Adding a Washer/Dryer Closet to thee Rentals

[Jonathan Krauser]

I am closing on a 4-plex next week and will have to remodel all the units. There are three 2/1's and an efficiency. For the 2/1, I would like to add washer and dryer hook-ups to each unit as they currently do not have them. This should help me get more rent. The room dimensions are 12 feet x 25 feet, and I have included some models. Since space is limited, should I allocate space for an average washer/dryer, or consider an alternative? Any comments on the layout design would be helpful.

[Alecia Loveless]

@Jonathan Krauser Just be aware that adding W/D can increase the headaches of water leaks and flooding from units. Also be aware that while a W/D is often a coveted option in a rental that can help you command premium rent the tenants may in fact use a lot more water increasing both water and sewer bills.

I’ve got two units with 2 people apiece in them in a duplex in one town and one side costs 2X what the other unit costs monthly. For both water and sewer. Anytime we’re at the property we hear that unit’s washer running. It seems like it’s non stop. It can be an issue.