Renovating a kitchen is a common consideration for Melbourne homeowners preparing to sell, with the potential to influence buyer perception and ultimately, sale price.
As of December 2025, buyers currently in Melbourne, particularly in the Eastern Suburbs, consistently favour properties with modern, well-maintained kitchens. While a full renovation doesn’t guarantee a dollar-for-dollar return, it can significantly enhance appeal. In 2026, presentation remains key, and a dated kitchen can detract from other positive features. The extent of value added depends on several factors: the existing kitchen’s condition, the quality of the renovation, and the overall market. Typically, a cosmetic update – new benchtops, appliances, and paint – can yield a good return for an investment of $10,000 – $25,000. A full kitchen remodel, costing upwards of $30,000, may not always recoup the full expense, especially in a moderate growth market like we’re forecasting for 2026. Fletchers’ experience shows that buyers often weigh renovation potential; a partially updated kitchen can sometimes be more appealing than a fully renovated one if it allows them to personalise the space. During the appraisal process, we consider the likely impact of kitchen updates on comparable sales in your specific suburb.
Ultimately, a kitchen upgrade is one element within a broader property preparation strategy, and its value is assessed in the context of the overall Melbourne property market.