Natural Gas and other upgrades in Fort Worth new SFR?

[Erin Dixon]

We're purchasing a SFR 3BR in the Fort Worth area (near Carter Park) and have the option of having all electric, or upgrading to nat. gas water heater, range, laundry, and HVAC.

We're planning on holding for the long term (10+ years), but this is our first property and we're just starting out. Prop. manager says that for that area people don't really care about nat. gas either way. Upgrade would cost $1500, plus $650 or so for a venting range hood, which would be rolled into the purchase price.

As a tenant I would prefer it for the utilities savings, and as a landlord I feel saving on utilities may be incentive for tenants to stay longer, but is there added safety risk? I saw a notice that was put out to the area about 5 years ago explaining the risks of natural gas, since the city is involved significantly with obtaining reserves of it in the area. I wonder if it has made people more leery of having it in their home?

We'll also be insulating the attic, installing ceiling fans in 3 bedrooms and study, and are on the fence about a 15 SEER HVAC over a 14 SEER.

I like tenants to feel that we have their needs in mind, want them to feel safe and comfortable in the home, and that they're not paying more than they have to because we chose to save ourselves a few bucks.

Any input greatly appreciated!!