How Often Should You Replace Kitchen Appliances?

Some houses on the market come with appliances, but many potential buyers wonder when they’ll need replacements. Learn more about replacing kitchen appliances.

When looking to buy a home in the Scottsdale area or elsewhere, you might notice a home comes with kitchen appliances. While it’s nice to not immediately buy kitchen appliances after moving, many potential buyers worry they’ll have to replace the appliances soon anyways. How often should you replace kitchen appliances, and how does the age of appliances factor into home buying decisions? Keep reading to find out.

Replacement Frequency

Most kitchen appliances last between 10-15 years. Refrigerators have an average lifespan of 12 years, so if the fridge in the house you’re considering is less than six years old, it’s a good deal. The homeowner should mention if it has problems staying cool.

Ovens can last up to 15 years, so if the oven in the home you’re considering is less than seven or eight years old, it’s a good deal. However, something like cracked glass is a sign to replace the oven.

Microwaves generally last around 10 years, so anything younger than five years old is a good deal. Dishwashers can last up to 15 years, so it’s okay if the dishwasher in the house you’re considering is around seven or eight years old.

Effect on House Sales

New appliances and other kitchen upgrades can increase the value of a home from three to seven percent. Sellers can see a larger increase in home value by making eco-friendly home upgrades, both in the kitchen and around the home. Some buyers are comfortable with such a price increase because they’re getting a home that’s ready for their family and won’t need any repairs or upgrades any time soon. Other buyers would rather slowly invest their money into appliances and upgrades they choose and therefore don’t want to buy a house with appliances included.

Which Is best for you?

Sellers must decide whether included appliances and other upgrades are best for them, their home, and their finances. Just as all buyers have different preferences, all sellers will have different preferences as well. If you need a trusted real estate agent in the Scottsdale area to help you discern your preferences and make the best decision, we can help.

You should replace your kitchen appliances every 10-15 years, depending on the state of the appliance. Include appliances in your home sale, or consider buying them with a home sale if they’ve been in the home for roughly half of their lifetime, are in good condition, and doing so is the best choice for you.