Expert on how to 'unlock potential' of home's most important room (2025)

Expert Andrew Boast said it was the heart of the home - so it is vital you get it right

When selling your home, one room can make or break a buyer’s decision – the kitchen. Often referred to as 'the heart of the home,’ it is the space where first impressions are formed, emotions are triggered, and offers are made - or lost.

Andrew Boast, property expert at SAM Conveyancing, has listed his five ways to bring the best out of this vital room if you are putting your home on the market. He also gave his feedback about what puts people off with a kitchen - and why it is so important to get it right.

“A kitchen that feels outdated, cramped, or poorly staged can quickly deter buyers, whereas a bright, functional, and stylish kitchen can make all the difference in closing the deal,” explains Andrew. "The kitchen is where people picture themselves cooking meals, hosting guests, or spending time with family. If buyers can’t see that potential, it can undermine their interest in the entire home. Fortunately, even small changes can have a big impact." For buyers, the kitchen is more than just a room – it is a symbol of home life. It’s where meals are prepared, conversations flow, and families gather, which is why it is often the first space they evaluate. A cramped, outdated, or poorly presented kitchen can leave a lasting negative impression, even if the rest of the house ticks all the boxes. "The kitchen sets the emotional tone for the home," Andrew continued.. "Buyers want to see a space that feels functional, inviting, and ready for their daily routines.” So, how can you make your kitchen work in your favour without spending a fortune? The good news is that even small, affordable changes can transform your kitchen into a space buyers will love. Here, Boast shares five quick, budget-friendly upgrades to help your kitchen stand out:

Refresh Cabinets with New Handles and Paint

Old or worn cabinets can make a kitchen feel outdated. A new coat of paint in a neutral colour – such as white, grey, or soft beige – can breathe new life into tired cabinets, and updating the handles or knobs can give a modern flair without the expense of a complete overhaul. "New cabinet handles are a simple upgrade that instantly makes the space feel more polished without needing to spend much," he said.

Improve the Lighting

Dark kitchens often come across as cramped and uninviting, qualities that can quickly turn off potential buyers. However, enhancing the lighting with new fixtures or incorporating under-cabinet LED strips can illuminate counters and create a more contemporary and welcoming atmosphere. Andrew said: "Good lighting highlights the kitchen’s best features and creates a warm, functional atmosphere that will entice any buyers.”

Declutter and Maximise Counter Space

Neat and organized counters can make a kitchen feel larger and more efficient, so put away appliances, utensils, and anything else that doesn’t need to be on display. Keep just a few decorative items out, such as a bowl of fresh fruit or a small plant. Andrew said: "Buyers love to see counter space – it makes it easier to imagine them cooking and entertaining, so too much clutter makes the kitchen feel chaotic and cramped."

Upgrade Fixtures for a Modern Touch

Old or outdated taps and sinks can really diminish the overall appearance of your kitchen, so replacing them with a stylish, modern tap or upgrading to a sleek stainless steel sink can instantly refresh the space without breaking the bank. "It’s a small investment that reassures buyers the kitchen has been cared for and updated – and it may even justify a slightly higher asking price," he said.

Improve the Smell

A kitchen that smells fresh and inviting can leave a powerful impression on potential buyers, so strong cooking smells, pet odours, or musty air can be off-putting. To avoid this, ensure the space is well-ventilated before viewings. You could also consider subtle tricks like brewing fresh coffee, baking cookies, or using a light citrus diffuser to create a welcoming atmosphere. "Scent is a major factor in how people experience a home," said Andrew. "A clean, fresh-smelling kitchen reinforces the idea that the space is well-maintained and ready for new owners. "The kitchen doesn’t need to be perfect, but it does need to feel inviting, clean, and full of potential," concludes Boast. "So, focus on a few key changes, and you’ll leave buyers imagining themselves happily cooking and hosting in their potential new home."