Ever have a party at your house?  Where does everyone hang out? The kitchen!  Sure the food draws them in, but the warmth of the kitchen keeps them there.  This truly is the heart of the home and is instrumental in finding a new buyer for your property.

An updated kitchen is the most important remodel you can do in your home to attract a buyer; however, if you overdo it, you may never get your investment back. The fact is, most buyers know how labor intensive and costly it can be to remodel a kitchen.  That’s why homes that have remodeled kitchens tend to sell quicker and for better prices. Here are some things to think about:

1. What’s your neighborhood like?  If you are in a mid-level neighborhood, don’t go all “Ritz Carlton” on your kitchen because the cost out of your pocket would be too much.  You’d never get your money back out of the property.  If you are in a high-end neighborhood, then it’s expected.  Stay in line with the competition. Nicer is better, but not so overdone that the cost is out of control.
2. If your cupboards are in good shape, try replacing only the doors, drawers, and handles.  This gives the appearance of a brand new kitchen at a fraction of the cost.  There are times when it’s necessary to rip everything out, but often times you can get away with a cheaper solution that looks just as good.
3. Do your best to get with the times with the countertops.  Granite and Quartz are becoming so standard now that Corian and Formica feel very outdated to most buyers.  Countertops are very important for a fresh, updated appearance.  Granite and Quartz are pretty affordable if you shop around.  There are always sales going on in our area for excess supply of Granite.
4. Don’t forget paint and flooring.  Stick to a neutral color paint on the walls so the countertops and cabinets can really shine.  Don’t neglect the flooring either.  Tile, wood, marble, and cork are all great modern choices and if you shop around you’ll be surprised at the deals you can find.
5. If you are selling, remove all the clutter from the counters.  That means the cookbooks, gadgets, and appliances all need to be stored away.  All the clutter makes your kitchen seem smaller and gives the appearance of less counter space.

Remember, don’t spend more than your neighborhood will warrant on your resale.  Enjoy your new kitchen and good luck selling!

Need help Selling, Buying, or with Property Management?  Gulf Pointe Properties would be glad to help!  Please contact Gabe for advice at:  239.825.2234, Gabe@GulfPointeProperties.com or www.GulfPointeProperties.com Gabe Mellein is the broker of Gulf Pointe Properties,   He has 8 years experience in the SW Florida Real Estate Market.  He is a member of The Naples Area Board of Realtors, Bonita Springs – Estero Association of Realtors, Realtor Association of Greater Fort Myers and the Beach, The Florida Association of Realtors, The National Association of Realtors, and is nationally certified in Feng Shui for Real Estate.