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Are you trying to decide between granite or quartz countertops for rentals in Metro Detroit? We compared the two in terms of value, durability, and maintenance.
Choosing countertops for rentals is an investment decision that property owners should make carefully. Countertops can affect tenant perception, rental rates, durability, and long-term maintenance costs. Granite and quartz countertops are among the top choices for Metro Detroit investors. But investors often wonder which one of these popular countertop materials is a better choice for rental properties.
The answer depends on the type of rental, the neighborhood, and your investment strategy. In competitive Detroit area rental markets, the right countertop can help a unit lease faster while protecting your renovation budget over time.
Tenant expectations vary widely across Metro Detroit. In higher-demand areas such as Royal Oak, Ferndale, Birmingham, and parts of Detroit’s revitalized neighborhoods, renters expect updated kitchens and higher-end finishes.
In more affordable neighborhoods, tenants may still prioritize functionality over premium finishes. However, even in these markets, outdated laminate countertops can make a unit feel dated and harder to rent.
Today’s renters in Metro Detroit typically expect durable solid surfaces, neutral colors, and easy-to-clean surfaces. This is where granite and quartz shine as the best options for countertops for rentals in Metro Detroit.
Granite has long been a popular choice for rental homes across Metro Detroit. It offers a natural stone appearance at a price point that often fits investor budgets.
Granite is heat resistant and stands up well to hot pans, which is appealing in rentals from a durability perspective. Each slab is unique, giving kitchens a more custom look that can elevate perceived value.
Granite is porous and requires sealing. If tenants do not maintain it properly, stains can develop over time. Lighter granite colors are especially vulnerable to spills and oil absorption.
Chips can occur along edges if heavy objects are dropped. While repairs are possible, they add maintenance costs that investors should factor in.
Quartz has grown rapidly in popularity across Metro Detroit, especially in newer renovations and higher-end rentals. While not a natural stone slab in the traditional sense, quartz offers performance advantages that many investors appreciate.
Quartz is nonporous, meaning it does not require sealing and resists stains from wine, coffee, and cooking oils. This makes it very low maintenance.
Quartz is also highly durable and resistant to chipping. Its consistent appearance makes replacements or additions easier if damage occurs.
From a marketing standpoint, quartz in Metro Detroit rentals signals a modern, updated home. Many renters associate quartz with newer construction and premium finishes.
Quartz is not heat resistant in the same way granite is. Extremely hot pans can cause damage if placed directly on the surface.
Upfront costs can be slightly higher than entry-level granite, although certain types of granite can also be comparable.
While granite and quartz are both great selections for countertops for rentals in Metro Detroit, some investors explore alternatives. Natural stone materials such as marble and quartzite come at a higher cost and require regular maintenance and sealing, making them not great options for rentals in Metro Detroit.
Porcelain slabs are extremely durable and heat resistant, though they typically come at a higher cost and are more common in luxury properties.
Laminate remains the lowest cost option to use as countertops in rentals but can hurt rental appeal in competitive markets and often needs replacement sooner.
For many Detroit area investors, quartz offers the best balance of durability, tenant appeal, and maintenance savings. Granite still performs well in many rental scenarios, especially when carefully selected to pair well with the home’s design.
The best choice depends on your target rent range, renovation budget, neighborhood of the home, and the tenant profile in the area.
AP Marble & Granite works with investors to help select materials that align with both budget and market expectations, ensuring kitchens enhance rental value without overspending. If you’re in the market for countertops for rentals in Metro Detroit, make sure to stop by our 40,000-square-foot showroom to see tons of countertop slabs at different price points. Contact us to schedule your visit today!
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