By: HomeLight

A well-executed kitchen remodel increases home value. But it’s important for homeowners to clarify their project lingo so that contractors are on the same page about what they want, need and can realistically afford.

Sticking to a remodeling game plan is important, experts say, as adding extras can quickly inflate costs.

Building Permits

Many homeowners will choose to remodel their kitchen in order to upgrade their appliances and update the aesthetics of the space. However, this can be a costly endeavor and it’s essential to consider the various costs associated with your project.

Kitchen Remodeling Cost

Depending on your local laws, you may be required to obtain a building permit for your kitchen renovation. This is to ensure that all work complies with city regulations and safety standards. The permit process will include inspections at different stages, which can delay work and can add to your overall remodeling cost.

Be wary of any contractors who claim that their work does not require a permit, as this could be a sign of illegal and unregulated work. A reputable licensed contractor will be aware of local regulations and can handle all permits and inspections for you, saving you time and money. They will also be familiar with the permit application process and be able to provide you with guidelines and timelines.

Appliances

Many homeowners consider their kitchen to be the heart of their home. This is where families gather to share meals and memories with friends and loved ones. It is important to have the premier appliances available for this purpose. Upgrading to new, energy-efficient appliances is a great way to save money and protect the environment.

A new backsplash can add color and texture to your kitchen, while protecting the walls from stains and damage. It is a popular choice for kitchens that have countertops made from natural stone or quartz. Backsplashes cost around $1,500 for a small kitchen.

A complete upscale remodel costs between $50,000 and $100,000 or more, depending on the level of customization and luxury materials chosen. It includes custom cabinetry, top-of-the-line appliances, and premium flooring and countertops. Although these upgrades may improve your kitchen’s resale value, it is important to prioritize features that reflect your culinary tastes and lifestyle. For example, you might want a coffee machine that can make espresso or a steam oven that can cook food with less heat and moisture.

Repairs

If your kitchen is outdated, a remodel can give it a fresh look and feel. It can also bring it up to current safety standards (like adding circuit interrupter outlets), improve the flow of traffic, and add more storage space for your knick-knacks and secret ingredients. Plus, newer appliances are more energy-efficient, resulting in lower utility bills and savings over time.

Demolition is expensive, especially if the walls being removed are load-bearing. Removing these types of walls will require more labor, materials, and permits. In addition, hauling away the old materials and appliances can cost up to $50 per hour or more depending on how much space you need for them. You can cut this cost by splurging strategically on items that will make the biggest impact in your new kitchen, and then choosing more cost-effective options throughout the rest of the project. For example, you may want to invest in a high-quality range and splurge on a unique counter or backsplash but save on things like cabinet doors, flooring, and lighting fixtures.

Storage

A kitchen remodel is a huge project and not something homeowners want to take on without the help of a professional. While some DIYers try to mitigate the costs by trying to do part of the work themselves, this often jeopardizes the whole project. It’s best to leave any work involving plumbing, electricity, and gas lines to a licensed contractor.

Storage is a key consideration during the remodel process, as kitchens are home to a lot of things that cycle in and out of use. Getting the space organized is vital to making sure everything has a place. A few simple tricks, such as adding dividers to deep drawers, can make them more useful.

When evaluating what you want to add to your kitchen, take the time to visit showrooms and home renovation stores. This will give you a good idea of what’s available, as well as how much it will cost. You can also take a look at neighborhood homes to see how the kitchens are designed and laid out.

Published by: Holy Minoza