03 Dec How to Increase the Value of Your Home with a Kitchen Remodel

Kitchen Remodeling

Many homeowners want to know how to increase the value of their home, and although there are many ways to accomplish this, we always recommend that our clients first consider remodeling their kitchen.

It is not uncommon for customers to grossly overestimate how much it costs to remodel a kitchen or misjudge how long the kitchen remodeling process takes. While everyone has a different budget, Kitchen remodels are hands down the best bang for the buck when it comes to adding value!

Below we have provided some key elements to consider to increase the value of your home with a kitchen remodel.

Appliances

When choosing your appliances, it isn’t just about the look that will grab the attention of your buyers, and ultimately increase the value of your home. An appraiser and a real estate agent will evaluate the capacity, energy use and efficiency of your kitchen appliances. Additionally, if you are planning on enjoying your new kitchen before you sell your home, consider purchasing appliances with a lifetime warranty to avoid additional costs for manufacture’s errors in the future. Refrigerators for instance can range from $1,500 – $9,000. And while your appliance sales specialist may recommend the top of the line refrigerator, purchasing anything but the lower end of the range without compromising the functionality, can offset your cost to value ratio. Once you do a cost/quality analysis, purchase these items at one time to receive the largest discount.

Timing

Timing is everything, even when it comes to remodeling your kitchen! Throughout the year there are many opportunities to get deals on materials for your new kitchen. In September and October, many manufactures unveil their latest models providing you with the best time to purchase the previous model. Holiday weekends are also a great time as many families don’t leave room in their budgeting for kitchen remodels during this time of year. If you strategically plan your budgeting and all projects of your kitchen remodel you will avoid paying higher prices and you will also lower your stress with a smoother remodel process.

Let There be Light – and Space!

Have you ever caught yourself staring at a photo of a kitchen in a house for sale, but you can’t put your finger on why the kitchen is so stunning? This is likely due to the right use of light and space inside the kitchen. Many people detest a small, dark kitchen but there are a variety of options that can help fix a dark and compromised layout. If your kitchen doesn’t have an existing window nearby, consider installing one to allow natural light into the space. If you don’t have excess cabinetry that allows for a window installation, a skylight is a favorable alternative. If there is an existing window but you still have an issue with lighting, consider installing custom window shutters to allow for light and privacy. If remodeling your kitchen to allow natural light is not feasible, there are many cost and energy efficient lighting fixtures that can dramatically improve the look and feel of your kitchen. While it’s important to have stylish light fixtures, keep in mind that energy efficient lighting is a must when your goal is to improve the value of your home. If natural light isn’t the issue in your kitchen but rather it feels cramped, consider arranging the use of space. An ideal kitchen allows for practicality and functionality, so you may need to add or remove stools from a center island or breakfast counter, install a wet sink to give your island purpose, or add/remove extra storage space. Lastly, if your kitchen is connected to your dining room, an elegant arched doorway without a door can open the space of your kitchen as well as your dining room. These modifications are sure to impress and will effectively add value to your home.

Quality of Materials

Everyone loves the look of travertine and handmade wooden cabinets, but it is important to keep the quality of materials throughout your home consistent. Furthermore, if you are removing popcorn ceiling and linoleum or old tile counter tops, installing finer materials may draw attention to the rest of your home if it is outdated. A combination of granite counter tops, elegant lighting fixtures, and porcelain or laminate flooring will compliment and add value to most homes.