The Best Countertops for Style, Function, and Resale Value
Whether you’re renovating a kitchen, updating a bathroom, or preparing your home for sale, choosing the right countertop can make a major impact. At Corken + Company, we know that countertops are more than just a surface—they’re a focal point. The right material blends style, function, and investment value.
Here’s a breakdown of the top countertop choices in 2025, and how to choose the best one for your home and your goals.
Quartz: The Clear Front-Runner
Quartz continues to dominate in both modern and classic homes—and for good reason. It’s a non-porous, engineered stone that’s low-maintenance and extremely durable. Unlike natural stone, quartz doesn’t need sealing, making it ideal for busy kitchens or high-traffic areas.
Why We Love It:
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Resistant to stains and scratches
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Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
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Seamless, consistent appearance
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Adds resale value in both mid-range and luxury homes
Quartz is especially appealing to buyers looking for a move-in-ready home with current finishes. For staging or listing photos, it adds a polished and upscale look instantly.
Granite: Still a Strong Contender
Granite was once the go-to for high-end kitchens—and it still has a loyal following. As a natural stone, each slab is unique, giving your home an organic, one-of-a-kind touch. Granite is heat-resistant and long-lasting, but it does require regular sealing to protect against stains.
When It Works Best:
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In homes where natural materials are a selling point
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For homeowners who appreciate variation and movement in stone
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As a durable, timeless upgrade in traditional or rustic interiors
For resale, granite remains a smart investment, especially when paired with updated cabinetry and lighting.
Marble: Luxurious, But High Maintenance
There’s nothing quite like the classic look of marble. It’s elegant, timeless, and brings a softness that complements both modern and traditional spaces. But marble is porous and prone to etching, which means it may not be the best option for every homeowner—especially in hardworking kitchens.
Where Marble Shines:
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Bathrooms and powder rooms where wear and tear is minimal
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Feature islands or baking stations where aesthetics matter most
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Luxury listings where design-forward finishes boost perceived value
If you’re prepping a home for sale, consider marble as an accent rather than the primary surface. A waterfall edge or marble backsplash can create visual impact without high-maintenance concerns.
Butcher Block: Warm, Affordable, and On-Trend
Butcher block countertops bring natural warmth and charm to a kitchen. Often made from maple, walnut, or oak, these wood surfaces are affordable and can be a great DIY-friendly project. They do require regular sealing and careful maintenance to prevent water damage and stains.
Where It Works Best:
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As an accent on kitchen islands
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In farmhouse-style or transitional kitchens
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In homes where a softer, lived-in feel is part of the design story
We often recommend butcher block when staging a home to appeal to buyers who value character and personality.
Soapstone: Soft, Subtle, and Underrated
Soapstone is a natural stone with a matte finish, smooth texture, and subtle veining. It’s gaining popularity for its resistance to heat, stains, and bacteria. Over time, it develops a natural patina, which adds to its charm. However, it does scratch easily and has a softer feel compared to quartz or granite.
Why It’s Trending:
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Adds character to vintage or historic homes
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Ideal for minimalist or coastal interiors
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Offers a distinct, moody aesthetic with dark green-gray tones
If you’re restoring an older home or aiming for a high-design look, soapstone is an excellent niche material.
Concrete: Bold and Customizable
For those seeking a modern, industrial edge, concrete countertops offer a fully customizable surface. They can be tinted, textured, and shaped to fit any space. While beautiful, concrete is porous and prone to cracking if not installed properly, so expert fabrication is essential.
Best Used In:
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High-design or contemporary homes
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Homes with loft-style or minimalist aesthetics
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Feature areas where artistic finishes can shine
Concrete isn’t for every buyer, but it can help a home stand out in competitive luxury markets when paired with the right architecture.
Laminate: Budget-Friendly and Evolving
Once seen as outdated, laminate has made a quiet comeback thanks to new styles that mimic stone and wood textures. It’s a cost-effective solution for rental properties, starter homes, or quick flips.
Today’s laminate offers:
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Higher durability
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Heat and scratch resistance
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A range of design styles, including faux marble and quartz
While it may not add as much resale value, it can be a smart, stylish upgrade for the right home.
How To Choose What’s Right for You
At Corken + Company, we guide homeowners through finish selections that support their overall goals—whether that’s to live in and love the space or to prepare for market. When choosing countertops, consider:
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Your home’s style and architecture
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How you use the space (family cooking, entertaining, resale prep)
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Maintenance preferences
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Budget and overall design vision
Let Us Help You Invest Where It Counts
Countertops are one of the most visual and functional elements in any home. Whether you’re renovating for your own lifestyle or getting ready to list, we help you choose materials that strike the perfect balance between beauty, performance, and return on investment.
Call 303-858-8003 or visit www.corken.co to speak with one of our expert brokers and start planning a kitchen upgrade that adds lasting value.
