Prioritizing Rental Unit Rehab / First time landlord

[Julio Salado]

Hello,

I just closed on my first home and it’s a two family in Malden, MA. My first floor is vacant and would like to get it on market ASAP! However, I’m getting different advice on what to do prior to renting. I was originally going to paint the walls, ceiling, buff floors and make sure it’s passes occupancy permit inspection. Now it’s suggested I get a new kitchen sink, fridge and do over bathroom. It was suggested by a contractor. Those fixtures are in good shape and I was planning on doing that in the future between tenants. This way I can save money. On the other hand, as RE agent with only rental experience and no experience as a landlord or rehabbing (my full time career is in fitness) I understand how the kitchen and bathroom looks is very important. However, is it best to do it all now?

Any suggestions is appreciated and I’m looking forward to sharing updates on my new property.

Julio

[Patrick Liska]

would you rent out the unit if you went there and looked at it ? how old does it look? maybe post a couple of pictures. now would be the time to do any upgrades before you get any tenants, but if everything is fine, then leave it and do the min you have to to get it rented.