Originally posted by J Scott:
I certainly like to ensure that my properties are completely move in ready -- all appliances including washer/dryer, mini-blinds, etc -- as these things are functional differences between my house and others. Tenants like to know that it wont cost them additional time/effort/cost to get settled into my place, which differentiates it from my competitors.
That said, any non-functional upgrades -- like crown molding, upgraded appliances, etc -- are likely to lost on the tenant.
For example, a washer/dryer is going to make my house 10x more attractive than a similar one without WD. But an upgraded WD isn't really going to add any incremental value.
So, if you're considering putting money in, my opinion is to put it into functional items, not purely aesthetic ones like molding...
Just my $.02...
J Scott, I see your point in doing this but aren't you also opening up yourself to additional maintenance?
I know several landlords who don't provide any appliances because if they are in the property when the tenant moves in, the landlord is responsible for maintenance on the appliances.
Given the fact that tenants usually (at least in my target market) don't treat the rent-house as their home but rather a place to live, won't they abuse the appliances more then normal hence increasing the operating costs for you as a landlord?
Just curious as to what your experience is...
Sorry for hijacking the thread Charles.
