Everyone has heard about the most important features for selling your home is the front of your home and the kitchen. Based on what I continue to see, it is the kitchen. In order to sell your home, your should have granite, nice cabinets and stainless appliances. Now there are various grades of each but this is what is required.
Rule number one: The only opinion that counts is the lady of the house. To a man, it is a house. To a woman it is an emotional attachment. You want the Mrs. to smile when she drives up to the home and the kitchen is extremely important. This is not to disparage either party; life is compromise. We can say it is the man's castle but it is her nest. Please be considerate of her.
Now the quality of appliances depends on the price of the home. You can get a stainless stove, dishwasher and microwave for about $1,000 (did it at HHGregg about 6 months ago). Add the refrigerator for about $1000 more. These are not top of the line by no means but they make the impression.
Granite counters have an amazing affect. It is incredible to see a person view two similar floor plans with different kitchen appliances and granite. The granite and stainless wins every time. No, I am not in the granite business or appliance business. I am just sharing some insight into what continues to work.
I hope this is helpful or at least makes you consider this perspective. Staging your home is also very important but we can discuss this further in person. How to stage largely depends on your specific home.