- Set Your Budget
Before you start planning, decide whether a low, medium or high end kitchen remodel makes the most sense. Costs can range from $2000 for a simple upgrade to $50,000 if you’re installing expensive countertops and luxury appliances. Knowing your neighborhood will help keep you from overspending and help determine if you may get your investment back.
- Avoid An Identity Crisis
Don’t try to remodel a 50’s ranch-style kitchen into a contemporary cook space. Work with your architectural style, not against it. You will be spending too much time and money on a complete overhaul, and you’ll end up with a kitchen that looks like it belongs in someone else’s home.
- Keep Up With Trends
By staying on top of the latest technological trends and improvements, you may be able to find less expensive, more eco-friendly versions of the hottest looks.
- Don’t Move The Plumbing!
Moving water and gas lines to accommodate your remodeling is extremely costly, especially in older homes.
- Consider Your Floor Plan
If you are rearranging your appliances, make sure to keep your floor plan in mind. Does it follow the natural traffic pattern between the refrigerator, stove and oven? Is the dishwasher next to the sink?
- Don’t Mismatch Appliance
When buying new fridges, ranges and dishwashers, stick with the same brand if possible. Fortunately many appliance manufacturers offer good looking, low priced matching sets. You can find affordable appliances that look very high end and when they all match, you get a designer look for much less.
- Don’t Forget To Budget For Sinks And Fixtures
Get the best possible faucet, one with a pull out spray attachment or a gooseneck with detachable head. It’s a necessity and the difference between good and great is only $50 – $75. Stick to one consistent fixture finish since mixed finishes can look like patch work.
- Take Advantage Of Free Advice
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