(A big “thank you” to TruGreen for sponsoring this post!)

Even in a seller’s market, you’ll want to take a strategic approach to make sure your home sells as quickly as possible—and for the best price possible.

There are four key elements you can take into consideration when preparing to sell your home.

Curb Appeal

A good first impression will likely have a major impact on whether potential buyers even bother to take a closer look. Most buyers will form a first impression within seconds(seven, to be precise), and this means that how the front of your house and yard looks is crucially important. Things that might help include painting, putting in a new door, adding lighting, and taking care of your lawn.

Timing is Everything

Next on the list is timing. If at all possible, try to put your house on the market during the peak selling months in the spring and summer. Many buyers like to shop when the weather is nicer. Many parents also try to time a home purchase and move over the summer months so their children can be in a new school district before the next academic year starts.

During the fall and winter months, the housing market tends to slow down as kids return to school and the days grow shorter.

Look at Your Neighborhood

Sometimes things that don’t belong to you can have an impact. Cleaning up common areas around your neighborhood can also make your home look more attractive.

Make a Good First Impression Inside the Front Door

As we all know, kitchens can sell houses. However, when it comes to that quick sale, your hallway can be even more important. This almost relates to curb appeal and those first impressions that visitors get as they enter your home. Your hallway is most likely the first thing they will see, so keeping this spacious, free of clutter and in general good condition should be at the top of your to-do list.

(A big thank you to scottunderwood.com for sponsoring this post!)

Is it a good time to put your house on the market?

It’s not an easy question to answer. There are bits of conventional wisdom that you can apply, like putting up the first “for sale” sign in the spring.  However, your housing market has its own unique quirks.

Once you’re sure you want to sell your home, it’s a good idea to find the right agent. According to Scott Underwood, a real estate agent in Long Beach, a professional brings “comprehensive market knowledge, exceptional hands-on personal service and superior negotiation skills.”

Peak Selling Time

Your goal is to maximize your potential profit. That means showing your home to the highest number of potential buyers possible. Obviously, putting your home on the market when nobody’s buying or prices are uncharacteristically low is a bad idea.

Nationally, the best time to list your home is on a Saturday in the middle of May. However, there are deviations. You can look up sales statistics in your area. For instance, Zillow reports that homes in New York City sell faster when they’re put on the market at the end of April.

There are several reasons the real estate market tends to heat up in the spring: it’s easier to move during nice weather, tax refunds are lining many bank accounts, and the school year is wrapping up for kids.

You Have Equity

It’s also a good idea to estimate the value of your home. You want to make sure your home is worth more than you owe on it. A short sale is only a good deal for the buyer—and an absolute worst-case option for the home owner. Even if your home is worth more than what you owe, you’ll also want to look at what it will cost to move into your next home.

Figuring out how much equity you have is easy. Simply subtract your mortgage balance from your home’s value. You can contact the bank that holds your mortgage for the exact payoff amount.

You’re Ready to Move

If you hate the idea of moving, you might not be ready to move to a new property. Sometimes, the itch to sell your home is really just a desire for change. You might just be able to satisfy your family’s needs by renovating important rooms.

In addition to being emotionally ready for the move, you need to be financially prepared as well. Moving is expensive. Don’t allow yourself to be too stretched out. If you can’t afford to cover your moving costs, wait to sell your home. You’ll build equity and grow your nest egg at the same time.

You Have Cash in the Bank

You don’t want to be pressured into accepting a bad mortgage deal. You’ll morph into a homebuyer again after you sell your property. If you’re broke, it’ll affect your negotiations.

Buying a new home will be a lot easier if you’re financially secure.

You Need a Change

Perhaps your kids have gone off to start their own lives and you don’t need as much space. Don’t saddle yourself with a large, expensive home if you don’t need one.

Or maybe you’re thinking about expanding your family and you actually need more space. Life has many different stages and it’s possible that your home won’t fit neatly into any of them.

Selling a home that you’ve outgrown and paying for a property that you love in cash is the ultimate dream.

