I guess I'm an annoying superficial buyer, but I definitely knew the types of countertops in each of the homes I was considering. I have a theory that buyers need one "wow" to take away from your home - maybe it's that sunroom you added, or the amazing master bathroom or the stone fireplace ... but I cared about kitchens (size, countertops, counter space, light), and I think most buyers do care. I'd probably suggest doing something with your countertops, not necessarily granite, and do what you can with the cabinets (paint and new hardware - the hardware is one of those easy investments that can make buyers stop and look). - Fri Aug 1 2008, 15:13