But how much should you really spend on a kitchen remodel to attract buyers, and which upgrades make the biggest impact?
Here at JSB Home Solutions, we have been remodeling kitchens in central Ohio for 46 years and know how to get the most out of a remodel budget. We have partnered with Kendra Carter of The Carter Group with Keller Williams Realty, a successful Columbus realtor for insights into what kitchen upgrades attract the most buyers and highest offers. Together, we’ve seen firsthand how strategic kitchen updates can not only boost the perceived value of a home but also help it sell faster.
In this article, you’ll find the top kitchen remodels that can make your home more appealing to buyers, helping you stand out in the market and sell sooner.
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Studies by the National Association of Realtors show that homes with upgraded kitchens often attract more offers and close faster. So, while it might seem like an upfront investment, the right updates can help your home stand out and ultimately lead to a smoother, faster sale.
You can strategically put your money where it matters by focusing on key areas of your kitchen that matter the most to buyers.
1. Update Your Kitchen Countertops
“Countertops are one of the first things buyers notice, and when they see something modern and high-quality, it sets a positive tone for the entire home.”
Choosing popular, durable materials like quartz or granite can give the kitchen a fresh look. Neutral tones are often best because they fit various styles, making it easier for buyers to envision their personal touches.
Kendra adds, “Cabinet refacing is a great option if the cabinets are in good shape structurally. It gives the kitchen a modern look without the full cost of replacement.”
Simple updates, like new hardware, fresh paint, or a cabinet reface, can give cabinets an updated look. If cabinets are showing major wear, cabinet replacement may be worth the investment.
According to Kendra, “When buyers see newer, energy-efficient appliances, they see savings on future bills and fewer immediate replacements.”
Stainless steel, smart, or energy-efficient appliances not only look appealing but can also add perceived value to the kitchen. And save you (and future homeowners) money on utilities.
“Good lighting makes a kitchen feel welcoming and usable,” says Kendra. “It’s a simple upgrade with a big impact.”
From under-cabinet lighting to updated pendant lights, these changes enhance both the look and functionality of a kitchen. Natural light is always a bonus, but adding or upgrading artificial lighting can help create a warm, inviting space.
Kendra says, “I’ve been noticing in a lot of our homes, even higher-end homes, buyers are opting for engineered hardwood and LVP.”
Consider durable options like hardwood, tile, or laminate in light, neutral colors to make the kitchen feel larger and more inviting.
If you’re wondering how to get the most bang for your buck without going overboard, start with the updates that buyers tend to focus on most: countertops, cabinets, and lighting. Smaller upgrades, such as fresh paint, hardware, or even a deep clean, can also make a world of difference.
You don’t need to gut the whole kitchen to make an impression; sometimes, a few targeted updates are all it takes to capture a buyer’s attention. Focus on high-impact areas first. Every little bit counts. Buyers are looking for move-in-ready homes, so don’t underestimate the power of small changes.
Even for budget-conscious sellers, Kendra advises steering clear of DIY kitchen projects:
“I tend to shy away from DIY only because I’ve seen it hurt resale value if done incorrectly. I like to encourage new appliances and hardware for the first items if budget and skill is a factor.”
These smaller updates can still make a big impact on your kitchen’s overall look and feel.
Here’s what Kendra suggests: “Clearing countertops, storing bulky appliances (even the favorite air fryer) help buyers SEE the kitchen, not the homeowner’s kitchen.”
Staging helps buyers envision themselves in the space, and small details can make the remodeled kitchen feel like a dream come true. Add small, tasteful touches like a bowl of fresh fruit, a vase of flowers, or a neutral-toned decorative item. And don’t forget to ensure that all surfaces are sparkling clean, as a well-staged kitchen can make buyers feel right at home.
Yes, kitchen remodels can increase the value of your home, particularly when focusing on key areas like countertops, cabinets, and appliances. These upgrades improve the home’s functionality and appearance, which buyers love.
“According to a 2023 survey from Remodeling Magazine, a major kitchen renovation or upgrade has an average ROI (return on investment) of 31.7%. That means that for every $100 you spend on your kitchen remodel, you are increasing the resale value of your home by about $37. The average major remodel project cost $154,483 and increased the average home sales price by $48,913.
In contrast, the average minor kitchen remodel project had an average ROI of 85.7%. The average minor kitchen remodel cost was $26,790 and increased home value by an average of $22,963.
Compared to other popular home renovation projects, such as bathroom remodeling or window replacement, kitchens have a higher average ROI. All other things being equal, smaller kitchen remodels have higher returns.”
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but it’s generally best to invest in high-impact areas without going overboard. Kendra recommends spending wisely, focusing on improvements that offer a good return on investment. To get a better idea of what kitchen remodels would fit in your budget, check out our blog on the costs of kitchen renovations.
Buyers often prioritize countertops, cabinets, and appliances when assessing a kitchen. Lighting and flooring are also key factors that can elevate the look and functionality of the space.
When it comes to selling your home, the kitchen is often the make-or-break room for buyers. By investing in a few high-impact remodels, you can set your home apart and help it sell faster. Think about the upgrades that will make your kitchen look inviting, functional, and modern—without breaking the bank.
If you are planning a kitchen project, the most important step is choosing the right kitchen remodeling company for your needs. To help you ask the right questions and organize companies’ answers, we have put together a Remodeling Company Comparison Guide. It includes a list of questions you should be asking of every company you interview and space to organize each companies’ answers. JSB’s answers are included as well so that you can see what type of information a remodeling company should be able to give you.
Ready to start your kitchen transformation? Whether you’re considering a few simple updates or a full remodel, these changes can help boost your home’s appeal and attract the right buyers. Contact JSB today for a consultation on how we can help you achieve a stunning kitchen that will sell your home faster and for a higher price and work with a trusted realtor like Kendra Carter at The Carter Group for expert guidance at every step along the way.