It’s a Seller’s Market

The economy is bouncing back into shape after the last recession. Across the country rent and home prices are rising. In many areas, it’s absolutely a seller’s market. That means it’s a good time to get value from your property. Buyers are willing to pay more when the market is hot.

If you’re seriously interested in selling it’s a good idea to discuss the potential value of your property with a real estate agent. Tax records and property estimates from services like Zillow often don’t accurately reflect your home’s current market value. Your home may actually be worth more than you think. At any rate, you need accurate information to make an informed decision.

Your Renovations are Complete

If you have any lingering home improvement projects, wrap them up before putting your home on the market. It’s a good idea to opt for neutral paint colors and ensure the home is in good repair. Once an offer is made and accepted on your home, it’s likely the potential buyers will have a home inspection clause. If your home isn’t in good condition, the contract may offer the buyers a chance to back out of their commitment and leave you to start over again with the selling process.

(A big “thank you” to our friends at Long Roofing for sponsoring this post!)

When all is going well, you don’t pay much attention to your roof. As long as it keeps protecting you from storms, and it looks great on top of your home, you don’t give it too much thought. However, there’s likely going to come a time when you need to get a new roof. By knowing what signs to look for you can take care of your roof before any major problems arise. Here are the signs you should be on the lookout for.

Water Leaks Inside Your Home

This first one is obvious but critical. Make sure you keep an eye out for any signs of water damage or leaks within your home. Specifically, you’ll want to look on the ceiling or upper portions of your walls that are directly below the roof. Look for signs of discoloration, puddles, or moisture. If you spot any of us these, there’s likely a leak in your roof that you’ll want to take care of. If you don’t, you could find that the leak only gets worse and results in a lot more damage—including destroyed drywall and the development of mold inside your home.

If the leak isn’t too bad, you may be able to repair it easily enough. But in some cases, the leak will be beyond repair, in which case it’s likely time for a new roof. When you find yourself repairing a lot of leaks, it’s time to get a replacement roof.

Dark Streaks in Your Roof

Now it’s time to go outside and inspect your roof from out there. The first thing you should look for on the outside of your roof is dark streaks. If there are dark streaks within your roof, this likely means there is some water damage underneath. Water damage can weaken the integrity of your roof, and even if you didn’t find leaks inside your home, it might be only a matter of time until you do. Sometimes repairing the broken section of the roof is possible, but in many cases, you’ll need a new roof altogether.

Cracked or Bent Shingles

Next, you’ll want to more closely examine the shingles. This likely means that you’ll need to get up on a ladder so that you can have a better look. Inspect as many shingles as you can safely. Look to see whether they are cracked, bent, or broken. If you’re lucky you’ll only need to replace a few shingles, but sometimes this won’t be enough, and an entire roof replacement is the better way to go.

There’s Moss Growing on Your Roof

When you inspect your roof, do you notice moss growing through the tiles or shingles? If so, this is something you’ll want to get taken care of. Moss grows in damp spots that don’t receive much sunlight. If there’s moss in your roof, that means there is water underneath your shingles. If left untreated, the moss will continue to grow and damage your roof. Not only that, but you won’t address the underlying problem of moisture, which could seep into your home.

Your Roof is Old

Finally, even if you’re not experiencing any problems with your roof, it might be time for a roof replacement. Roofs only last about 25 years, and after that it’s recommended that you get a new one. If it’s been that long since your home has gotten a new roof, you’ll want to look into getting a replacement soon. Doing so will help to protect your home and can even help with your energy costs. Also, if you’re thinking about selling your home, a new roof will likely help convince buyers that taking on your older home will be a safe bet.

Staying Safe

If you are experiencing problems with your roof, in most cases this is a job better left to a professional. Don’t risk injury to yourself trying to work on steep slopes on your roof. This is dangerous, especially if you don’t have experience doing this type of work.

Chances are there are plenty of roofing experts in your area that can help. Find some possibilities, then compare their prices and online reviews. This will help you to find a good roofing expert and ensure that the job gets done right. A good roofing professional can also help you decide if you need an entirely new roof, or if you can get by with a repair.

