Stainless Steel or White Appliances for Rentals?

[Account Closed]

Hi all -

I know variations of this question have been asked, but I mostly see it in relation to flips. Does an extra $100.00 per month in rent sound realistic for using stainless steel over white kitchen appliances, all other things equal?

I am in the middle of a kitchen remodel on soon to be rental condo - 2/2 1025 sqf - in Encino CA. The area is conducive to a somewhat quality tenant, with rents ranging from 1400.00 to 1650.00 in this complex for similar units. The handy man doing the rehab - he manages 28 units in Glendale - says I should be able to get an extra $100.00 per month in rent if I have a stainless steel stove, hood, and dishwasher installed instead of white.

There might be some deal breakers for super high quality tenants already, like this being an apt conversion, with coin laundry machines located in the common area.

The kitchen rehab also includes granite counter tops, tile flooring, and sanding/putting a semi-gloss refinish on the cabinets with new hardware and hinges. With white appliances my total outlay for the entire kitchen remodel is around $2400.00, with stainless steel $3200.00.

In addition, a better question is what approach would you take to analyze this situation?

[Joe Bertolino]

I use the Frigidaire Sliver Mist series. You get the 4 piece package (range, Microwave/hood, dishwasher,fridge with water and ice in the door) for $1695 from Best Buy. It looks like SS but is a lot easier to maintain.