Monday, August 16, 2010

Will my property value be negatively affected if I move the kitchen to a smaller room?

I have an idea for remodeling parts of my home. I want to move t he kitchen to a room adjacent to the livingroom and the dinning room, then open to two rooms to the kitchen. Where the kitchen is now will become a master suite I think. But the kitchen will become much smaller. How do you think this would affect my property value?Will my property value be negatively affected if I move the kitchen to a smaller room?
Kitchens and Bathrooms sell a house, so It may not the best move. I know I wouldn't buy a home with a small kitchen just because the master suite is large. If you want to invest, invest in your kitchen and bathroom!





Good Luck


EllieWill my property value be negatively affected if I move the kitchen to a smaller room?
A great kitchen is always a good selling point. Smaller is usually not better. Besides, the cost of moving all that plumbing will really pump up your reno costs. I would rethink the plan.
No it won't effect the value. Value goes by sq footage and what other houses in the area sold for. If it improves the house go for it. Large kitchens sell better. You can have a large dinning room tied in and remove wall. Hard to say with out seeing.
I'm not sure if I would say it would negatively affect your property's value. There are a few points to consider.





First, updated kitchens are a big selling point. Even if your current kitchen is larger a new, updated kitchen will be worth more in MOST buyer's eyes...not all, of course. New cabinets, fixtures, counter tops and appliances are big selling points.





Second, pay attention to storage space. Even in large kitchens storage space can be a problem if the kitchen wasn't laid out correctly. This can also be said about counter space. I would consider contacting a local design center for help with laying out the kitchen to maximize the storage and counter space, especially since you will be moving to a smaller room. Using taller wall cabinets, pantries and so forth can really add a lot of storage even in a small kitchen. Simple steps like putting your microwave over your stove can free up valuable counter space.





Third, pay close attention to the functionality of the workspace. There is a optimal layout for good kitchens. Whether the kitchen is large or not so large if it isn't laid out efficiently it won't work. A small kitchen area can seem larger if it is laid out correctly and in a way that flows. Again, I would suggest a kitchen design consultant or even reading a few DIY kitchen renovation books to get some ideas on the proper layout for your space.





Lastly, if you are going to sell, pay attention to decor. Too much clutter isn't a good thing and will make small rooms seem much smaller. Also, using color can help expand the space. White walls don't make a room look larger...color can help give the illusion of a warmer, brighter, larger space. Keep this in mind when selecting floors, counters and cabinet finishes. This is another area where a design consultant could help you if you have questions.





Personally, I think that since you are moving the kitchen so that is will open into the dining and living rooms it would be a good selling point. Many people are looking for open floor plans and/or great room styles. It sounds like this is what you are working toward. I think if you plan carefully, seek help when needed, do a little research on kitchen layout and design the area with the open concept in mind you may end up positively affecting your property's value.





Good luck!

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