What Is The Best Color To Paint Kitchen Cabinets For Resale Value?

Kitchen remodels can be expensive, so if you’re looking to sell your home, you’ll want to choose cabinet colors that appeal to buyers. The kitchen is often the heart of a home and cabinet color has a big impact on the look and feel of the space.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: neutral colors like white, gray, and beige are your best bets for kitchen cabinet colors when selling a home. They have the widest appeal and make the kitchen look bright and spacious.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss:

– The pros and cons of various cabinet color options for resale

– Trends in kitchen design and colorschemes that appeal to buyers

– Tips from real estate agents on the best cabinet colors to boost home value

– How to accent with other elements like backsplash and hardware

The Most Popular Neutral Colors for Kitchen Cabinets

When it comes to choosing the best color to paint kitchen cabinets for resale value, neutral colors are often the top choice. These colors provide a clean, timeless look that appeals to a wide range of potential buyers. Here are some of the most popular neutral colors for kitchen cabinets:

Crisp White

One of the most popular choices for kitchen cabinets is crisp white. White cabinets create a bright and fresh look, making the kitchen feel open and spacious. They also provide a blank canvas for potential buyers to envision their own style and decor.

White cabinets can be paired with a variety of countertop materials and color schemes, making them a versatile choice.

Warm White and Off-White

For those who prefer a softer look, warm white and off-white cabinets are a great option. These colors add warmth and depth to the kitchen while still maintaining a neutral palette. They can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that appeals to many buyers.

Light to Medium Grays

Gray cabinets have been growing in popularity in recent years. Light to medium grays can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to the kitchen. They pair well with a variety of design styles, from modern to traditional.

Gray cabinets can also help to hide dirt and stains, making them a practical choice for busy kitchens.

Beige and Greige

Beige and greige (a combination of gray and beige) are timeless colors that work well in kitchens. These colors provide a warm and inviting feel, creating a cozy atmosphere. Beige and greige cabinets can be easily paired with a variety of countertop materials and backsplash options.

Choosing the right color for your kitchen cabinets can greatly impact the resale value of your home. It’s important to consider the overall style and feel you want to achieve, as well as the preferences of potential buyers in your area.

Remember, neutral colors are a safe and popular choice that can appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Avoid Bold Colors Unless Done Strategically

Dark Colors Can Feel Closed Off

When considering the best color to paint kitchen cabinets for resale value, it is important to avoid bold colors, unless used strategically. Dark colors, such as black or deep navy, can make a kitchen feel closed off and smaller than it actually is.

This can be a turn-off for potential buyers who are looking for an open and spacious kitchen. It is recommended to opt for lighter shades that create an airy and inviting atmosphere.

Bright Colors Can Be Polarizing

While bright colors can add a pop of personality to your kitchen, they can also be polarizing. What may be appealing to one person may be a complete turn-off for another. When it comes to resale value, it is important to consider the preferences of a wide range of potential buyers.

Opting for neutral colors, such as whites, beiges, or grays, can help create a more universally appealing look that will attract a larger pool of buyers.

According to a survey conducted by realtor.com, 62% of homebuyers prefer white or off-white kitchen cabinets, making them the top choice for resale value.

However, this does not mean that you have to completely avoid bold colors in your kitchen cabinets. If you still want to incorporate some vibrant hues, consider using them as accents or in smaller doses.

For example, painting the island or a few cabinets in a bold color can add a touch of personality without overwhelming the space.

When it comes to selling your home, it is important to create a neutral and appealing canvas that potential buyers can envision themselves in. Avoiding bold colors, unless strategically chosen, can help increase the resale value of your kitchen cabinets and attract a larger pool of potential buyers.

Use Natural Wood Tones for a Timeless Look

When it comes to choosing the best color to paint kitchen cabinets for resale value, natural wood tones are a popular choice. These tones offer a timeless look that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Whether you are going for a traditional or modern aesthetic, natural wood tones can complement any style.

Medium Wood Tones are Flexible

One option for natural wood tones is to choose a medium tone. Medium wood tones, such as oak or maple, are highly versatile and can work well with various kitchen designs. They offer warmth and richness to the space, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Additionally, medium wood tones can easily be paired with different countertop materials, backsplashes, and flooring options.

According to a study conducted by HGTV, kitchens with medium wood cabinets tend to have a higher resale value compared to kitchens with other color options. So, if you want to maximize your resale value, opting for medium wood tones is a great choice.

