Whether renovating your kitchen because you plan to stay in your home for the long haul or updating it for resale, it's always best to use quality materials that will stand the test of time and provide a great return on investment when you decide to sell.
Before you swing that sledgehammer, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Installing Laminate Countertops
While laminate countertops are the most affordable option, they aren't the most durable. Not only can they melt if you place a hot pot on the surface, but they are also prone to chipping from repeated exposure to moisture. Plus, home buyers prefer solid surface countertops, like granite or quartz. If durability and resale value are important to you, skip the laminate and invest in a higher-grade product.
2. Using Flat Paint
A flat or matte paint finish is excellent in rooms with lower traffic, like a dining room, but it's a bad idea in the kitchen, where the walls are regularly exposed to splatters and spills. Instead, select a paint that can withstand an occasional heavy scrubbing, like a semi-gloss or eggshell finish. Both are easy to clean and more durable than a flat finish.
3. Choosing Trendy Tiles
If you've watched HGTV or spent time surfing Pinterest, you know that elaborate backsplash designs are on trend. And while backsplashes play an essential role in the kitchen and add to your resale value, they can look dated in a hurry if you don't choose the right materials. Instead, select a neutral subway tile to get the most longevity out of your kitchen's design. It's not only classic and timeless but affordable too.
4. Installing Cheap Flooring
Just like the countertops, your kitchen flooring must be durable to withstand everyday use. Poor quality options easily scuff and peel (especially from moisture) and can look dated in a few short years. If you choose wood floors for your kitchen, source quality hardwood and skip the laminate. You also can't go wrong with a neutral tile and grout option.
Remember! If you are planning a large-scale renovation with the hope of significantly increasing the value of your Mississauga home, you must consider your audience. A realtor can provide valuable information to determine who will most likely buy your home, like a young family, empty nesters or working professionals.
Custom renovations that stray from the status quo can limit your audience and increase your days on the market. Always consult a trusted realtor's opinion before renovating for resale purposes. Once your upgrades are done, you might realize that you want to stay after all!
For more information or to book your free home evaluation, please get in touch with me, Deborah Clerk, Real Estate Sales Representative, ASA, at Keller Williams Real Estate Associates, Brokerage in Mississauga at (416) 729-4025.
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