New vs Used Appliances - Washer & Dryer

[Stephen E.]

I just got a new unit, a townhouse that had been completely redone by a contractor. New kitchen, new bathrooms, ceramic floors, it is all nicely done. I am moving in a tenant from one of my other units who wanted something larger, so no vacancy. Things are good. The only shortcoming at the unit was appliances. There was no fridge and the home inspector advised that the washer and dryer were both very old and essentially are on their last legs.

My question is what people's experience has been with used vs new appliances. I bought a new fridge because we have had problems with fridges and they seem repair prone. So it is a new Frigidaire 18 c.ft model that is going in. Although I did have some buyers remorse when I was at a used appliance dealer's today. He had fridges for $300. My new one cost $733 with delivery and tax (Canadian prices). The next up is washer and dryer. The tenant has already expressed concern about the washer and dryer's age. A 'commercial quality' top loading GE washer and dryer can be had new for $900 including delivery and tax. A later model washer and dryer pair runs $500.

Cash outlay clearly favours used. New would have longer life, does not seem cheap in the eyes of the tenant, and is a known quantity. Used could be anywhere from 5-10 years old. The washer and dryer don't have to be pretty as they will be sitting down in an unfinished basement. So I could go either way, but would like to hear from landlords who might have some advice on new vs used. What do you think? What have your experiences been?

[George Paiva]

I do the same that @Jerry W. does by scouring craigslists, friends, yard sales. I am always looking for used but good appliances. I try not to buy them older then 5/6 yrs but if they are in really good shape I would still use them in the low end units. I keep a garage designated just for appliances so if a good deal comes I just put them in there and when one goes bad I already have one to replace.

I don't even like buying new/retail for myself. I scour Sears scratch and dent :)