Kitchen renovation can give you a good return on investment when selling your house. A mid-range kitchen remodel in Pittsburgh can give you a 53% ROI, whereas an upscale remodel will give you a 55% ROI. If you plan to renovate your kitchen to make your property look more attractive to home buyers, avoid these common kitchen upgrade blunders when selling a house fast in Pittsburgh. They can have a negative impact on home buyers and reduce the value of your property during appraisal or inspection.
Forgetting About Resale Value
It’s important to keep future resale value in mind when renovating your kitchen. Over-customizing with very specific designs or ultra-luxury features that don’t align with the neighborhood can limit your home’s appeal to home buyers. Aim for a balance between personal taste and broadly appealing design choices to maximize your return on investment.
Ignoring the Workflow
The kitchen is a highly functional space, and ignoring the workflow can result in an inefficient and frustrating environment. Consider the classic “kitchen triangle” concept that positions the sink, stove, and refrigerator in a triangular layout to maximize efficiency. Ensure your design allows smooth movement between these critical areas and other elements like countertops, cabinets, and appliances.
Inconsistent Design
A common mistake is not maintaining a consistent design throughout the kitchen. Mixing too many styles, colors, or finishes can create a disjointed look. Select a cohesive design palette and stick to it. Ensure all elements, from cabinetry and countertops to fixtures and appliances, harmonize.
Skimping on Storage
While aesthetics is important, functionality should not be compromised in a kitchen. Incorporate different storage solutions such as deep drawers, pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, and pantry cabinets. Utilize vertical space with tall cabinets and overhead storage to keep your kitchen clutter-free and well-organized.
Choosing Style Over Substance
While choosing the latest design trends is tempting, prioritizing style over substance can be a mistake. Focus on durable materials and timeless designs. High-quality countertops, cabinets, and flooring might be more expensive initially, but they will save money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
Neglecting Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is inevitable in a kitchen to remove cooking odors, smoke, and excess moisture. Neglecting this aspect can lead to lingering smells, greasy surfaces, and mold growth. Invest in a quality range hood that is appropriately sized for your stove, and make sure it vents to the outside.
Underestimating Lighting Needs
Lighting is often a second thought in kitchen renovations, but it plays a vital role in functionality and ambiance. Relying solely on overhead lighting can create shadows and make tasks difficult. Add a mix of task lighting, accent lighting, and ambient lighting to create a well-lit, inviting space. For a balanced approach, you can also choose under-cabinet lights, pendant lights over islands, and recessed lighting.
DIY Overreach
While DIY projects can save money, overestimating your skills can lead to costly mistakes. Electrical work, plumbing, and gas installations should be left to licensed professionals to affirm safety and compliance with local building codes. Even for less technical tasks, consider whether hiring a professional might save time and result in a higher-quality finish.
Overlooking Permits and Regulation
Many homeowners underestimate the importance of procuring the required permits and complying with local building codes when renovating kitchens. Failure to adhere to any code of practice can result in exorbitant fines, delays, and removal of non-compliant work. Always consult with your local building department or a qualified professional to determine which permits are required for your project and ensure all work meets regulatory standards.
By avoiding these mistakes, you can affirm your kitchen renovation in Pittsburgh is a smooth and successful project. If you have made any of the above kitchen renovation mistakes and are finding it hard to sell your house, contact reputed cash home buyers in Pittsburgh. At 412 Houses, we buy houses in Pittsburgh in as-is condition for a fair price without needing repairs or upgrades.