Many homeowners are searching things they can do to increase the market value to their home for sale. One of those ways is by doing some renovations. Buyers routinely say that one of the most advantageous renovations sellers can do is to the kitchen.
Modern kitchens are elegant and spacious that offer amenities like stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, and custom cabinets. Buyers view these upgrades as improvements that will help them in their daily lives. Renovations to the kitchen add value to the home that may be absent in other homes for sale in the neighborhood.
There is a fine line between doing the renovation right and over renovating. The last thing you need to do is to over renovate. Be sure the choices you make are similar to other homes within the neighborhood. If you over renovate, you’ll likely impress the buyer but not recoup the costs of the renovation as other homes in the neighborhood won’t support the appraisal. You don’t have to add size to make a kitchen more spacious. Opening up a wall or removing an island will help small kitchens appear bigger.
One technique you will be able to use to see what refurbishments you should do is to look at other homes available in your neighborhood. Look at what other homeowners are doing to sell their home. Then goto your local hardware store that sells kitchen appliances, cabinets, and fixtures to view see what options are available and view some design books for ideas. Many of these stores have a list of installers that can also quote you on what it will cost for your project.
When shopping on a budget, Home Depot or Lowe’s are good places to visit. They offer very competitive prices due to their immense buying power. Their staff can answer design questions and show you display items to help get your imagination stirring. They have nearly all appliances and fixtures in stock every day, but if you do pick out something that has to be special ordered they can usually have in a couple of days. If you are purchasing new cabinets or counter tops, a contractor will need to visit your home to take measurements before submitting the order.
Buyers want to see that the work as been done right. Don’t try to tackle a kitchen renovation on your own. If a buyer sees the kitchen has been renovated, but the job was not done properly it will likely turn them off more than if the kitchen had never been renovated.
Remember keep it simple. Simple, elegant and clean lines does not mean the kitchen has to be bland and boring. Many small areas can be very inviting through the use of color on the walls or attractive modern tile work.
Final Remarks
It is vitally important that you create a plan and budget and stick to it. It is real easy to let emotion get in the way and you need to stay on top of the project to make sure things go smoothly.
Hubert Miles is the founder of Waterfront Houses USA, an online advertising service that offers Coast Homes in the US and the Caribbean. Learn more about Beach Realty today.
Leave a comment