Don’t Ignore Roof Problems

When you suspect a problem with your roof, don’t ignore it. Roof problems have a way of getting worse, and if you leave them alone for too long, you could find yourself dealing with a large amount of damage to your home. So, keep on the lookout for signs that you may have an issue with your roof, and when you suspect a problem, set up an appointment.

(This post brought to you by North Coast Financial Inc.)

Great home staging can make all the difference between a disappointing experience listing a house for sale and experiencing phenomenal success in today’s home market.

Whether you are selling your family residence to upgrade or need to make the most out of your investment property financing, learning to make a home attractive to buyers is well worth the time commitment and reasonable expenses incurred.

Take a look below for some areas you may want to focus on to make the most of your listing.

Exterior and Curb Appeal

In the real estate market, first impressions are incredibly important. Thankfully, proper landscaping can make a huge difference. Be sure to trim back overgrown trees and replace tired plants. If needed, invest in fresh sod.

Also consider whether it would pay to resurface a cracked driveway, add an off-street parking area, and repaint or replace fencing. Don’t forget to also consider the condition of house numbers and the mailbox. Some simple and inexpensive changes can make a big difference.

Make Sure Flooring is in Good Condition

Take a critical look at the flooring. Professionally cleaning, stretching, or replacing carpets may be necessary. Refinishing wood floors will also greatly improve the overall appeal of the house when potential buyers step through the door.

Upgrade the Kitchen

Since it is the heart of the home, the kitchen is one of the best areas to invest in prior to selling a home. That said, be carefully to invest strategically since the sky is the limit when it comes to the amount of money that could go into a kitchen renovation. Smart money can be spent giving it a fantastic facelift by replacing hardware, painting cabinets, and updating lighting.

Renovate Bathrooms

Potential buyers are also attracted to homes with clean, comfortable, bathrooms. Consider replacing an old vanity, cleaning grout, updating hardware, and replacing an old toilet seat. You may also impress budget-conscious home buyers with new fixtures including eco-friendly taps and shower fittings that will conserve water.

Focus on Lighting

A dark, depressing atmosphere is likely to turn away potential buyers. Consider ways to make the most of available natural light and consider investing in new fixtures to give dark areas a light and airy atmosphere.

Maximize Storage

These days home buyers are likely to prefer homes with great storage areas. This is especially important if you’re trying to sell a small house. Great shelving can make even a small home extremely functional—and help buyers imagine how the home could be the perfect fit for their family.

An open house event can be a great strategic move to get attention from potential buyers. And your most important task is to make the property look as attractive as possible.

(A big “thank you” to our friends at Klamen Real Estate Group for sponsoring this post!)

Here are some great tips from experienced cash buyers of real estate in St. Louis.

Focus on Cleaning

This might seem obvious, yet all too often homeowners don’t properly clean their homes before open house events. Be sure to dust everywhere. And don’t neglect annoying deep cleaning projects. You don’t want to let something like soap scum in the shower to cost you a sale!

If you don’t have time to clean yourself, consider hiring a cleaning company. Remember to keep the big picture in mind. Paying for a full home cleaning is a small investment to drastically increase the possibility of successfully selling your home.

It’s especially important to make sure bathrooms and kitchens are clean. They are the areas that usually get dirty fast. They are also areas buyers are likely to scrutinize closely.

Depersonalize and Declutter

You want to give potential buyers a blank slate—so they can imagine themselves in a new beautiful home.

That means you need to remove all personal items including knickknacks and family photos. You want potential buyers to feel like they’re walking into their next home—not intruding on your personal space.

Also, be sure to organize and clean out storage space and closets. Most buyers want to see these areas—and you want them to get excited about filling these spaces in their own way.

It’s a good idea to remove seasonal items including holiday decorations and winter clothing. This is a good time to donate any items you no longer need and somewhere else to store the rest.

Try a Fresh Coat of Paint

Interior walls need to look great and a fresh coat paint can do wonders.

New exterior paints is also a highly effective way to increase your home’s curb appeal for an open house event. Make sure you choose a neutral paint color. You want something that will appeal to most homebuyers. They can easily customize the home after purchasing.

Painting cabinetry and updating cabinet hardware can also be inexpensive upgrades that will help position your house to sell.

