6 Kitchen Features That Could Significantly Increase Your Home’s Value
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When it comes to selling your home, crafting a compelling real estate listing is crucial. Recent Zillow research reveals that highlighting specific kitchen features in your listing can significantly boost your sale price, while mentioning others might actually have the opposite effect.
Amanda Pendleton, Zillow’s home trends expert, emphasizes that while this research identifies features that lead to higher sale prices, it doesn’t assess the return on investment (ROI) of renovation projects. “If these desirable features are already in your home, make sure to showcase them in your listing,” she advises. “However, adding them solely for the purpose of increasing your home’s value may not guarantee the premiums you expect.”
In the following section, we’ll explore the top kitchen features that can increase your home’s value. Be sure to highlight these sought-after elements in your listing if your property is equipped with them.
Walnut Cabinets
Cabinets are another key element in the kitchen that can influence a buyer’s perception of your home’s value. Walnut cabinets are particularly noteworthy, as they can increase your home’s value by 2.2% when mentioned in the listing.
Walnut’s rich, dark color adds warmth to the kitchen and contrasts beautifully with lighter countertops and flooring. While trendy colors may look appealing in the short term, walnut cabinets have staying power and are likely to appeal to a wide variety of buyers. Walnut is often considered the epitome of luxury in cabinetry, offering an elegant yet timeless look.
The grain patterns in walnut are distinctive and rich, making it a perfect choice for those looking for something classic but still impressive. Whether your kitchen features a sleek modern aesthetic or a more rustic vibe, walnut cabinets can fit seamlessly into any design.
New Appliances
In today’s home market, new appliances are highly desirable. Homes that feature updated, high-end appliances sell for 2.7% more than expected. Buyers often view new appliances as a sign of a well-maintained, modern home, saving them the potential hassle of costly upgrades after purchase.
If your kitchen is equipped with appliances from brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf, or Miele, these high-end additions could be worth highlighting in your real estate listing. These appliances represent cutting-edge technology, improved energy efficiency, and sleek designs. Potential buyers, especially those who enjoy cooking, will appreciate the thoughtfulness behind investing in quality appliances.
Entertainment-Centric Features
For those who love to host, including entertainment-friendly features like pizza ovens, ice machines, and beverage centers can increase your home’s value by 2% to 2.2%. These features give the kitchen an immediate “wow” factor and help buyers visualize hosting their own gatherings.
In recent years, the kitchen has evolved from a place to prepare meals to a hub for social interaction. The demand for kitchen features that cater to entertaining—such as a built-in pizza oven or a dedicated ice machine—has skyrocketed. These add-ons make a kitchen feel like a true gathering space, capable of accommodating everything from casual dinners to elaborate parties.
Including these items in your listing will make your home stand out as one that’s perfect for socializing.
Pot Fillers
A pot filler is one of those features that many people didn’t know they needed until they experience it. This small luxury can add 2.2% to your home’s sale price. A pot filler is a wall-mounted faucet positioned near the stove, allowing you to easily fill large pots with water without having to carry them to the sink.
For anyone who enjoys cooking, this feature is a game-changer, adding both functionality and a touch of elegance to the kitchen. Pot fillers are especially appreciated by avid home cooks and those who entertain frequently.
They’re not just practical; they also add an upscale vibe to the kitchen. When potential buyers see this feature, it’s clear that the kitchen is designed for ease and comfort, making the space feel even more inviting.
Induction Cooktops
Induction cooktops are rapidly gaining traction in the market, with homes that feature them selling for 1.9% more than expected. The appeal of induction cooking lies in its energy efficiency, safety features, and sleek appearance. As more buyers become concerned about the health risks associated with gas stoves, induction cooktops are seen as a modern and safe alternative.
Induction cooktops use electromagnetic energy to directly heat cookware, making them more energy-efficient than traditional gas or electric stoves. They also provide precise temperature control and cook food faster, which is a big plus for home chefs.
As awareness of environmental and health concerns grows, induction cooktops are likely to continue to gain popularity, making them a smart addition to any kitchen.
Soapstone, Quartz, and Onyx Countertops
One of the most significant ways to increase your kitchen’s value is by upgrading your countertops. Natural stone countertops have long been a symbol of luxury, and they continue to make a strong impact. Homes featuring soapstone countertops can sell for 3.5% more than expected, while quartz counters add a 2.6% premium.
Even onyx countertops are gaining attention, offering a 2.3% increase in sale price. These materials not only look stunning but they also convey a sense of sophistication that many buyers find appealing. Soapstone is gaining a reputation for its striking appearance and durability. It’s a versatile material with a rich, dark hue that complements various kitchen styles.
Onyx, with its unique veining and translucency, offers an even more dramatic statement. Both materials are now overtaking traditional choices like granite and marble due to their more distinct appearance and luxurious feel.
Conclusion
When preparing your home for sale, it’s essential to focus on the features that matter most to today’s buyers. Upgrading your kitchen with high-end materials like soapstone or quartz countertops, investing in modern appliances, and adding entertainment-friendly features can make a significant difference in your home’s sale price.
By emphasizing these features in your listing, you’re showcasing a home that’s not only beautiful but also functional and luxurious. While some features, like induction cooktops or pot fillers, may not be must-haves for every buyer, they can still offer a competitive edge. In a crowded real estate market, every little bit counts.
So, take the time to highlight the kitchen features that elevate your home, and you could see a significant return on your investment.
