer, Yardi was named again to the prestigious Forbes Cloud 100 list, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures. Yardi was a member of the inaugural Cloud 100 in 2016 and was No. 36 this year, making the list for the ninth straight year. “We’re honored that Yardi continues to rank among the top private cloud companies worldwide,” said Joel Loewen, vice president of cloud services at Yardi. “Since the inaugural list, this inclusion has reflected the continual efforts of our employees to create innovative and impactful solutions for our customers. We take pride in being one of the oldest companies on this prestigious list as well as one of the few that has no external capital.” Hurricane Helene Relief In the Fall, Yardi was there to help hundreds affected by Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in the Big Bend area of Florida, ravaging parts of Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and the Carolinas with flooding, storm surge and dangerous winds. Yardi pledged $250,000 to Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen for post-hurricane relief. These funds enabled both organizations to provide crucial emergency medical supplies, food, and water to those in need, demonstrating Yardi’s dedicated support for the affected communities. Our contribution made a significant difference in the lives of hundreds affected by Hurricane Helene, showcasing our commitment to social responsibility and community support. Sarah Bridich, Yardi’s director of corporate philanthropy,...

Winter Walks Jan01

Winter Walks

What better way to celebrate the holidays than enjoying yourself outdoors? Get out of the winter blues and SAD this winter season and explore how to celebrate a festival of winter walks. Enjoy a sense of freedom and the benefits of being outdoors Take this holiday season to enjoy the wonders of nature and get together with family and friends. Winter walks bring individuals and groups together to enjoy walking and are a great way to be active. Did you know walking is the most popular exercise in the United States? The average walking speed is 3.1 miles per hour. The average distance a person walks is about 75,000 miles during their lifetime. Walking helps boost your mood by increasing blood flow to the brain. Walking ten miles per week, instead of traveling by vehicle, would save 500 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each year! Winter walk adventures The holidays can be overwhelming and stressful! Walking has immense healing powers and is so great for you. Take this opportunity to walk more. Winter walks offer a break from the hustle and bustle. If you want to be more involved in fitness, create a challenge, such as walking a certain distance or number of days each week and include a downloadable tracker. Most smartwatches include outdoor walking apps that track elevation, speed and distance. If you prefer to walk solo, embrace the silence and have a reflective winter walk for the soul. The unique tranquility of winter walking can inspire introspection. Walking in the quiet stillness of winter reduces anxiety and enhances focus. While walking, do some mindfulness exercises such as deep breathing and connecting with the surroundings, such as focusing on the crunch of snow underfoot. Bring a small notebook and jot down thoughts...

Yardi Senior Living Clients

As we ring in the new year, we’re celebrating the community cheer of our senior living clients! We hope these highlights of positive stories from the 2024 holiday season fill your cup of kindness and inspire you for 2025. Decking the halls at Radiant Senior Living Radiant Senior Living shared a bright and joyful video on social media from The Village Senior Living in Tacoma, Washington. Residents and team members decorated the “It Takes a Village” tree with ornaments from their personal collections, which Radiant describes as bringing their family traditions to life. “We believe in creating an atmosphere for our team that encourages them to bring their whole selves to work, and the ‘It Takes a Village’ tree demonstrates that value beautifully!” Singing joyous all together at Maplewood Senior Living Maplewood Senior Living communities host several festive gatherings, shared on social media including a tree-lighting ceremony at Maplewood at Orange and a piano performance at Maplewood at Princeton with an opportunity for everyone to join in singing. Making spirits bright at Sagora Senior Living At Sagora Senior Living, residents are treated to holiday-themed group events, festive dining experiences and holiday activities tailored to individual needs. Sagora shared a blog post about how Sagora celebrates and how others can make the holidays special for seniors. “At Sagora Senior Living, the holidays are a time to celebrate the spirit of community. Our dedicated team goes above and beyond to create festive experiences that bring residents together and make them feel at home.” Dressed in holiday style at Merrill Gardens Merrill Gardens chose to collect warm Christmas gifts for youth, as shared on social media: “We are honored to once again support Treehouse with the R.D. Merrill Holiday Hoodies Drive! We are gathering new hoodies for foster children and if you would like to help you can send hoodies to our office!” Happy New Year from team Yardi We hope this post gave you a spark of holiday magic, and we look forward to seeing what happy moments our clients and their communities share throughout 2025! If you’re looking to connect with us in the new year to learn more about how we support our clients, reach out...