Replace Damaged Flooring

Most sellers are reluctant to make flooring upgrades. In some cases the seller will offer a credit so buyers can have the work done, but that’s usually not a good idea. Potential buyers often have a difficult time imagining what’s possible. Instead, they are likely to focus on existing problems.

Start with flooring cleaning and see if that is enough. If not, see if it’s possible to make minor repairs. Sometimes this can make a huge difference.

Update Light Fixtures

If you want to make an older home look more modern, installing contemporary light fixtures is a smart move. You also want to be sure all light fixtures work and have working bulbs. Some visitors may want reassurance the electrical wiring in the home fully functioning.

Are you trying to sell a home? What are some of the biggest challenges you are facing? Are you in the market to buy? What’s the most important thing you want to find? We’d love to hear from you! Comment below.  

Are you trying to achieve a quick home sale? Whether you are upgrading to a larger home or downsizing and moving for retirement, selling your home and getting the best price for it is important. There are many ways that you can improve your curb appeal and stage your home’s interior to attract potential buyers and achieve a quick sale.

The Best Ways to Achieve a Quick Home Sale

Invest in a good home inspection

The last thing a seller wants to hear is that a homeowner’s inspection exposed a serious problem. This can cost lengthy delays, added expenses and possibly the loss of a sale. Before going through the trouble of finding the right realtor, negotiating a fair asking price and clearing out your home for showings, invest in a home inspection. Companies like HomeTeam specialize in home inspections for buyers, sellers, and realtors. The small financial investment you make will pay large dividends by reassuring you that everything is in check. If the inspection should reveal a problem that needs your attention, you can take care of it before you list your home.

Curb Appeal will Help your Home Sell Quicker

The best way to attract potential buyers is to make your home stand out. While you can’t change the design of your home, you can make it attractive on the outside. Take a stroll around the property to see what areas need the most attention. If you have a fence that’s a few years old and showing signs of wear, you can either paint it or replace it. Around your home, it’s beneficial to remove branches and debris, trim shrubs and make any minor repairs to your driveway, walkway or deck. Also, make sure to mow your lawn for the listing picture. Many people looking to buy their dream home check new listings daily and here first impressions really matter.

For a Quick Sale try Staging your Home’s Interiors

A potential buyer wants to walk into a home and imagine their furnishings in it. If your home has a lot of clutter it may appear smaller than it actually is. This can turn away a potential sale. Instead, clean out your home and put extra items in temporary storage so that it appears open and large. There are also a number of ways for short money that you can make it attractive and stage your home to sell faster and to attract more interest in the property. Add a fresh coat of paint to bedrooms, your kitchen, living room, and dining room. Replace curtains with sheers that brighten up the interior. Also if your hardware on closets, doors, and cabinets is outdated, replace them. The same goes for faucets in your kitchen and bathrooms. These minor changes will allow the home to show well and get your asking price.

Depersonalize for a Quick Home Sale

While you love the colors and enjoy seeing the family photos displayed on hallway walls, someone looking to purchase your home may not. Someone looking to buy a home wants to see a clean slate with lots of potential for their finishing touch. For a quick home sale, remove the knick-knacks, take down the pictures and paint walls that have bold colors. A neutral palette and a clean space let a buyer use their imagination to customize it to their liking. If you choose not to do this, many will not be able to see past it and decide instead, to simply walk away.

Get a Reputable Realtor to Sell your Home Faster

Of course, you can declutter and add curb appeal and still not sell your home quickly if the asking price is out of line with the value of the neighborhood. Signing on with an experienced realtor can play a vital role in selling your home quickly. The longer a home sits, the more likely you are to reduce the asking price. Instead, sign up with someone who knows the area, the recent home sales and what it takes to attract buyers. An experienced realtor will know what a fair asking price is for your home and the area. This will get you the best chance for achieving a fast sale and help you to close on the other end in a timely fashion.

Before putting your home on the market for sale make sure that you invest in a home inspection, make minor repairs and stage your home so that it looks its best to potential buyers. By doing this, you’re giving yourself the best chance possible for achieving the ultimate goal, a quick sale.

