Which drives more rent, in unit washer dryer, or office space?

[Ben Staples]

Hi Everyone,

I've got a renovation of a small (~650 sq ft) 1 bed apartment coming up.  This unit has one other room, not large enough to be used as a bedroom (can fit a twin bed maybe) and has no closet.  Right now it is being used as an office, but during this renovation I could put in a washer dryer.  The building does not have any space for a shared washer dryer.

In your experience, what drives rent higher, office space, or washer dryer in unit?  Is it worth converting the space to a laundry room?

[JD Gunter]

I would look at comps online for your market to determine that. You may get opposite answers in different parts of the country, and even different towns in your state. 

In my market, I would say leave it as an office. Even though it's not big enough, people will use it for their children with some sleeping pads and/or a crib. Plus leaving it an office is cheaper and less likely to get water damage.