The kitchen brings the heat

Of all the rooms in your house, the kitchen probably has the most potential to be a star, a difference-maker.

A spare bedroom is a small supporting player and won’t make or break a sale. But a kitchen? It can be unforgettable and steal the show. It can demand an encore and on the return visit, you receive an offer.

Curb appeal and smart pricing will bring buyers to your doorstep (along with well-done photos of the interior). But once inside, the kitchen has the power to persuade. Even if the entryway and the inviting family room have made a good impression on potential buyers, it’s the kitchen that can close the deal.

Of course, on the other side of the ledger, buyers will know out of date when they see it. If the flooring, cabinets, countertops, appliances, the paint, and window treatments are all from the 1990s, a possible sale has become a guaranteed no-sale. Kitchens count and for many prospective buyers the attractiveness and functionality of this room will be the determining factor.

So, let’s look at some ways to make the kitchen work for you:

Flooring: Too often this is overlooked in the rush to make everything all better with granite countertops (more on that in a moment). But if the flooring is worn or unattractive, you won’t get much mileage out of other improvements. A new hard tile floor is an affordable way to give your kitchen a solid foundation.

Cabinets: Dark cabinets put a veil over the kitchen. You can solve this dilemma by painting them, altering them, or replacing them. If you paint, Better Homes & Gardens recommends that you first prime them with a de-glossing primer so the paint will adhere and you won’t have to do any sanding.

If your cabinets are not too dark but just need a little zip, new hardware – such as brushed nickel or chrome – can drastically improve looks. Brass knobs, however, are dated and best avoided.

Depending on your kitchen, you might be able to get away with only replacing some cabinets. Recessed panel doors can be removed and replaced with etched, textured or stained glass.

Countertops: Everyone loves stone countertops, which can be expensive. So, be sure to do your homework and shop for the best prices.

Appliances: Old appliances or appliances that don’t go together can be a real turn-off to buyers. You don’t have to buy top-of-the line, but you do have to have contemporary appliances in the kitchen.

Window treatments: There can be a delicate balance here, but window treatments can be an easy and affordable way to brighten a dark kitchen and draw attention away from ordinary counters and appliances.

If you’re selling your home and have questions about your kitchen, a REALTOR® can help you make the kitchen stand out.