countertops that last - condo rental

[Ronny Varghese]

Purchasing my first rental... excited! Purchasing a condo that needs flooring, paint, some countertops and probably fixtures/trim. 

Will probably do carpet in bedrooms, and vinyl waterproof planks throughout the rest of the house. Countertops is what I'm stuck at... would like to get something that allows for a "top" appraisal but not something that will be ruined by some dumb mistake by a tenant. 

I know Formica countertops CAN look good but afraid it will hurt my appraisal - additionally, i think with nicer countertops will yield better rent rates. 

Should I go with white Quartz? the comps which sold for 180k all had formica (I'm picking this up for 140k and it's in "slightly" less comparable condition. Would like this to appraise at least at 200k ideally. 

Thanks in advanced for all your input!

    

[Bill B.]

In Las Vegas. Quartz is now as cheap as granite. Both we super durable without any coatings, treatments, sealing. And with the invention of 8’ counter depth slabs, they are both SUPER cheap. A couple hundred dollars per 8 foot section. An average kitchen costs under $2,000 including removal of old counter top, any needed plywood, all cutting, new stainless sink, but no faucet, or plumbing work. 

I installed granite in every unit I own between 6 and 20 years ago. Not one chip, stain, nothing. And that’s in rentals with no sealing, coating, anything.