Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s value or upgrade the kitchen, smart planning is essential. Changing your mind during construction can cause delays, increased costs and hurt resale returns.
So if you’re thinking of remodeling your kitchen, here are five tips to help you stay on budget.
Create a Budget
Creating a budget can be one of the most challenging aspects of kitchen remodel planning. However, it’s important to remember a number from the start so the homeowner can stay on track throughout the renovation.
The homeowners’ preferences should be taken into account when setting the budget. For example, if they plan to entertain guests, they may want more high-end appliances than those just for everyday use. Likewise, they should consider whether they can recoup the remodel cost when selling the house.
Experts in kitchen remodeling Portland recommend leaving room in the budget for unexpected costs. They can include things like rotten floors or electrical that needs to be brought up to code.
Prioritize Your Needs
When remodeling your kitchen on a budget, it’s important to prioritize your must-haves over your nice-to-haves. Otherwise, you may find yourself going over your budget quickly.
The first step is to create a list of your must-haves and a separate list of your nice-to-haves. Next, determine what you want to change and how much it will cost. This will give you a better idea of what is within your budget range and what might be out of it.
Some things, such as moving plumbing, are extremely expensive and can quickly blow your kitchen remodel budget. However, other upgrades, such as under-cabinet lighting, are a relatively inexpensive way to improve functionality and enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic. It’s also possible to save on big-ticket items by shopping at thrift stores and buying used appliances.
Design Your Dream Kitchen
They remember that the kitchen is more than just a place to cook and store food. It is a place where families gather, kids do homework, and people can catch up with each other over coffee.
Think about how you use your kitchen and how it can be improved to make your life easier. For example, if you often have to hunt for your pots and pans, consider adding tray dividers to keep everything organized.
You are researching different kitchen styles to understand what you like best. You may want a modern, sleek look or something more classic and timeless. Once you have your wish list, it is time to start planning the details of your dream kitchen!
Hire a Contractor
You can save money by taking on kitchen remodeling projects yourself. However, suppose you’re altering the “bones” of your kitchen, such as knocking down or adding walls, changing plumbing fixtures or running new electrical wiring. In that case, this is a job for professional contractors.
A good relationship with your contractor is critical to keeping costs down and finishing on time. It’s also important to ensure you’re comfortable with your style and personality. Changing your mind during a project leads to change orders and delays, both of which drive up the cost of your remodel.
To avoid overspending, use a kitchen cost calculator, and shop at showrooms and home renovation stores for ideas, materials and appliances before making final decisions. You can also attend neighborhood home tours to see how other homeowners’ kitchens look and function.
Get Organized
A well-planned kitchen remodel is essential to keep costs under control. Creating a budget and identifying a contractor early will help avoid costly delays.
A budget-friendly kitchen remodel can include eye-catching features without blowing your entire renovation budget. Consider open shelving to display your favorite crockery or glassware and smart food storage solutions for a stylish, cost-effective look.
When designing your kitchen, remember that function comes first.. Consider how much storage you’ll need for your cookware, utensils, and pantry items. Don’t forget proper clearances for cabinet doors and drawers—you don’t want to end up with a large skillet or tall stock pot stuck in a corner!
