Kitchen remodeling is a big, yet worthwhile, investment: in most cases, homeowners can expect to recoup over 100% of their renovation costs when selling their property.
That means you get to enjoy a beautiful new kitchen that will eventually pay for itself when you put your home on the market.
But besides being a big investment, a kitchen remodel can also require a lot of time and planning. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, and you may have no idea where or how to start.
If you need some guidance for your kitchen remodel, follow these six basic steps to get the kitchen of your dreams.
1. Find Inspiration
You know your kitchen is outdated, but you may not know exactly how you want to update it.
That’s why it’s so important to find inspiring examples to model your renovation after. For kitchen remodel ideas, there are several helpful sources to help you get started.
You can find countless images of kitchens online by doing a quick internet search. Builders’ websites can also offer high-quality and detailed photos of remodeled kitchens. For some inspiring ideas, check it out here.
Aside from online sources, you can also find examples of new kitchens in books, catalogs, and magazines.
You can also turn to people in your own life, considering what you may like about your friends’ or loved ones’ kitchens. Then, you can ask them for recommendations for when it comes time to choose companies and contractors to work with.
2. Make a List
Now that you have some ideas, it’s time to list and draw out exactly what you want.
Note features and qualities that you liked about the kitchens you were drawn to. List exactly what you need and what you’d like to avoid.
It’s helpful to look at your current kitchen, thinking about exactly what you want to change or upgrade. Consider what appliances need upgrading, what styles are starting to look dated, and what aspects of your kitchen’s design lack function.
In addition to your list, it can also help to sketch a picture of your ideal kitchen.
And when possible, write down any measurements of countertops, floorspace, and anything else that may be useful for contractors. That way, discussing your ideas with the professionals will go smoothly without any confusion.
3. Create a Budget
Most people don’t have an endless amount of money to spend on a kitchen remodel. And your budget will make a major difference in what you can and can’t afford.
If your budget is tight, you may only be able to handle a small kitchen remodel. It’s important to know the actual costs of your renovation and how much you’re realistically able to set aside.
Then, you can compare your wants with the limits of your budget. If your budget doesn’t have enough room for everything on your list, narrow it down to the essentials.
You may be able to save extra money later for additional kitchen updates.
4. Contact the Professionals
In most cases, you can’t turn your kitchen dreams into a reality without help from the right professionals.
There are a lot of components that make up a functional kitchen, each requiring their own team or specialist. Don’t overlook the need for a plumber, electrician, and gas specialist.
You may have plans to DIY most of the kitchen remodeling process. But it still helps to have a licensed contractor to offer support and to ensure your renovation is safe and smooth.
When contacting contractors, discuss your ideas thoroughly, as well as your budget. Then, compare the costs and quotes they offer. The lowest offer isn’t always the best; it’s imperative to choose people who are experienced and trustworthy to create the kitchen you want.
5. Prepare for Demolition
Before you can create a new kitchen, you’ll have to get rid of your old one. Demolition day is the day when your old kitchen materials are demolished and removed, making space for your new counters, cabinets, and flooring.
You may attempt to take care of demolition yourself. Keep in mind that it’s a big, physical job, and you must be prepared to dispose of any trash including countertops, appliances, and other large items you’re planning to replace.
Many homeowners will opt to hire a professional demolition and dismantle service with demolishing their kitchen. In this case, you can choose to remain in the house, or you can leave for the day. If you stay at home, remember that you won’t be able to use your kitchen at all during the day. Food should be stored in a separate room, and cooking will be out of the question.
After demolition is done, depending on the agreement you have with your contractors, you may be required to clean up the room after. This can make it easier for the next crew to come in and rebuild your kitchen.
6. Start Your Kitchen Remodeling
Finally, your kitchen is ready to be remodeled.
This may take place during the same day as your demolition, or it may start the following day. This is when you or your hired team will start putting your kitchen back together.
New countertops and cabinets may be installed, along with new flooring. You may also get new paint (which may require you to leave the house to avoid inhaling fumes) or wallpaper, new backsplash, and other updates.
Then, a plumber and electrician will ensure that new plumbing and wiring connections are safe and secure.
The entire process can take only a few days or even several weeks, depending on your kitchen remodel plan.
Upgrade Your Home With an Inspiring New Kitchen
Kitchen remodeling is expensive and time-consuming. But it all pays off in a beautiful new kitchen and a boost in home value.
If you’re thinking of remodeling your kitchen, refer to these basic steps to help you stay on track with creating the kitchen of your dreams!
For more ways to boost home value, read our latest articles on real estate!
