Student Housing Utility Management Case Study in Indiana PA

How to Improve Student Housing ROI with Strategic Utility Management and a Strong Leasing Push

Overview

At The Apartment Store, we continually refine our property management operations to meet the evolving demands of the student housing market. The 2024–2025 leasing cycle for one of our properties has shown what’s possible when strong leasing strategies and smart cost controls come together. With one of our best leasing weeks of the year and a highly effective new electricity cap policy, we’re ahead of last year’s performance, both in occupancy and expense reduction. 

Leasing Surge: Beating Last Year’s Pace

The most recent leasing week delivered a major win for this student housing portfolio: 

• 8 beds signed in a single week, pushing us firmly ahead of our lease-up pace compared to the same time last year. 
  
  
• This marked one of our strongest leasing weeks of the year outside of our initial renewal campaign. 
  
  
• The momentum reflects not only strong demand, but the strength of our on-the-ground leasing team and the effectiveness of our follow-up processes. 

By staying engaged with prospects and moving quickly on renewals, we’ve positioned them for full occupancy well ahead of schedule.

Utility Management: Saving Thousands Through Smart Policy

This leasing cycle, we introduced an electricity usage cap across the student housing complex. The results have exceeded expectations: 

• $7K+ in reimbursements collected YTD that would have otherwise been absorbed by the property. 
  
  
• Another ~$3,000 expected by the end of April, pushing the total utility savings to over $10,000. 
  
  
• This cost reduction is especially impactful given the unusually cold winter, which typically leads to higher energy bills. 

Importantly, tenant response has been minimal, with very little pushback, proving that the cap is both financially effective and resident-acceptable. 

Looking Ahead: Even Greater Efficiency Possible

• Lowering the cap slightly for the next leasing cycle to further offset rising utility costs. 
  
  
• Continuing to monitor tenant sentiment to ensure the policy remains balanced and sustainable. 

This strategic utility management not only protects NOI but also encourages tenants to be more mindful of their energy usage, creating a win-win for residents and owners alike.

Case Study Results: Utility Management Reduced Expenses by Over $10,000

The Apartment Store’s performance highlights our commitment to maximizing asset value through operational excellence and market-responsive policies. A powerful leasing week and a high-performing utility cap policy are just the latest examples of how we stay ahead of the curve, building stronger portfolios one success at a time. Learn more about our property management services in Indiana PA and how we can improve your portfolio.