If you are planning to remodel your kitchen in the near future, you need to consider your budget. The cost of remodeling is an investment, and it is best to budget at least 15 percent of the overall market value of your home. In case you can’t afford to spend that much money, you can cut off twenty percent of the budget and save it for unexpected necessities. You can also save money by upgrading hardware.
The first step of remodeling your kitchen is to get rid of the old appliances and materials. This may be hard physical work, but it is not complicated. You can even do it yourself if you have some knowledge of building. Once the old materials are out of the way, you can start planning the new layout of the kitchen.
While you can do the smaller projects on your own, you may want to hire a professional to oversee the project. You’ll save money by handling some of the work yourself and hiring subcontractors to help you out. But it’s still important to hire a professional to ensure the quality of the work and the safety of your home.
Another thing to keep in mind while remodeling your kitchen is the lighting. The right lighting can bring your dingy kitchen to life. You can install new lights or recessed lighting under the cabinets. You should allocate at least five percent of your budget for lighting. You should also consider changing the appliances to energy-efficient models. This will save energy and money, and the entire house will be more energy-efficient.
Kitchen countertops are another expensive part of the remodeling process. You can opt for granite, marble, or tile countertops, which are considered high-quality materials. However, if you’re on a budget, you can use inexpensive laminate or painted marine plywood for temporary countertops. After you’ve installed the countertop, install the sink and appliances.
The layout of the kitchen should reflect how items are used in the kitchen. If you have a breakfast table, it would be best if the breakfast items and bowls are close by. You should also consider adding shelves between the windows or in the corners of the kitchen. For more convenience, you can add shelves or drawers that contain books, magazines, or other items. Another important detail in the kitchen is the placement of the refrigerator. Make sure that it’s in a place where you can reach it without having to step near the stovetop.
In the long run, a new kitchen can improve the value of your home. A well-designed kitchen will attract potential buyers. Moreover, it will serve as an important space for your family for decades.