What are the best appliances in rental property to attract tenants is this week’s maintenance tip from Keepe.
Upgrading appliances in a rental property is one way for property managers to command higher rent and attract high-end tenants. These appliances, when safe and reliable, add great value to your rentals, which eventually translates into increased income over time.
Besides enhancing value, appliances are also tax-deductible. Under Section 179 of the U.S. tax law, property managers are mandated to deduct appliances (as of 2018) – another reason to upgrade to better appliances. Before you upgrade appliances in a rental unit, we have suggested some tips on which appliances are most ideal and safest to use for your properties.
Appliances In Rental Property: Electric Stove or Gas Stove?
Before deciding on which stove to use for your property, a property manager should first consider the risks and the long-term costs of each. Some factors to consider are the cooking range, safety, and prices of each type of stove.
Range
Tenants who cook daily can hardly tell the difference between these two stoves. However, an interesting insight: a chef would prefer a gas stove over an electric stove, while a baker would choose the opposite.
Safety
There are certainly different safety hazards associated with using either of these stoves. By using an electric stove, a tenant could risk an electrical fire or electrocution, especially if improperly installed or under-maintained. Alternatively, using a gas stove puts a tenant at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Price
Gas stoves are a more expensive option. However, natural gas is more affordable in the long run. Consider these factors before choosing the right stove for your property.
Faux Stainless Steel Refrigerator or Traditional Stainless Steel Refrigerator?
When it comes to appliances in rental property, having a white refrigerator is good, but not good enough for tenants who like to see stainless steel refrigerators in their living space.
Traditional stainless steel refrigerators often complement other appliances in a rental property. However, they are unfortunately not more stain-resistant than faux stainless steel refrigerators.
While it’s easy to invest in a new refrigerator, it’s important to consider whether there would be enough space in the rental unit to swing it open and if the unit’s dimensions of the kitchen can allow the main compartment and freezer to freely open.
Dishwashers
Like stoves, dishwashers add considerable value to rental properties. Before buying one, property managers need to consider a few things:
Garbage disposal
For the long-term maintenance of a dishwasher, it’s important to know whether a dishwasher has self-cleaning filters or requires manual cleaning.
Energy
Opt for a dishwasher with an energy star symbol on it. Your tenants are likely to save money on electricity when using it.
Capacity
Get a standard size dishwasher if your rental units have huge kitchen spaces or multiple tenants. A compact dishwasher is enough for a small kitchen, though.
To attract high-end tenants and command higher rents for your rental property, make sure to upgrade your appliances in rental property to fit their needs and exceed expectations.
Other recent posts from Keepe.
Top Maintenance Call In January: Broken Garbage Disposals
3 Reasons Why You Should Consider Trash Valet Service
How Can You Detect Faulty Electrical Wiring In A Rental Property?
About Keepe:
Keepe is an on-demand maintenance solution for property managers and independent landlords. The company makes a network of hundreds of independent contractors and handymen available for maintenance projects at rental properties. Keepe is available in the Greater Seattle area, Greater Phoenix area, San Francisco Bay area, Portland, San Diego and is coming soon to an area near you. Learn more about Keepe at https://www.keepe.com