For more home selling tips on Stagetecture, visit our archives

How safe does your home security system make you and your family feel? Home security is a growing industry because more people are investing in protecting their property and the options are expanding. Wi-Fi technology has been a game-changer that has simultaneously improved home security while making it accessible to more homeowners. Take a look at these tips before choosing the right company and system for your family home.

The Best Tips for Choosing the Right Home Security System

Options are a great thing, but it’s also making home security more convoluted. The solution – a home security package. Companies are offering packages that include equipment to cover the entire home in a single system. For many homeowners, these package deals offer upsides beyond improved security.

Ensure your Home Security System has Easy Setup

Home security packages are most appealing to people who are putting a system together from scratch. It’s essentially the one-and-done option. Instead of having to make a half a dozen or more decisions you only have to make one.

If you’re upgrading your home security a package deal could still make sense. For instance, homeowners that are making the switch from a wired wall alarm to a wireless Wi-Fi system could use a package. There are also specialized systems, such as packages of smart door locks. You can keep what you have in place while still using the smart home security package as another layer of protection.

Choose a Home Security Company that Features Local Support

Customer support is a critical component of a monitored home security system. A growing trend is double monitored equipment that alerts the homeowner and a local monitoring station if an alarm goes off. Property owners that are looking for home security in Phoenix, San Diego and other large metros don’t mind using regional companies over national brands if it means getting local service.

Research the Compatibility and Monitoring Options

Perhaps the most important benefit of a home security package is its compatibility. All it takes is one missing link or miscommunication for a home security system to be compromised. With a package that’s no longer a concern.

The equipment is designed to sync together and to respond when an action occurs. Everything works cohesively for seamless protection. For example, a Wi-Fi connected door lock can be programmed to open if an alarm goes off so it’s easier for people to get out. Data sharing is another big bonus. Today’s home security cameras and alarms are connected smart devices. The more information you can gather from your home security system the better you can protect your home. When all of the equipment is designed to work together gathering data is much easier. Angie’s List gives great tips for choosing the right security company for your home.

A home security system won’t do you much good if it isn’t monitored and managed. The batteries have to be checked, software has to be updated and data should be reviewed. If you have equipment from multiple brands with various processes management can become a headache.

Home security packages are designed around a hub system. That hub is usually your smart phone where everything can be managed via an app. Equipment will tell you if the power supply is low or repair is needed. You can also review surveillance footage, set up schedules and make adjustments with a few clicks.

The Better Business Bureau suggests contacting 3 security options when making your decision.

Your Home Security System Should Offer Invested Value

Buying a package deal is typically more cost effective in the long run. Usually, the cost savings is in the form of reduced equipment expenses or the inclusion of additional services. While most home security packages do offer some sort of perk or discount, make sure everything adds up before you make a selection.

Today’s buyers are looking for smart homes with comprehensive security systems. And safety is cited as one of the top reasons people invest in smart home devices. A home security package is a selling point that can make your home more desirable and add to its value.

Kitchen tile has been around for centuries but used in a variety of ways. Are you tired of the same old kitchen from thirty years ago? If your kitchen has become a place you dread spending time in, consider bringing it up to modern day style and renovate it with tile. Tile is no longer the plain and unappealing design element it once was; it’s gotten better with time. Incorporate it into your kitchen makeover and amaze yourself – and everyone else. Draw inspiration from these tips when upgrading your kitchen.

How to Creatively Update Your Kitchen Tile this Season

Transform your Kitchen with an Eye-Catching Tile Backsplash

Almost every kitchen requires an easy-to-maintain backsplash. An easy to maintain tile can relate to tile cleaning or to maintenance. The material of choice for backsplashes is tile – and with good reason. It is easy to clean, easy to maintain, and highly resistant to wear and tear. Tile is also preferred because it comes in many designs like glass, metal, ceramic and mosaic. These kitchen tile ideas can also lend inspiration.

To make your backsplash area noticeable, choose a tile that contrasts with the countertop. A mix of patterns or varying colors will rejuvenate your outdated kitchen. But if you prefer a uniform look, stick to one color or pattern. Choose tile for your backsplash area carefully because it will dictate the entire look of your kitchen.

