Thinking about a home upgrade? Want to make sure it’s worth the investment? Kitchen remodels typically offer the best return on investment (ROI) of any home improvement project.

Not only is the kitchen where most families spend the majority of their time – so they’ll enjoy the update the most – it’s one of the key items potential buyers consider.

Not all kitchen remodels are created equal. Highly specialized updates might be something you enjoy, yet be a turnoff to potential buyers. The same is true of extremely expensive finishes and appliances. This doesn’t mean you should never make a decision that’s about your personal enjoyment. However, you’ll want to make those decisions with your eyes wide open.

So, what updates do offer the best ROI?

Re-Paint the Walls and Cabinets

Paint is far and away the most cost effective way to give your home an update. This true for any room in the house. By refinishing the walls and/or cabinets, you can breathe new life into your kitchen without dropping a pretty penny. You’ll save even more if you do the painting yourself. In comparison to laying tile or re-wiring lights, painting is a pretty simple do-it-yourself (DIY) project.

Add a Backsplash

Redoing all your counters can cut into your remodeling budget substantially. Adding a tile backsplash can refresh the look of your existing countertops by providing a focal point. You’ll want to stick to a backsplash that plays on the colors found within your existing counter. This can be done either by pulling accent colors from the tile or using complimentary colors.

Update Your Lighting

Older kitchens aren’t typically equipped with as much lighting as their modern day sisters. By updating your lighting you can take your kitchen from dark and dreary to light and airy. Consider swapping out old light fixtures for newer pendant lights. You might also install under-cabinet lighting. This can give your kitchen a more elegant, high-end look.

Ready to make an update? A home equity loan or a home equity line of credit can supply the necessary cash to complete the job. Contact me today to explore your options.