Starting out on a kitchen remodeling project is exciting, but also daunting. There are so many elements to consider—flooring, appliances, countertops, cabinets. With each aspect of your new kitchen, the cost for your remodel goes up. How can you still enjoy a new kitchen while also preserving your checkbook? Here are a few tips to help you out.
Know Your Limits
Costs of a kitchen remodel will add up quickly, and suddenly your budget can seem like pennies. You need to be able to keep costs in line while also getting the most value for your buck. It is possible, but it will take some research. Start by evaluating your finances and figuring out exactly how much you can spend. Then you do your best to keep to a tight budget.
A good rule of thumb to follow is considering how long you plan to stay in the home. Five years or less? Then all your kitchen really needs is a facelift to boost the return on your investment. Plan to be in the home for a longer period of time? Then you might need a full kitchen overhaul to ensure your family’s comfort.
Start with a Design
The layout of your kitchen is just as important as the elements. You want a sleek, simple, and functional design. Not only will this help keep costs down for your kitchen remodel, but also appeals to most buyers should you choose to sell your home in the future. If possible, you also want to avoid moving any plumbing or electrical. At least try to keep your sink and stove (especially gas stoves) in the same location. Moving a stove or sink could create problems, and these larger projects cost more in money, permits, and time.
Splurge on Countertops
Choose your counter tops wisely. They are one of the first things a person will notice and the number one splurge you should make in your kitchen remodel. Formica covered in laminate will be a huge turn off to any potential buyers. Instead go all out on granite, marble, or quartz. This is especially true for highly visible and utilized surfaces, like your island.
Choose Midlevel Appliances
You are not compromising on a well-designed kitchen if you opt for perfectly good, middle-grade brands. The bells and whistles of top-of-the-line stoves and fridges will be tempting. Just remember very few people actually use all those special features. Also, appraisers and buyers rarely value high end appliances at anything close to the sticker price. If you are looking for the best ROI, then spend your money elsewhere.
Save on Cabinets
Often the biggest expense in a kitchen remodel is new cabinetry, especially custom cabinets. Sure, you will have a one of a kind kitchen with your exotic wood cabinets, but the cost for such things could be anywhere from $250 to $1,500 per linear foot. Fortunately you have so many options. The best way to save would be to keep your original kitchen cabinets if possible. Professional resurfacing and painting will make a huge difference. If you cannot salvage old cabinets, then opt for semi-custom or ready to assemble (RTA) cabinets at a lower cost per linear foot.
According to Remodeling magazine, $82,000 is the national average for an upscale kitchen makeover. A price like that is sure to bull you over. Fortunately our kitchen remodeling company in Fullerton, CA can provide a kitchen remodel at a fraction of the cost. With our help you can get the kitchen of your dreams at an affordable price.