If you’re preparing to sell your home, you know how crucial the kitchen is in capturing buyer interest. But here’s a common dilemma: should you reface your cabinets to freshen them up, or go for a full replacement to create a whole new look? In today’s market, these decisions can directly impact your home’s appeal and resale value.
Here at JSB Home Solutions, we've teamed up with Kendra Carter of The Carter Group with Keller Williams Realty, who knows what buyers in the Columbus, Ohio, area are looking for. With her insights and our 46 years of kitchen remodeling expertise, we’ll guide you through the pros and cons of refacing and replacing, helping you decide which will add the most value to your home.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the differences between refacing and replacing kitchen cabinets, along with insights on balancing your investment with potential returns. You’ll be ready to confidently choose the best kitchen upgrade to maximize your home’s appeal and attract buyers.
Refacing cabinets can give your kitchen an updated look without the cost or disruption of a full remodel. It’s an efficient option that offers aesthetic appeal at a more budget-friendly price.
While refacing offers a fresh appearance, it has limitations in design flexibility and doesn’t address structural issues. This option may not be ideal if your cabinets are outdated in function or heavily worn.
Kendra mentions that refacing can work well for homeowners on a tighter budget who still want an updated look.
"In Columbus, a quick, affordable update like cabinet refacing often resonates with buyers who appreciate a refreshed kitchen without the premium price tag," she explains.
Replacing cabinets allows you to customize your kitchen layout and functionality fully, often enhancing both the look and value of your home. New cabinets can make a lasting impression on buyers who appreciate a modern, cohesive kitchen.
Cabinet replacement involves higher costs and a longer, more disruptive installation process. It may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget or timeline.
According to Kendra, “Buyers in Columbus appreciate kitchens that feel brand-new, especially when it includes modern storage and high-quality materials. Cabinet replacement can have a powerful impact on the overall appeal.”
Trends show that buyers generally lean toward fresh, updated kitchens. Refacing can provide that “updated” feel without the price tag of new cabinets, which is often enough for buyers in mid-range properties. However, if your home is in a higher-end market, replacing cabinets may deliver a stronger impression.
Kendra points out, “In competitive markets, a full cabinet replacement can help your home stand out, especially if it’s positioned as move-in ready. For buyers who value convenience and a high-end feel, replacement is often the preferred choice.”
Both refacing and replacement can increase a home's resale value, but the actual return on investment (ROI) depends on the condition of the existing cabinets and overall kitchen appeal. Replacement typically adds more perceived value, especially in homes priced at the upper end of the market.
Refacing is often the more economical option, with typical costs ranging from $10,000 - $40,000 depending on the material used to reface the cabinets. The ROI can be solid, especially for homes in the mid-price range, where a fresh look may be more important than high-end materials.
Cabinet replacement is generally more expensive, with full kitchen remodels falling between $20,000 - $60,000. However, a well-done replacement can offer a high ROI in upscale homes or homes in competitive markets.
To help you decide if refacing or replacing your kitchen cabinets will be better for you, consider your overall home-selling budget and potential ROI. Kendra advises,
“If you’re working with a smaller budget, refacing is a great way to modernize without breaking the bank. But if you have more to invest, replacement could boost buyer interest and, ultimately, your sale price.”
Cabinet refacing is a quick and efficient option, usually taking just 3-5 days to complete. This makes it an appealing choice for homeowners preparing to sell, as it provides a fresh, updated look with minimal disruption to daily routines. Because refacing doesn’t involve removing or restructuring the cabinetry, there’s little dust or noise, allowing the kitchen to remain usable throughout most of the project.
This approach is ideal if you’re on a tight timeline to sell or if the cabinets are in good structural condition but need a visual refresh to appeal to buyers. However, if your cabinets are outdated in terms of layout or have significant wear and tear, refacing might not be the best investment, as it won't address structural issues or provide the full impact of a replacement.
This extended timeline is an important consideration when preparing to sell. A quick replacement can be a smart choice if you're looking to add appeal without major delays, especially in cases where the existing layout works well. On the other hand, a full custom remodel may not be ideal if you’re aiming for a fast sale, as the longer timeline and higher costs may outweigh the benefits if you’re on a tight schedule.
Refacing and replacing cabinets each offer unique advantages. If you’re selling in a market where affordability and quick updates are valued, refacing can deliver a fresh look without a major investment. However, for homeowners with the budget to replace cabinets in a high-value market, the benefits of replacement can make your home even more attractive to buyers.
Replacing your kitchen cabinets could have the better ROI if:
Think about your budget, timeline, and the expectations of buyers in your area. As Kendra suggests, “It’s all about finding that balance between cost and appeal. Refacing may be best for those wanting a quick turnaround, but replacement can be worth the investment if you’re looking to stand out.”
Ready to move forward? For tailored advice on kitchen remodeling to maximize your home’s value, reach out to us here at JSB for remodeling help and contact Kendra Carter at The Carter Group for insights into what buyers want most in the Columbus market.