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To renovate, or not to renovate; that is the question! Well, not even Shakespeare has the correct answer to that query, but you may learn it by your response to the questions that follow. If you get more yes’s than no’s, it’s probably time for a change.
Are your appliances antiquated?
If your fridge has a lovely harvest-gold or avocado finish, it should probably be in a museum, not your kitchen. There is something to be said for nostalgia, but old appliances put you at a disadvantage. Besides dating the overall appearance of the room, they are certainly not very energy efficient, and have none of the amenities of modern equipment. Over time, new appliances could actually pay for themselves in utility bill savings, while providing plenty of convenience.
Have you graduated from normal “wear-and-tear” to “worn-out”?
Maybe your fridge or dishwasher has had a chronic leak leaving the floor discolored or even buckled. Oh, is that mold under the sink? Those cupboard edges are scuffed bare, and the doors just don’t close like they used to. And look at those vinyl floor tiles starting to lift at the corners. When time takes its toll, it’s time to replace.
Do simple cleanups turn into major chores?
It should be quick to wipe things down or to sweep up the floor. But there are cut marks and cracks in that countertop, and ever-widening gaps between the floor tiles. Debris is collecting there and making you take extra time, and extra effort, every day, to get it removed. Smooth, new surfaces would make cleanups quick and easy once again.
Are you out of space?
Where are you gonna put that new pasta maker when the cupboards are full, and the little counter space you have is covered with all the other small appliances you use? If you have to move things into another room, just so you can have a spot to cook, there is a problem.
Are your drawers and cupboards disorganized?
That lack of space leads to more clutter everywhere. Do you find yourself sifting through piles of utensils in drawer after drawer to find the one you need? That baking dish used to be up there, but now it isn’t, so the hunt is on. What is the cereal doing in with the dishes? The solution might be more, and larger, cabinets with swiveling partitions and pullouts, as well as deeper drawers with dividers and trays.
Are you uncomfortable in your own kitchen?
It feels like you’re stepping back in time, but not in a nice, nostalgic way. It’s kinda gloomy and a little depressing. So much so that you avoid cooking and spending time in there; and instead, waste money eating out too often. A facelift and some better lighting might brighten the room, and your disposition.
Is your kitchen a hindrance to selling your home?
Ask any realtor, and they will verify that the first room that buyers check out is the kitchen. Prospective new owners don’t usually want to have to fix stuff. They prefer things nice, modern, and ready to go. A little money spent on a kitchen facelift now, by you, might mean more money when you sell.
Your kitchen should not be stressing you out. Life has enough hassles, and coming home to a comfortable house is a good thing. If your kitchen has several of the annoyances mentioned, and your budget allows it, consider making some improvements, at least one at a time.
