Real Estate: The Kitchen -- the heart of the home

The Kitchen -- the heart of the home

For today’s home buyer, kitchens are one of the biggest factors in determining whether to purchase a specific home. Research suggests that increasingly, Canadians are spending more of their free time close to home.

And the kitchen, this same research suggests, truly is the heart of the home. It’s the control centre - a gathering spot where families spends time together eating and preparing meals. The kitchen also plays and important role in the entertaining of our guests.

If you’re thinking about selling, you don’t have to spend large amounts of money or energy to create the WOW factor in the kitchen. A few dollars well spent, or a few small changes and/or additions can make a big impact that will be memorable in the buyers’ mind. And creating an impression in the buyers’ mind that says "this is a place I would like to live" is what selling your home is all about.

Here are some tips for home sellers that can help you make a great FIRST Impression:

Keep it fresh and clean. There are ways to decorate your kitchen that won’t hurt your pocketbook. Start with a good cleaning -- and make sure you get to every inch of the kitchen! Edit, de-clutter and organize every cupboard, drawer and countertop. Once this is completed you’ll probably see that the kitchen looks and feels more spacious. This is a great starting point to revive the overall look of your kitchen.
Paint it. Paint id one of the most affordable and easiest ways to make a change in a room. Whether it’s subtle or dramatic, fresh wall colour can totally transform a room’s look and its mood. And there’s nothing better than a pure warm neutral wall colour to showcase your beautiful accessories. If you’re really going for something dramatic, consider painting your kitchen cupboards -- it’s an inexpensive way to update a tired look. You can also rejuvenate by changing hardware such as knobs, handles and pulls.
Update your sink and faucets. Another good investment to consider is updating the faucets and sink to match the new look you have created. Your local hardware store will have a great variety of inexpensive choices to pick from.
Think home sweet home. Bright or patterned decorative plates set out on the table say "this place is home". Add some drama with complimentary coloured glassware. Painted ceramic pots in contrasting colours are perfect for summer plants or kitchen utensils neatly arranged on the countertops. These accessories are sure to help give your kitchen a cheerful and stylish look.

Remember, you only have a few seconds to capture the attention of a potential buyer. Engaging the buyer and suggesting a pleasurable lifestyle will truly make a great first impression. And first impressions are the most critical for potential buyers.

As these suggestions show, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to spruce up your kitchen. Be critical as well as creative ... and try to see your home through the buyer’s eyes.

Room by Room - by Tamara Welbourn
FIRST impression ReDesign
905.320.8991

www.first-impression.ca

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