Choosing the Best Stove for Your Rental Property

When furnishing a rental property in New Zealand, selecting the right stove isn’t just about style or price—it's about matching the appliance to the type of property, the lifestyle of potential tenants, and ensuring long-term durability. A well-chosen stove enhances tenant satisfaction, reduces maintenance calls, and supports the overall appeal of your rental. Here's a comprehensive guide to help landlords choose the best stove for their investment property.

1. Understand the Property Type and Tenant Profile

Different rental properties attract different tenants, and the ideal stove varies accordingly.

Apartments or Studio Units

• Tenant Type: Singles, students, or working professionals.

• Cooking Needs: Generally minimal; convenience and compactness are key.

• Recommended Stove: A compact freestanding electric stove with basic four-burner hob and oven combo or even a cooktop-only solution with a microwave oven.

Family Homes

• Tenant Type: Families with children or long-term renters.

• Cooking Needs: Daily use, meal prep for multiple people, likely more baking and stovetop cooking.

• Recommended Stove: A freestanding or built-in oven with a ceramic or induction cooktop. Consider 5 or 6 burners for larger households.

High-End or Executive Rentals

• Tenant Type: Professionals, expats, or high-income families.

• Cooking Needs: High expectations for performance, aesthetics, and premium features.

• Recommended Stove: Built-in wall oven paired with an induction or gas cooktop, preferably with advanced features like multi-function baking, timers, or WiFi connectivity.

2. Electric vs Gas vs Induction

Each stove type has its pros and cons, and your choice should reflect the available infrastructure and expected usage.

Electric Stoves

• Pros: Widely compatible, easier to install, cheaper upfront.

• Cons: Slower to heat, higher ongoing electricity costs.

• Best For: Most standard rentals or where gas isn’t available.

Gas Stoves

• Pros: Instant heat, better control for cooking enthusiasts, lower operating cost.

• Cons: Requires gas connection or LPG bottles; regular maintenance.

• Best For: Family homes or properties where cooking performance is valued.

Induction Stoves

• Pros: Fast, energy-efficient, safe (cool to the touch), easy to clean.

• Cons: Requires compatible cookware, higher initial cost.

• Best For: Upscale rentals or modern apartments with quality-conscious tenants.

3. Robustness vs Features: What Matters Most in Rentals?

Landlords often face the dilemma of choosing between durability and premium features. The key is to focus on long-term value.

Must-Have Features

• Easy-to-clean surfaces (glass or ceramic tops)

• Sturdy knobs and handles

• Fan-assisted oven for even cooking

• Child safety locks (especially in family homes)

• Warranty and availability of spare parts in NZ

Nice-to-Have Features

• Programmable timers and digital controls

• Self-cleaning oven functions

• Triple-glazed oven doors (better safety and efficiency)

• Storage drawer underneath (for compact spaces)

• WiFi control or smart integration (for premium properties)

Choose simplicity and reliability for mid-range and lower-end rentals. For higher-end properties, these nice-to-haves can make a big difference in tenant appeal.

4. Size and Fit: What to Look For

• Standard Widths: 60cm is common for most New Zealand kitchens.

• Compact Models: 50cm for small kitchens or studio apartments.

• Larger Models: 90cm for family homes or luxury kitchens.

Always measure the available space before purchasing and consider ventilation (especially for gas stoves).

5. Cost vs Value: The Long-Term Picture

A $600 budget stove might seem attractive, but frequent callouts, part replacements, or poor tenant reviews can cost you more in the long run. Consider:

• Mid-range brands like Westinghouse, Beko, Parmco or Haier for family homes.

• Budget brands like Robinhood for studio and student flats.

• Premium brands like Electrolux, Falcon or Fisher & Paykel for high-end rentals.

Look for extended warranties and easy access to local servicing.

6. Consider Tenant Turnover and Wear

In higher-turnover rentals (e.g. student housing), opt for robust models with fewer electronic parts and solid construction. For long-term rentals, tenants may appreciate more features like a fan-forced oven or digital timer.

7. Compliance and Safety

In New Zealand, all stoves must comply with AS/NZS standards. Make sure:

• Installation is done by a licensed electrician or gasfitter.

• The appliance has safety features, especially in properties with children.

• Smoke alarms are working in the kitchen vicinity (as per tenancy laws).

8. Conclusion: Match Stove to Property and Tenants

Choosing the best stove for your rental comes down to aligning the appliance with your property's purpose, tenant profile, and maintenance expectations.

Choosing the right stove for your NZ rental property is a smart investment. Focus on durability, ease of use, energy efficiency, and tenant-friendly features. By selecting a quality appliance that suits the type of property, you’ll enhance tenant satisfaction and reduce long-term maintenance costs. Take the time to make a choice that balances durability, cost, and features—your future tenants (and your bottom line) will thank you.

Need help choosing the perfect stove for your rental?
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