The Expensive Kitchen Upgrade That Won't Help Your Home Value

Investing in luxury appliances can significantly increase the cost of a kitchen renovation. When you are remodeling the kitchen with the hope of increasing resale value, the expensive kitchen upgrade that won't help your home value is luxury kitchen appliances. Most buyers aren't concerned about high-end appliances in the kitchen, as long as the appliances are in good condition and energy-efficient.

Luxury kitchen appliances, also known as high-end or premium appliances, are manufactured by prestige brands and known for exceptional design and performance. Some examples of premium appliances include professional-style ranges and chef's packages, built-in refrigerators, luxury vent hoods, and appliances with smart features. These high-end appliances are made by brands such as Wolf, Cove, Sub-Zero, and Dacor.

If new appliances are necessary before listing your home, you may be wondering how much it might cost to install new appliances. Unless your home is a luxury property, you won't recoup the investment made in upgrading to premium appliances when you sell. The average home buyer is more concerned with finding a home in their price range than one with a kitchen full of expensive appliances.

While upgrading to expensive kitchen appliances won't increase your home's resale value, new appliances can attract buyers, just like broken ones can turn them away. New appliances can have perceived value and create the impression of a well-cared-for home. If you have appliances that are outdated, mismatched, or visibly damaged, you will want to replace them before putting the house on the market. Fortunately, there are more affordable options to get the house ready for sale.

You don't need to invest in high-end appliances, as long as they look good and work efficiently. When choosing new appliances with resale in mind, you don't need the most expensive brands, but you also don't want to choose the cheapest option either. Look for mid-range appliances in a neutral finish that will work with many different interior design styles, such as stainless steel, to boost perceived resale value.

Aside from aesthetics, energy efficiency is a top priority for most buyers. Buyers are interested in lowering their utility bills, and efficient appliances are one of the best ways to help reduce energy costs at home. In addition to saving money, some buyers prioritize sustainability due to concerns about climate change and prefer homes with energy-efficient appliances and a smaller carbon footprint.