Kitchen Remodeling on a Budget: Tips & Ideas
Invest in the most popular room of your home - the kitchen. Whether you’re selling or simply want to upgrade, here are some simple tips and ideas to get you started without breaking the bank:
- Set a budget! Know what upgrades will give you the most value for your money and do your best to stick with your budget.
- Plan ahead. Find patterns, colors and textures that you like from magazines, home improvement stores and the Internet. Put them in a folder for quick reference.
- Tackle one project at a time to insure you don’t get overwhelmed or over-your-head.
Step-by-Step Guide on Kitchen Remodeling on a Budget:
Cabinets
One of the easiest on most cost effective ways to upgrade is to paint or stain your cabinet doors and add new hardware. This will make one of the biggest impacts since cabinets usually compose the greatest surface area of a kitchen. Take a door into your local home improvement store and ask for professional advice if you aren’t comfortable making the choice on your own.
Kitchen Counter Tops
Granite isn’t always the best investment for every home, not to mention it can be expensive. You can opt for concrete or granite overlay. Do your research to find what suits your budget, best style, and greatest return on investment.
Kitchen Floor
Bring home samples of flooring based on your style and budget before making a final decision. Keep in mind that many real estate professionals agree that a kitchen remodel splurge should be saved for the countertops and not the floors. You want to make sure you get great value from any upgrades you do.
Saving Money on Kitchen Appliances
Big box stores have great deals on appliances that are gently scratched or dented. Only buy if the appliances aren’t working correctly or completely throw off the other upgrades. If your appliances are in good working order and match in color and style, save your budget for more beneficial upgrades. You can also give your appliances a new, fresh look with paint. Look into having it done professionally or purchase appliance paint at your local home improvement store.
Kitchen Lighting
Lighting can be a simple and cost effective way to completely upgrade the kitchen. With most kitchens wired for overhead lighting, a new chandelier can make a big difference. There are options for less than $150! To make an even bigger impact, be sure to install a dimmer switch. You’ll be surprised what a difference a little “mood lighting” can make.
The options are endless for remodeling your kitchen on a budget. The hardest part is deciding which upgrades will make the biggest difference on the smallest budget. Just be sure to do your research and to set realistic goals. When its all done, step back, and enjoy your style and budget savvy results!
