New Lg Complex: Wall Mount TV included or dumb idea?

[Brent Smith]

I am developing a new 168 unit market rate complex in south Alabama. Including a washer and dryer in each unit is becoming a no-brainer since the rent premium is a great ROI and it reduces significant damage to each unit during turnover.

This being said, I consider myself very AV savvy. Wouldn't a wall mounted TV included in each unit seem like a great marketing tool as well as potential ROI? Flat screen TV's are VERY affordable these days (less than 55 inches for only a few hundred bucks), they allow for MUCH more living space by opening up the room, and nearly everyone wants or has one. Since so many people have one (just like a washer/dryer) why wouldnt I consider saving my walls by including a wall mounted TV or at least a wall mount already installed?

Would a tenant pay $15-20 more per month for this convenience? I'm assuming a bigger deposit, too?

This is my first post... so please, don't hold back your great ideas or reasons why this is a disaster or good idea! Thanks! 

[Zachary H.]

First.. Welcome to BP!!

I would say that it doesn't make sense unless that's what is going to get you your best tenants and best ROI on the investment.

Personally, I haven't seen that in the markets I've been in, but maybe that would attract good tenants and maybe you could get more money per month? I don't know.

Another thought is that TVs go out of style after a few years and people want to newest and biggest and bestest of technology. So, you may have to buy new TVs in a few years. Is it worth it?

Looking forward to seeing what other people say about this. Definitely an interesting thought though.

-Zac

[Matt Clark]

Brent Smith the first thought that pops into my head is that it will increase your maintenance calls. Suddenly it becomes your problem when the tv doesn't work, and the tenants will assume the problem is "your" tv even when it's their DVR, etc.

[Brent Smith]

Please keep the comments coming! Thanks! Remember I'd also like to know if leaving out the TV but including the pre-installed mount and a conduit behind the wall for power/HDMI/cable cords running straight down would be a good idea... It could be an eyesore if someone doesnt have a TV... but dont most people have a flat panel these days?

[Chris Sweeney]

I'd pass on it and focus more on the bare necessities like dishwasher, closet organizer, etc.

[Dan Schwartz]

I'd put the mount up - you can get virtually indestructible ones for a great price at Monoprice - but skip the TV. That way, the drilling into the wall is done well and all the tenant has to do is "add TV."

Too many people who value their TV time will see whatever you buy as "cheap" or "not good enough for me."

[Todd Dexheimer]

Unless it's an A class property, I would skip it - even then I would. One thing that you can do it offer it as an option and the tenant can by $20/month or what ever number that you choose for the TV. You could even tell them if the renew their lease for a 2nd year, the TV becomes their's. 

[Marian Smith]

Over a brick fireplace? The connections would be handy and covered by a mirror etc if not. In the middle of a wall, no. Many people have a tv stand/console...and they are cheap as well as movable. Some tenants may use antennas and move to the best reception. And everyone has a tv.
Now, if the market is soft you could put one in a "model" and offer it in vacancies sort of matching the competition's 1/2 month free...but put in the lease it is non-warrantied or you will be replacing them. And let us know if your market likes the idea:-)