How to Find Appliances for Apartments & Rental Property
Fri Oct 10 2025
Outfitting an apartment or rental property with the right appliances requires a different approach than shopping for your own home. As a landlord, property manager, or investor, your goal isn’t just about style or luxury, it’s about durability, affordability, and tenant satisfaction. Whether you’re furnishing a single rental unit or managing an entire complex, selecting the right appliances can make your property more attractive to renters, reduce turnover, and even cut down on maintenance calls.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to find appliances for apartments and rental properties, what features to prioritize, common pitfalls to avoid, and tips for stretching your investment while keeping tenants happy.
Why Appliances Matter in Rental Properties
Appliances are one of the first things tenants notice when touring an apartment. A kitchen with clean, reliable appliances sends the message that the property is well-maintained. Beyond appearance, the right appliances also contribute to:
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Tenant Satisfaction: Functioning, easy-to-use appliances make daily life easier, encouraging tenants to stay longer.
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Reduced Maintenance Costs: Durable, low-maintenance models mean fewer service calls and headaches for landlords.
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Marketability: Updated appliances are a selling point when listing your property. Renters often compare kitchen and laundry amenities between options.
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Property Value: Well-chosen appliances can increase the value of your investment, especially if you plan to sell in the future.
Key Factors to Consider
Size and Fit
Apartments and rental properties often have smaller kitchens and laundry spaces. Measure carefully before buying:
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Standard Sizes: Most ranges, dishwashers, and refrigerators come in 30" widths, but apartments may need compact 24" models.
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Stackable Laundry: If space is tight, stackable washer-dryer units can be a lifesaver.
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Counter-Depth Refrigerators: These save floor space and give a streamlined look.
A perfect fit prevents costly installation issues and ensures the unit feels designed for the space.
Durability Over Luxury
Tenants need reliability more than fancy features. Stick to models with strong track records of performance and fewer moving parts. For example:
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Choose a sturdy top-load washer rather than a delicate high-tech model.
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Pick refrigerators with standard shelving instead of touchscreen displays.
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Select ovens with basic controls rather than complex smart panels.
Durability means fewer repairs, and fewer calls from frustrated tenants.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient appliances don’t just help the environment, they reduce utility bills. If tenants pay utilities, energy efficiency makes your property more attractive. If you, the landlord, cover utilities, the savings are yours. Look for models with strong efficiency ratings for long-term benefits.
Ease of Use
Rental appliances should be simple and intuitive. Complicated digital panels or smart-home features can confuse tenants and lead to misuse. Knob controls and straightforward displays keep things user-friendly.
Price Point
Investing in the most expensive models isn’t always the best choice. Instead, find the balance between quality and cost-effectiveness. Mid-range appliances often give you the best return: durable enough to last but affordable to replace if needed.
Best Appliances for Apartments and Rentals
Let’s break down appliance categories most commonly needed in rental properties.
Refrigerators
A reliable refrigerator is non-negotiable. Tenants expect ample space, quiet operation, and consistent cooling.
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Top Mount Models: Classic, budget-friendly, and easy to maintain.
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Bottom Freezer or French Door Models: Provide more storage flexibility and appeal but may cost more upfront.
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Compact or Counter-Depth Options: Best for smaller kitchens.
Ranges & Ovens
Cooking appliances should be straightforward and durable.
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Freestanding Ranges: These combine oven and stovetop, offering the simplest installation.
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Gas vs. Electric: Electric ranges are often easier to maintain and safer for rental units, though some properties already have gas hookups.
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Self-Cleaning Features: Helpful but not essential, basic models often hold up better in rental environments.
Dishwashers
Not every rental includes one, but dishwashers are becoming a standard expectation in higher-end apartments.
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Compact 18" Models: Perfect for smaller kitchens.
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Standard 24" Dishwashers: Better for larger units or family rentals.
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Durability Tip: Stainless-steel tubs are more resilient than plastic interiors.
Washers & Dryers
If your property offers in-unit laundry, you’ll stand out to potential renters.
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Stackable Units: Great space-savers.
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Top-Load Washers: Tend to be more durable for frequent use.
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Electric Dryers: Easier to install and maintain compared to gas.
Small Appliances
For furnished rentals, you might also include small appliances like:
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Microwaves: Compact countertop or over-the-range models.
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Coffee Makers: Low-cost conveniences that improve tenant satisfaction in short-term or luxury rentals.
Appliance Features Tenants Appreciate
Even when you’re prioritizing durability, certain features are worth the investment because they improve the renter’s experience:
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Adjustable Refrigerator Shelves: Tenants can fit everything from tall bottles to leftovers.
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Smooth-Top Electric Ranges: Easier to clean than coil burners.
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Quiet Dishwashers: Important in smaller apartments with open layouts.
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Moisture Sensors in Dryers: Prevent over-drying clothes and reduce wear.
These features strike the right balance between functionality and tenant appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overbuying Luxury: Fancy features look great but don’t add much rental value.
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Skipping Measurements: Always measure doorways, hallways, and installation cutouts. Nothing derails move-in like a refrigerator that doesn’t fit.
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Ignoring Warranty Coverage: Extended warranties can pay off for appliances that see heavy use.
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Choosing the Cheapest Option Every Time: Bargain appliances may save you money upfront but break down faster, costing you more in the long run.
How to Stretch Your Budget
When purchasing multiple appliances for rentals, savings add up:
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Bundle Packages: Many retailers offer discounts when you buy kitchen or laundry sets together.
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Prioritize Key Units: Invest more in refrigerators and laundry machines, appliances tenants use daily. Save on microwaves or ranges with simpler needs.
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Standardize Across Units: If managing multiple apartments, choose the same models. It simplifies maintenance, parts replacement, and repair calls.
Shop Home Appliances & More at Metro Today
Looking for durable, cost-effective appliances for apartments or rental properties? At Metro Appliances & More, we offer a wide selection of refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, washers, dryers, and more, perfect for outfitting rentals of any size. Our experts can help you find the right balance of durability, style, and price so your investment pays off.
Visit one of our appliance stores in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, or Oklahoma, or browse online to find the right appliances for apartments and rental properties.
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FAQs: Appliances for Apartments & Rental Property
Should I buy new or used appliances for rentals?
New appliances are almost always better for rentals. They come with warranties, last longer, and give your property a modern, cared-for appearance.
Do smart appliances make sense for rentals?
Not usually. They can confuse tenants and are more expensive to repair. Stick to reliable, straightforward models unless targeting high-end luxury rentals.
What color appliances are best for rentals?
Stainless steel is popular, but white and black finishes are more cost-effective and don’t show fingerprints as easily. Choose finishes that fit your rental market.
How long should appliances last in a rental property?
Most mid-range appliances should last 7-10 years with proper use and occasional maintenance. Choosing durable brands extends this life span.
What’s the best way to maintain rental appliances?
Schedule inspections during turnover, clean units thoroughly, and provide tenants with easy-to-follow care instructions (like avoiding foil in ovens or overloading washers).