Penny Ante Dec27

Penny Ante

As citizens of the U.S. and other nations increasingly adopt online solutions for payments, debate swirls over whether currency, especially coins, is needed at all. Cash was used for just 16% of in-person transactions in 2023, down from 26% in 2019, prompting calls for an economy based almost exclusively on online transactions or cryptocurrencies. With regard to coins, debate in the U.S. usually centers on the one cent piece. Detractors note that at 3 cents per, they are costly to make, racking up a loss of $86 million in 2023 alone; they comprise zinc and copper, whose mining and industrial use can have negative environmental and health impacts; they have virtually no standalone purchasing power; they’re heavy, with a dollar’s worth weighing about half a pound; and they’re underused, with an estimated 240 billion of them languishing in couches, jars, sidewalks, old clothing and elsewhere. COVID-19 intensified the debate, as coins became scarce when people stopped spending them at places like laundromats, banks, restaurants and shops. “The pandemic has made it much easier to imagine a world without coins, and already reinvigorated the movement to get rid of pennies. For banks, credit card companies and some Bitcoin advocates, the demise of each unit of cash would be welcome news,” the New York Times reported in November 2020. No new coins were minted in the United Kingdom in 2024, officials having decided that the estimated 27 billion coins in circulation were sufficient. New Zealand, Canada and other countries have dispensed with their lowest value coins altogether over the years. But pennies, which the U.S. Mint makes in Denver and Philadelphia, have their supporters too. Some argue that several American charities rely on penny donations. Others point out that eliminating coins or currency can burden people...

Deck the Halls

The holiday season can be an excellent time for selling property as buyers are more serious and motivated to close by the end of the year. Let’s explore how to strike the right balance with holiday décor so it enhances cozy appeal without distractions. Keep it minimal Too much decoration can overwhelm buyers, making it hard for them to envision themselves there. Opt for a simple, elegant theme to avoid overwhelming space. Use a neutral color palette like whites, golds and silvers that complement the interior. Avoid personalized or themed decorations. Highlight key features Use decorations to draw attention to the property’s best aspects. For example, frame a fireplace with a simple garland or neutral stockings to emphasize their warmth and charm. Use string lights or wreaths to accentuate large windows or outdoor spaces. Add greenery or lights to a staircase railing for an elegant touch. Create a cozy atmosphere Use subtle scents like cinnamon, pine or vanilla to evoke warmth without overpowering the senses. Add cozy touches like warm blankets, a crackling fire or candles for an inviting ambiance. Avoid overly bright fluorescent lighting during the showing. Bonus tip: include soft holiday music for a sensory boost. Do not overdo outdoor décor Keep yard decorations tasteful—avoid inflatables or overly busy setups. These can distract from the property’s features and may not appeal to all buyers. A classic wreath, well-placed string lights and a tidy entrance with poinsettias can create excellent curb appeal. Ensure walkways and driveways are clear of snow, ice and debris for safety and accessibility. Avoid decorations that create a cluttered or cramped feeling in rooms Consider downsizing the tree to fit the space while adding a festive touch. Temporarily remove any furniture or items that could make the space feel...

