A kitchen remodel is an investment of both time and money, but the results are worth it. As the hub of your home, the kitchen should help you and your family get the most out of your day. If it doesn’t, then it might be time for a kitchen renovation. Before embarking on this type of remodeling project, what are the first things you should be thinking about and considering during the planning process? Read through our checklist of seven things to do as you plan to remodel your kitchen.
Determine what budget you’ll have for your remodeling project
When it comes to budgeting for a kitchen remodel you might not know where to start. A good estimate for the cost of remodeling a kitchen in our area would be 15-25% of your home’s value. This calculation will give you a ballpark range for a basic pull-and-replace project at about 15% to a full redesign at 20+%. Because kitchens are such an important part of the home, it makes sense to make this investment. You’ll often get a significant return on your investment through an increase in home value after your kitchen is remodeled. And, remodeling well before you plan to move will allow you to enjoy the new space, and the investment you’ve made.
Why is budgeting for a kitchen so important? There are a lot of decisions when it comes to designing your kitchen. With so many changes to plumbing, electrical features, and the structure of the room, pre-planning is the best way to avoid mistakes and exceeding your budget. Sharing your budget with your designer is imperative so they can help you navigate through the selection process and help you decide on the important details or compromise features to keep the project within your budget. Your designer will help you select cabinets and tops, decide which appliances are best, and specify all of the other materials, down to hardware, countertop lighting, flooring, faucets, and fixtures. All of these products and choices come in a range of prices. Read our blog for more information about kitchen remodeling costs.
Research financing options to best pay for your renovation
As noted above, remodeling a kitchen is a significant investment. Make sure you look into financing options, such as home equity or construction loans, to be clear on your best options for paying for your renovation. Look for the best interest rates and if any options offer a tax credit. Also, look at the term of the loan and options for refinancing down the road.
Research designers and contractors online and check reviews
Do your research! Finding a good designer and a reputable contractor for your kitchen remodel is essential. You’ll want a contractor who communicates well with your designer designer so they can work as your team. Your team needs to collaborate to bring together your design style and materials selections. Your designer may have contractors they have worked with, or your contractor may have a designer they work well with- this is a great place to start your search.
Over the past year we’ve seen an increase in material costs of 15-50% and some items are backordered or can be hard to find for months. It is helpful to have an experienced team who can plan ahead, order and receive all of the materials, and stage your project schedule in order to complete the construction of your project in a timely manner.
Check reviews and references. The best way to get to know the contractor you’ll be working with is to read their online reviews and talk to references. Other people who have worked with them can give you insight into what it is like being their client.
Ask friends and family for referrals
You likely know someone who has gone through a kitchen remodel before. Ask friends, family, and neighbors for referrals. The people closest to you will give you their honest opinion of who to work with and who to steer clear from.
Compile a list of what you love/hate about your current kitchen
Start a list of things that you either love or hate about your current kitchen. Actually putting pen to paper will help you really think through what your ideal kitchen should have included. Think about things like:
- How is your traffic flow? Do you have bottleneck areas? Does foot traffic go right through your main work area?
- Do you have any wasted space? What types of things do you need to store that require dedicated space?
- If you had all the storage in the world, would you prefer to keep your counters clear or do you prefer to keep some things out and handy?
- Do you need more electrical outlets in certain areas for small appliances or a charging area?
- Do you need help staying organized? What type of items seem overwhelming when it comes to keeping organized and accessible?
- Is cleaning an issue in your current kitchen? What are your specific cleaning issues?
- Is seating a requirement in the kitchen? Is your current seating arrangement working as best it could for your family? What types of activities would you like to do at the seating area?
- Is the lighting in your kitchen sufficient? Do you need more task lighting? Would night lighting or ambient lighting help you travel throughout the space more safely?
Start a Houzz or Pinterest board to find inspiration and pick your design style
Once you have your pros and cons of your kitchen listed out, you can start thinking about your ideal design style. Would you prefer a clean contemporary kitchen or a cozier farmhouse style? Start looking around, browse kitchens on Houzz or Pinterest to create boards for what you like. You can also read blog posts, like ours, that help describe design styles and show examples of how that is incorporated into an actual kitchen remodel.
Make a list of unique, must-have kitchen design elements
While you’re browsing Houzz, Pinterest, or home magazines, also make a list or board filled with any unique elements you love. These are items that would add character and charm to your kitchen, and can often be easily incorporated into your kitchen design by your designer. Some of these design elements might include:
- Pot Filler, insta-hot, or filtered cold water
- Office nook or recipe station
- Enclosed knife or spice storage
- Pull-out trash and recycling cabinets
- A hidden drawer for pet bowls or a built in area for beds
- Under cabinet task lighting or ambient lighting overhead or in the toe area
- Built in or integrated refrigerator, paneled to blend into the cabinetry
- Beverage areas with dedicated under the counter refrigeration
- Floating shelves
If you have a unique need, we’d love to hear about it. We are always working with clients to incorporate particular features that will make their kitchen customized to their family.
Click here to tell us more about your ideal kitchen remodel. We will call you to discuss your vision, goals, and next steps for your project. We can’t wait to hear from you!
