Best Low Cost Upgrades for a Rental Property

[Kenneth Peagler]

I inherited a lot of real estate (with a ton of equity and in prime locations in Pittsburgh) and it took quite a while for me to figure out what to do with it.  After some thought, I will rent it out but it needs quite a bit of work.  My biggest concerns:

1. The kitchen is straight out of the 70s but I feel that I can somehow save money by refinishing the cabinets (any suggestions are welcome), adding new stainless steel appliances, and changing the floorings (there's that outdated linoleum there currently).  Also, there's a drop ceiling that needs to go.  It also has one of those crazy looking countertops that probably needs to be replaced (any ideas on this would be welcome). 

2. The upper bathroom will need to be retiled (probably with cheap subway tiles), new toilets, sinks, and potentially getting rid of the old school tub, and having a shower kit and new lighting.  

Question: Are there are special brands that you find are not super expensive yet would work well for a rental property?? Countertops, bathroom tiles, toilets, sinks, flooring, etc. 

Any special advice as I begin this process is always appreciated.   Thanks so much.

[Marian Smith]

@Kenneth Peagler labor will be your biggest expense by far so don’t focus on low cost, focus on durability and timeless appeal. You don’t want the labor expense again soon. Plus, if you decide to sell you will benefit from durable finishes that still look good. Solid core vinyl flooring, even in the bathrooms. Subway tile is cheap but why not do large format porcelain tile in white to reduce grout lines, for example. Labor is the same.