Streamline Senior Living Care

Like sorting through a giant keyring to find the right key for each door in a large building, siloed software systems waste valuable time for senior living communities. Navigating various platforms and manually transferring data both increase the risk of errors and place a burden on your staff. Imagine the difference when you have a master key that opens every door. With the Yardi Senior Living Suite you unlock everything you need with one interconnected solution that unites financials, care, business intelligence and more on a single platform. Why switch to a single connected solution? If you’ve used disconnected software tools, you’ve likely experienced the frustration of data-entry errors, time wasted digging for answers and the hassle of transferring information from one system to the next. Disparate tools rarely communicate as efficiently as single-stack solutions, if they talk to each other at all. Siloed systems can also be more costly, requiring multiple licensing fees and the expense of maintaining and upgrading each individual system. With a single connected solution like the Yardi Senior Living Suite, you alleviate these challenges, risks and frustrations. Access every tool needed in one secure place, empowering your teams with an intuitive platform that improves care and enhances efficiency. What makes the Yardi Senior Living Suite an unmatched solution? The Yardi Senior Living Suite is designed specifically for senior living operators, offering more than your average solution. Hosted on a cloud-based, HIPAA and SOX-compliant platform, these tools support the full spectrum of senior living — from independent living to continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) to value-based care. We prioritize our clients’ success and long-term growth, resulting in a platform that’s ever evolving and cutting edge. We’re proud to be a Forbes Cloud 100 software provider supporting our clients for 40+ years. Explore our full product suite to learn more, including:    Yardi Voyager Senior Housing, a community management powerhouse, combines property management, financials and complete business oversight Yardi Senior IQ, the only business intelligence solution built for senior living, helps you make smarter, faster decisions with actionable information across your portfolio Yardi EHR, a full-service, interoperable electronic health record solution, helps mitigate errors and limit liability, empowering staff to deliver the best resident care RentCafe Senior CRM, a collection of mobile-friendly sales and marketing tools, helps you attract new residents, nurture leads and maximize occupancy RentCafe Senior Living Portal, a secure online platform keeps residents, families and staff connected around the clock Book time with us Integrated software offers advantages that siloed systems can’t match. Wouldn’t you rather have a master key to unlock everything you need to operate your senior living community? If you’re ready to see the Yardi Senior Living Suite in action, reach out to meet with...

Retail Depravity     Dec10

Retail Depravity    ...

With fewer consumers in-person shopping and America’s shoplifting epidemic, retailers have their work cut out. Let’s explore what’s happening in retail stores and how this holiday season can make or break them. In-store experience competes with e-commerce Many still crave that in-store shopping experience. Brick-and-mortar retailers can offer unique experiences to retain consumers. Personalized customer service is essential for building trust and community. For example, Nike elevated personalized in-store experiences by leveraging customer feedback collected via in-store surveys and its NikePlus loyalty program. The brand hosts exclusive events for NikePlus members, providing them early access to new releases, limited-edition products and the chance to meet professional athletes. These events create a sense of exclusivity and make consumers feel part of an elite community, strengthening their bond with the brand. Immersive experiences such as live demos, workshops, and events help get word-of-mouth marketing accomplished and increase the number of consumers inside the stores. For example, Eataly debuted at NorthPark Center in Dallas amid the pandemic. However, its eating, shopping, and learning concepts have made it known, and the numbers are soaring. This gigantic Italian market, with fresh pasta, luxe Italian ingredients, and plenty of local goodies, also serves as a cooking school. Artificial Intelligence has the potential to revolutionize the in-person shopping experience. The older generation may seek AI technology for convenience, while the younger generation would use AI to shop and engage with brands. IBM reports that three in five consumers are interested in using AI applications while they shop. From obtaining product information, finding deals and promotions, getting service, asking questions, and resolving issues, AI can provide a seamless, dynamic, and contextual experience. This could range from the ability to shop for products from multiple brands on a marketplace with a single checkout...

