We live in Killearn Lakes. Our kitchen countertop is pink and there are a few noticeable, yet very tiny dents and scratches on it. If we are selling

Luca
Other/Just Looking
Tallahassee, FL

the house in a couple years, should we replace it? If so, what would be a good material to consider in terms of resale value in this area? Will we really get back what we’ll spend on more expensive materials, such as granites and quartz?

Answers (4)
Best answer: Fred Griffin
First to answer: Annett T. Bl…
Fred Griffin
Broker
Florida

Hi again, "Luca"

Other thoughts on Granite - in addition to being porous, it is also fragile. For example if a person stood up on the granite countertop (maybe to get something off a top shelf), the granite might BREAK.

Two places in Tallahassee that I would suggest you visit:


1. Capital City Lumber on Lonnbladh Road (behind Esposito's off of Capital Circle Northeast).

2. Talquin Fabrications.

Website = http://www.talquinfabrications.com/

This company is on Capital Circle Southwest near the Tallahassee Airport. They have a showroom with samples of Granite, Quartz, and the synthetics. They are extremely helpful.

CYE

Best wishes,
Fred Griffin

Wed Sep 9 2009, 19:44
Fred Griffin
Broker
Florida
BEST ANSWER

Hi, Luca

I also live in Killearn Lakes.

In the current market, recouping money spent on upgrades and deferred maintenance is "iffy" at best. But as stated before, if the counter tops are worn, or are out-dated (pink), then replacing them may be a necessity.

My friend just replaced the counter tops in the master bathroom and in the guest bath with granite. Cost was $3500.

Will he see that money back? Not likely.

Does it make the bathrooms more attractive, and perhaps increase the saleability of his house? Yes, most definitely. His house was 1970's; the counter tops were worn and discolored. Replacement was "not an option".

One downside of granite is high maintenance. Most granite is somewhat porous, it can absorb spilled liquids, oil, grime.

You mentioned "selling the house in a couple of years". That gives you time to do some research on the Internet, learn the pros and cons of rock counter tops vs. the synthetics, what is required for maintenance. You can of course visit Home Depot / Lowe's, plus the specialized shops.

You may also want to wait until you actually get ready to sell your house before updating. Two years is a long time; what is new today may be worn or out of style two years from now.

Killearn Lakes is a big neighborhood, with prices ranging from low $100's to $1,000,000+ if you include the far north end and Golden Eagle . The price range of your house will be a factor. If you have a $159,900 house it may be pointless to drop $3500 on granite counter tops. But if you have a higher end house, then go with the better quality counter tops.

Call or email if you have other questions, Luca.

Best wishes,
Fred Griffin

Mon Sep 7 2009, 08:56
Angie Goodman
Agent
Tallahassee, FL

Luca,
There are any number of things that can detract buyers from your home, pink countertops may be one of them.

Buyers, especially today, want move in quality, so the cleaner and more updated your home, the better it will show against the competition.

The good thing about investing in updates, is that you will get to enjoy those updates until you decide to move. I rhink you'll find the prices a little more reasonable for a little better quality.

Good luck,
Angie Goodman, Broker Associate, Keller Williams Realty http://www.agoodmove.us

Web Reference: http://www.agoodmove.us
Mon Sep 7 2009, 08:09
Annett T. Block
Agent
Tallahassee, FL
FIRST ANSWER

Hi Luca,

when selling your home you want to show it at the best possible condition. Don't give a possible buyer any
reasons to think about any replacements and repairs they have to make if they would consider buying your home.To replace a counter top you have many different option on material, price and style. Would granite or quartz compliment the style of your kitchen? Can you install it your self or do you need professional help? How much are you willing to spend by fitting into your budget? Why you want to install the counter top now instead when bringing your home on the market for a clean, fresh and new look?
When you are ready to sell your home please feel free to contact me at 850-385-4038 or info@yourgreathomes.com to assist you on pricing your home right.

Thanks
Annett T. Block
Advanced Realty Group LLC
Realtor
850-385-4038
info@yourgreathomes.com
http://www.yourgreathomes.com

Mon Sep 7 2009, 08:01

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