Any homeowner that loves to cook or entertain family will naturally gravitate towards putting the most money in improving the kitchen. But it won’t be cheap. According to the Remodeling 2014 Cost vs. Value Report, the average cost of a serious kitchen remodel is $54,909, and even a minor remodel can cost upwards of $18,000.
It’s no surprise then why a kitchen project can be a great investment towards increasing your home’s value. However, this strategy only works if it’s a remodel or addition that future homebuyers would be willing to pay extra for.
And before you think that the best and fanciest remodel will get the best ROI, think again. Outfitting your kitchen with the latest and greatest appliances might only make it harder to sell your home in the future, as not many buyers will be keen on plunking down thousands of dollars for fancy kitchen equipment.
Fortunately, a kitchen improvement project doesn’t have to cost a small fortune. Follow these tips to remodel your kitchen while staying within budget.
1. Add One High-End Appliance
Having an entire kitchen of fancy appliances won’t do you any favors, but if you invest in one solid piece of equipment, it can make your kitchen feel more finished and expensive, all without having to do any expensive construction. When in doubt, always go for appliances with a stainless steel finish, whether it’s a range, refrigerator, or cook top. If you ask us, you can’t go wrong with a nice dishwasher, an appliance that takes a beating but is strangely overlooked by many homeowners.
2. Neutral Countertops, Flooring, or Cabinetry
Sure, choosing a neutral color palette for your kitchen’s countertops, cabinets, or floors might not be as eye-catching as a rustic kitchen or this whimsical orange and beige kitchen theme, but it makes your kitchen future-proof, ensuring it stays in style as trends and tastes change.
A fresh coat of neutral paint can be one of the best yet cheapest kitchen investments you can make, breathing new life into your kitchen right before you put it on the market. Make sure you use low-VOC paint to give your kitchen an environment-friendly touch.
3. Save What’s Worth Saving
If you live in an older home with a retro-style kitchen, consider keeping these original details, whether it’s the stainless steel sink (which can look new with enough cleaning), metal cabinetry, or mosaic tiles. You can then focus on surface improvements, like new energy efficient lighting, new kitchen faucets, a towel rack, and neutral artwork. You still keep your kitchen’s vintage charm, with a few modern touches.
4. Add Cabinets if Your Kitchen Lacks Storage
Storage tends to be one of those things homebuyers will look at when buying a home, even if they’re not entirely sure what to do with it. Still, putting together a kitchen with smart and efficient storage options can make a great impression with buyers when they enter the room.
If you’re on a budget, consider buying used. Entire kitchens regularly go on sale on places like Craigslist and Habitat for Humanity ReStore. You can save hundreds of dollars by salvaging used cabinets and hiring a cabinetmaker to create new pieces from old, but high-quality cabinetry. With some paint or varnish, they’ll look just like new.
5. Expand Your Kitchen
Sometimes, the best way to improve your kitchen is to give it more space. Knocking down an adjoining room or adding a window or two can really make a kitchen breathe. Many homebuyers will probably balk at paying a premium for fancy kitchen appliances, but they’re more likely to be willing to pay for a larger kitchen, which is all about possibility. A larger kitchen makes homebuyers think of growth, future additions, and even future remodels of their own.
If none of these kitchen improvement ideas are realistic for your current situation, don’t worry. Sell your home as is to Blue Hen Homebuyers! We buy any property regardless of the condition it’s in. Contact our offices today at 910-802-2222 to learn more about how our services can help you.