Follow these five reno rules and cook up some serious value

A well-designed kitchen is the heart of a home – and a significant selling point. 

A  quality kitchen renovation can add up to 15% to the value of your property. 

When functional and well-planned, it’s is a drawcard for potential buyers and can make all the difference in a competitive market.

So, if you’re considering a kitchen upgrade to boost your home’s appeal, our agents have put together five golden renovation rules for you.

  • Measure meticulously – Precision is key. Ensure accurate measurements for appliances, cabinets, and countertops to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Appliance placement – Optimise your kitchen’s workflow by adhering to the “kitchen triangle” principle. This means placing your sink, fridge and stove in a triangle shape (ideally 1.2m to 2.7m apart) to create an efficient and ergonomic workspace.
  • Benchtop space – Aim for at least 100cm on either side of your cooktop as food preparation areas. If space is limited, consider pull-out cutting boards or island extensions.
  • Light it up – Incorporate a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere while ensuring ample light for cooking.
  • Keep it clutter-free – A clutter-free kitchen is visually appealing and functional. Integrate storage solutions such as drawer dividers, pull-out pantry shelves and hidden bins.

Below, our agents have highlighted some of the top trends in kitchen design today.

  • Natural materials – Natural stone countertops and wooden cabinetry are a hit with many buyers today.
  • Stay smart – Smart refrigerators, ovens and lighting systems will make an impact on buyers. They promote energy efficiency and make life easier.
  • Be classy – If you plan to sell soon, choose a kitchen with classic colour combinations. Don’t be too bold, as certain colour combinations may date within a few years or put off some buyers.
  • Make it green –  Energy-efficient appliances and water-saving fixtures that reduce your environmental impact are a hot button for eco-conscious buyers.
  • Secret storage: Avoid benchtop clutter. Conceal appliances in integrated cabinetry or pocket doors.