This really depends on how your local market is right now. You need to figure out whether you will really recoup the expense of doing these updates vs just leaving it as is and it really does come down to what the real estate market is doing in your area at this time.

Handyman,

I wanted knobs, but my husband thought they would ruin the appearance of the once-bautiful wood, Thank you for your comment. (I'm sure my real estate agent will have the same suggestions.)

The cabinets will be a turn-off to buyers. I'd either paint the cabinets or may be better yet to stain your oak cabinets espresso. I agree with Handyman. Address the cabinets first, Here is a photo of oak cabinets stained espresso....

As a real estate agent , I can tell you kitchens make a huge difference in the sale of your home ! I would definitely address the cabinets first with either paint or stain , add some really nice hardware than replace the countertops with wither granite or what's becoming even more popular Quartz

Ditto lovebug. I also sold real estate. The kitchen will make a difference in sales price and quicker sale. Just a paint or stain to spruce the cabinets, new hardware, faucet and sink will make a HUGE difference.

Darzy, I assume you would also include stainless steel appliances? Thanks, bevier1

Grimy finger areas are a red flag to buyers. Try taking a door to a refinishing pro and asking for an opinion on what to clean with or if they have to be refinished. The finish can be affected by the cleaning chemicals, so test on a door back or drawer back once you get some advice.

The finish is a big job (several weeks to complete). The tile counter tops are a big/expensive job (several days from start to finish). This would be my impression as a buyer. I would mentally add up all the costs ($5K-$7K for counter top + $5K-$7K for professional refinishing) and make an offer on the house accordingly. I would also add another 10% onto that price just for the HASSLE. If you don't mind people removing $15K - $17K from your asking price just for the beaten up kitchen, then don't change a thing.

The other thing I as a buyer would worry about: What else has gone "uncared for" in this home? If I can see a "ratty" kitchen (excuse the phrase) what does that mean for things I can't see like gutters, plumbing, wiring, roofing, basement, windows, moisture issues, bugs, etc?

Some home markets accept these beaten and battered kitchens. Vancouver currently has $700,000 "tear down" homes. No matter what you do to it, the new owners will pull it down and start again. The LOT is worth more than the house. They then spend another $1.4 million to put up a 4 bed house (3100sf worth of house). Yes. I'm serious...$700K knock-down in a "bad" part of town.

In more depressed markets, the HOUSE is what has the inherent worth (and the lot is worth next to nothing) and therefore the house needs to be revamped. Your realestate agent is going to give you a run down of all of this once you bring them on board.