Could a new kitchen add value to your property?

When it comes to buying a new property, if you ask any potential homebuyer what is top of their wish list, they are likely to mention the kitchen. It is one of the key things that people look at when buying a property so it stands to reason that making sure your kitchen is new, modern and well designed will add value to your property and make it more saleable.

Adding value

A new kitchen is not a cheap alteration to your home, but it should be thought of as an investment. The appearance of a kitchen to a buyer can make or break a sale as it is usually considered to be the heart of the home. When the buyer walks into a room that is so important, they will either make an emotional connection with it or decide it is not for them and it can be difficult to change their minds throughout the rest of the property.

A new kitchen ensures that your property is given instant wow factor, but it should also be something that you enjoy too, after all, it is you who is living in the property.

It is estimated that outside of London, a refurbished kitchen could add at least 5% to the value of your home, that’s as much as £20,0000 in some cases, so it is definitely something that is worth thinking about.

How to improve your kitchen

If your kitchen is looking in need of some love and attention, then it does not necessarily need a full refit. Sometimes it is first impressions that count, so make sure that surfaces are free of clutter and look at replacing smaller parts and accessories to give the room a new look at a lower cost. Integrated appliances are always a popular choice, so try to build in a dishwasher or washing machine for some added appeal.

Tara Neil, specialists in fitted kitchens in Reading commented, “Storage is the key to any kitchen, so look at some of the smarter storage solutions to avoid your cupboards looking like they are overflowing. You can also look at simply replacing cupboard doors to give your kitchen a refresh. Handles are also considered important, so make sure that they are either beautiful, or tucked out of sight completely.”

Should you decide that a whole new kitchen is on the cards, don’t be afraid to play with the design. Look at ways in which you can maximise the space that you have available and think about adding exciting options like a breakfast bar or island to provide added seating areas. Open plan kitchens tend to be the most desirable, so think about the flow of your kitchen and how you can add perceived space.

A light and airy kitchen is something everyone wants, so think about colours that achieve this, but also look at how your windows are dressed and what lighting you have. A few spotlights under units can make all the difference to how a kitchen feels.

Being modern in your design is important but try and think about your potential buyers. Don’t put them off with anything too garish or unusual, so think about colours and textures that will have the widest appeal and fit in with the tone of the rest of your property.

The average spend for a new kitchen is a little under £4000, so it is possible to recoup this cost when you finally come to sell the property. It can not only add a physical value to your home, but can add to its appeal, making buyers picturing themselves living there before they have even finished the house tour.