Remodeling your kitchen is an exciting time. From choosing new appliances to putting the final touches on your new cabinets, the result is often the room you’ve dreamed of since you first moved into your home. However, before you dive headfirst into your remodeling project, it is important to consider several aspects of the project. Doing so ensures your remodel goes as smoothly as possible.

Kitchen Remodel: 4 Things to Consider Before Remodeling Your Kitchen

The Size of Your Space

If your kitchen is very small and you need more space, think if there is a way to create some extra space. If not, consider other options for making the most out of a small space. Look for hidden areas to add storage, such as putting a slide-out pantry between the wall and the refrigerator or creating a hidden sponge storage unit where the fake drawer used to be in front of your kitchen sink. You can also save space by hanging hooks to hold pots and pans or adding a place to secure your microwave to a wall instead of housing it on the counter.

Kitchen, Glenbrook
Seacoast rustic modern kitchen

How Much Cooking You Do

Are you remodeling your kitchen because you genuinely need a more functional space to cook in or because you want something shiny and new? If you only cook one or two nights per week, chances are you don’t need to spend a lot of money on top-of-the-line appliances. However, if you are an avid cook or baker, higher-quality appliances are more likely to stand up to years of creating your favorite recipes before they need servicing or replacement.

Whether You Plan to Sell

Much like fashion, the remodeling world often follows trends in the form of non-traditional appliances, unique cabinet finishes, or ultra-modern wallpaper patterns or paint colors. If you love the trend and plan to live in your home for many more years, feel free to go for it. However, if you plan to sell your home or think you may decide to sell within a few years, stick to more traditional designs. Creating a neutral space makes it easier for potential buyers to picture living in your home and is more likely to get you a bid than if you had turquoise walls or a triple oven.

Kitchen remodel

Your Budget

As with any big project, consider your budget. Decide how much you can afford before you even begin to design your dream kitchen and then add about $3,000 to it to cover any unexpected costs. Create a list of three needs and three wants for your space. Pay for the needs first and use any leftover funds to cover the wants.

If your budget is relatively low, avoid remodels that would involve moving plumbing or otherwise changing the basic layout of your kitchen, as these projects are usually much more expensive. It is also important to ensure you work with a reputable contractor to avoid having to pay to fix mistakes down the road. If you’re still anxious to jump the gun on a big project, consider checking out savings accounts with great rates that build interest over time. This can give you more cash in the long run.

Remember, while remodeling your kitchen is a fun experience, it is also a big job. It is important to take your time and do your research during the planning process. By avoiding making hasty decisions, you are sure to love your new kitchen for years.

When did you last remodel your kitchen?

*The unedited kitchen image is designed by Freepik.