Should I replace tiled & Formica countertops before renting out?

Question

I am moving out of my primary home(in San Diego) that I plan to rent out. It currently has tiled countertop in kitchen & Formica-like countertops in 3 bathrooms.

Does upgrading them to quartz fetch more rent?

Johann Jells · Answer

Ashish, you've found yourself in a minor skirmish in a long running BP war between those who invest for cashflow in low appreciation states and those who do the opposite. Many here have made millions investing and managing rentals in the coastal states like CA & NJ where I am. It's just a slightly different game.  You have to do your own numbers and guess what your appreciation will be to arrive at what is the best return for you.

In my rentals I prefer granite in the kitchen and porcelain in the bath. I despise laminate and 'cultured marble' vanities.

Taylor L. · Answer

Generally speaking yes. Upgrading countertops isn't all that expensive, as rental upgrades go, and kitchens and bathrooms are really what sell properties.

To be honest, I would lean much more toward selling, cashing in on any appreciation, and investing in friendlier states.

Scott M. · Answer

Completely depends on the area and what is the norm.  If this is a C or D class area, no.  If this is B check out other listings and see what they have, may not be necessary.  If this is A, yes.

Bruce Woodruff · Answer

Good advice. Been there, done that, smartest thing I ever did....

Colleen F. · Answer

@Ashish Medewar  depends on your area.  Only don't put them on top of cabinets that aren't in good condition.  I am not a big fan of cabinet painting but if you have older solid wood vanities painting them gives you a big bang for the buck and it is an easy touchup when you turn over the property.

Alexander Szikla · Answer

Would generally recommend, but depends on the market.

It does unlock quite a bit of value during a refi.

Drew Sygit · Answer

@Ashish Medewar agree with ScottM.

Ashish Medewar · Answer

@Taylor L.

Thanks!

Taylor L. · Answer

Texas is a good example. I'm not so sure about WA, but being a high cost coastal state I would wager they're none too friendly.

Generally if you google around you can find guides as to what that all means, as well as how to determine if a particular state or market is good for investment. There are other strategies you could consider as well, including syndications or turnkeys.

Ashish Medewar · Answer

@Scott M.

How do I figure out what class is my area? I am new to owning rentals.

Should I replace tiled & Formica countertops before renting out?

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