I've always been really careful and feel like I should get a break given how long I've been living here and how few issues I've had due to being so gentle (10 years, never complaining about anything even when it's routinely 58 degrees in the winter and as high as 92 in the summer).

Look for slightly damaged new units (ie dent or dings) as well as gently used appliances online. 

However it does matter what asset class you buy in as to were you need to be with reserve's.. and some simple logic.. if you buying a 50 year old home that has had a fluff and buff rehab your going to be putting money into it most years..

It takes all of 5 minutes with a gentle soap and garden hose.  

Sent the gentle reminder similar to @Max James above.

But the inspector plays it cool and just keeps gently asking her why he can't come inside, it will literally only take 2 seconds.  

I think not a lot of people ( those who are new to SS appliances) know that in order to keep it clean and shiny, they need to use a SS cleanser and  buff it dry with clean cloth/towel.  

Here is an example of ours:LAUNDRY ROOM RULESUse the laundry room only during the hours of 8:00 am to 10:00 pm; Start loads no later than 8:30 pm as it takes about an hour and a half to complete washing/drying; The washing machine cycle runs for 25 minutes and the dryer cycle runs up to 60 minutes.Remove clothing promptly from machines; plan accordingly.Open/close outside door quietly; gently pull the door closed and use your key to lock it.Open/close appliance lids and doors quietly;Do not overload the machines; overloading of the washer reduces effectiveness of cleaning and overloading of the dryer poses a fire hazard.Clean lint filter before and after running a load in the dryer; Keep the area tidy.Turn off lights and lock door when leaving.If you experience any problems in using the laundry room or equipment, please call the owner/manager at XXX-XXX-XXXX.THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION!

In the latest rentals I try to get gently used appliances from Craigslist in Black.

I've had to "help" mine, in TX on several occasions, with less than gentle conversation and even surprise inspections.