Furnishing rental properties with appliances is a rather significant part of a landlord’s job, but it can be a difficult process. When faced with all the possibilities and options, landlords may feel that they have bitten off more than they can chew. We all want our rentals to be attractive and inviting, without costing us an arm and a leg to appear that way. When it comes to appliances, landlords are often faced with the dilemma of whether to buy used or new appliances for their tenants. Keep reading for reasons why used appliances are more convenient than you think.
Keep Quality Up and Costs Down
Purchasing used appliances doesn’t mean you’re limited to the dusty, old appliances from way back when. It’s very common to find gently used appliances in thrift shops and secondhand stores. You should also consider used appliance stores that are well-known around your community to be reliable. However, be sure to find a store that offers repairs or warranties on the items that they sell. This should guarantee that in the future if ever your appliance runs into a problem, it won’t be such a hassle to fix it. Not only is this efficient, but it helps to keep money that would be spent on repairs in your pocket.
When it comes to the price, be sure to dig around for coupons! Depending on the store, you also might have a chance to haggle. Some secondhand and used appliance stores would love to turn over inventory, and you could save a couple of hundred dollars by simply asking. You also might be able to trade in older appliances for credit towards your new items.
Go the Extra Mile
While buying newer, flashier appliances may seem like the way to go, the high cost of these appliances may force you to only partially furnish a property. Prospective renters generally have open minds and could be swayed by what appear to be bonuses. What’s a kitchen with a brand-new oven without a refrigerator to cool all the food? A fully stocked kitchen will have potential renters imagining their future life in your home, while an empty kitchen may send them running out the door.
Take Stock of Current Appliances
It’s not enough to furnish your rental property with just any old appliances. Take note of the existing appliances you already have, and try to purchase used ones that will make the flow of the kitchen cohesive. Imagine walking into a kitchen that has a matte black stainless-steel range oven, microwave, and dishwasher only to round the corner and see a stark white refrigerator. It makes buying used a lot more obvious, and you run the risk of ruining the aesthetic of the kitchen. This may even cause higher-paying renters to seek housing elsewhere.
Along the same lines, pay attention to the interior design of your kitchen. Will an appliance be too bulky? Take up too much space? Will it add or detract from the natural beauty of the kitchen? Taking these small details into account can add to the value of your rental property, and determine what renters you attract.
Do you have any tips for furnishing a rental with used appliances?
Let us know in the comments!
One Reply to “How to Furnish Rentals with Used Appliances”
Buy a stove with a self cleaning oven! Could lessen move out cleaning.