Do the kitchen first. You may have opportunity to do the bedroom later. Everything doesn't have to be done right away.

If you're planning to be there 10 years+ then don't worry about overinvesting in the kitchen remodel because you will get to enjoy it for a long time.

Definitely the kitchen, both as the room with highest return on investment generally, and as clearly the change that will net you the most pleasure.

As for the degree of investment, I think people usually view that as a percentage of the total house value ("expect to spend 20%", is it?), so whether you'll spend too much from the resale point of view depends a bit on your overall house's worth and whether what you do will be broadly appealing as opposed to overly specific to you (e.g., two ranges would be wasted on most folks).

I wouldn't worry about resale until the time is closer. Tastes change, you might decide to stay longer, on and on. You could always consult a realtor later on. It's also impossible to give advice in a vacuum -- 1700sf would be a pretty good-sized house here in downtown Philly, for example, but storage would be invaluable; the calculus would be just the opposite elsewhere. Anyway, when you get ready to sell, you can get advice about whether to simplify your kitchen, or make another bedroom, or update your master bath, or who knows what. You're going to live in the space a long time first.

Good Afternoon,

It it hard for anyone to give recommendations about this type of thing without knowing the value of your home, neighborhood, and similar home values or at least seeing the house. I would recommend calling a real estate agent in your area. They will know the values and what they have seen do well. However, I will say in most areas kitchens are known to sell houses and upgrades in this area will help your home value more than any other area.

Good Luck!

-Cosa Belle Interiors

i'd do the kitchen BUT remember its part of a 3 bedroom house which will have less appeal compared to a too expensive kitchen in a 4 bedroom house.

and before you get too carried away with your kitchen, remember this is the kitchen Julia Child had when she wrote 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking. sometimes less can be plenty.

I feel for Julia. She must have suffered from back problems. Look how low everything is!

jacksongirl12, without knowing all the details, I would split 50/50, i.e. invest in a kitchen+a fourth bedroom. Of course, that is not knowing all the specifics of your family, lifestyle, market, etc.

Hi Jacksongirl12,

I suggest you post a picture in your post to give us an idea of what your current kitchen looks like.

Punching out a wall and extending your house to include another bedroom has the added value of increasing your space for children or an office. But if you don't plan on using it for either, then such an upgrade isn't worthwhile!

Whereas, upgrading your kitchen would provide cooking and entertainment value to you immediately. I suggest setting a budget and then comparing two different kitchen upgrades.

1. This kitchen upgrade option would only include the basics, a new backsplash, countertop and floor, plus new appliances.

2. This kitchen upgrade option would include #1 above and also the extras you have always wanted.

From there you can make an educated choice on what looks best for you in the next 10 years.

In my opinion, your kitchen upgrade will provide a return on investment now and later when selling your home. Your bedroom upgrade may only provide a ROI 10 years into the future.

Regards,

Tile Plus, Inc.