The Sky’s No Limit Dec06

The Sky’s No Limit

Looking for easy, fun and free activities to fill your winter nights? Step outside and open your eyes to some spectacular upcoming astronomical events. Dec. 7: Jupiter at opposition The largest planet in the solar system lies opposite the sun in the sky and will be visible all night in the constellation Taurus. Dec. 8: Saturn near moon The ringed planet will appear close to the moon in the constellation Aquarius. Dec. 14-15: Geminid meteors; Jupiter and moon Normally one of the best meteor showers of the year, with 100-120 per hour, the Geminids will be somewhat obscured by the full moon. Meteors are caused by streams of cosmic debris that enter the Earth’s atmosphere. Also on Dec. 14, Jupiter will appear close to the 98%-illuminated moon in the constellation Taurus.  Dec. 18: Mars near moon The red planet will appear close to the 92.3%-illuminated moon in the constellation Cancer. Dec. 22-23: Ursid meteors The last major meteor shower of the year peaks this night, from after sunset until moonrise. Under ideal conditions, as many as 10 meteors could be visible per hour. Dec. 25: Mercury at greatest elongation west The closest planet to the sun will appear at its farthest apparent distance west from the sun, an event known as the greatest elongation. It’s the best time to observe Mercury. Jan. 2-3: Quadrantids meteors Keep the New Year celebration going by viewing this meteor shower at its peak. With the moon only 11% full and set before the shower begins in earnest, the display will be visible from anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere with clear skies and little light...

Cozy Rentals for Fall...

Fall is a perfect season for property owners of short-term rentals to offer the best fall essentials and aesthetically pleasing elements. These unique features can transform the property into a home away from home for guests, enhancing their cozy rental experience. Aesthetically pleasing When it comes to fall decorations, it’s all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Beyond the traditional cornucopias, a warm color palette and seasonal colors can transform the property into a cozy haven. Think deep reds, muted browns, and this year’s Pantone color of the year, peach fuzz. This versatile shade can adapt to different style preferences, making it perfect for a warm and cozy aesthetic. Incorporate these colors into throw pillows, blankets and curtains to instantly evoke that fall feeling. Don’t forget to bring the outdoors in with natural elements like pinecones, dried leaves, acorns, apples and mini pumpkins. Display them in bowls or baskets on tables and countertops to add a rustic, autumnal touch. Visual interest and dimension Focus on textured layers and comfort items, such as adding chunky knit blankets, plaid throws and soft area rugs. Include some fuzzy socks or slippers in the same color palette as the interior for extra comfort. By layering different fabrics, it makes spaces feel warm and inviting. Layer scents for a fragrance fiesta with various scented candles throughout the space, creating a three-dimensional cozy candle scent experience. Choose seasonal colors, shapes, and candles of different sizes. Light it up Since candles offer a warm, soft glow, include lighting that mimics that same feeling. String some fairy twinkle lights or lanterns to add ambiance. Dimmable bulbs can also make spaces feel warmer. If located in more of a chiller location, have the ultimate outdoor experience with outdoor fire pits or patio...

Empower and Retain Staff

In today’s landscape of operating senior living communities, how can you alleviate staffing challenges? Organizations of various sizes seek answers in technology. Yet, how do you find the right technology that won’t overwhelm your essential care staff who are already busy? Our single connected solution — the Yardi Senior Living Suite — can simplify daily tasks for caregivers, helping you empower and retain your team members. For insight into actions that can promote both staff satisfaction and quality of care for residents, don’t miss our informative new ebook. After checking out a few highlights here, explore the full ebook. Why choose a single connected solution for your senior living community? According to 2024 data from the American Health Care Association, two-thirds of senior living communities are concerned they may have to close due to ongoing workforce challenges. Over 50% say their workforce situation has stayed the same or gotten worse in the past six months. 7 out of 10 still have fewer employees than they did before the pandemic. 46% are limiting admissions due to labor shortages. With no end in sight for these staffing challenges, it’s critical to invest in tools that simplify daily tasks for your caregivers — and incentivize them to stay longer. How does our technology support staff retention? Supporting your staff with an integrated electronic health record (EHR) and electronic medication administration record (eMAR) solution helps them provide better care for your residents.   Take a closer look at how our comprehensive care solutions support staff by: Uniting integrated workflows on a single platform. Supporting all types of senior living including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and life plan communities/continuing care retirement communities. Reinforcing value-based care (VBC) initiatives that empower staff. Keeping sensitive data safe with HIPAA and SOX compliance. Delivering solutions backed by a Forbes Cloud 100 company with 40+ years of industry experience. Providing interoperability and secure interface partners. Simplifying staff training with robust, built-in educational materials that allow employees to learn at their own pace, including videos, recorded webinars and job aids. Explore our integrated care solutions Yardi EHR: Yardi EHR is a full-service electronic health record solution that unites clinical intake processing, medication management, resident assessments, interoperability, care planning and more. It enables streamlined analysis of population health metrics and real-time information sharing — helping you track and improve resident health outcomes. Yardi eMAR: Yardi eMAR is a comprehensive medication management solution built for senior living. It streamlines medication passing and facilitates seamless communication between pharmacies, care staff and senior management, all on a single platform. Read the ebook in full The Yardi Senior Living Suite offers more ways to improve staffing challenges — read the ebook in its entirety to learn more. And if you have any questions for our team, don’t hesitate to reach...

