It’s not surprising that buying a home can be the biggest investment you will make in your life. These guidelines will help you find the perfect home for you.

Merillat Cabinetry, a major manufacturer of cabinetry, recently conducted a study on what consumers think when buying a house. The kitchen was found to be the most popular room in the house, followed closely by the great rooms and the master bedrooms.

“The kitchen is the gathering place for special occasions, family functions and day-to-day activities, which is why it is so important for prospective buyers to ensure their new kitchen will meet the needs of their family from a design and functionality prospective,”Paul Radoy, Merillat’s design services manager, said:

To help you decide if a kitchen is right, create a checklist. These are the questions you should ask yourself:

1. What do you think about the layout of my kitchen? The kitchen should be viewed from the overall perspective. Keep in mind all items that will need storage.

2. Does the kitchen feel comfortable? Does it make me feel at home? You should immediately feel at home.

3. Is the kitchen a place that facilitates casual conversations with friends and family? Take into account the views from the living and dining rooms. Do you feel comfortable interacting with your friends and family?

4. Are the cabinets strong and well-constructed? Are the cabinetry’s finishes consistent and smooth? Examine the interiors of cabinets to see if they are covered with a water- and stain-resistant product or a lower quality one. The interior should match the exterior.

5. Is the kitchen visually striking? Do you have a focal point such as an island, cooking grotto, or another unique feature? Many homeowners love islands. To determine if an island will suit your needs, you should identify its storage and tasks.

6. Are there sufficient storage spaces and built-in features in the kitchen to store my belongings? Merillat’s research found that many homeowners don’t have enough storage when remodeling their kitchens. Don’t forget to include features such as drawer organizers and pull-out trays.

Learn more about kitchen design features and storage options. www.Merillat.com.