Any property project is likely to require planning and investment. Sometimes, more than you may have anticipated. However, when it comes to selling a house, those projects can give you a return on investment that eclipses the spend quite dramatically.
A kitchen is seen as a focal point in a property. People looking to buy want to know it is safe, quality, and durable. They want to know that the sums being spent on their new house won’t need to be topped up with excessive refurbishment work.
A new kitchen not only benefits you, but it is a valuable tool when it comes to putting your house on the market, whether it be with a high street vendor or the increasingly popular online estate agent market.
If done right, you could be seeing a 10% increase on the value of your home. Let’s look at the how and why.
How does a kitchen add value to my house?
We’ve mentioned before that first impressions are lasting ones and when it comes to property, they count for a lot. Kitchens can make or break a deal. A kitchen poorly presented could invoke thoughts of poor hygiene, lack of care and make the viewer have doubts about the rest of the house. If you can create the opposite impression, you may be much closer to completing the sale.
Kitchens are seen as a hub; it is where family members come together, it is where memories can be created. If those looking around your house see the kitchen in that light, then you have ticked many of the boxes that they are looking at.
How much should I spend on a new kitchen?
This is a commonly asked question; you certainly shouldn’t overspend. Consider if you need a new kitchen or just the current kitchen to be given a little TLC. A spot of painting or tiling can add value to your house without costing vast sums.
On the other hand, if your kitchen is dated, worn out or damaged then a refurb is worth it. The secret, though, is don’t overspend. If you have a house worth £250,000 and aspire to spend £50,000 on a kitchen, then it is of no benefit. Sure, it looks great, but realistically you have little or no chance to make that money back.
Experts say, aim to budget up to 8% of the total house value on a kitchen refurb.
What are the best ways to improve my kitchen?
You may have some grand ideas incorporating a variety of features for your kitchen. Some hi-tech appliances here, some ultra-modern lights there and maybe some additional storage over there. But wait…
Before doing any of that there are a few things you will need to consider:
- Look at the age and style as well as the layout of your house. Diverting too far from the general look of the house can make the kitchen seem out of place. Simplicity is sometimes the best solution.
- Assess how you can make use of the space available to you. The kitchen triangle, (sink, fridge and cooker) should all have quick and easy access points.
- Look for areas that can improve storage. This reduces clutter and makes a cleaner-looking kitchen.
- Consider the flow of the kitchen – how easy is it to navigate, how are items going to be stored, is it family-friendly?
What should I consider adding to a new kitchen?
As well as the points made above that tend to be incorporated prior to the design stage, there are several things you should do within your design process.
- Choose colours that look clean and are easy to maintain.
- Choose the right type of lighting. The kitchen will be used for a host of reasons so the light will need to match the demands put upon the room.
- Can you fit a breakfast bar? These are very on trend right now and won’t fit in all kitchen types. If you can incorporate one, then go for it.
- Match your appliances where you can. A kitchen embracing the same brand across its hardware gives a more refined and elegant appearance.
- Look at the walls – could they benefit from a paint job to match your new kitchen cabinets?
- Could a new floor benefit your kitchen? A well-finished floor within a new kitchen not only adds some vibrancy, but it also helps complete the look you are trying to obtain.
Can I make my kitchen look more expensive?
Perhaps a full refurb isn’t within your budget or maybe you don’t feel it needs a full quota of work done to it. Luckily, there are some quick fixes that don’t break the bank but can see a decent increase in the value of your house.
- New handles on cupboards, drawers or doors can make a nice little upgrade to your kitchen. The look that you may have created in other areas of the house can be passed on with these simple yet effective additions. If your house has more of a classic look, rounded handles look the part. If you are going for a modern aesthetic, then a t-bar works wonders.
- Sinks and taps are much like the door handles. They won’t require you to carry out extensive work, but they can add a little extra value. With sinks available in granite, ceramic and of course steel they can be a small but significant feature in the kitchen. Factor in some luxurious-looking taps and the sink area alone could shout loudly about how great your kitchen is.
- Soft furnishings can make a vast difference at little expense. A uniform look of blinds, seat cushions, oven gloves and tea towels can create a simple yet striking appearance.
Can I build a new kitchen myself?
Whilst we are sure there are many aspiring DIY experts out there, it really does pay to have the experts complete the task. If it is simply a few small jobs that are well within your capabilities, then go for it. If it is a full refurb, a team of experts will probably do a much better job.
This is all with good reason though. Shoddy workmanship can significantly impact the value of your home. If you are looking to sell and make a tidy return on investment, it is best to reduce the risk and get a qualified professional on the job.
Have you recently refurbished your kitchen but now are looking to sell? Speak to our team at SOLD.CO.UK. We are experts in selling property and getting you the value you deserve for your property. See how much your house is worth with an instant valuation. It might surprise you! Contact us today to learn more and let’s get your house sold!
