Our Real Estate Expert Says This Is The Best Countertop Material To Select For A Rental Property

Owning rental properties is a lucrative business to be in, but it poses challenges when it comes to renovations and gives property managers many things to consider. Rental homes see a lot of wear and tear as many different families with children and pets come and go. So, it is essential to choose long-lasting and durable materials for the property, and with kitchens seeing some of the heaviest use in any home, the countertops you choose will prove to be vital. In an exclusive interview with House Digest, expert Shaun Martin, Founder and CEO of We Buy Houses In Denver, gave us his opinion on which countertop material property managers should consider first and foremost.

"In my opinion, the best countertop material for a rental property would be quartz," he said. "Quartz is durable, scratch-resistant, and heat-resistant, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas. It also has a sleek and modern look that can appeal to potential renters." Although quartz may be more expensive than other countertop options, Martin explained that it is for a good reason and that even with the more expensive price point, it will still be the best option for landlords seeking countertops with strength and longevity.

As you consider choosing quartz countertops for your rental properties, there are many different qualities to take into consideration. "As mentioned before, it is highly durable and resistant to scratches and heat. This means that it can withstand the wear and tear of multiple tenants using the kitchen over time," Shaun Martin said in an exclusive interview with House Digest. "Additionally, quartz is non-porous, which makes it very hygienic and easy to clean, perfect for maintaining a high standard of cleanliness in a rental property." The durability of quartz countertops is attributed to the fact that they are not 100% natural stone, as seen with other common materials like granite and marble. Quartz countertops are only approximately 95% quartz, with the additional 5% made up of resin and pigments to create a strong material that is also versatile in design.

Because of how quartz is engineered, you'll find many more options for countertop patterns and colors available than with other materials. Although granite and marble may be cheaper, quartz requires no sealant, while both granite and marble will need consistent resealing over the years. Martin acknowledges the extra expense of quartz but notes that it's justifiable. "The average cost for quartz countertops can range from $50 – $200 per square foot, depending on the quality and brand," he said. "This may seem like a significant investment, but the longer-term benefits and durability make it worth the cost of a rental property."

As always, there are two ways to renovate a property: hiring professional help or taking a stab at DIYing it. However, quartz countertops have qualities that make doing this project yourself challenging and potentially dangerous. In an exclusive interview with House Digest, real estate expert Shaun Martin advocated for hiring a professional when installing quartz countertops. "While it is possible to install quartz countertops yourself, it is highly recommended to hire a professional for the best results," he explained. "Quartz is a heavy and dense material, making it difficult to cut and maneuver without proper tools and experience. A professional installation will ensure that the countertops are properly measured, cut, and installed with precision."

While avoiding professional help can save on the cost of installing quartz countertops, you have to ask if the time saved and the peace of mind you'll have is worth the extra expense. Even if a company cuts the material for you and allows you to install it alone, you risk messing up the slope and alignment and injuring yourself or the stone. When relinquishing professional help, you also wave goodbye to any warranties offered. If you're looking to save money on labor but have little to no experience in this area, you can remove your old countertops yourself and give the professionals one less thing to worry about. Ultimately, bringing in professionals will be well worth the cost, certifying the countertops are installed as efficiently as possible and thus lasting 10-plus years.