Kitchen Remodel – Should You Go Big or Go Small?

When looking at making home renovations, most homeowners will tell you that their dream renovation is a kitchen remodel.

When looking at making home renovations, most homeowners will tell you that their dream renovation is a kitchen remodel.  The kitchen is not just the heart of the home but it is where most families spend a significant amount of time and where people tend to congregate during parties and gatherings.  A good kitchen remodel can revitalize a home and add significant value.  There is no “one way” to implement a kitchen remodel, every home is different and the needs in a kitchen remodel vary dramatically.  Some homes are calling out for a complete gut while others just need minor updates to make it a magazine-worthy kitchen.  While a total overhaul may sound fun, it can be quite expensive and may not be necessary.  When setting out to undertake a kitchen remodel you first need to determine what the appropriate scale remodel is for your home.

When you begin a kitchen remodel the first thing you should do is determine a budget.  Not other planning will be of much consequence if you have not yet determined a budget.  Once you have your budget set you can begin to make plans accordingly.  Small scale kitchen remodels can be achieved in the $5,000 – $10,000, though this will certainly be a bare bones remodel.   You may be able to refinish cabinetry, replace hardware, update appliances or change out countertops – but not all.  For a small budget it is best to focus on what will make the biggest impact and focus the majority of your budget on that.  For slightly larger budgets between $10,000 – $25,000, much more can be achieved.  Consult your contractor to determine what can be done and where they think your money is best focused but do not forget to take into account your own personal taste and desires for your kitchen.  For this range budget you may be able to get some new pre-fabricated kitchen cabinets and replace countertops.  Depending on pricing, if there is extra you may consider updating appliances and lighting as well.  If you have good cabinetry that is a bit outdated and want to focus the majority of your budget on other things consider simply refinishing or re-facing your cabinetry to give it a much needed update for much less than purchasing new cabinetry.  For kitchen remodels in the range of $25,000 – $50,000 (and beyond) you can most likely do a complete kitchen remodel and may even be able to purchase custom cabinetry depending on the size of your kitchen and specific tastes.  Keep in mind a complete kitchen remodel can quickly and easily reach $100,000 so it is critical that even with a complete remodel that you remember to adhere to your budget.  There are two main factors that will determine what scale kitchen remodel is appropriate for your home – budget and condition of kitchen.  If you have the budget and the desire to do a complete remodel of your kitchen it can add significant value to your home.  But, if you have a lower budget and a kitchen that is already in relatively good shape, you can achieve a smaller scale kitchen remodel that will still add value but remain more budget friendly.  Lastly, it is important to factor in the neighborhood and value of your home.  It is wise to invest a proportionate amount of money in your remodel to the value of your home.  If you own a $200,000 home, a $75,000 kitchen renovation would not be able to provide you with proper return on your investment.  A beautiful kitchen remodel can be achieved on any budget with the right contractor or handyman for the job.