We had all KitchenAid appliances at our house in Chicago and never had any issues with them at all. I'm thinking they were made by Maytag. While they aren't as nice as the top-end applicances we have in the new house, I was very happy with the KitchenAids. Attached are some pics of that setup....
While front load may be the current rage, my wife and I have somehow survived raising 3 kids over the past 17 years with your traditional W&D setup - Kenmore top load washer and Kenmore front load dryer. No issues and the clothes seem to get clean. If I were in your shoes, facing the multitude of expenses of getting into a new house, I would strongly consider getting the cheaper set now (it's just the two of you!!) and if/when the household expands then consider upgrading.
Good luck with the decision, Kev.
