Should rental owners include white goods in a rental property?
If you’re a rental owner looking to attract occupiers, you might be considering including white goods in your rental property. But should you and will it increase interest in your property?
Well, that’s an interesting question and the answer often comes down to the type of property for rent and the rental occupiers who are likely to call it home.
So let’s investigate further…
The types of appliances renters seek
When it comes to appliances in rentals, some are more popular than others. For example, an-air-conditioner is a must in some climates, and a lack of heating is considered a deal-breaker in others.
Then of course there are dishwashers which many rental occupiers appreciate, particularly when it comes to family-friendly and executive homes.
But what about refrigerators, microwaves, washing machines and dryers? Should they be part of the rental relationship, or should rental occupiers bring their own?
Well, that depends…
What type of property is it?
Some types of properties lend themselves to included appliances more than others. For example, in a new unit near the CBD white goods might be par for the course.
An established house in the suburbs is a slightly different matter, however. Rental occupiers are far less likely to need or expect appliances above and beyond heating, cooling and a dishwasher.
Who’s your ideal rental occupier?
Weighing whether or not to include white goods also involves understanding who your ideal rental occupier is.
For example, professionals or even students in high-end units are likely to need appliances like washing machines and dryers, but a family shifting from their own home into a large rental probably isn’t.
The pros and cons of white goods
In some cases including white goods might help you attract higher-calibre rental occupiers or widen the market of people your rental will appeal to.
However, as a rental owner, you also need to weigh the financial pros and cons.
On one hand, included appliances might allow you to command a higher rent.
On the other, it’s important to appreciate that as the rental owner, you are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of any of those included items.
What do we mean?
Well say the included washing machine, as the rental owner you will need to have this fixed or replaced, and it’s the same with air-conditioners, dishwashers, fridges and dryers.
Basically anything that is there when the rental occupier moves into the property is considered part of their rental agreement, so you have to ensure it is working and fix or replace it if it’s not.
Can included appliances count against your property?
It’s also interesting to consider that some rental occupiers might actually be put off by included white goods.
Domain recently noted aging or inefficient appliances cost rental occupiers very real money in terms of electricity costs, and the prospect of incurring that can be off-putting.
So what’s the takeaway?
The final verdict
Whether or not to include appliances at a property as part of a rental agreement depends on the type of property, the type of rental occupier and the market you’re looking to attract.
If you do include those appliances you need to ensure they’re working and in good condition.
Meanwhile, it’s suggested rental owners update and service those appliances at regular intervals, in a bid to ensure their age and condition isn’t actually detracting from the property.
How we can help
Our experienced property managers pride themselves on establishing great relationships with both rental occupiers and owners.
We manage every property as if it were our own and you can learn more about our property management services here.
Alternatively, if you are looking to rent a property, you can view the properties we currently have available here.
