I am in the process of renovating my kitchen (for selling) and it has a trash compactor and I am wondering if potential buyers are really interested in having trash compactors. To me they seem like a dated appliance. (something you would have seen in an 80's kitchen) The trash compactor is in great shape but just wondering if it acutally adds (or detracts) from the updated-ness of the kitchen. Any opinions? I thought maybe someone in the realty business might be able to relay what they have seen or are seeing in updated kitchens today.
It may still resonate with some buyers are are used to having one (and like it). If it's working well as you say, I certainly would not remove it.In terms of value, it probably adds none - but if it sells the house than it's worth it's weight in gold!
Posts: 34 | Location: NW New Jersey | Registered: 13 June 2007
If the trash compactor works. and matches the appliances then you can leave it. But I would remove it as its not one of those things people are asking for nowadays. What really determines this need is the size of the kitchen If your starved for storage. Remove it and put another base storage unit in its place. If its a real large kitchen then you could keep it. What type of renovation are you planning? A simple face lift with new drawers and door fronts? Or new cabinets and counters? Be carefull on what you spend as some renovations do little to increase the value, while others will pay you back and increase the sale value. A lot has to do with the current market conditions in your area. Check with your local real-estate agent and get their opinion before you spend a lot of money.
Posts: 1032 | Location: New Jersey | Registered: 31 January 2006
We are currently doing a minor kitchen renovation. Just replacing the countertops and flooring. I had to remove the cabinets to make some adjustments to the cabinets. I had already pulled the trash compactor out earlier because we didn't use it. But with the thought of selling I was just wondering if it helped or hurt having it there. It does match all the other appliances. I had thought of replacing it with a cabinet but it would be hard to match the existing cabinet because of their age.
