Without a doubt, if you are having problems selling your home, renovating your kitchen (just that alone) will make your home more marketable.
Today’s consumers simply want more, and are looking for top of the line everything – appliances, cabinetry, and flooring. Not only that, they’re looking for a layout that’s conducive for entertaining – e.g. open concept, kitchen with a bar, galley kitchen, etc.
In this article, Sell That Home! Tips for Renovating Your Kitchen, we’ll help you think through various design and layouts to help you create a functional space that will wow both you and potential homebuyers, without breaking the bank.
Prepping:
1. Consider Flat-pack Kitchens
Every heard of a flat-pack kitchen? Well, they are much less expensive than custom kitchens – especially when comparing cabinets and bench tops.
Nearly 50% of the cost of renovating your kitchen will come from cabinets, bench tops and backsplashes. Choose sexy, yet inexpensive finishes, like vinyl vacuum wrap over two-pack polyurethane, or laminate.
2. Choose Appliances and Positioning
Stainless steel appliances are on the top of every homebuyers list, so having a stainless steel refrigerator, microwave, oven and dishwasher is a great investment. Stainless steel appliances or not, appliances should be grouped together to maximize counter space and make it convenient for cooking or heating up food.
Related: 11 things every kitchen should have
3. Painting
With cabinets and bench tops selected (not purchased!), you can begin ripping out the old kitchen. After doing this, sand down the walls, patch holes, and prime and paint the walls using a neutral satin or semi-gloss paint. If you are going to select a backsplash for above the sink or oven, do your best to keep the color palettes close.
Layout:
Before ordering your cabinets and appliances, be sure to measure your space to ensure everything will fit. Grab some grid paper and plot out your kitchen floor, along with windows, doors, and other fixtures (possibly wall outlets?).
You need to be very aware of vents, pipes, and outlets, along with walking space, bench top height and distance apart, as well back splash desired height (which should be around 600-620mm). Double check all measurements, and be smart with your layout – e.g. keeping prep area, sink and cooktop close to one another, appliances near the kitchen entrance for easier access, using natural light versus direct light for certain tasks.
For layout inspiration, you may want to visit local custom kitchen shops or order magazines from similar vendors. Pinterest is also a great place to get ideas – simply search ‘Flat Pack Kitchens’. And, you can always hire a designer!
Need a designer? Find a designer at Houzz
Purchase & Execute
Okay, you’ve selected your new cabinets, bench tops, appliances, paint, back splash design, and possibly flooring. You’ve planned the layout of your new kitchen. Now it’s time to actually purchase your new stuff and hire contractors. Note: you may want to consult with the contractor prior to purchasing, just to be sure.
You can find great contractors online by asking for recommendations via Facebook. Alternatively, if that doesn’t turn up any results, try Angie’s List. Read reviews, evaluate price, and select the contractor you feel will get the job done right.
Generally, you’re going to pay anywhere between $40 – 60 per hour for a general contractor (tiler, painter, plumber, carpenter, electrician). Specialized contractors may demand a higher amount, ranging from $60 – 80, so choose wisely.
Overall, the additional hired work will add around $3,000 – $4,000 to the overall cost of your project. Add in the other kitchen elements and you may be looking at a total cost of around $10,000 – $15,000. Remember: you can always save on appliances and find good deals at many major retailers.
Do not forget to check your local ReStore!
