Get a jump on seasonal sales for the best prices on rental property appliances.
Seasonal sales are an enormous benefit to everyone, but especially to rental property owners who are obliged to keep their tenants happy and the property up to date. For major appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, washer/dryer units and such the best time to shop is September and October.
While you may not have the luxury of buying during these better shopping months, you can be proactive and be on the lookout for signs that an appliance is failing. That gives you a heads up advantage to plan for what you will need to buy.
Refrigerators
A fridge is an essential appliance since the kitchen is often the heart of a home. Replacing it can be pricey, so plan ahead. don’t let necessity force you into a pricey purchase. With some research, you can find the best deals on refrigerators.
How to know when a fridge is on the fritz:
- It’s warmer than usual
- Food spoils quickly
- Condensation gathers on the inside surfaces
- The freezer runs too cold, freezing food not in the freezer
- The unit is over 15 years old
May is the month that new refrigerator models start showing up in stores. Often retailers have a refrigerator sales on their year-old units to make room for the new ones. A good time negotiate.
But before you go shopping, in person or online, remember to take notice of which side the fridge door swings opens from and how large the unit is — depth, height, and width. Colors may also be an option, but less so on sales models.
Ovens, ranges and stoves
A kitchen is at the heart of most homes, so baking, frying, or boiling requires an oven or range. Because these appliance generate high heat, they run a greater risk of failure. A replacement can cost more than you may be prepared to pay, so watch for the sales.
How to know when you’re in trouble in the kitchen
- Food doesn’t cook as quickly as it should
- Error codes show up on the screen
- Burners on gas stoves don’t ignite
- Cracked glass on the oven door
- The unit is over 15 years old
January is the best time of year to replace ranges and stoves. Out with the old, in with the new according to major retailers. Also, you might consider switching heat sources (electric to gas) to save money on the utility bill, if you have the option to switch.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers are a time-saving kitchen appliance few people can live without. The price ranges vary widely, but if you know what you want, it’s easier.
How to know when it’s time to replace the dishwasher
- The door doesn’t latch
- Water pools after a wash
- Dishes aren’t clean or aren’t hot after a wash
- It’s starting to rust or crack
- The appliance is over 10 years old
The best month to dishwasher shop is November. As Black Friday approaches, appliance stores begin marking down their appliances. Know what capacity you need and the dimensions of the space where the dishwasher will go. Look for the Energy Star endorsement and save both energy and money.
Washers and Dryers
Nobody likes going to the laundromat, so budget these two must-haves. If you invest in quality you will have less problems in days ahead.
How to know if the washer/dryer are failing
- Washer leaks or rattles excessively
- Washer won’t fill up with water
- Dryer failure to heat up enough to dry clothes
- Dryer gets excessively hot
- Units are more than 10 years old
Get the best deals on washers and dryers in September and October. The end of the year is near and stores must make room for the new models coming in.
Vacuums
Is there anything more frustrating than a vacuum that isn’t working? Using a broom on carpet is not the way to go. Besides a quality vacuum helps preserve the carpet and makes for a healthier environment.
How to know when it’s time to get out the broom
- The vacuum won’t switch on
- The engine overheats and shuts itself off
- A mess is left behind after vacuuming
- The vacuum emits a harsh smell after replacing filters
- The unit is over 20 years old
The concept of “spring cleaning” makes March and April the best time to shop for new vacuum cleaners. It’s not uncommon to find markdowns of 20 to 40 percent in order to move more product. Test it out before you buy and make sure the weight is manageable.
Being a successful rental property owner is a matter of planning for replacement items such as major appliances. Fortunately it’s not something you must do every month or even every year, but the quality choices you make when you do invest in them, will pay off in big ways in the long term.
Remember, if rental property upkeep becomes too stressful, you can always call in the professionals at Cousin James Management. We know property management and we would love to help you.