Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - kitchen backsplash/wall

I'm remodeling my kitchen fast & cheap for resale. I'm installing a new countertop with 4" backsplash. Although I would love to install ceramic tile from the backsplash up to the wall cabinets, I've never done it before and don't feel like doing it in such a rush. So my questions really are:

Is there anything else besides ceramic tile that is good to use in this application?

Couldn't I just paint the wall board? This would leave it open for the new owner to tile if they desired. But I'm concerned that it would make the kitchen look unfinished which is not what I'd want for resale.

Thanks for opinions.

KELLY

I've painted hundreds of new and used homes without a tiled backsplash between the counter and upper cabinets. It's preferable for the paint to be an enamel [latex satin is fine] While tile is nicer I can't imagine not having it [for a backsplash] being a deal breaker.

Not tiling backsplash will give new owners and opportunity to install a tile that they prefer if they so desire. They may prefer something other than tile, such as tin, stainless steel, bead board, or other. You will not get your return on your investment in backsplash tile. Buyers are more concerned with whether or not kitchen looks dated, countertop, appliances, floor covering, etc.

Your opinions really helped.

Thanks for taking the time to answer.

KELLY