Thinking about redoing your kitchen? You’re not alone.
Kitchen remodels are one of the most popular home upgrades, not just in Utah but across the US. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, nearly half the remodeling projects (48%) in the last two years have been kitchen upgrades.
But before you start browsing kitchen remodeling ideas, you might wonder: Will it be worth it?
The short answer is yes. A well-done kitchen remodel can raise your home’s market value significantly. In fact, as a leading load-bearing wall and remodeling contractor, we see many Utah homeowners going for an open kitchen layout to boost equity.
Let’s dig into this a little deeper.
Why Kitchen Remodeling Matters in Utah
In Utah, where family life and home gatherings are a big deal, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Buyers will walk through a house and forget an extra bedroom, but they’ll remember a modern, clean, and functional kitchen.
In 2025, only 23% of the buyers compromised on the condition of a home. In other words, major upgrades like kitchen overhauls have a high emotional and financial payoff. If a prospective buyer walks into your home with a brand new, open kitchen layout, they’re more likely to make an offer. This can get your house off the market sooner than expected.
How Much Can a Kitchen Remodel Increase the Value of a Home
So, how much does a kitchen remodel bump your home’s market value?
The answer to this question is a little more complicated than you think. Many factors are involved in deciding the market value of a property, including its age, location, and local real estate trends.
Typically, this bump depends on what you do and how well you do it.
- Small updates such as new countertops, paint, and cabinet refacing may boost your home’s market value by around $10,000–$20,000.
- Mid-range remodels, including new cabinets, appliances, and layout tweaks, might increase it by $25,000–$40,000.
- High-end renovations, like full gut, loading wall removal for open layout, and smart tech, could raise your price tag by $50,000+, especially in places like Salt Lake City, Sandy, or Draper.
Whether it was a minor kitchen upgrade or a complete renovation, in 2025, homeowners across the US recovered 60% of their costs. In other words, small details, like new appliances or a fresh backsplash, can sometimes have the same visual effect as bigger remodels. If your kitchen is outdated, even small changes can make a huge difference.
Go with Popular Kitchen Remodeling Ideas That Pay Off
A remodeled kitchen can help you attract more buyers. But before you get started, it’s smart to know what is popular right now. Utah homebuyers are typically looking for:
1. Open Layouts
Open-concept kitchens are still the top wish list item for most buyers. This might mean taking down a wall or changing the design to let in more light. If you want to remove a load-bearing wall, always talk to an expert first. They can safely remove the wall and install the right beam while staying code-compliant.
2. Kitchen Islands
Kitchen islands are like the family table of today. People use them for breakfast, baking, and even as homework stations. If you have the space, adding a big island is a smart move.
3. Updated Cabinets
If you don’t have the budget to knock down a load-bearing wall or build an island, you can consider updating the cabinets. There’s no need to rip them all out. Typically, painting cabinets or switching out the doors makes them look brand new. Soft-close doors and drawers are also popular in Utah now.
4. Upgraded Countertops
Like the cabinets, you can give your kitchen counter a makeover. Quartz, granite, and new butcher block countertops can give your kitchen a fresh, modern look. These add value without breaking the bank. Plus, homebuyers see quality counters as a sign you’ve taken good care of your home.
5. Smart Kitchen Appliances
Smart kitchen appliances make life easier and help save on electricity bills. Adding smart stoves, dishwashers, and refrigerators lets you control things with your phone or voice. These upgrades help your home stand out and feel more modern. It could be a great way to appeal to potential millennial home buyers.
6. LED Lighting
Switching to LED fixtures or adding under-cabinet lighting changes how your kitchen looks and feels. LED lights use 90% less energy and last 15 times longer than traditional bulbs. Plus, they can upgrade your kitchen without spending a lot of money.
7. New Floors
Hardwood or quality tile floors feel solid and last for years. They also look great in listing photos and make a good impression at showings. If your flooring has seen better days, consider replacing it with something that’s trending in your area.
8. Storage Upgrades
Storage is another selling point for potential buyers. Adding pantry cabinets, slide-out shelves, and special spots for trash or recycling can truly help your house stand out. If you’re putting your house on the market, give your existing storage some thought.
Work with a Reliable Kitchen Remodeling Contractor
DIY is popular when it comes to remodeling kitchens, but it’s not always a good idea. You can DIY some jobs, such as changing a light fixture or repainting cabinets. However, you’ll be better off hiring a seasoned contractor for big-ticket renovations, such as removing load-bearing walls, installing islands with plumbing, or handling new countertops.
Here’s why:
- Local contractors know Utah’s building codes, so you won’t have trouble when you sell.
- Professional work stands up longer and looks better, which is a huge selling point.
- The best contractors can help you save money by helping you make informed choices.
- They can provide a blueprint for layout changes and structural adjustments.
The Bottom Line
If you want a kitchen remodel to increase your home’s market value, focus on the updates that Utah buyers care about. This typically includes open layouts, storage, energy efficiency, and a simple modern style. A good remodel can pay you back now (in happier cooking or family gatherings) and later if you decide to sell.
If you need expert advice on how your kitchen might connect to load-bearing walls or what changes are safe, Load Bearing Pros is always just a call away. We’ll help you upgrade your space with an open layout just as you imagined. Call (385) 300-8322 or fill out our online form to get started.