Washer / Dryer in Garage...Will this be a rental issue?

Question

I’m looking at my 1st investment house to purchase and rent out, $200,000, 4 bedroom, 1400sq ft house in Keller TX with 8000Sq ft yard in a highly desirable schools. House looks great but I wasn’t expecting to find the washer and dryer in the garage😬. It’s right outside the door from the kitchen ...but it is in the garage. Of course I would prefer it to be in the house. But to keep starting up costs low, what are your thoughts about keeping it in the garage for the first year or two. Is this going to be a huge deal breaker with renters?

Michael Noto · Answer

@Laura Luloh If rentals like yours are rare for the area people will deal with laundry in the garage to get their kids in good schools in my experience.

Account Closed · Answer

It could change how much you can charge. But typically if one home has that then it could be more homes have that as well in the area. Check out rentals in the immediate area and see what they have.

Chris Shaffer · Answer

Its actually not all that uncommon in Texas. If the tenant is from out of state it may weird them out for a moment but having it included with the rental is always a plus in my book

Nathan Gesner · Answer

The fact that washer/dryer in included should off-set any inconvenience of it being in the garage. If it were in the kitchen or if the washer and dryer were in two separate locations, then it may be an issue.

Don't sweat the small stuff.

Mike McCarthy · Answer

My first home had the w/d in the garage. Not a big deal. Put down a $15 indoor/outdoor carpet and maybe a few shelves and it will be perfect!

Laura Luloh · Answer

Thank you all for your assistance! It’s much appreciated.

Theresa Harris · Answer

I've seen places where the washer and dry are outside in a covered room off the deck. They are still attached to the house and you don't have to go outside. Not any different than if they were in another room. Focusing on the benefits, it will be quieter when they are running and if there is a leak, you don't have to worry about flooding in the house.

Charley C. · Answer

Connections are connections just leave it alone. its very expensive to move it and requires 3 types of licensed trades putting in a flue pipe (AC), sewer pipe-plumber (do you know where to tie in to the sewer?) and a 220-electrician. it will take many generations of time to recover the cost

Kenneth Garrett · Answer

@Laura Luloh

I have two thoughts.

First I am assuming the dryer is electric and not gas. If it’s gas then that’s a safety concern. The ignition source must be a minimum of 18 inches above the floor. I am assuming the garage has ample room for a car to be parked in It as well.

2nd thought is if your competition does not provide w/d it’s a big amenity you are providing. More competition for you and higher rent.

I my area w/d are in the house if provided. I think it’s a good marketing tool.

Good Luck.

Washer / Dryer in Garage...Will this be a rental issue?

Washer / Dryer in Garage...Will this be a rental issue?

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