Even the most cursory viewing of home improvement shows, has reinforced the mantra; kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. What the shows don't tell you, is how to get the most bang for your buck. Too often, the homes featured, showcase budget busting kitchen improvements. Sure, the kitchen is arguably the most important room in the home. But most people don't have seventy five thousand dollars to spend on hand made cabinets, commercial grade appliances, and overpriced counters.

So where should homeowners invest their money, when it comes to the kitchen remodel? Well, here are seven do's and dont's to follow:

Open The Kitchen- Open the kitchen as much as possible. Any changes that can make the kitchen more accessible to the rest of the home is  a benefit. This can mean knocking down walls, raising ceilings or cutting holes in walls that open to a living or dining area. Open living is not a trend, but a permanent change to how we live in our homes.

You Aren't Emeril Lagasse- Don't pretend to be. The commercial refrigerators, huge ovens and gigantic vent hoods are totally unnecessary. Chances are, you aren't cooking for dinner parties on a regular basis. And here's a tip- most chefs don't have these appliances in their own homes. Now, a luxury homeowner may want these items. But ninety percent of the population, will do just fine, with some nice, well thought out purchases.

Lighting Is Key- This applies to the entire home. But kitchen lighting is so important because it is a gathering place. The money that is saved on overpriced appliances, can go in to putting glass or windows wherever possible. Add recessed lighting and stylish hanging lights.

Never Pay Retail- With the internet, uber competitive big box stores, and stores dedicated to kitchens, there is no reason to pay high prices for cabinetry, appliances and fixtures. Moreover, many states offer tax free weekends for appliances once a year. Of course, most retail outlets run significant sales in conjunction with the tax break. That is the time to load up on those high dollar purchases.

Islands and Built in Desks- Are popular, because they make the kitchen multi funtional. Along with built in bookshelves, they give the kitchen an extra purpose. Also, they provide a good alternative to traditional storage.

Flooring- Can really change a kitchen.  A tile floor upgrade, brings a nice, strong, durable look to a kitchen. Adding hardwood flooring is also a new trend, that adds a touch of class. Just make sure that any flooring remodel, can withstand drops, spills, and lots of wear and tear.

Classic Cabinets- I tell clients, if there is one area you are going to push the budget. Do so on the cabinets. Spending on cabinets that will stand the test of time will pay off. While granite, slate and concrete counter tops may come and go, the well built cabinet is the highlight of a kitchen.