Guide for Dealers, Contractors & Builders

10 Cabinet Features That Homeowners Demand & Upselling Tips

Modern kitchen showcasing soft-close cabinets, built-in lighting, and custom storage solutions

Knowing what homeowners want helps cabinet dealers, contractors, and builders stay competitive. By identifying popular cabinet features and upselling them, you can meet client expectations while adding value to your offerings.

1. Soft-Close Hinges and Drawers

Soft-close mechanisms are among the most requested cabinet upgrades. They upgrade the user experience by reducing noise and providing smooth, seamless operation. Emphasize the convenience and durability of soft-close systems. Highlight how they prevent wear and tear on cabinets, extending their longevity.

Upselling Tip: Demonstrate the feature in showrooms or during consultations. Let clients feel the difference between standard and soft-close mechanisms.

2. Custom Storage Solutions

75% of homeowners express frustration with limited storage space. Popular options to maximize space include pantry pull-outs, lazy Susans, and corner units. Custom storage assures you utilize every inch of space adequately.

Upselling Tip: Create mock-ups showcasing how custom storage solutions can transform a cluttered space into an organized haven. Offer personalized consultations to assess individual needs and design curated solutions.

3. High-Quality Finishes

Unique and trendy finishes are necessary for achieving modern or personalized looks. About 65% of homeowners are willing to pay more for premium finishes. Whether it’s matte, gloss, or textured, high-quality finishes make a statement and protect cabinetry.

Upselling Tip: Offer samples of the latest finishes and explain how they strengthen aesthetics and endurance. Provide side-by-side comparisons of standard versus premium finishes, such as the table below. This emphasizes how investing in quality leads to long-term satisfaction.

4. Open Shelving or Glass-Front Cabinets

Homeowners are drawn to open shelving and glass-front cabinetry for their airy, customizable appeal. These features allow homeowners to showcase decorative items while adding a touch of sophistication to their kitchens.

Upselling Tip: Highlight design flexibility by showing examples of open shelving paired with other cabinetry styles. Recommend complementary decor ideas to inspire clients.

5. Built-In Lighting

Approximately 60% of homeowners want built-in lighting. Built-in lighting options like toe-kick lighting illuminate workspaces and highlight the beauty of cabinetry design. Proper lighting also crafts a more inviting atmosphere.

Upselling Tip: Add lighting demonstrations within showrooms. Create mood boards to showcase how lighting transforms a space, magnifying performance and design.

6. Durable Materials

Durability is a key priority for homeowners, with 80% prioritizing it. Materials such as solid wood, MDF, or engineered wood offer varying degrees of durability, based on budget and preferences.

Upselling Tip: Educate clients on the benefits of durable materials through visual aids or samples. Offer warranties to provide extra assurance.

7. Drawer Dividers and Organizational Inserts

Storage efficiency is another key concern for homeowners. Drawer dividers, spice racks, and custom inserts help organize items, reduce clutter, and make kitchens more practical.

Upselling Tip: Offer a package of organizational solutions at a discounted rate when paired with other upgrades. Use real-life scenarios to demonstrate how these small additions can make a significant impact.

8. Color Matching

Homeowners often want cabinetry that complements their home’s unique style. Trending colors like white, gray, navy, and natural wood tones are in high demand. Offering a wide range of color options guarantees that homeowners can match their aesthetic.

Upselling Tip: Use 3D tools to visualize how different colors and finishes will appear in a client’s space.

9. Water-Resistant or Moisture-Resistant Materials

In areas like bathrooms and kitchens, water resistance is a must. Materials like MDF with water-resistant coatings or laminate options are excellent for these environments.

Upselling Tip: Explain the importance of water resistance for longevity and hygiene. Use case studies or reviews from clients who have benefited from these materials.

10. Smart Cabinet Solutions

As smart home technology grows in popularity, integrating it into cabinetry is becoming a key trend. Features like app-controlled lighting, self-closing doors, or charging stations for devices make homes more modern and useful.

Upselling Tip: Provide hands-on demonstrations of app-controlled features or other integrations.

Why Does Upselling Matter?

Understanding and upselling in-demand cabinet features allows cabinet dealers and contractors to:

  • Meet Client Expectations: Offering popular upgrades shows that you understand market trends.
  • Increase Revenue: Upselling adds value to each project, boosting overall profits.
  • Improve Customer Satisfaction: Providing tailored solutions makes sure clients are happy, leading to positive reviews.

Become A CabinetCorp Dealer

Partnering with CabinetCorp offers unparalleled benefits for your business! Our Pro Dealer Program provides exclusive pricing, top-quality products, and expert support to drive your success. Provide your clients with custom designs through our complimentary kitchen design services.

With our extensive inventory, you’ll always have the products you need, when you need them. By joining forces with CabinetCorp, you gain a reliable and forward-thinking partner committed to helping your business flourish.

Key Takeaways

By effectively upselling these cabinet features, you add to customer satisfaction, boost revenue, and strengthen your reputation. Emphasizing benefits like improved functionality, aesthetic appeal, and durability ensures homeowners recognize the added value of investing in quality cabinetry.