Customizing your rental property’s kitchen comes with its own challenges. After all, you’re not choosing for yourself, but for any multitude of potential renters who will call your property home. While you want to choose something that’s durable and affordable, you also need to consider current styles and trends, as well as what’s expected for your kind of investment property. For example, tenants might expect granite counters in a higher end single-family home rental, but not in an 800 square foot condo. So what options are available and how do you choose the right one?
Quartz
Quartz is currently the most popular option for kitchen counters, according to the National Kitchen and Bath Association. It’s stain, chip and scratch resistant, giving it bonus points in the durability category, and comes in any wide range of colors and patterns, making it perfectly customizable to meet specific tastes and trends. It’s also considered environmentally friendly since it’s not mined but created by combining waste stones. While it can cost higher than other counter options, it is a highly functional, durable, and affordable option.
Granite
Though not as durable as quartz, granite is another popular stone option and is almost expected in most higher-end rentals. It is scratch, stain, and chip resistant, making it a durable option. But unlike quartz, it can also require yearly sealing maintenance in order to protect it.
Marble
Another stone option is marble. Though not as durable as quartz or granite, marble is widely available, which makes it easy to repair and maintain if necessary. Marble also adds a bit of elegance and can be a stand-out feature against comparable properties. The downside, however, is that marble is also rather porous, which means tenants must be mindful of what they put directly on the counter and must be sure to thoroughly clean the surfaces to avoid contaminates.
Tile
If you’re looking for a countertop that’s completely customizable, choose tile. Tile is easy to replace if broken or damaged and comes in any number of different patterns and colors. However, keep in mind that tiles also require grout, which can easily collect dirt and stains, and can also fade over time. Tile is also not as durable and is more likely to need repair over time.
Laminate
Laminate is a great option for those on a tight budget. It’s inexpensive and easy to replace and also comes in a wide range of options. The downside is that because it’s made mostly of plastics, it’s easy to damage. Laminate melts and scratches fairly easily and it isn’t considered a green option. Laminate also doesn’t add any additional value to your property like quartz and granite.
Overall, choosing the right option for your rental property’s kitchen counters depends largely on your budget as well as what the market dictates. Laminate counters in a high-end rental may be a detracting factor, while granite in your lower end rental may not be cost effective or increase attention. Be sure to research comparable properties in your area and see what you’re up against.
