Whether you’re looking to sell your home down the line or you simply want to make your property more functional for your family, a renovation project can often help you achieve your goals. After all, 85% of U.S. homes were built prior to 1980 and are therefore in need of improvements. Arguably, one of the most important rooms in any house is the kitchen. It’s where we eat, socialize, and complete a variety of necessary tasks. To some, it’s truly the heart of the home. And when your kitchen fails to function as it should, it can bring down property values.
On the other hand, kitchen remodeling can be an excellent way to add value back into your home and add both convenience and visual appeal. Obtaining a brand new kitchen might be your ultimate goal, rather than opting for smaller residential renovations. But that doesn’t mean you have to go overboard by splurging on upgrades that simply won’t pay off in the end. The elements included in various remodels will often depend on the specific needs of the family and the style to which they’re drawn. But there are some universal components you’ll want to include in your new kitchen. The following upgrades will typically offer the highest ROI, as they’re seen as the most desirable for both current owners and potential buyers.
New Countertops
Watch any home improvement show and you’ll probably see that every couple is looking for new countertops made of granite or marble. You don’t necessarily have to include the most high-end materials here, but investing in new, quality countertops can really make the space shine. This investment won’t come cheap, but real estate agents tend to agree that it can have a huge impact on resale value. While you’re at it, consider installing a backsplash in the same material to add cohesiveness to the design.
Cabinet Refresh
Buying brand new cabinets can be incredibly expensive. In fact, they typically come in second in terms of cost (after big ticket appliances). While it might be necessary to replace your existing cabinets if they’re several decades old and in bad shape, you might be able to obtain the look you want while sticking to your budget if you’re able to refinish them with new paint and hardware. However, existing cabinets may be so outdated that they cannot be saved. In either scenario, you’ll want to make sure your new kitchen cabinets look fresh, clean, and updated to fit in with modern styles.
Hardwood Floors
Hardwoods are certainly one of the most desirable flooring options for owners and buyers, particularly in the kitchen. Although there are other choices available (like tile or laminate made in the style of wood), there’s nothing like the real thing. It may even be easier to install than tile, which can allow you to save a bit of money during your renovation. Having natural wood flooring throughout your home will certainly have a positive impact on your home’s value.
Sink or Faucet Upgrade
Your new kitchen deserves a beautiful sink that looks like it was custom-made for the space. If you’ve been dealing with a small, standard sink up until now, this is the perfect time to spring for a farmhouse sink or another style that offers more room and more value. At the very least, you’ll want to upgrade the faucet itself, as this can make a big difference in how your new kitchen will be perceived.
Ready to get moving on a kitchen renovation or other home remodeling project? Allow us to bring your vision to life. For more information, please contact us today.