Do Kitchens Really Sell Houses? What UK Estate Agents Say

When you’re preparing to sell your home, you’ve probably heard this phrase countless times: “The kitchen sells the house.” But how much truth sits behind this saying? Is it simply estate agent folklore, or does a beautiful kitchen genuinely seal the deal with buyers? 

Here, we’ll disclose what UK estate agents really think about kitchens and property sales. You’ll also pick up some practical insights into whether investing in a new kitchen, upgrading your cabinetry, or just refreshing tired worktops could be worth your money. 

Why Kitchens Matter More Than Ever

There’s no denying that kitchens have evolved. Today, they are far more than a place to cook and store groceries. Open-plan layouts have blended kitchens with living spaces, creating one multi-purpose area where people work, eat, relax and socialise. 

Estate agents across the UK agree that buyers have never been more kitchen-focused. Whether you’re selling a Victorian terrace in Leeds or a modern flat in London, the kitchen often sits high on the list of priorities during viewings. 

In fact, a recent survey by a major estate agency group revealed that over 60% of buyers said they would pay more for a home with a modern, well-designed kitchen. This is not just about glossy surfaces or the latest boiling water tap. Buyers are drawn to kitchens that feel functional, welcoming and ready to enjoy without the hassle of major renovation. 

The Psychology Behind the Kitchen’s Power

You might wonder why kitchens carry so much weight in the decision-making process. The answer is there’s a psychological element at play here. When prospective buyers walk into a kitchen that feels bright, organised and contemporary, they imagine themselves living in the property. They picture hosting Sunday brunches, doing homework with the children, or catching up over a glass of wine. 

By contrast, a dated kitchen with peeling doors or old appliances quickly raises red flags. Potential buyers often inflate the cost of replacing an entire kitchen in their minds. Even if the reality is more affordable, they’ll feel daunted by the perceived disruption and expense.

Do You Always Need a Brand New Kitchen?

This is where the conversation becomes more nuanced. Some homeowners assume that ripping out an old kitchen and installing a luxury German kitchen from brands like Nobilia or Bauformat is the only route to success. While it can add significant appeal, it’s not always necessary. 

Estate agents often recommend a measured approach. If your existing kitchen has solid cabinetry but looks tired, you can achieve a transformative effect through cosmetic upgrades. Replacing cabinet doors with sleek new fronts from Brigitte or JJO can modernise the space at a fraction of the cost. Similarly, installing new worktops in quartz or composite materials and updating handles can breathe fresh life into a kitchen that feels past its best. 

The Value Equation: Will You Get Your Money Back?

This is the million-pound question. Many homeowners want certainty that their kitchen investment will translate into a higher sale price. In reality, it depends on several factors: 

• The price bracket of your property – In higher-end homes, buyers expect premium kitchens with brands like Ballerina or Ashley Ann. If the kitchen falls short, they’ll factor in the cost to upgrade. 

• The condition of your current kitchen – If it’s falling apart, buyers will use this as leverage to negotiate a lower offer. 

• Local market trends – Some areas are fiercely competitive, making a good kitchen more influential. 

According to Zoopla, a well-presented kitchen can add between 5% and 10% to a property’s value, depending on location and buyer expectations. However, you’re unlikely to recoup every penny of a high-spec renovation purely in added value. Estate agents often advise that the main benefit lies in selling faster and attracting higher offers rather than guaranteeing a pound-for-pound return. 

Small Kitchen Improvements That Make a Big Difference

You don’t have to commit to a total overhaul to impress buyers. Sometimes, it’s the finer details that lift a kitchen from drab to desirable. Here are a selection of ideas UK estate agents consistently recommend: 

• Paint tired cabinets – A fresh coat of neutral paint makes an outdated kitchen feel clean and modern. 
• Upgrade worktops – Swapping out worn laminate for a stylish stone or composite instantly elevates the space. 
• Replace dated tiles – Crisp, contemporary splashbacks bring a sense of quality. 
• Improve lighting – Bright LED spotlights or under-cabinet strips make kitchens feel larger and more inviting. 
• Update handles and taps – New accessories can deliver a surprisingly big impact for a modest outlay.  

What Buyers Want Right Now

Kitchen trends evolve, and UK buyers in 2025 have clear preferences. Many look for: 

• Handleless kitchen cabinetry – Inspired by German kitchens from Nobilia, Bauformat and Ballerina, handleless doors feel uncluttered and modern. 
• Neutral colour palettes – White, soft grey and natural wood tones appeal to the broadest audience. 
• Integrated appliances – A bank of built-in appliances creates a polished look. 
• Quartz worktops – Durable and easy to maintain, quartz has overtaken granite as the most desirable finish. 
• Open-plan layouts – Even modest homes benefit from a kitchen that flows into the living area. 

What the Estate Agents Say: Real Opinions

To add some perspective, here’s what several estate agents shared when asked whether kitchens really sell houses: 

“Buyers today expect a kitchen to look ready to move in. If they see old units and dated tiles, it can be enough to walk away.” 

“Kitchens don’t have to be luxury, but they must feel clean, modern and functional. Fresh worktops, new doors and good lighting can achieve a lot.” 

“A brand new kitchen won’t always return every pound spent, but it can shorten the time your property sits on the market and prevent cheeky offers.” 

“The biggest mistake sellers make is leaving a kitchen looking neglected. Even simple changes can shift the mood of a viewing.” 

Should You Splash Out on a Luxury Kitchen Brand?

You may be tempted to install a high-end kitchen from brands such as Omega or Alku, especially if you’re selling in an affluent postcode. In this scenario, investing in a luxury kitchen finish can help meet buyer expectations and avoid your property appearing dated compared with similar homes. 

Still, it pays to be realistic. A £30,000 kitchen in a mid-priced terraced house may look fantastic, but you might only recover a fraction of that investment. If your main goal is to move quickly, a mid-range solution from JJO or Brigitte could strike the right balance between impact and cost. 

The Hidden Benefit: Emotional Connection

One point often overlooked is the emotional impact a kitchen has on buyers. When you walk into a bright, well-organised kitchen, you feel positive about the rest of the house. It creates the sense that the property has been cared for. Even if other areas need a little TLC, a good kitchen sets the tone. 

By contrast, an outdated kitchen can overshadow the home’s strengths. Buyers can forgive a tired bathroom or worn carpets if the kitchen feels contemporary and functional. This is why estate agents place so much emphasis on getting the kitchen right before listing. 

Final Thoughts: Do Kitchens Really Sell Houses?

The evidence suggests they certainly help. A well-presented kitchen won’t guarantee a sale, but it can significantly increase your property’s appeal and influence the offers you receive. 

Before making any decisions, speak to local estate agents who understand what buyers expect in your area. Get valuations and feedback, then consider whether a simple refresh or a bigger upgrade makes sense for your circumstances. 

If you decide to invest, focus on creating a kitchen that feels clean, welcoming and up-to-date rather than chasing the highest specification at any cost. 

Ready to Make Your Kitchen Work Harder?

If you’d like guidance choosing the right kitchen improvements for your home, consider visiting a local kitchen showroom or exploring brands like Nobilia, Bauformat, Brigitte or Ashley Ann. With the right approach, you’ll be able to create a space that impresses buyers but also feels like a pleasure to live in while you prepare to move on. 

Looking to sell your home soon? Start by taking a good look at your kitchen – it could be your biggest asset in achieving the price you deserve.