Funny thing is if anyone has ever been to SE Asia all you get is a porcelain hole in the ground and bucket of water.

Cliff, I think you should speak with @Scott Limoge.

Be creative and choose from an assortment of colors and choices including granite, marble, travertine, porcelain, slate, limestone, ceramic, quartzite, and sandstone. 

One commercial mold and mildew stain remover even specifically states it should not be applied to porcelain or metal without immediate rinsing with water and that the product isn’t recommended for use on formica or vinyl.Caveat Emptor!

Aside from my opinion, having hundreds of units in commission, the best, most economical (service value (time & resilience)) has been a fiberglass or porcelain tub with a new modern tile surround.

While contractors will find things you dont notice initially, they might also "assume" you want to put porcelain tile in the bathrooms when all you need is sheet vinyl for your rental.

Porcelain TileAdvantages: - Affordability: Porcelain tile provides a durable and cost-effective alternative to natural stone

Also had to often replace the acrylic caulking between the plastic or acrylic surround and the porcelain or enameled metal tub. 

It is tough to beat the durability of ceramic or porcelain tile over the long haul.

Scott, thanks for your reply —just wondering why would you replace a porcelain claw tub instead of repairing the paint where it is  chipsping?