Getting Attuned Nov29

Getting Attuned

You might notice it sometimes but it’s usually unobtrusive, discernable only if you stop what you’re doing and concentrate on it. It’s the background music that accompanies your visit to many retail stores and restaurants around the world. Clinical research indicates that a store’s atmosphere affects the emotional states of consumers by appealing to the pleasure centers of the brain. Customers who listen to music they like are more likely to stay in stores longer and make return visits, according to data gathered by Mood Media, an Austin, Texas-based sound design agency that specializes in music for public spaces including those operated by Dunkin’ Donuts, The Home Depot and Wendy’s. “Retailers with a sound knowledge of how in-store music influences shopper’s attitudes can harness its powerful effects on the human mind,” says Tampa, Fla.-based Spectrio, a customer engagement specialist firm. “Choosing music for your shop involves sending shoppers the right message: you want them to feel positive and confident in their shopping choices, living in the moment and excited to make a purchase.” Setting the mood Researchers generally agree that slower, more leisurely music causes shoppers to spend more time contemplating their purchases and enjoying the atmosphere. Up-tempo or fast-paced music encourages quicker shopping. The type of music can matter as well. For example, classical music projects an air of expense and quality, suitable for expensive merchandise such as upscale fine foods. Top 40 pop music might be ideal for teenagers, whereas country music could be the best enticement for shoppers at outdoor clothing stores. “A bookstore may benefit from mellow music played at low volumes, which lets customers peruse books before buying them. A clothing store wishing to project youthful energy may opt for upbeat music at higher volumes,” reports Shopify, a Canadian company...

Holiday Energy Efficiency Nov26

Holiday Energy Efficiency

The holiday season is ramping up, but your bills don’t have to! Enjoy the holidays without worrying about rising energy costs. Let’s explore some simple tips for keeping your home cozy and using low energy this winter. Put down the sponge: Did you know you use up to 27 gallons of water per load by hand-washing dishes? According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), an ENERGY STAR®-rated dishwasher only uses three gallons of water per load. An ENERGY STAR-certified dishwasher can save almost 5,000 gallons of water per year. In 2013, dishwashers were introduced with new standards that required them to only use as much as five gallons per load. Be sure it’s a whole load before running the dishwasher, and scrape food remnants into the trash before loading it. Prerinsing wastes more than 6,000 gallons of water per household yearly. Opt for small appliances: Embrace the convenience of using small appliances such as slow cookers, instant pots, toaster ovens, air fryers or microwaves. These energy-efficient alternatives save more energy than the oven or stove, making cooking a breeze. Instant pots or slow cookers are perfect for cooking side dishes like casseroles or chilis. Toaster ovens can quickly reheat leftovers and bake cookies or small cakes. Keep lids on: While cooking on the stove, cover pots and pans with lids to reduce heat waste, save energy and help food cook faster. No peeking: Can’t seem to stop looking at that delicious turkey? Use the oven light instead of opening the oven several times. A substantial amount of heat escapes whenever you open the oven door while cooking. Keep the door shut to save energy and cut back on cooking time. Sharing is caring: Maximize oven efficiency and the joy of the holiday season by baking multiple dishes together. Roasted vegetables and meats are a delicious duo that can be cooked together. Use ceramic or glass baking dishes to retain heat better than their metal counterparts, making them the most energy-efficient option for baking. Stay warm: As the kitchen heats up with cooking, so does the rest of the house. Turn the thermostat down a few degrees to save energy and stay comfortable. Turn down the heat even further when having a holiday gathering since extra body heat from guests should help keep everyone comfortable. Light it up: Here’s a bright idea for holiday lights—use LED lights! According to energy.gov, LEDs use up to 70 percent less energy than conventional incandescent bulbs and last about ten times longer. Some companies offer rental services for solar-powered light displays. These simple acts of responsibility can significantly reduce your energy bills during the holidays, giving you a sense of financial security and control over energy...

