Are you reselling right away? There are as many preferences as buyers, so if you're going to have the kitchen a few years, do what you'll like and there will be someone else who will like it, too...at least enough so that it won't be a deal breaker if the kitchen layout is a good one and everything is in good shape. I think you can see on this forum that even in one color of wood, you can create several different looks to a kitchen. If you're selling right away, then the realtor is probably a good resource for what is popular in your area. Lighter colors give a feeling of space and more natural light, but if you prefer darker colors you can help that along with the lighting.

I wonder if where you live plays a factor. Everything I've read points to medium stained woods as most popular, although I've no idea how that conclusion was reached. I can't remember where painted cabinets fell in that continuum but given how many white kitchens I see here and in the magazines, I can't believe that white kitchens aren't a good choice, too. But as rhome pointed out, it depends on when you plan to sell.

Most people here would say, do what you love, especially if you're not turning around to resell right away. A KD recently relayed a comment made to her by a kitchen contractor: "When did a home become a return-on-investment and stopped being a home we can live in and love?" How true!

Can't help you with photos, sorry. I'm still in the process of planning my kitchen.

I can tell you what I'm planning: medium stained lowers, light tan painted uppers, darkish honed granite counters, light tan subway tile backsplash and a wood floor a shade or two darker than the lower cabinets. Obviously, I'm not listening to your realtor. ;-)

HI Stacys,
Go for what you and your DH love. Don't worry too much
about resale. As long as you are not doing something
shocking most homes sell if priced right.

If you love dark countertops-with light stained cabinets
do that,if you prefer white painted cabs do that.
Your the one living in your home, using your kitchen and
spending your money so make it a place you love to spend
time in.
~boxerpups

Meanwhile here are light stained cabs and dark counters.
If you want sometime else I am sure I can post it for you.

This Old House

Soapstone Google images

Cabinet Inovations

housetohome

Craftman kitchen This Old House

Ash Creek images cherry kitchen

Cherry and Gray

Kim Ammie Blue Tile HGTV

Penchar 2

Bijpu blue green backsplash

Kitchen 700

SusanJBlonMosaics

Silver Brow UK