Well, ann (and Captain, too), it all depends.  We rented for six years (see my earlier post) Rent never changed, in spite of the fact that property taxes did, in spite of the fact that the stove was replaced and furnace repaired.  Not a old dump, either: 2 storey 1,700 sq. ft., jacuzzi tub and walk in closet in "master suite." 

So, you can't always be sure. Too many variables to state emphatically that one thing is better than another.  Depends on time, location, the home itself.