With the kitchen being one of the most valuable rooms in the property, choosing the right kitchen worktop can significantly enhance the appeal and value of your property. If you’re not sure which to choose, we promise you will by the end of reading this blog!
Knowing who your target tenant or buyer is, is an important step to take before choosing your kitchen worktop. If you’re still not sure who you’re targeting, check out our guide ‘Find my Target Market: Research Guide’ and then come back to read this blog.
1. Laminate
Price : £
Perfect for : BTL
The most affordable and therefore most popular choice amongst property investors - laminate worktops. Made out of a composite wooden particle board core and then wrapped in a waterproof sheet, laminate worktops are durable if looked after properly. Laminate is not scratch or heat proof however, so careless tenants could reduce its life expectancy and leave you out of pocket due to regular replacements. With a plethora of colours, patterns, and textures, laminate worktops don’t compromise on style, allowing you to achieve various design aesthetics to appeal to your target market.
2. Compact / Solid Laminate
Price : £-££
Perfect for : BTL, HMO, SA
One you might not have heard of before - compact laminate (sometimes called solid laminate). These countertops are made from blended resin sheets compacted together — hence the name! It's more affordable than quartz, but because it has a solid white / black core to match the worktop design, you can still add the luxury touches you would get from a stone, e.g. drainer grooves and under-mount sinks. Plus with it's compacted layers its extremely durable, waterproof and heat resistant. Easy maintenance all round!
If a sleek look is your thing, these laminates also come in very slim profiles, which is great for a contemporary kitchen.
3. Solid Wood
Price : £ - ££
Perfect for : SA, Flips
For investors aiming to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere, solid wood worktops definitely add the rustic charm. Wood exudes warmth and character, whether it's oak, walnut, or beech, each type of wood brings its unique grain and texture, creating visual interest. HOWEVER, wood requires regular maintenance including oiling, sanding and can obviously be very sensitive to water and heat, so it's really only worth considering for the charming end of serviced accommodation (in our opinion!). That being said, if cared for well, solid wood countertops can last a lifetime!
5. Quartz
Price : ££-£££
Perfect for : Flips, SA, High-end BTL & HMO
Quartz is at the more expensive end of the worktops we would suggest (there are some crazy marble options out there!), BUT investing in quartz worktops can significantly elevate the perceived value of your property. Because it's a manmade material, it's highly durable, water and heat resistant. Unlike 100% naturally quarried stones (e.g. granite/marble), the appearance of a quartz worktop is entirely determined by the manufacturer.
Top tip! — DON'T buy your worktops from your kitchen supplier as they always add a premium, especially on quartz! Local suppliers often have much better deals and often have their own ranges that are significantly better value than brands such as Silestone and Ceaserstone.
5. Granite
Price : ££££
Perfect for : Flips, SA, High-end BTL & HMO
Formed from natural stone, each granite slab boasts unique patterns and veining, adding character and elegance to any kitchen. Beyond aesthetics, granite offers exceptional durability and heat resistance, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance for property investors. By incorporating granite worktops into your property, you can command higher rental rates or sales prices while attracting tenants or buyers seeking premium finishes. Some would argue that paying more upfront for a granite worktop will save you money overtime due to not having to ever replace it.
If you don't have a huge worktop run to find, a local granite supplier may even have offcuts big enough for what you need, which can actually make this option great value for the durability and longevity you get from it. Ask your contractor if they have any connections!
All the choices that kitchens come with can feel overwhelming but at least choosing your worktop material now won't be! We love to see all of your design decisions to head to our IG and tag us in your photos.