Darker Stains are Bolder but Still Neutral

If you’re looking for a more dramatic and bold look, darker wood stains can be a fantastic option. Dark wood tones, such as espresso or walnut, can add depth and elegance to your kitchen. They create a sense of luxury and sophistication, making your cabinets stand out.

While darker stains may seem like a risky choice, they are actually quite versatile. Dark wood tones can work well with both traditional and contemporary kitchen designs. They can be paired with lighter countertops and backsplashes to create a striking contrast.

Additionally, darker stains are known for their durability, making them a practical choice for high-traffic kitchens.

According to a survey conducted by Remodeling Magazine, kitchens with darker wood cabinets have a high return on investment. So, if you’re looking to increase the resale value of your home, consider opting for darker wood tones for your kitchen cabinets.

Mix and Match Colors for Visual Interest

When it comes to painting kitchen cabinets for resale value, one option to consider is mixing and matching colors. This can add visual interest and make your kitchen stand out. There are a few different ways to achieve this, such as contrasting upper and lower cabinets or creating a lighter perimeter with a darker island.

Contrasting Upper and Lower Cabinets

One popular approach to mixing and matching colors is to have contrasting upper and lower cabinets. For example, you could paint the upper cabinets a light, neutral color like white or cream, and then choose a darker shade for the lower cabinets, such as navy blue or charcoal gray.

This creates a visually appealing contrast that can make your kitchen feel more modern and stylish.

According to a study conducted by Zillow, homes with kitchens that have contrasting upper and lower cabinets tend to sell for a higher price compared to homes with cabinets of the same color. This suggests that this design choice can have a positive impact on resale value.

Lighter Perimeter with Darker Island

Another option is to create a lighter perimeter with a darker island. This involves painting the cabinets along the walls in a light color, such as white or a soft gray, and then choosing a darker color for the cabinets in the center island.

This creates a focal point in the kitchen and can make the island stand out as a visually striking feature.

According to a survey conducted by Houzz, kitchens with a lighter perimeter and a darker island are highly sought after by home buyers. This design choice can make the kitchen feel more spacious and elegant, which can be a selling point for potential buyers.

When mixing and matching colors for your kitchen cabinets, it’s important to consider the overall style and aesthetic of your home. You want the colors to complement each other and create a cohesive look.

Consulting with a professional designer or doing some research on popular color combinations can help you make the best decision for your kitchen.

Use Backsplashes and Hardware for Pops of Color

When considering the best color to paint kitchen cabinets for resale value, incorporating pops of color through backsplashes and hardware can make a significant impact. Not only does it add visual interest, but it also allows potential buyers to envision their own personal touch in the space.

Here are two ways you can use backsplashes and hardware to add color and increase the appeal of your kitchen cabinets:

Bold Backsplash as Focal Point

A bold backsplash can serve as a stunning focal point in your kitchen and make your cabinets stand out. Consider opting for vibrant hues like cobalt blue or emerald green to create a striking contrast against neutral-colored cabinets.

Another option is to choose a patterned backsplash that adds texture and visual interest to the space. By using a bold backsplash, you can create a modern and eye-catching kitchen design that will surely impress potential buyers.

According to a study conducted by Houzz, kitchens with bold and unique backsplashes have a higher resale value compared to those with plain or traditional backsplashes. So, don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different colors and patterns to make your kitchen cabinets more appealing.

Hardware for Accents

Another way to add pops of color to your kitchen cabinets is by selecting colorful hardware. From handles and knobs to drawer pulls, the right hardware can instantly transform the look of your cabinets.

Opt for vibrant colors like red, yellow, or even metallic hues like brass or copper to create a bold and stylish statement. This small detail can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.

Research conducted by Better Homes & Gardens suggests that incorporating colorful hardware can enhance the perceived value of your kitchen cabinets. It adds a touch of personality and uniqueness to the space, making it more memorable for potential buyers.

By using backsplashes and hardware to incorporate pops of color, you can elevate the look of your kitchen cabinets and increase their resale value. Remember to choose colors and patterns that complement the overall style of your kitchen and appeal to a wide range of potential buyers.

With these simple yet effective design choices, you’ll be well on your way to creating a kitchen that stands out in the real estate market.

Conclusion

When preparing to sell your home, keep cabinet colors light and neutral for the widest appeal. White, light gray, beige and natural wood tones are safe bets. Stay away from strong colors like black, navy or bright red unless you use them strategically.

Add visual interest with contrasting cabinets or pops of color from backsplashes and hardware. Focusing on the right kitchen cabinet color will help maximize your home’s resale value.