Give Special Attention to your Resilient Tile Floor

The kitchen is among the busiest rooms in the house and its floor handles plenty of traffic. But it is an area that’s often neglected. As you give your kitchen a makeover, look to tile flooring. It offers many design possibilities and can make your kitchen floor come alive.

Installing tile flooring has become a very common trend as tiles resembling natural materials are readily available. Technology enables the creation of tiles mimicking wood, concrete, and stone. Some are waterproof and scratchproof and go well with any space. Wood-look ceramic tile is perfect for kitchens. Take a look at the pros and cons of this resilient floor tile.

Choose the Right Tile for Your Countertop

Your kitchen countertop can make or break your kitchen. It is a focal point in the room as it takes up a lot of space. Choose a countertop tile that adds color and life to your kitchen. You can try out a modern design that will make it stand out. For a simple, uncluttered look, a neutral color like white, ivory, or cream is appropriate.

A tile countertop is resistant to both water and heat. It is easy to install and you can fix it on your own if you wish to save some money. The good news is that you don’t need special tools or knowledge to install tile – unlike other countertop materials. To make sure your tile countertop does not stain, use glazed tile and seal the grout after installation. In addition, choose dark colored grout as light colored grout can be hard to maintain.

Another thing to remember when installing tile on your countertop is to choose classic designs over quick-fleeting trends. Classic tile countertops are likely to stand the test of time and often will keep the value if you plan on selling your home in the future. These green countertop ideas are good ones to try for your kitchen.

Try Adding Kitchen Tile to your Walls

Tile enhances the function and beauty of kitchen walls. Tiled walls are resistant to moisture and are easier to clean than drywall, paint, and other elements. Tile is a great choice for a humid room like a kitchen that is often exposed to cooking splatters. It stands up better to the thorough cleaning often carried out in the room. Install tile between the backsplash area and the wall cabinets to minimize maintenance and to make the place look appealing. Mosaic tile and artisan tile can update your kitchen with pops of color and metallic accents.

Choose wall tile that coordinates with the backsplash tile and grout that complements it. If you want to make the grout lines stand out, choose a dark grout.

Tile is perfect for transforming your outdated kitchen into a modern one. It easily determines the look and feel of the space so you must choose it carefully. To enhance its beauty, decorate it with borders and accents and you’ll be sure to create a unique look.

For more kitchen ideas browse or kitchen archives.

Looking for ways to save on your outdoor furniture? With more and more people looking to turn their outdoor spaces into extensions of their interior square footage or create a natural haven that just happens to come with the comforts of home, the market for outdoor furnishings for the patio, poolside, and garden has grown. But the side effect of increased demand is that prices often go up. For this reason you may find that outfitting your outside spaces costs just as much as (or more than) the furnishings you’ve got inside your home. However, there are strategies that will help you to create the gorgeous exterior room you’ve been dreaming of without selling your firstborn child in the bargain. Here are a few tips to save on outdoor furnishings.

Creative Ways to Save Money on Outdoor Furniture

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Save money on outdoor furniture at yard sales

Whether you’re checking ads in your local paper, sifting through items on Craigslist, or using a yard-sale app like Rumgr to find private citizens selling outdoor furniture in your area, this tactic could help you to find amazing deals on the pieces you want for your outdoor space. Sure they might be slightly used, but sometimes you can get them for the fabulous price of “you haul” (read: free). And even if you have to shell out a few bucks to paint pieces or buy new cushions you’ll still save a ton over brand new furniture.

Sample sales can find you deals on patio furniture

Many women rush to sample sales for their favorite fashion designers, but have no idea that furniture stores frequently pull the same stunt in an effort to clear out floor samples and replace them with new stock. So check in with your local patio furniture store to see if and when they are hosting sample sales. The pieces may have a little wear and tear from the showroom, but you’ll pay a fraction of the cost for virtually unused furnishings.

