Kitchen Improvements That Will Increase Your Homes' Value

If you're trying to sell your home, you naturally want to get the most out of it. In some cases that means sticking a little into it first. There are many areas of a home that would benefit from a little spritzing up. Curb appeal is important, as is the overall integrity of the building which could be improved by redoing the roof. Remodeling the bathroom or home office could add to the structure's sale price.



Some people think the kitchen is the heart of the home. It's where people congregate before, during and sometimes after meals because it seems like something is always going on in the kitchen. When showing a home the kitchen is always important to the buyer. It stands to reason that improvements to the kitchen will increase your home's value.



Updated Kitchen Equals Increase in Value



According to some, improvements to your kitchen can produce a return on investment (ROI) of 80% to 100% of what you spend. That is a tremendous percentage. If you could be guaranteed of that kind of result from stock purchases you wouldn't hesitate to jump in with both feet. Updating your kitchen to increase your home's value is a proven path to greater equity. You also get to enjoy the improvements until the house sells.



Windows



Since the person who does the cooking and cleanup will be spending a lot of time in the kitchen, giving it an open, inviting look is important. Having a large window over the sink that looks out into the patio or backyard can provide something interesting for them to look at while preparing a meal or washing the dishes afterward. Installing new windows that are easy to keep clean will not only add to the value of the kitchen, but offer them a chance to daydream while they labor.



Countertops



One of the most popular improvements to modernize a home is to put in granite countertops. Quality granite countertops are well made, durable, and expensive. Those are all reasons they will add to the value of the home. Because they are tough as well as attractive, they provide the perfect combination of usefulness and value.



Stainless Steel Appliances



A standard kitchen improvement is to replace the old appliances. By installing matching stove, refrigerator and dishwasher, you add a sense of continuity to the kitchen. Stainless steel appliances are among the most popular upgrades available. They look good, will last a long time, and give the kitchen a modern, luxurious look.



Islands



If there is sufficient space in your kitchen, you may opt for an island. They are becoming increasingly popular because of their functionality. Useful as a place for the kids to do homework or just hang out and talk to mom while dinner's being prepared, an island provides extra space that's sure to be used. It is also useful as a place to eat informal meals that are easy to clean up. The top of the island would naturally match the countertops, giving the kitchen a flowing, finished look.



Lighting



A modern, updated kitchen needs lighting to match. Installing overhead and under cabinet lights should match the overall decorating scheme.



Flooring



The same goes for flooring. Many people appreciate wood floors, while others would go with vinyl or tile flooring. Whatever your choice, make sure it enhances the looks of the kitchen.



Cabinets and Drawers



Installing updated cabinets and matching drawers will also increase the value of your home. There are many styles and varieties to choose from, and they come in a wide range of prices.



On a Budget



As you've no doubt noticed, it's possible to spend a great deal of money on a kitchen remodeling project. Perhaps more than you're able to justify. Any kitchen remodeling project should maintain an overall flow with the rest of the home. If you have a modern, up-to-date kitchen but the rest of the house is falling apart you may be better off disbursing that money throughout the property. There are ways to improve your kitchen on a budget, but the results will be commensurate with what you spend--so will your return on investment.



Guest post from Bailey Harris, who writes about home insurance and related topics for www.homeownersinsurance.org.