Would you paint the kitchen cabinets in a rental?

Question

So I know this provides zero money back on investment, but it makes the unit look nice. Would/should I paint the cabinets? I feel like the nicer I make the unit look the more I can rent it for.

Anthony Wick · Answer

@Allen Lopez

Here’s a few more “cheaper” ideas as well....

1. New toilet seat and guts and handle of toilet.

2. New lighting in bathroom.

3. New handles on all doors. Brass nickel.

4. New fixtures on all sinks and showers.

5. LVP throughout unit

6. Ceiling fans in all bedrooms.

7. Paint entire unit. Neutral or beige color for walls. White for ceiling. Same color in every rental unit.

8. Change all outlet and light switch covers.

9. Paint kitchen cabinets.

10. Replace appliances. Used, white. But nice looking.

11. Supply washer & dryer.

12. Clean up and improve landscaping.

Theresa Harris · Answer

I've done it using enamel paint and it held up well.  Prepping the surface is key and you need to make sure they are fully cured.  Paint and new hardware can make a world of difference.

Justin Juhan · Answer

Prep Prep Prep.

Clean/de-grease WELL

Sand with 220 grit ( if you skip this step you will be touching up a lot where it chips off)

Damp Wipe

Prime with Bullseye 123 Grey Primer ( if you don't do this and follow up with a light color it will probably take 2-3 coats)

Single coat of Behr Marquee

I've done both ways, taking doors off to paint and leaving them on.

I would never take the doors off to paint them again, way more time consuming.

Colleen F. · Answer

What is the surface you are painting? If they are wood cabinets most of the advise here is fine.  If they are laminate,  thermofoil, melamine seek some specific paint advice about those surfaces or your paint will not hold up. Also if they are those surfaces maybe they should not be painted.

That said My sister did a very nice job with transformations that they sell at HD that was on oak for a special  pickled effect. Most tenant situations a plain paint job will be fine and that is what we have done. If you have those handles in the middle of the cabinets consider moving them so you get a less dated look.   It doesnt get you more money but tenants who appreciate this effect.

Charles Hoyer · Answer

Absolutely!  Paint and new hardware can make a huge difference.  If the countertops are dated laminate I paint those as well.  :)

Dawn P. · Answer

@Allen Lopez  I've always used Sherwin Williams ProClassic on cabinets, doors and trim (in my own house, too). It's held up really well.

James Gates · Answer

LOVE THESE ideas, thanks @Anthony Wick!

Allen Lopez · Answer

Any kits or paint you guys recommend?

Jamie Shah · Answer

If the cabinets are in decent health, painting the cabinets can make a world of difference. Definitely a cheaper alternative to installing newer cabinets. Newly painted cabinets can easily lighten up the entire appeal of the unit and this also helps you attract better tenants, that potentially want a newer looking unit.

Thomas S. · Answer

Yes, assuming they are in need of rejuvination, I have painted cabinets. They make special paint for cabinets.

Would you paint the kitchen cabinets in a rental?

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