The upfront cost of a washer and dryer may seem intimidating at first, but it affords you the privacy and convenience of being in control of any maintenance that needs to be done in a timely manner. If you’re using a washer and dryer provided with the property, you can’t expect as speedy updates and maintenance, especially if your landlord manages multiple properties.
Another alternative to buying your own washer/dryer, is visiting the laundromat. Sometimes they smell a little weird and you may feel uncomfortable pulling your undergarments out of the machines with people around you, but if you have one load of laundry each week, it might save you some big bucks. However, remember to factor in how much mileage and gas to get there if you’re not within walking distance. In either case, you’ll need to buy your own detergent, so make sure to think about what option is best for your convenience and peace of mind.