09/04/2026
WOULD I FIX THIS BEFORE SELLING??
Dated wood kitchen cabinets.
Not necessarily.
Wood cabinetry is one of the first things homeowners often assume they need to paint or replace before putting their home on the market.
But before I’d recommend either, I’d look at the room as a whole.
Are the cabinets in good condition? Is the wood tone fighting with the flooring or countertops? Is dated hardware making them feel older than they are? What does the lighting look like? And would changing the cabinets actually change a buyer’s impression of the kitchen enough to justify the cost?
Sometimes, yes.
But sometimes the change can be surprisingly simple. On the right wood cabinet, swapping dated hardware for a clean black k**b or pull can add just enough contrast to make the cabinetry feel more current and intentional in the space. Better lighting, a fresh wall color and thoughtful styling can make a difference, too.
There’s also something worth remembering: not every buyer wants painted cabinets. Painting well-maintained wood cabinetry simply because painted kitchens are popular can trade one buyer’s objection for another.
So, would I fix it?
I’d fix anything that’s damaged or poorly functioning.
But if the cabinets are simply an older style?
I’d look at everything around them before deciding they’re the problem.
If you’re preparing to sell and aren’t sure what’s worth updating, we’d love to help you make a plan.
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