An outdated kitchen can not only be unsightly to look at; it can make cooking more difficult. You may long to renovate your kitchen to get it the way you want it. Before you begin, consider exactly what remodeling your kitchen will look like.
Consider the Cost – Literally!
Remodeling a kitchen is really expensive. Expect to spend anywhere from $20,000 for a minor remodel to over $100,000 if you’re going upscale. New cabinets carry the biggest cost along with installation of those items and others. Appliances are another big expense to prepare for.
What’s an even bigger dose of reality for kitchen remodeling is it doesn’t increase your home value equal to what you put into it. Expect to get about 60 percent back in resale value if you do it right. Make the wrong decisions on the updates, and you could recoup even less.
Consider the Cost in Other Ways
While financial expense is one of the major considerations for remodeling a kitchen, you also have to think about the cost to your time. Whether you’re doing the work yourself or overseeing it, you’ll be hands-on more than you might realize now.
Another cost to figure in is how much time you will lose your kitchen. How will you eat and function with that area closed off to you and your family? Will you set up a microwave in the garage, eat out every meal, or go to a friend’s house? This isn’t just for a day or two, but weeks or even months of not having access to your kitchen.
How Will You Use Your Kitchen?
Before you begin your remodel or even start making plans, consider how you will use this newly-remodeled kitchen. The answer to this question should determine everything else. If you like to cook and bake for big crowds or at least guests once or twice a week, you might want two ovens. If you like having your kids hanging out with you while you cook, a breakfast nook or island might be important. A larger freezer may be a requirement if you live on frozen dinners during the week.
Your Kitchen is One Part Beauty Two Parts Functionality
When planning the details for your new kitchen, you’ll want to be logical more than emotional. Practical should beat out pretty when it comes to the major components. Think about how you’ll use your countertops and cabinets rather than just what looks good. This doesn’t mean you’ll end up with an ugly kitchen. It just requires you to have a reason for your decisions. Put the pretty components in the details, like the backsplash or wall art.
Know Where and When to Cut Corners
If you’re trying to save a few dollars or stick to a budget, make sure you know when to cut costs and when not to skimp. For instance, the part that is unseen is often the most expensive but the most important. For instance, you may need to upgrade the electricity to handle more appliances. Don’t cut back in these areas. Instead, look at refurbished appliances or last season’s cabinets to save money.
If you’re feeling lost and overwhelmed at the idea of remodeling your kitchen, get professional help. Renovation Pros has years of experience in transforming outdated kitchens into a culinary dreamspace. Give them a call to make your dream come true.