We are going to replace our worn builder's-grade kitchen cabinets, countertop and backsplash in our 23-year old home. We won't be replacing the flooring or the appliances. The flooring in the kitchen is an oak laminate and our appliances are white. We are getting custom cabinets made and are trying to decide what kind of wood and stain (light or dark) to use for the kitchen cabinets. I am kind of an "oak freak" but don't want to choose oak cabinets if it would hurt my home's resale value in 5 years. I don't know what kind of wood is being used for cabinets in new home construction or if it makes a difference if the home is a custom-built home or a spec house. If you could have kitchen cabinets made out of any kind of wood, what would it be and would you have them stained a light color or a dark color?