CapEx for decks/patios on rentals

[Chris Roush]

Hey everyone! I'm looking to purchase my first property and am currently looking at a turnkey house with a large deck outdoors (12x24x5 ft). From my initial research, it looks like today's rate for new decks is $35/sqft, which puts a deck replacement on this property between $9k-$12k. This appears to be a huge CapEx cost on top of the other major mechanical components of the house. The deck is in good shape now, but I worry about it eating into my profits long term. Does anyone have suggestions on how I might maintain a deck on a rental? Should I avoid them all together?

Thanks for your input!