Quick Fixes In The Kitchen: Your Most Valuable Room

With the kitchen being the first thing that most buyers look at when it comes to finding a new home, we know the importance that this room has, often being the deciding factor in terms of taking the next step. Therefore, if you think your kitchen may be turning potential buyers off, then we suggest that you follow these quick fixes to not only add that wow factor, but ensure that viewers always want to find out more.

A Clean Sweep

Imagine walking into a kitchen, and seeing it covered in dirty dishes, stains all over the cabinets and much all over the floor. You’d walk right out again. Like other rooms in the house, viewers want to see an immaculately clean kitchen, so ensure that you clean and clear all countertops, as well as the fridge, freezer, oven, hob and all other appliances. Not only will this make your kitchen seem bigger, but it’ll help potential buyers visualise their belongings in your space – an always positive move.

Paint

If you’re finding it difficult to remove those stains from the cabinets, then fresh paint can make all of the difference. We suggest neutral colours that compliment your wall, though if you’ve been wanting to redecorate anyway, why not go the whole hog and switch up the entire colour scheme? Citrus shades work well in any kitchen, as does a light blue and cream combo.

Update Those Cabinets

If your cabinets don’t exactly scream sophistication, or are practically falling apart at the seams, then there are a couple of things that you can do to update them, such as:

• Remove the cabinet doors and add in shelving, providing space for dishes, glassware and other crockery. Alternatively, add a glass front for that stylish appeal.
• Replace door knobs and handles with classic finishes such as brushed nickel or stainless steel. Ceramic and vintage glass pulls are also currently very popular, but we only recommend these if they match your kitchen’s decor.
• If your cabinets really are beyond repair, then it’s worth replacing them with something more fitting. It may seem like a waste of money because you want to move out, but to potential buyers, broken cabinets are a waste of space.

Put The Back In Backsplash

If you haven’t replaced your backsplash in over a decade, chances are it’s dated and not performing its job very well. It should be protecting your kitchen from splatters and spills, not contributing to them. With a wide range of backsplashes to choose from, there’s no reason not to replace it with something more functional and fabulous. Mosaic, glass and tiles are all good choices, and for something more luxurious, we recommend marble or travertine.

Get Floored

Kitchen floors can take a beating, particularly if your kitchen provides an entrance from the outdoors. Unfortunately, when cleaning just won’t do the trick, replacing broken tiles and refinishing your wood floors may be the only options if you don’t want to replace the floors completely. If you’re dealing with scratched, torn or faded linoleum however, it might be time for a complete redo. Buyers will not be impressed by outdated or broken flooring, and honestly, would you?

Countertops

Similarly, if your countertops aren’t faring too well either, then it might be time for an upgrade there too. Butcher block, cement, quartz and granite are all popular choices, and many buyers expect this finish as much as they expect stainless steel.

Let There Be Light

Lighting can make or break the kitchen, emphasizing key appliances and helping to create an open and inviting space that potential buyers will love. Switch out any dim or broken bulbs for new ones, and for any pendant lights or lamps, ensure that they’re still in style. If not, consider updating them with modern lighting fixtures that will catch the eye, and hearts of those viewers.

For something extra special, under cabinet lighting is another quick fix that adds style and sophistication to your kitchen and makes it glow when you don’t want the full force of the main lights.

Stage & Sell

When it comes to showing people around your house, there are a few finishing touches that you can add to make it more welcoming:

• Placing flowers on the kitchen table and window sill for that fragrant smell.
• Polish all fixtures so that they shine in the light.
• Remove magnets, personal photos and artwork to help depersonalise the area.

Imagine what you’d be looking for as a potential buyer, and what would impress you as you walked around a new home. For more guidance and advice, do not hesitate to get in touch with us today on one of the following numbers. We’d only be too happy to help.

You can reach us here:

Radcliffe Office: 0161 723 1155

Burnley Office: 01282 427 445

Ramsbottom Office: 01706 48 9966