When deciding to remodel or upgrade the kitchen or bathroom of your new home purchase, the cost of countertops can be a huge turn off. Although the price may have you regretting your decision, there are a few ways you can get the most out of your stone countertop investment.

It is always smart to look ahead to the future when doing any home improvement project. Since countertops tend to be a big investment upfront, it is important to make sure the countertops you choose now will be appealing to buyers in 10 years.

Natural stone options like marble and granite are top selling features for many Los Angeles homes. Buyers want upgrades and that includes countertops. So, if you are looking to make top dollar a few years down the road, choose a quality stone product.

Longevity is one of the most significant factors to keep in mind when purchasing your countertops. Options like laminate will unfortunately not last compared to the strength and durability of choices like quartz and granite. Keep in mind that making the initial investment on natural or manmade stone will pay off when you don’t have to replace them in a few years.

We all love a good home decor trend, but it doesn’t mean you should jump on the first out-of-the-box idea you see. If you are looking to eventually get a return on your countertop investment, you will need to choose a stone that won’t look out of place in 2 years. This doesn’t mean you can’t choose a beautiful design trend, it just means that when you go to choose your prefabricated quartz, make sure it is a color and style that will fit in any decade.

Both custom and prefabricated quartz countertops typically come with a warranty. They can range anywhere from 5 years to a lifetime. When remodeling a home, most items are only given a year, so having that additional warranty is a crucial component to consider when purchasing.

Properly caring for your countertops is essential when it comes to getting the most out of your investment. Natural stone slabs like granite and marble need to be sealed every 1-2 years. Quartz is a low maintenance option but still requires care which includes using certain cleaning products and limiting its’ exposure to heat over 300 degrees.

When choosing your countertops it is important to decide how much work you wish to put into them, but just remember that each option will require a certain level of care in order to extend their life.

Countertops will be a substantial home investment regardless of the stone product you choose. So, before you go out and make your purchase, remember these 5 tips so you can get the most out of your investment.