Hillside, NJ · Member since 2015 · 148 posts · 27 votes
I read an article claiming that the Kitchen and Bathrooms on rentals should be the two places that should really grab your potential tenants attention.
I would like some advice or misconceptions on this, if youve heard this or believe it.
Like, whats the best color to use, or one piece standup showers vs bathtubs, or colored tiles, appliances, cabinets.
If you have a streamlined system or a formula that always yields good results, would you mind sharing it with a beginner investor?
Developer · New Orleans, LA · Member since 2015 · 1k+ posts · 898 votes
10y
@Kevin Izquierdo Updated kitchens and baths sure wow the tenants, but it should be in keeping with the area. If you over improve, you will not get your money out.
You mentioned stand up showers, something to consider if your rentals are only one (1) bath units, you will likely need a tub for families.
I am for the middle of the road tenants, so my units have stained wood kitchen cabinets, stainless steel appliances (not much more than white or black) and granite counter tops. The granite is much more than formica, but everything else is just a bit more than the cheap stuff. For bathrooms, I use wood vanities with one-piece tops, acrylic tubs and tile surrounds. I personally hate plastic tub surrounds, so I avoid the.
I will say, going neutral is your best bet. I paint all my rentals the same, so touch ups are easy. I only use three (3) different paints on the inside (wall, trim, ceiling).
Hillside, NJ · Member since 2015 · 148 posts · 27 votes
10y
@Janice R. I really like the design of it all, especially the long countertop opposite of the faucet. Have have those quartz countertops treating you? I heard nothing but good things about quartz :)
@Michael Hayworth glad I'm not the only one struggling with the emotional attatchment to a property :D
@Ralph Hunter I have seen those concrete ones and I love them, but I'm not entirely sure if tenants would like them since they are uncommon in my area. I was debating on either getting Quartz or concrete ( concrete I'd do it myself which would save me $).
I've never refaced cabinets, but I'm sure it cant be that hard. Nonetheless its a very good idea.
The neat thing with concrete counter tops is that if they are done professionally, it is extremely difficult to tell that they are not granite. It does take some skill to do it properly. The time is really in the preparation of the form.
I have done many Kitchen Designs and Kitchen cabinet installations over the years for myself and customers. Just don't go too cheap on the cabinets because in a rental they get more abuse than in a private home. The style and color (stay neutral) are up to you but don't skimp on quality.
@Mike Wood Hi I’m new here,and to this whoke rental thing. I was wondering if dining nooks are a must for tenants?The ones I have are cramped and cramp up the kitchens.Is an island instead of that a plus or a minus?
Developer · New Orleans, LA · Member since 2015 · 1k+ posts · 898 votes
7y
@Thalia G. We don't put dining rooms or dining nooks in any of my units. I prefer an open concept floor plan. We almost always have a kitchen island or peninsula with seating in our kitchens. The kitchen counters overhang (12") on one side so that seats or stools can be used. Almost all of our units are two (2) bedroom, so we design the island or peninsula to accommodate 3-4 people seated.
That way tenants have a place to sit and eat, and they don't have to take up a bunch of floor space for a dining room set.