Rental home materials used

[Varinder Kumar]

I am finishing up my first rental property and I would like to know what type of materials I should use which would be renter friendly and low cost to purchase and maintain. What type of floors for kitchen and living room? this is one connected area. For the bedrooms I was thinking carpet but my contractor is recommending tile?  Also what type of kitchen should i go with? I have chosen white maple cabinets with granite so far but i would like some input before making the final sale. Also kitchen sink (stainless steel or ceramic) ? I do not have a dishwasher, is it necessary? Any advise would be greatly appreciated thanks!

[Julie Marquez]

All the finishes depend on your location and your type of property and type of renter.

If you are putting in high end cabinets and granite, I would expect a dishwasher too.

There are tons of discussions on the forums about the debate between carpet and hardwood, etc. I like the vinyl plank wood floors everywhere, so no need for carpet cleaning and tenants seems to like it better than carpet.

For countertops, the most durable and cost efficient is a plastic laminate, but you have to go with the finish that matches your neighborhood.

I've noticed that things like sinks and toilets and fixtures just have to look decent, but can be on the cheaper side. No tenant cares how much the toilet cost, just as long as it works.