One glance at your tired and out-of-date kitchen might suggest that a renovation is necessary. After all, who would be interested in buying a home with limited counter space, unsightly cabinets, dim lighting, and ancient appliances? However, when considering kitchen renovations, questions about cost and whether you could recover the renovation costs when you sell the home come to mind.

Kitchen Renovation Factors to Consider: Cost

The cost of any home improvement will vary depending on the renovation project, the materials, and the labor required. Additionally, every real estate market is different, so average return estimates will differ throughout the country.

The Remodeling 2022 Cost vs. Value Report* estimated costs and average home value increase for different kitchen renovations based on a 200-square-foot kitchen.

Minor Kitchen Renovation:

- Renovations include cabinet-front replacements, new hardware, new appliances, laminate countertops, mid-range sink replacement, and painting.

- Estimated average cost: $26,214.

- The average increase in home value was $18,927 or 72.2%.

Mid-Range Kitchen Renovation:

- Remodeling 30-linear feet of semi-custom wood cabinets, laminate countertops, 3 x 5 island, stainless sink with a single-lever faucet, range, dishwasher, microwave, and new flooring, along with painting or refinishing walls, ceiling, and trim.

- Estimated average cost: $75,571.

- The average increase in home value was $43,364, or 57.4%.

Major Kitchen Renovation:

- Significant renovations include custom cabinetry, stone countertops, glass or tile backsplashes, commercial-grade appliances, high-end faucets, sink, filtration systems, premium flooring, and high-quality lighting.

- Estimated average cost: $149,079.

- The average increase in home value was $80,284 or 53.9%.

The Average Return on Investment (ROI) for Kitchen Remodels

Although kitchen renovations can dramatically increase the functionality of the space and generate instant gratification, homeowners may be surprised by how little their renovation adds to their home’s resale value. Because of the relatively low ROI, many Realtors recommend not performing significant renovations before putting a home on the market.

The kitchen is often a major focus when looking for a home, but homebuyers tend to factor the cost of kitchen renovations that suit their tastes into their buying decisions. While finding an interested buyer will likely take longer if the kitchen requires repairs or upgrades, an experienced real estate agent can help you decide which upgrades and improvements would help the home sell and those that may not be worth the expense.

To Renovate or Not Renovate?

If you are not expecting to move for a few years, renovations to improve kitchen appliances, as well as appearance, space, and lighting, can make sense. Although kitchen renovations can be costly, the small ROI may not be a factor for consideration if the home will not go on the market soon.

The kitchen is arguably the most important room in your home. Updates and renovations can bring a sense of joy and satisfaction. After all, a newly upgraded kitchen can offer better performance, enhance the home’s overall impression, and bolster a renewed sense of pride and love for the home.

Save by Doing-It-Yourself

According to the Ramsey Solutions Report, homeowners can avoid high renovation costs by doing their own kitchen upgrades. Adding or changing the lighting can also have a significant overall impact on the kitchen. Other DIY projects most homeowners can easily undertake include:

- Painting or refinishing the cabinets.

- Install a tile backsplash to add an attractive accent to the kitchen.

- Paint the appliances if they are in good working order. If you cannot find an appliance refinisher, it is possible to do it yourself.

- Install vinyl flooring that mimics high-end finishes for a modern, low-cost look.