If you’re considering a full-scale kitchen remodel, you probably know it’s an extremely expensive project to tackle. The nationwide average hovers around $60,000. A modest kitchen remodel, in which the cabinets are left in place, still costs around $20,000, which doesn’t factor in issues and delays. Fortunately, there are ways to keep costs down. Here are eight great tips for developing your kitchen remodeling budget.
1. How long will you be in the home?
Do you plan to be there two to three years? Or do you plan to be there five to ten years? The number matters. If selling is a factor, focus on basic, clean cabinetry and new appliances. If you plan to stay longer, it’s more about personalizing the space and making it exactly what you want.
2. Evaluate the layout.
Do you want your kitchen to be open or closed? This answer will determine the layout and how it interacts with adjacent areas.
3. Don’t forget about pantry space.
Homeowners often forget about pantry space, which is necessary to store food, paper towels, and other home goods. Make sure to include pantry space in your plans.
4. Choose cabinets wisely.
With a kitchen remodel, you have to deeply understand how you live, cook, and organize things. It’s not all about what’s standard on the market. It’s about your preferences and what works for you. After all, your kitchen has to be functional.
5. It’s not all about name brands.
It’s more important to get the right dimensions for your space, instead of fancy, name brand appliances. Practical elements are really important if you’re on a budget.
6. Choose the right countertop material.
Trends change from year to year, so it’s more about the material you prefer. Do you want something aesthetically quiet? Something dark, light with grout lines, or something without grout? Do you prefer natural stone, or man-made materials? These are all things to consider.
7. Stay away from cheap hardware.
Your cabinets should last a long time. Since you open and close them hundreds of time a week, splurge on durable materials that looks good and will last.
8. Save on lighting.
Quality lighting is important, but from an investment point of view, it’s no longer a big deal. Most cabinets feature LED underlighting. And as for decorative lighting, there are plenty of unique options to choose from.