Kelly Marshall, Prop Stylist: Sophia Pappas
Boosting your kitchen’s appeal can be as straightforward as swapping out old countertops, introducing new lighting, or repainting cabinets, all without the need for a full-scale renovation. Such strategic updates can significantly sway potential buyers. Timeless and premium finishes, like genuine tile backsplashes and neutral color palettes, often outshine trendy or overly personalized options. Even minor staging touches, like decluttering countertops and infusing the space with subtle scents, contribute to a cozy, standout kitchen during viewings.
Given that kitchens are often the heart of the home, they tend to be the focal point for home buyers. Real estate professionals emphasize the importance of a rejuvenated kitchen, especially for sellers.
Susan Thayer, the founder of the Thayer Group and a member of the Denver Metro Association of Realtors’ market trends committee, points out, “Kitchen renovations can be costly and disruptive to daily life. Many buyers are willing to overlook outdated features elsewhere in a home if the kitchen is updated, as they’re aware of the expense and inconvenience of doing it themselves.”
Pamela Bathen, a broker at Oak Realty in Ashland, Massachusetts, highlights that kitchen improvements can greatly enhance a home’s visual appeal, making them a wise investment for sellers. But what upgrades are most enticing to buyers? Experts weigh in on this question.
Investing in new countertops, especially if your current ones are dated, can be a game-changer. “If your kitchen boasts an island and ample counter space, new countertops can shine as a focal point and make any other flaws seem less pressing,” Bathen advises.
A Zillow analysis revealed that soapstone countertops can add a 3.5% premium to a sale price, while quartz can boost the value by 2.6%. “Porcelain is currently popular and more affordable than quartz, but buyers typically don’t pay extra for the material alone,” Bathen adds. “Both new materials are fantastic choices.”
Kate Terrigno, a Realtor with Corcoran in Charlotte, North Carolina, emphasizes that good lighting can dramatically change a kitchen’s ambiance, turning it from dim and unwelcoming to bright and inviting. “I suggest focusing on under-cabinet lighting and bold statement fixtures,” she advises. “Modern pendants can add a touch of luxury without the steep price tag.”
Houzz’s 2025 kitchen trends study shows that nine out of ten renovating homeowners install new lighting over their kitchen islands, with pendant lights topping the list.
Kristen Hunter, an agent with Keller Williams Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, notes that the backsplash is often the most captivating feature, but it must be timeless and made of real tile. “Avoid peel-and-stick options, as they’re seen as temporary, and ensure the backsplash isn’t too specific to the seller’s taste,” she cautions.
Andrew Abrams, a broker at Guide Real Estate and a market trends committee member for the Denver Metro Association of Realtors, likens a fresh coat of paint to “lipstick on a pig.” He suggests that painting outdated cabinets and replacing hardware can make a significant difference.
“If the kitchen is older and you can only make one upgrade, painted cabinets often have the most impact,” Bathen adds. “A light, modern color can elevate the space and give it a fresh look.”
However, Pendleton recommends olive green as a standout paint color, noting that buyers are willing to pay an extra $1,600 for an olive green kitchen. “Leave major renovations to the next owner,” she advises.
It’s generally best to avoid over-the-top renovations and overly personalized choices, according to Terrigno. “Less is more—keep it clean, neutral, and straightforward,” she advises.
When preparing your kitchen for a showing, regardless of the upgrades made, it’s essential to ensure the space is well-presented. Taylor Lucyk, team lead at Taylor Lucyk Group, suggests decluttering countertops, hiding trash bins, and storing pet bowls.
“Try to avoid cooking before a showing and consider lighting a softly scented candle to create a welcoming ambiance,” Lucyk adds. “These small details can make the kitchen more inviting and leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.”
