White vs. Stainless steel appliances for Section 8 rental?

[John S.]

I just acquired a Section 8 duplex and wasn't sure if it was smarter to go with white or stainless steel appliances in the kitchen?

I know white appliances are cheaper, but I know they can be stained and pretty gross looking after some time (if they're not being taken care of and continuously cleaned). 

On the other hand, stainless steel appliances are more expensive, they won't be stained by things like pasta sauce, but they show scratches more easily.

I'm trying to make my Section 8 rentals as bulletproof as possible so that I can keep my costs down. 

Would you recommend White vs. Stainless steel appliances for Section 8 rental?

[Andrew Weiner]

We go with Black appliances actually.  I know it wasn't one of the options but... 

The black appliances look cleaner after use and getting black appliance paint to touch it up blends better than trying to touch up white appliances.

Another option is to try to rent it without appliances and give the tenants a one time credit for bringing their appliances and then they are responsible for it for the duration of their lease.  Section 8 pays a bit less but it avoids damage and possible replacement in the case of damage.  We show many units without appliances and let them know we will bring in appliances if they do not want to provide their own.  I was skeptical at first but a number of people do take us up on it and it saves a lot of money.