Photos would help. :)

I wouldn't do two toned cabinets for resale.

I personally dislike stainless... put in what is the norm for you area, though.

my own thought is that two toned cabinets are more trendy--- i honestly don't know if that would appeal to the masses-especially in a couple of more years.
i would go with a single color, whether it be wood or paint, granite in an economical 'color', and would go with stainless appliances unless you choose white painted cabinets--currently stainless appeals to the masses and probably will for at least the next couple of years...

yes, show us pictures.

I'd redo the floor too if you are going to put in the effort. I think a quality floor even with lower-end cabinets, is a better investment than new cabinets with an old, vinyl floor.

Without pictures, it's hard to know...but, is removing one part of the U and making an L with an island a possibility? That may require flooring change if it doesn't go under cabinets and that may not be in the budget, but thought I'd throw it out there since I think that's a better layout for resale.

In my area, stainless steel appliances would appeal to more buyers, but I think that may be a regional thing. Go to open houses in your area to see what houses have or talk to real estate agent about what buyers expect.

I agree I would stick to one or the other for the cabs.
For resale if money is tight I would consider white cabs with Ikea chopping block counter. (you could refinish the counter or touch up paint when you are ready to sell if it needs it)
I would not put a white counter on white cabs unless you are doing marble or granite with veining. As for appliances you pay a premium for SS but with white cabs white appliances would work.

I agree about two toned cabinets, do either a warm white are a medium tone brown but not both.

I also don't think a white countertop is the way to go. I would do a medium tone granite. I also think stainless looks more modern and upscale the white.

Have you looked at Ikea cabinets? I think they're the best bang for your buck and are surprisingly good quality. I had them in two previous kitchens and was thrilled with them.

I'd just keep the same layout, replace the cabinets with a Ikea single color, replace the flooring, and refinish the Corian. Old worn vinyl floors will trump a new looking Corian counter any day in a buyers mind. Corian has to have a lot of abuse to not look good, and a simple sanding out usually makes it look like new. It's also easy to take out and replace. And need I say "budget"? Nothing is cheaper than free!

What materials do other homes for sale in the same price range nearby have? For example, if most of the nearby homes have wood or tile floors, vinyl floors probably won't show well. What about appliances? Also, what counter materials are popular in the area? If most of the homes for sale have granite or quartz, I suspect corian may not be well received.

Personally, I would definitely agree to avoid the two-toned cabinets. They may be popular with some, but personally I dislike them and would probably not be willing to buy a home priced with a remodeled kitchen if it had them. For me, a good layout is important, as are quality cabinets. I would expect quality materials all around that are in keeping with the neighborhood and the price of the home. I would also expect quality work, so be certain that any DIY work looks professional.

Before you set forth, I'd do some extensive research on other homes selling in the area, determine your exact budget, and find out exactly what you can afford. You might also discuss with a realestate agent whether buyers prefer a finished remodeled kitchen (everything finished means no work before moving in) or an allowance (buyer can put in exactly what they want). Personally, if the price was right, I'd be more inclined (as a buyer) to go with the latter, but you want to appeal to most buyers in your area.

You might also try cross-posting to the kitchens forum with pictures. There are some amazing talented people over there that could give excellent advice on how to maximize the appearance and functionality.

If you are planning to sell "in a couple of years" why not wait until just before you sell to do the upgrades? A lot can happen in two years and the market may change, there will definitely be new products, and you will have more time to save toward this expense. Besides a brand new kitchen will sell better than even a 2 year old one.

Here's what I'd do to upgrade - remove old cabinets and redo the entire floor even under cabinets, get good quality Ikea cabinets reconfiguring the kitchen with the help of a kitchen planner. Do your homework to see what is typical in your area and don't choose anything that's trendy at the time. Above all, don't overspend if your area is not upscale, stay to mid-range for everything.

I don't agree with waiting a couple years and remodeling right before you sell. I want to get to use and enjoy the new kitchen myself! This is what I did a few years ago in a house I sold 2 years ago. Had the cabs painted, new hardware, enlarged the island, got rid of the dropped ceiling, new lights, new counters w/integrated sink and new faucet and new appliances. And I got to enjoy them all for a few years :) My sister remodeled to sell and her house never looked better and she didn't get the joy of living in it! So that's my 2 cents worth.