What is the breaking point for granite or better?

[Scott K.]

Got a chance to look at a property in a very hot area just outside of Detroit.

It needs a ton of work. Also has some mold and asbestos issues. So I need to get that price before I can continue.

But I was thinking out loud while at the house that this kitchen should have granite or better in it. it will be no more than 18ft of countertop. My agent didn't think so but he doesn't do this area very much if at all. I told him this is the new "cool" city to be in and it had to be a step above to move it fast at a high price for the city.

So my question is at what price point is laminate a no no. Keep in mind that arv for this property would be close to 175,000. This would be my biggest project and I realy want to have a chance at this property.

[Rob K.]

If you shop around for an independent granite guy, you will find it for about $30 per square foot plus $200 for an undermount sink. That's materials and labor. It's not that much more than laminate. If you have 18 square feet, you are talking less than $800. It's a no brainer.

Granite is one of those "extras" that women fall in love with. I once bought a house for $17,000 that had a kitchen already gutted. I installed granite and sold the house for $70K. People told me I was nuts to put granite in such a cheap house, but it sold quick and I made over $30K on it. Here are some pics for reference:

I vote for granite!