6 Home Staging Tips for Dated Cabinet Hardware

 When putting a house on the market, many homeowners worry about spending large sums of money on replacing outdated door hardware with the latest styles. Another common concern: Should all the light fixtures and faucets match, too? Here are a few answers for sellers that won’t break the bank.

Does brass make my home look dated?

Good news! Brass is back, and you might be able to leave brass fixtures and hardware, as long as they are in good condition. Some 1980s styles are considered vintage now, making them more appealing. When staging, if you still think your home looks dated, opt for lights in a different finish, but leave everything else in place.

What if my door hardware finishes are chipped or scratched?

If drilling new holes won’t be necessary, consider replacing the damaged ones with a similar or matching style. Or, use spray paint specially formulated for metals for a quick  – and inexpensive! – solution.

Should I replace all the cabinet hardware in my home to stage?

If knobs, pulls, and hinges are in good shape, you probably do not need to replace them. For older homes, which may have different size knobs and hinges, replacing might not be so simple. Check flea markets for authentic vintage pieces to keep the ambiance. Take photos and measure the placement of screws to ensure you purchase something that will work.

My cabinets don’t have any pulls.

Especially when staging, go ahead and purchase knobs or pulls. To make installation easier, buy a template to mark the holes on the doors prior to drilling.

Is it a problem if door hardware finishes don’t match?

Focus on making things consistent: All the doorknobs and hinges should have the same finish. All kitchen cabinets should have the same handles or pulls. However, mixing finishes can give personality to a space. Keep reading for how to incorporate more than one finish.

Tips on mixing styles.

Modern design doesn’t require everything to match, so it’s okay to pair bronze lights with brushed nickel plumbing fixtures and cabinet hardware. Another great look is using brushed nickel knobs with stainless faucets. Keep things simple with one to two finishes, and stay true to your home’s style and personality.