I say dont do any high cost up-grades on your kitchen during this market. I had this same quesiton last year. My house sat on the market for 16 months before it finally sold. I had formica counters and a bland mono-tone kitchen. Instead of granite and new cabinets, I bought a restaurant style new faucet, stainless fridge and stove, new stainless toaster, blender, coffee maker, etc to match and a new stainless fan over the stove. I staged my home beautifully with low cost extras, I watched all the HGTV shows on how to make your home stand out and I did it all and priced my house right....and it was always ready to show. Hard work paid off. I was NOT going to give up. I believe all that is what put my house over the top in this competitive market. Homes with upgraded kitchens still sit, mine moved. Go figure. - Sun May 18 2008, 20:51
MVPs or 'Most Valuable Players' are key Trulia Voices members who have been contributing high-quality content throughout 2008 and providing valuable advice to consumers and real estate professionals.