Kitchens: Simple Cosmetic Fixes

Don't let a dated kitchen reduce the appeal of your house. Today there are many affordable cosmetic solutions, and you can do a lot of the work yourself.

If your kitchen hasn’t been updated, you could be at a serious disadvantage when you sell. To most buyers, the kitchen is the most important room in the house, and if it’s not attractive, in good condition and functional, they’ll move on. Fortunately, there are many affordable, creative solutions to improve the appearance of older kitchens. The investment you make will support a higher listing price and help sell your house.

Here are some ideas:

• Remove decorative and non-essential items from the walls, countertops, drawers and shelves, to assess condition and cosmetic issues.

• Remove any wallpaper or borders.
• Clean and detail every inch of the kitchen, including drawers and shelves.
• Create a new color plan that suits the style of the kitchen using coordinated neutral color(s) for the ceiling and walls, with accent colors for impact. Make cosmetic repairs and paint.
• Stain or paint worn or dated cabinets. (Correct preparation, good workmanship and quality materials are essential.)
• Update cabinets with new hardware and hinges.
•  Create the impression of ample storage by removing all but essential daily items from drawers and shelves. Store fewer canned goods, pantry items, cleaning supplies, etc. Install storage accessories to create more space, if needed.
• Paint or stain drawer interiors and shelves that aren’t in good condition. Replace worn drawer and shelf liners.
• Refurbish countertops by covering them with new laminate, tile or paint. Several companies, including Modern Masters, Rustoleum and Giani, have developed do-it-yourself coating systems for countertops. 
• Keep countertops clear, except for a few carefully chosen medium scale accessories, such as green plants, ceramics, wicker or fresh fruit.
• Create a decorative backsplash with paint, ceramic or metal tiles.
• Install new light fixtures that coordinate with the other elements in the kitchen.
• Replace the sink and faucet for an inexpensive upgrade with impact.
• Get new panel kits for old appliances, or paint them. There are many choices. 
• Install simple new window treatments that don’t block natural light. 
• Cover old flooring with vinyl tiles, planks or a laminate.
  

Upgrade the look of your kitchen on a shoestring. Have a staging consultation to develop a cohesive plan, then do most of the work yourself.

Smart Selling Tip:  Simple cosmetic fixes in the right style and colors can help improve the appearance of an older kitchen and make a house more competitive.