Countertop matertials

[Marvin Meng]

Hi,

I've done accident BRRRRs before (before I knew it was a tactic) but now I'm getting ready to do my first intentional one. 

It needs numerous updates, mostly cosmetic but some substantial, including new countertops. My question: what is the most durable (tenant-proof) yet cost effective material? I'm looking at approximately 170 sq. ft. of counter area. Granite would be just under 1K or I could go corian (durable but it burns) or laminate and just plan on replacing every few years. Thanks for any ideas!

[Jesse Lynch]

They've both been mentioned before, but I think you have two great options, which have different strengths.

Granite: Expensive. Durable. Beautiful. A selling point. Installation is usually included in the base price. (Side note: Sometimes Quartz is the same price per sq ft as granite. And quartz is more resistant to burning and doesn't need to be sealed)

Butcher block: Inexpensive. Extremely easy to install. Visually attractive. Can be refinished a few times, and even stained to suit different looks.