Yardi Co-Hosts GRESB Event

In October 2024, Yardi proudly co-hosted the year’s first GRESB Regional Insights event in Toronto, bringing together industry leaders and experts to discuss trends in real estate energy and sustainability. The event focused on the critical role of ESG (environmental, social, governance) in shaping the future of real estate, offering attendees valuable opportunities to learn from thought leaders, network with peers and explore rising trends in real estate practices. For over 15 years, GRESB has been at the forefront of sustainability within the real estate sector, setting benchmarks that drive transparency, accountability and long-term value creation. GRESB’s comprehensive assessments and data-driven insights have become crucial for investors and asset managers seeking to integrate ESG principles into their strategies and operations, particularly as they navigate sustainability challenges and develop innovative solutions. Key insights With over 65 attendees and a full morning schedule, industry leaders like Dan Winters from GRESB shared critical updates on sustainability trends, stressing the importance of data-driven strategies to achieve ESG goals. He emphasized the need for real estate firms to align with evolving global standards and adopt innovative approaches to sustainability reporting. Darryl Neate from REALPAC and Rob Simpson from Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ) highlighted the growing role of ESG in real estate investment decisions. Their discussion centered on how real estate organizations can adapt to increasing regulatory pressures by embedding sustainability into every level of their operations. As ESG reporting requirements continue to grow, the demand for accurate data and streamlined processes is more critical than ever. Rebecca Everts, senior energy benchmarking analyst at Yardi, discussed the importance of precise data management in tracking and analyzing building energy consumption. Yardi Energy has established itself as a leader in this field, equipping clients with tools to efficiently collect and analyze energy data. Much of the event’s discussion centered on the benefits of centralized data and clear reporting guidelines. Rebecca noted, “Reporting data for multiple organizations and clients can be complex, especially with different reporting timelines. Having well-organized data stored in one place makes it easier to review, ensure accuracy and streamline the reporting process.” Rebecca also stressed that integration and data transparency are key to meeting the rising demand for ESG compliance. Yardi’s solutions help clients tackle these challenges head-on by offering advanced technology that simplifies the data collection and reporting process. Overcoming challenges in ESG reporting While the benefits of ESG integration are clear, the journey toward full implementation is not without its challenges. As other panelists, Bozena Jankowska of Slate Asset Management and Jessica Pilz of Fiera Capital, pointed out, successful ESG reporting requires more than just data—it demands passion, patience, and perseverance, the “three P’s” of ESG. They emphasized that ESG integration involves multiple stakeholders across an organization, and support from senior leadership is crucial in driving sustainable initiatives forward. Additionally, collecting reliable data, particularly from external vendors, can be a challenge. However, with best practices like centralizing data collection and encouraging regulatory compliance, organizations can ensure smoother ESG reporting. A look to the future This event emphasized that sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s a necessity in today’s real estate market. As the demands for ESG transparency grow, real estate organizations must stay ahead by embracing innovative solutions, fostering a culture of sustainability and centralizing their data. Centralized data not only streamlines the reporting process but also enhances data accuracy and transparency, helping organizations meet compliance standards more effectively. Yardi is proud to be part of this important conversation and looks forward to driving positive change in the industry. To learn more about how Yardi’s energy solutions can support your ESG goals, watch a...

