Sat. Dec 21st, 2024

Five kitchen design mistakes that reduce your property value

Kitchen design

The kitchen often serves as the heart of the home, influencing both buyers’ impressions and property value.  A good kitchen design is essential. According to John Swindle, Property Expert at Chase Roof Inspections, certain kitchen design features could discourage buyers and reduce your home’s appeal. Avoid these common mistakes to keep your kitchen a selling point.

Avoid overly personalised kitchen design

Highly personalised kitchen designs, such as bold colours or custom cabinetry, might reflect your style but could alienate buyers. John explains, “Buyers prefer neutral, adaptable designs that allow them to visualise their own style.” If you’re planning to sell, consider opting for timeless, versatile elements to make the space more inviting.

Ensure an effective kitchen design layout

A practical layout is vital for a kitchen to function as the hub of the home. Cramped or awkward spaces can deter buyers. John highlights, “A poorly designed layout can make everyday tasks challenging and might signal costly renovations to potential buyers.” Open, easy-to-navigate layouts are key to making a kitchen feel welcoming.

Update appliances and fixtures

Outdated appliances or worn fixtures can make a kitchen feel tired and unappealing. Modern, energy-efficient appliances attract buyers seeking savings on bills and a fresh appearance. John advises, “Investing in updated, efficient appliances can enhance your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetic appeal, boosting its value.”

Improve kitchen lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating an inviting and functional kitchen. Poor lighting makes the space feel dark and impractical. John says, “Good lighting ensures the kitchen looks bright and welcoming while providing safe preparation areas.” Combine natural light with task and ambient lighting for a balanced effect.

Maximise storage space in the kitchen design

Storage remains a top priority for buyers. A lack of cupboards or shelving can make the kitchen feel impractical and cluttered. John notes, “Buyers expect sufficient storage, and limited options could be a dealbreaker.” Simple updates like adding open shelving or pantry solutions can improve functionality without significant expense.

Make your kitchen buyer-ready

John concludes, “Small updates, like modern appliances, improved lighting, and functional storage, can make a big difference. A well-presented kitchen not only attracts buyers but can also increase your property’s value.”

For more home improvement tips, explore expert insights from Chase Roof Inspections. Create a kitchen buyers will love with thoughtful updates that ensure a lasting impression.

If you're thinking of buying something recommended by us, please go via the links on our pages. When you do this we may earn a fee which supports our editorially independent, family business.

By Fergus McCarthy

Fergus McCarthy is a seasoned publishing professional with over three decades of experience in the media industry. In 1993, he co-founded Parents News, a pioneering publication aimed at providing busy parents in Southwest London with essential information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly activities. Under his leadership, Parents News quickly expanded its reach from 60,000 to 192,000 monthly printed copies, establishing additional branches in Kent, South London, Northern Ireland, and Cornwall. In 1997, recognizing the potential of digital media, Fergus helped launch Parents News UK Online, which carried digital editions of the printed publication and offered a broader range of national information. The website's popularity soared, attracting up to 700 daily hits at its peak. Although Parents News transitioned to an online-only platform in 2017, Fergus continues to play a vital role as Publisher and Advertising Manager, focusing on providing value to businesses through effective advertorials.

Read next