One never recoups 100% cost when remodeling. If a backsplash will make you happy---put one in. The cabinets look to be in mint condition. Painting them will be a downgrade.

I would definitely add a back splash. I painted my cabinets 2 years ago and while they look great I’ve been really disappointed that they chip so easily.

Don’t paint those - they’re very nice! Cabinets require special materials and skill to paint them successfully. You already have a backsplash of sorts. If you were to install a full splash, then remove that first.

Agree with the majority - leave the cabinets alone. I don't think the presence or absence of a backsplash will have any impact on the saleability of the house, so only do it if you want one yourself.

Leave the cabinets!

I wouldn’t even add a backsplash either it looks great and the new owners can add whatever backsplash they please which would be a plus for me when buying a home w. A Kitchen like this

It looks like you already have a 4 inch backsplash.

I would not add another backsplash on top of that. If you want a different backsplash it will make you happy, please remove the 4 inch piece first.

$3200 is a bad housepainter cost. A professional cabinet finisher would be double to triple that for something that would last well enough to not be a chipped mess at resale.

Wood cabinets are back among the most popular of choices. Spend that $3200 on better lighting.

Light countertops and backsplash would be where I'd spend money in your kitchen.

You'd be wasting money & materials. Your kitchen looks clean, well maintained, not a turn-off. In a year or two, the new owner will decide what if any changes they care to make.

You will be spending money that will have a zero return on investment. Homes sell at a price that is based primarily on three things, location, square footage and general overall condition.

This kitchen is fine and any money you spend will be a gift to the new owner and money you can't spend on your new home.

I would not paint those cabinets. I would add hardware to them and they will instantly have a different look. Something in a transitional silver finish style. I would do a backsplash, probably off white / ivory handmade subway tile. I would also change the pendants to a larger size and change the bar stools completely. They are farmhouse-y and your kitchen is not farmhouse. These little fixes will cost a lot less than $3200 and it will give your kitchen a whole new look.

A lighter counter would make the biggest difference in that kitchen, something like Taj Mahal quartzite would look great with the cabinets and floors, BUT I would only make that change if it was for me and I was staying in the house.

For selling, make sure the kitchen has plenty of lighting and clear the counters.

As others have said, I wouldn't do a thing. Painting even by a professional would be a downgrade in terms of quality as the wood stain looks great.

You don't do a backsplash when you already have the splash guard that matches the counter. You have one or the other. The purpose of a having tile or other waterproof surface where the counter meets a wall is to protect the wall from damage from inevitable wet.

When you sell the new owner can make aesthetic decisions which might include replacing the counter and having a backsplash because the new counter doesn't have the six inch splash guard.

Or they might decide to completely gut the kitchen and install new cabinets - it looks like all of the lower cabinets are doors instead of drawers which isn't very functional.

However your kitchen in its present kitchen is quite lovely and would NOT be a detriment to any normal buyer.

Agree with Caroline on adding hardware. I think it will make a big difference.

Leave the cabinets. Add a backsplash, and put hardware on the cabinets. I would not paint those cabinets. Add a bit of interest. I do see some things on one counter, that appears more like clutter, but, there is nothing anywhere else to make that kitchen feel cozy and inviting.. The window could use something, and a rug in front of the sink.

Hardware.

No cabinet paint. Add hardware. No backsplash. Maybe change the wall color to something more lively & with a hint of aqua. Or a white that is ever so slightly greenish.

No.

Declutter, cabinet hardware and maybe a new faucet to match and then I’d get a colorful runner of some sort.

Add some cabinet hardware. Backsplash if you like.

Leave it alone. The buyer will probably rip it all out anyway.