Discount warehouse stores

You may be aware that you can find many home goods at discount stores like Target and Wal-Mart, but you may not have realized that this often includes outdoor furniture. Besides the fact that you can get an entire outdoor setup at a great price, you may also have the option to buy items piecemeal so that you don’t have to overspend for items you don’t want and you can replace a piece that is damaged without having to buy the whole set again.

Online outlets for outdoor furniture

The internet offers a plethora of opportunities to save on just about any product you can think of, outdoor furniture included. And if you can find Cabelas promo codes for your hunting gear it’s a good bet that you can scope out online coupon codes for patio-furniture e-tailers. At the very least you’re bound to find sale items that aren’t in stores and even observe lower prices in general.

Looking for spring outdoor furniture? These outdoor furniture tips can help.

Outdoor Furniture Maintenance Tips:

You maintain your car through regular inspections, your home through regular cleaning, and even your body with a daily vitamin courtesy of coupon codes for Puritans Pride. So why wouldn’t you maintain your outdoor furniture? If you leave it exposed to the elements year-round then you shouldn’t be surprised when you have to replace it. Instead, keep it handy during the times of year when you actually use it and then cover it or move it into the garage the rest of the year. This will save you the time and expense of buying new items every summer.

For more outdoor living ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Kitchen cabinets are the focal point of any kitchen. Whether you are embarking on a kitchen design makeover, or you’re looking to design a new kitchen – you are bound to have many questions. When selecting kitchen cabinetry for your home, it is imperative to not only select cabinets that are aesthetically appealing, but that are also going to help you maximize the use of your kitchen’s size and floor plan. As you shop around for ideas, be sure to also work with a professional who can help you stick to a kitchen makeover budget while keeping the below factors in mind.

4 Kitchen Design Questions to Choose the Perfect Kitchen Cabinets

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Determine what your Kitchen Design Goals are for your Kitchen Cabinets:

First start by defining your goals for your kitchen? Get some general idea of how you want your kitchen to look and function so that you can create a space that you’re happy with. Here are some questions you might consider asking yourself to determine your goals for your kitchen.

1. What’s Wrong with Your Existing Kitchen Cabinets?

In order to get the custom kitchen cabinets you want, you should start with what you have. You’re obviously changing the cabinets for a reason, and jotting those reasons down will help when it comes to designing your new ones. Whether they were just old and dated or they did not provide enough shelf space, everything you dislike should be written down. The more specific you can be with what you don’t like, the easier it is to create what you would like.

2. What’s your Kitchen Design Purpose in Installing New Cabinets?

The purpose for new kitchen cabinets can help you in determining how much you’re willing to invest in them. For instance, if you were selling your home, you could invest a smaller amount of money and purchase economically friendly, practical cabinets to appeal to potential buyers. However, if you intend to make good use out of the home for years to come, investing a bit more and going all out with customization would be to your advantage.

3. What Design Style of Home Do you Have? What Kitchen Cabinet Style will Look Best?

The decor and style of your home will play a significant role in the design of your kitchen and the type of cabinets you choose. For instance, if you have a more modern home, you might stick with more modern, sleek cabinets. However, if you had a more country, rustic home décor, you could go with vintage wood cabinets to tie everything together. You also want to make sure the cabinets you choose will flow with the kitchen colors. These 8 kitchen cabinet style doors on Houzz give you ideas on how to choose what looks best in your home.

4. How Much Storage Space do You Need?

Does your existing kitchen cabinet space provide enough storage for now and in the future? Or will you need more storage space? If you’re not sure, just go to the kitchen and look at all the things you’d like to store on a cabinet shelf or in a drawer. If everything is securely put away in the existing cabinet space, then you can invest in the same amount of space with the new cabinets. However, if you have a lot of things and no room to put them, you might want to invest in more cabinets. If you’re trying to squeeze more room into your kitchen these 20 kitchen space saving tips  could help from Apartment Therapy.

Each of these questions will help to shape goals for your kitchen’s design. You’ll have a better understanding of the style of cabinets you’re interested in, how much space you need, and what features you absolutely must have to make your kitchen as functional as possible. Again, be sure to work with a professional contractor for the creation and installation of your cabinets for end results you’ll be proud of.

For more kitchen design help on Stagetecture, look to our kitchen and bath archives.