Do I put in Washer/Dryer hook ups?

Question

I just purchased a duplex that was built in 1899. The washer/dryer hook up is currently located in the "Cave" like basement. The upstairs tenant will be my brother and I had planned on getting him set up with a stackable washer/dryer because the upstairs unit does not have a hookup.

So I was considering moving the washer/dryer hookup in the downstairs unit to a closet off of a hallway near the living room.

I was thinking that it would make the property more appealing for potential renters. I will also be rolling utilities into the rent, if that makes a difference.

What are your thoughts?

Account Closed · Answer

My first thought was, don't rent to your brother!

Tenants love in-unit washer/dryers.  Whether hook-ups or appliances in place.

They do require more maintenance.  You will need to be sure they aren't leaking, and lint vents are cleaned so they don't start fires.

Another consideration is that they are noisy, so where you put them should be considered.  In other words, imagine your brother running the washer/dryer upstairs - and which room would be affected downstairs by that noise and vice versa.

And don't rent to your brother.  He'll end up wanting a favor.  And you'll be torn between what a landlord should do and what a brother should do.

Ayodeji Kuponiyi · Answer

@Joe Frey doesn't sound bad, including amenities like washer/dryer hookups or washer/dryer in the units makes your rental appealing because you're solving a problem. My duplex offers washer/dryer hookups and my tenants love it and bought themselves a washer/dryer on move-in day. Just remember to solve a tenant's problem by adding the "right value".

Maybe you can ask your tenant to fill out a survey or ask them how you can make their stay better. Best of luck!

Robert Seltzer · Answer

I echo the "don't rent to our brother" comment.   Take actions that will increase the value of your property.   I would think that it would add value to your property to have a convenient location for your tenants (hopefully non-family tenants) to access and do their laundry.

Michael Fundaro · Answer

Laundry in-unit is very appealing to renters.  I would take a look at properties in your area and see what you are competing with.  If there are a lot with laundry included, I'd say definitely add the hookups.  If not many places have laundry and you do, you can probably get more for rent.

Do I put in Washer/Dryer hook ups?

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