If you are getting your home ready to list for sale or are considering a remodel for resale sometime in the future, the kitchen can help you accomplish your resale goals by adding value. In fact, and upgraded, functional, beautiful kitchen can actually help sell your home. Promising up to a 70 percent return on investment, a kitchen renovation done right is a great investment in your home now and when you are ready to sell.

Of course, the big question is, should you remodel for now, with your dream kitchen in mind, or should you remodel for the future, with your future buyers in mind. If you choose the latter, you will need to make material selections based on what the general population likes – high-quality stainless-steel appliances, soft close cabinet doors and drawers, pantry drawers, recycling options, etc. it also means keeping the personal touches to a minimum. For example, you may like the idea of a tropical blue island with ocean-themed knobs and pulls, but will potential buyers?

As you plan your remodel, it is important not to overspend or be too frugal during the remodeling. Remodel with the items buyers are seeking in your home’s price range, which can generally be achieved by sticking to a kitchen renovation budget that is between six and 10 percent of your home’s overall value. Choosing the right upgrades can enhance the perceived value of your kitchen and your home for potential buyers. The goal is to choose the appliances, cabinetry, hardware, and other accoutrements which will sell your kitchen when the time comes.

Tips to Help You Remodel for Resale

If you aren’t sure of what’s trending in your area, call on your real estate agent for a list of “must haves.” If you don’t have an agent yet, ask a few local real estate professionals what is attracting buyers and what is making them turn away. In most cases, they will be happy to help. You can also do your own research by looking at properties being aggressively marketed in your area and determining what they have in common – brand names, colors, finishes – you get the idea.

Choose granite. Hands down, buyers prefer granite countertops over all other materials, even quartz. If you choose another solid countertop material, choose a pattern which mimics granite. Should the price tag for granite cause you to reconsider, look for specials on “first tier” granite after all granite is still granite and appealing to nearly all homebuyers.

Opt for simple, natural, timeless colors and styles. For floors, cabinets, countertops, appliances, backsplashes, and fixtures, neutral tones and styles which are transitional is key. Simplicity in your design allows more buyers to fall in love with your kitchen and your home. This means avoiding extremes, exotic options, and luxury items. Don’t be overly economical either, rather choose options known for quality, function, and durability.

Open up spaces and add convenience within. Open floor plans are still the most popular “must have” among homebuyers, so consider opening up a closed in kitchen during your remodel. Doing so allows you to increase natural light, as well as entertaining space. Plus, opening spaces helps improve traffic flow not only in and out of the kitchen, but allows the family to enjoy the space together – two really important selling points for today’s homebuyers. Finally, as you plan the remodel for resale value, add some of the latest convenience items. Among the most popular of the moment are pull-out pantry drawers, adding a variety of extra specialized drawers, under cabinet lighting, pot-fillers, and multifunctional islands.