Custom Kitchen Design in Lakewood: Boosting Your Home Value
Introduction: Why Kitchens Matter in Home Value
In the world of real estate, it is often said that “kitchens sell homes.” And while that may be an oversimplification, there is no doubt that kitchens are arguably a home’s principal feature and consequently have the potential to significantly impact home value.
So then, just how much does custom kitchen design increase your home’s worth? The answer, as is often the case, is it depends. Let’s explore some of the key factors to consider as you weigh the benefits of remodeling your kitchen.
Scope of the Project: What to Consider
Let’s first consider the scope of the remodel. When considering a custom kitchen remodel, ask yourself: what are my reasons for updating my kitchen?; what do I need that my existing kitchen doesn’t have?; what is the desired outcome of the project? Take the time to make a detailed list of the things you like or dislike about the existing space. For example:
There isn’t enough room for my partner and me to cook together
I need room for a larger refrigerator
We would love to have an island for seating and more storage
Be specific! The more detailed you are, the better you can budget for the project as well as explain your vision to your designer or contractor.
Another factor in deciding how to approach your custom kitchen design project is how long you plan to remain in your home. If you are updating with plans to sell the house in one or two years, then a smaller scale remodel would be in order. Among the updates with the highest return on investment are cabinets, countertops, appliances and flooring. You don’t have to spend lavishly on these items either; refinished or re-painted cabinets, for example, can give a kitchen a whole new character.
But if you plan to stay in your home for 5--10 or more years, then re-imagining the space to suit your needs for the long term may be your best course. Do you envision an eat-in kitchen for a growing family? Do small kitchen appliances clutter the countertops? Would you like a kitchen that will accommodate aging-in-place? Planning ahead and investing in a custom kitchen design now ensures you years of enjoyment. And consider that whatever you spend on a custom update now will decrease proportionally as your home increases in value (as most homes do) over the next several years. It’s truly a win-win.
As a custom kitchen designer, I advise my clients to weigh length of stay in their home and to prioritize personal needs and requirements when it comes to determining how much (or little) of the existing kitchen should be re-imagined and updated.
Products and Materials: Choosing Wisely
In the world of custom kitchen design there has never been so much choice in products and materials. And this includes a wide range of cost options. But choosing among the plethora of products is what often stops homeowners in their tracks. It can be overwhelming!
This again requires some introspection about your priorities. If high-end appliances top your list of must-haves in your new kitchen, you can always save elsewhere by choosing middle of the road for cabinets and flooring, for example. Conversely, if you are working with a tight budget, opting for the least priced products may not be in your best interest. Your kitchen is a hard-working space and durability should be expected of every component.
As a custom kitchen designer in Lakewood, my best advice is to find the right balance in choosing products and materials that are highly rated for quality craftsmanship and durability, as well as meet personal requirements for style and affordability.
Current Home Value: How it Factors into Your Remodel
The overall value of your home is another key factor in determining what to invest in a kitchen remodel. Rule of thumb advises that your remodel investment should equate to about 10% of your home’s value. However, there are so many factors to consider, including the scope of the project, the size of your kitchen, the current cost of labor and materials, and even where your home is located, that there is no one-size-fits-all calculation that makes sense for everyone. Regardless of the variables, here are a few relevant considerations:
Focus on Key Upgrades
Prioritize upgrades with built-in longevity such as quality cabinetry, durable countertops, and energy-efficient appliances
Consider Modern Functionality
Product innovation is constantly evolving to offer enhanced efficiency, reliability and sustainability; focus on products that prioritize performance, convenience, energy efficiency, health and safety
Assess the Bigger Picture
A thoughtfully designed kitchen ensures that your investment boosts the long-term value and appeal of your home; the best course is to partner with experts in kitchen design who can guide you every step of the way.
Research First for Long-term Value
It’s important to do your research on the cost and availability of products, materials and labor in your specific location and decide from there whether to undertake a minor, mid-range, or major remodel. Again, start with defining your wants, needs and priorities. Then seek out professionals who can advise you as to your options and how to get the most out of your budget.
As a custom kitchen designer in Lakewood, CO, my best advice is to base expenditure on the current home value coupled with individual needs and requirements for a kitchen upgrade that will serve your family for 10 years or longer.
The “Joy!” of a Custom Kitchen Remodel
You probably spend more time in the kitchen than any other room in the house. More than ever, today’s kitchen is the hub of the home. It is here that we start every day, gather with family, wind down, celebrate milestones, create memories. Given what a significant role our kitchens play in the trajectory of daily life, it’s appropriate to also look at the upside of a kitchen remodel from the perspective of personal enjoyment.
Whether you have the budget to make a major change or simply target specific problems, remodeling or updating your kitchen will undoubtedly enhance your pleasure in the everyday enjoyment of the space. That is the joy factor. And although it is hard to quantify joy in dollars, as a homeowner, you instinctively know its value. In some respects, it’s priceless.
Conclusion: Consulting a Designer for Personalized Solutions
A custom kitchen remodel may be the most extensive home improvement project you’ll ever consider. A reputable kitchen designer is equipped to advise you on every detail of this daunting endeavor, help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure your plans meet local building requirements, and help guide your project to a rewarding conclusion.
As a custom kitchen designer, I know from first-hand experience just how central a family’s kitchen is to the enjoyment of the entire home. I’ve helped dozens of homeowners create new-found joy through transforming their kitchens from dreary or dysfunctional, to a place where family and friends gather, memories are made, and even the coffee tastes better!
I would love to hear from you about your kitchen remodel plans! Please contact me to schedule a personalized consultation to get your project started!
Frequently Asked Questions
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A kitchen remodel can significantly increase a home’s value depending on the scope of the project, quality of materials, and the overall design. Key upgrades like cabinetry, countertops, and energy-efficient appliances often deliver the best return on investment.
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Yes, custom kitchen design offers homeowners the ability to create a space that supports their lifestyle while also boosting property value. By tailoring the remodel to meet personal needs, you benefit from long-term functionality and potential resale gain.
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Start by identifying the shortcomings of your current kitchen and your near and long term needs and goals. Consider whether you’re remodeling to sell or to stay long-term, as this can influence how much to invest. Planning ahead ensures your vision is aligned with your budget.
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Focus on durability for hard working features that command the majority of your budget like cabinets, flooring and appliances. Allow your style preferences to shine with secondary features such as hardware, decorative lighting, window treatments and furniture. A custom kitchen designer will always advise prioritizing performance and functionality when choosing products for the kitchen.
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A common guideline suggests spending around 10% of your home’s value. However, costs vary widely depending on materials, labor, and the scope of the remodel. Consulting with a custom kitchen designer will help you set realistic expectations.
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Custom kitchen design focuses on tailoring every aspect of the remodel to fit your lifestyle, unique needs and preferences, and long-term goals. A professional kitchen designer knows how to maximize functionality, efficiency and ease of use, as well as incorporate your personal style. Standardized kitchen design such as that available through big box stores, prioritizes one-size-fits-all-solutions and selling goods that may not be in your best interest.
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Beyond adding to home value, a remodel enhances daily living by creating a kitchen that feels inviting, functional, and enjoyable. The “joy factor” of waking up to a beautiful, efficient kitchen will outweigh the financial return alone.