Pane Gains Nov22

Pane Gains

Much of the discussion about energy efficiency in commercial and residential buildings focuses on heating and cooling systems. But windows, which account for more than half of a modern skyscraper’s exterior surface area, are earning their share of attention in the search for smart solutions for buildings. Commercial buildings account for about 40% of carbon emissions. Glass traditionally used in skyscrapers easily transfer heat from the inside to the outside, leading to higher energy consumption for heating and cooling. In response, advanced materials and engineering are driving a “revolution” in the building industry, “one that is set to transform the way we think about construction and energy efficiency. At the center of this revolution lies glass,” says Görkem Elverici, CEO of Şişecam, a leading glass manufacturer based in Turkey. For example, low-emissivity (low-e) coatings incorporate an extremely thin coating of silver, zinc or indium tin oxide to reduce heat loss and heat gain through windows. They also help prevent the damaging effects of ultraviolet light on furniture, floors and other items. Insulated glass units often fit into existing window frames, eliminating the need for costly redesigns and retrofits. Other energy-efficient windows contain sealed layers of argon gas, which combine with low-e glass and vinyl framing for greater comfort and energy cost savings. Secondary glazing involves improving a window’s insulation with an additional windowpane. With this technology’s potentially not yet fully realized, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is sponsoring prizes valued at $2 million to encourage innovation of high-performance, cost-effective secondary glazing systems for commercial building windows. The prizes will be announced by May 2026. “Less than 1% of commercial buildings get full window replacements each year because it is so expensive and disruptive for occupants. Secondary glazing systems can help solve this problem,”...

Should Lawns Nov21

Should Lawns

Praised by advocates for their beauty and central role in American history, derided by critics for their environmental impacts, lawns – the largest irrigated crop, by area, in the U.S. – occupy a singular place in the American psyche. Lawns, which occupy 40 million acres in the U.S. and consume around 9 billion gallons of water daily, entered the American consciousness early, with resplendent expanses in Britain and elsewhere in Europe inspiring many former colonists. Estates like the White House and Mount Vernon helped popularize the lawn in American culture. In the post-World War II era, boosted by a robust economy and political policies that encouraged homeownership, lawns “became a measure of civic responsibility. The perfect, uninterrupted green of suburban landscapes came to represent the ideal community. The lawn had become by now more than just a part of the home; it is a visible expression of adherence to community norms and values,” says the National Wildlife Federation. Environmental concerns Starting in the 1920s, various chemicals became commonly used as pesticides. Over time, many were linked to declining bird populations, poisoned wildlife and cancer in humans. These ongoing concerns, along with the expense and greenhouse gas emissions associated with maintenance, high water use and displacement of native wildlife and plants, have led some observers to call for traditional lawns to be downplayed, if not abolished, as a landscaping option. Lawn advocates cite a multitude of benefits, including visual appeal, erosion prevention, water filtration, habitats for some species, summer air temperature reduction, recreational space, noise and glare absorption, and rainwater drainage management. They also extol lawns’ superiority to artificial grass, which presents “an even bigger list of problems, from the chemicals used in their production, to the micro-plastic pollution, to the water use to keep them clean,”...

