A modern kitchen can breathe new life and personality into your home. But renovating one is no small task. Or a decision to take on lightly.
When it comes to a kitchen renovation, you need to think long term. Not only do you want a kitchen that won’t date, you also want to make sure it adds value to your home. Even if you’re not planning on selling any time soon, when investing in a home renovation, you should always consider your future buyers to maximise on your home’s potential value.
“Over the years I have experienced situations where people buy the kitchen and the rest of the home comes with it!” says Charles Tarbey, Chairman of Century 21 Australia. “This is the heart of a home and as such, the better the kitchen, the better the opportunity for a quick sale and a better price.”
What you need is a kitchen that impresses both functionally and visually. Here are three things to add to the top of your kitchen renovation list for maximum return on your investment:
1. Add an island bench
Mr Tarbey says the number one thing on buyers’ kitchen wish lists is ample bench space. An island is a great way to achieve extra bench and storage space, while also optimising your existing floor plan. Island benches also create additional seating. “A kitchen that allows a family the space to move around together, and is set up in such a way that a family can all casually eat in it at the same time will always be attractive,” says Charles. When choosing an island, look for a storage-savvy design that has an overhanging countertop for stools to slide underneath. Built-in powerpoints are a must. If you want to make a statement, an island bench in a contrasting colour to the rest of your kitchen is eye-catching, without being polarising.
2. Upgrade your countertop
A tired countertop can bring down the whole vibe of your kitchen quick smart. Because of its vast surface area, it’s hard not to notice when it’s looking worse for wear. While it may be tempting to look to what’s trending, Charles recommends going for a timeless option. “Kitchens are personal! Making one different from the norm will only appeal to a few, but making one neutral that can be easily decorated with one’s personal touch is the ideal way a kitchen should be built,” he advises. It’s not just the buyers who will appreciate it – a classic look gives you more flexibility to update your styling regularly, and if you decide to renovate in other areas of the house, it will be easier to match the look and feel. Using engineered stone, marble and porcelain benchtops is money well spent.
3. Splurge on high-end appliances
Good appliances anchor a kitchen. Not to mention they enhance the functionality – when you have quality appliances, cooking in the kitchen is more enjoyable. Stainless steel is the failsafe option that always feels luxe. Charles notes that easy access to appliances are among the top things on buyers’ kitchen wish lists, and gas cooktops continue to be a crowd favourite. Ideally, buy all your appliances from the same brand – and even the same collection – for a cohesive look. Built-in appliances that are slim and minimalist have universal appeal and room for a double fridge is a must in this day and age. If you don’t have the budget to go high-end everywhere, make your cooktop the item you splurge on. It’s one of the most-used appliances in the kitchen and can make or break a good meal. Don’t forget the dishwasher. It can be a non-negotiable for some buyers.
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