Real Estate Specialist & Local Resident LIZ BURROW
KITCHEN UPDATES THAT WON’ T BREAK THE BANK
By Liz Burrow A common question from homeowners I work with is,‘ What updates will get them the most return for my money when selling’. Kitchens and Baths are certainly number one, followed closely by flooring.
And of course, these are all of the big ticket items. Here are some kitchen renovation ideas to minimize the cost while still creating that stylish and modern look prospective buyers love to see.
• Paint – an instant facelift to any room is a fresh coat of paint. If you’ re updating to sell, remember not to go too bold, and light accents create a clean, bright feel.
• Faucets – Replacing an outdated kitchen faucet can revitalize the sink as well.
• Hardware – Cabinet hardware can easily be replaced and is inexpensive to do. Multipacks are often available at hardware stores and online. Mixing pulls and knobs can create an interesting new dimension to your cabinets.
• Backsplash – Adding a backsplash is again relatively inexpensive and adds depth and interest to your walls. If you are really adventurous you could even include ship lap which is currently very trendy.
• Lighting – Replace those old outdated fixtures with modern pendants or creative track lighting to brighten your room. Under counter lighting can also create a great look and using battery operated remote control lights saves the cost of electrical work.
• Display – If the kitchen is dark or appears closed in, replacing some of the upper cabinets with open shelving or glass doors can counteract that. Be careful however not to do this at the expense of storage space.
14 LakeTalk October 2017
Real Estate Specialist & Local Resident LIZ BURROW
LakeHomesByLiz @ Comcast. net
240.309.6000
301.788. 6067
LakeLinganore. Com
SELLING? BUYING? BUILDING?
Professional help for all your Real Estate needs
Beautiful Custom Homes from $ 400’ s
• Island – Center Islands are great for additional work space, can add seating options and also afford additional storage. There are many inexpensive free standing or cart style islands which make a wonderful addition to any kitchen, especially one that lacks sufficient counter space.
• Appliances – Replacing these may be completely out of the budget but do consider this carefully if your appliances are not all the same color.
• Re-facing – Replacing cabinet doors is a cost effective alternative to replacing the entire cabinet. Many companies offer this service, but if you are handy, this task can be accomplished with relative ease. There is also the option of painting. This look, if well done, is becoming more popular.
• Counter tops – Solid surface counters are what buyers wants in a new home and if your home is at a higher price point, should certainly be considered. For a starter home, replacing the counters may not be an option. If you are good with paint, there are some amazing new products which give the appearance of granite, at a fraction of the cost.
If you are up to the challenge and have the time to invest a little sweat equity into the project, any kitchen can go from drab to gourmet for a very affordable price.
* Resident realtors are welcome to submit real estate articles for print in this column. All articles must be strictly information and market oriented.