For the latest in countertops, engineered stone is slightly cheaper than granite but superior in many ways, according to Mark Nash, who surveys real estate pros about design trends.

It's made from quartz crystals and polymer resin so it's nearly maintenance free. It's heat and cold resistant, mildew free, stain resistant and harder than most things you put on it so it will not scratch.

It also comes in a variety of colors and can be formed into different shapes and patterns. Even the sink can be made as a seamless part of the countertop. The color range is wider than natural stone.

The engineered stone's appearance tends to be more uniform than natural stone, and many buyers may prefer the variation real granite provides, but there's no denying that engineered stone is very handsome as well and the virtues that make it so practical will surely convince many buyers to go with it.

The cost ranges in price from $70 to $120 a square foot with installation.