Countertops

[atticdude]

Hello,

I'm considering getting new countertops (along with new cabinets) for my kitchen. I was considering concrete countertops... I've been researching it a bit, and the two common problems (staining and cracking) are really dependent on who is doing the mixing/installation. Specifically, the sealer they use and the mix of concrete. I would be going with a higher-end firm for this..

So my question is, if I go with concrete countertops (colored to something near black) instead of granite, will this affect the appraisal value of the countertops? What about Quartz?

Also, out of curiousity (and somewhat off-topic) does anyone have any suggestions for high-quality cabinets and/or concrete countertop firms that will appraise for the "maximum" value?

Thanks,

Nathan

 

[Mountain Man]

When doing home improvements, keep in mind that Cost does not equal Value. Just because you spend $20,000 in a kitchen does not mean you will get that back in value... do not believe those TV shows that ring up value as the builder installs in items. The open market does not work that way, it's extremely easy to overspend and over improve your home out of the market for your neighborhood.

 

[Smokey Bear]

Too trendy. If you're looking for resale value, go with something classic, not trendy.

 

[Carnivore]

Nathan

I agree with Smokey, to trendy. There is a reason real estate has the word traditional in its vocabulary.

Go with granite, assuming others in your neighborhood have at least some corian(which I dont recommend). Granite, is not totally maintenance free as it can stain also. I am going to put granite in my house. I am fortunate, because in my neighborhood it would be very hard to over-improve my house. Thats the question you have to answer for any improvement. Is it acceptable in my market or will I enjoy it long enough to not be concerned about the return.

 

[Restrain]

First, I've seen concrete countertops, and it can actually end up being a negative.

Quartz is also known as Silestone. Silestone and Granite are the two most common upgrades, and return the most on value. I prefer Silestone, because wine will penetrate and stain Granite. Further, it will discolor if it gets hot (bun warmer under the countertop, etc). I've seen countertops ruined by both. Silestone resists both and is much easier to clean.

Realistically, you can expect about 80% ROI on kitchens. If your cabinets are wood and you like the layout, look at new doors and the installation of drawers in the cabinets as opposed to a redo. It's much cheaper. Appliances, unless you live in a multi-million dollar home, get good, but not overly expensive, stainless appliances to replace the old ones. Finally, avoid laminate flooring in the kitchen area. If the dishwasher, etc dumps water, it will get under it, and cause it to swell. BIG PROBLEMS. Yes, it's pretty. Go with tile. 18" tiles with scattered accent pieces will do wonders.

 

[CANative]

Concrete is to stand on, not eat on. lol

Shop around for something nice but is on sale or discontinued.

 

[atticdude]

Quartz/Silestone

I liked the idea of concrete because of what you can do with it, but it appears that concrete would be a negative.. Just to make sure we are talking about the same thing, I was looking at a higher-end concrete solution, such as those I've seen at http://www.stonesoupconcrete.com/ . This wouldn't be a DIY concrete solution.

However, if concrete wouldn't raise the value nearly as much as Quartz or Granite (or if it could even hurt it,) then I'll probably go with Quartz. Any thoughts/input on Quartz/Silestone versus Granite when it comes to appraisals?

I am more hesitant to use Granite because of the "staining" and "discoloration" factors, but, also because of the Radon related issues (yes I realize that it is a relatively low amount of Radon, but, still..)


Nathan

 

[nstanbru]

My wife and I (like I have a choice) decided to remodel the kitchen. We've done quite a bit of research and concluded that quartz (Silestone is a brand name) is what we'll use. It does not have the maintenance and use issues (see post #5) that granite has.

 

[Mike Kennedy]

http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-...g/quartz-countertops-in-kitchen.htm/printable

 

[hglenbetts]

Atticdude,

Are your improvements in anticipation of a sale, or are they for your own enjoyment?

If you're not planning to sell the house in the near future, do what pleases your family. Make improvements that you'll enjoy over time. The differences in investment vs future return on a long term improvement can best be measured in how much you've enjoyed it.

ON THE OTHER HAND...
If you're planning to sell in the not to distant future, your improvements need to be made with the masses in mind. That said, I fully agree with my fellow appraisers, that that the more traditional materials will bring the most appeal.

17 years in sales / 6 years appraising