The Yellowstone Effect Nov18

The Yellowstone Effect

One of television’s most popular shows, Yellowstone, has sparked real estate interest in Montana and beyond. Let’s delve into how the show has popularized rural living and brought attention to the mountain regions of the West, real estate and environmental economic trends that have emerged and what to know before you buy land like a Dutton. Western Real Estate Trends The surge in real estate demand in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho since the show’s debut is nothing short of thrilling. Home prices and land values are rising, with some clients even referencing the show when purchasing. The allure of the wide-open spaces and natural beauty depicted in the series has inspired many to seek a similar lifestyle change or invest in a second home. It’s no wonder that real estate for the average home price has risen, an increase in buyers seeking large acreage or ranch-style properties and shifts in demand for both luxury and rustic homes. There have been challenges in meeting the demand in smaller towns and rural areas. However, some positive economic benefits have been seen, such as job creation in construction and booming tourism. Still, with the promise of progress and prosperity, it has brought challenges for locals with higher living costs. In a broader sense, the Yellowstone effect has affected the environment around Yellowstone. Several ecological concerns are happening, such as wildlife displacement, increased resource demands, and pressure on natural landscapes. The “balance” between private land development and conservation is landing hard on some of America’s most famous wildlife populations in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Some scientists say leaders on many fronts fail to prevent it. For seasonal employees at Yellowstone, trailers that were once home for these employees have now transitioned to modular one-to-two-bedroom homes, part of a multimillion-dollar housing improvement strategy initiated in 2020. Officials have made progress on three goals in the plan — replacing trailers with modular, upgrading non-trailer employee housing park-wide, and rehabilitating historic homes with Great American Outdoors Act funding. However, about 100 year-round employees working in Mammoth own homes in Gardiner, purchased in the late 1990s or early 2000s, when housing was affordable. More than half of those employees are expected to retire soon, leaving vacant positions open and no place to live for newcomers since housing is too expensive and no rentals near the park. “The previous strategy has been to chase the cheapest community, and that’s not working here,” said Cam Sholly, superintendent of Yellowstone National Park. Real estate prices are booming in Bozeman, Livingston, West Yellowstone, Cooke City and Gardiner, and “there is nowhere else to go.” Buying Land like a Dutton Before deciding to relocate to the West, urban dwellers need to understand the local community. Those interested in commercial real estate or apartment/condo buildings should be prepared to learn about property management, septic systems, wildlife management and land conservation. Finding service providers in remote areas can be challenging, and understanding the local medical and emergency services is crucial. It’s essential to be prepared for a life with fewer nearby amenities. Not everyone can have the luxury lifestyle with a Dutton helicopter there to transport quickly to the nearest hospital. For those considering a large land purchase, remember the unique considerations that come with ranch or multi-acre properties. Legal aspects include water rights, zoning and conservation easements, property taxes, land management and infrastructure needs. Suppose buyers are unfamiliar with rural land and the brutal winters in this area. In that case, they need to understand that there is a different type of upkeep and cost associated with owning and maintaining these properties. Westerncore Several demographics and cultural changes have occurred in local communities that have seen an influx of new residents inspired by Yellowstone. Long-time residents have had to adjust to the increase in population and real estate activity, as well as newcomers who moved to the area precisely because of the show. Changes are impacting local businesses,...

Streamline Move-Ins

Paper leasing poses significant challenges for senior living operators. In addition to being error-prone, paper processes are also time-consuming and costly to maintain. Fortunately, innovative solutions exist to alleviate these challenges — including our mobile-friendly, integrated CRM solution: RentCafe Senior CRM. Take it from Morning Pointe Senior Living, an organization with 38-plus communities using the electronic leasing in RentCafe Senior CRM to build success today. We spoke with the Morning Pointe team to learn more about their journey (including the challenges they faced before Yardi and the success they’ve since experienced). Enjoy the recap below, then read the full case study. The challenge: Tedious paper processes Morning Pointe previously used paper to generate leases, collect signatures and store records. With lease agreements averaging at 80 pages each, daily processes were time-consuming, susceptible to errors and costly to maintain. The solution: Seamless electronic leasing Morning Pointe now operates with RentCafe Senior CRM, our fully integrated sales and marketing solution that offers a seamless electronic leasing workflow. Communities are mitigating errors, empowering staff and experiencing significant time and cost savings. The results: Time savings, cost savings and more With RentCafe Senior CRM, Morning Pointe is streamlining every stage of the leasing workflow. Time savings: Rather than devoting time to printing and assembling paper leases, Morning Pointe can now generate documents with ease — all digitally. With RentCafe Senior CRM offering intuitive features to quickly create, sign and store every file needed, communities are saving approximately 1.5 hours per move-in. Going paperless: With help from RentCafe Senior CRM, Morning Pointe is reducing costs, mitigating errors and eliminating wasteful practices. With all documents centralized on an electronic platform, leaders rest assured that they’re operating efficiently — and being environmentally friendly. “Switching from our old paper system to the digital leasing program by Yardi has helped bring Morning Pointe forward in technology — and in customer service,” shared Doru Mihaescu, vice president of information technology at Morning Pointe. Explore the case study with Morning Pointe Ready to see more of Morning Ponte’s success? Read this short client spotlight, then explore the full case study. Have questions for us on RentCafe Senior CRM? Reach out to team Yardi...