Has anyone seen or used the Formica gloss laminate countertops?

They actually look quite good and are incredibly affordable. I would take formica over granite any day, easier to care for. Best way to decide is to visit a kitchen and bath showroom.

Unless the countertop is in bad shape, don't replace it just to sell your house. When showing your home, open all window coverings and let the sun shine in. Make sure windows are clean. Turn on all lights even on a bright sunny day, the more light, the better. Remove all personal things (pictures, stuff hanging on the refrigerator, etc). Also remove any furniture not needed or any kind of clutter (put it storage if you have to). It will make it look bigger. If the walls are dark, paint them a light color (it makes the rooms look bigger and brighter). Other than some paint, it really isn't necessary to do any updates as the new owners may have different tastes and will probably change it anyhow. Only fix what needs to be fixed. Keep everything clean so you're not running around before a showing. Make the beds when you get up. Be careful burning candles, a scent you like may not smell so good to someone else . The smell of a strong scented candle could also trigger an asthma attack or appear to be covering something up. Flowers could also trigger allergies or asthma. The smell of clean or some freshly baked goods is much more enticing. When your home is being shown, remove all animals and put away their paraphernalia if at all possible. Good luck.