Kitchens
Kitchen design has been discussed in more detail on the
Interior design
section. We have included kitchens again here in the interior design
section as so often the kitchen falls somewhere between being new and
ready for replacement. There are many ways to make vast improvements to
slightly dated kitchens to extend the life of the kitchen and the time
point at which that kitchen starts to detract from the property and stop
maximum potential rent being achieved. It is usually only at this point
that complete replacement is necessary. A few pointers to improve a
kitchen might be:
Start with the practicalities. There must be an adequate sized
fridge and freezer for the property. Washing machines are essential and
dishwashers and microwaves are often sought after. Always look to
differentiate from the competition. Combination oven/microwaves are
becoming a real alternative to a main over where space is tight.
However, incorporating more machines will need some plumbing and
electrics so consider this when locating appliances. Adding machines may
mean lost storage space and finding matching new kitchen cupboards may
be impossible but a contrast may be fine (for example on an opposite
wall). Buy2Let Expert can advise on individual situations as there are
so many possibilities that keep the costs to a minimum while maintaining
or increasing rental returns.
Sinks. Should be 'as new'. Commonly a badly worn or cheap tap
needs replacement.
Silicon seals. All should be clean and undamaged. Replacement
is not expensive but a neat job is best left to the professionals. There
is nothing worse than a rough silicon join in a kitchen or bathroom.
Worktops. Should be undamaged. If a laminate, and badly damaged,
an economical option may be to change the worktop for new while
maintaining the rest of the kitchen. This is not a huge job and really
gives a lift if existing worktops are demanded.
Splash backs. These are often tiled on an older kitchen. If the
tiles are very dated consider replacing with new tiles and grout. This
is a cheap option and is probably a must if the worktop is changed.
Replacement of splashback tiles also allow for sockets to be added if
required.
Cupboards. Badly worn cupboards can have their 'fronts only'
replaced. This also allows for changing of handles. Buy2LetExpert
has even had some success painting the doors of dark old kitchens but
clearly there comes the point where the best option is to change the
kitchen depending on costs versus returns,
tax
considerations and much more.
Extending the life of a kitchen so that it continues to contribute
towards the maximum rental potential being achieved at that property
makes good financial sense provided the investment yields returns
of within three years. Once the payback is too long and/or the
investment sum is too large then the only alternative is to replace the
kitchen. See our
kitchen design section for ideas regarding kitchen replacement.
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