Remodeling your kitchen can seem like a gargantuan task to undertake, but the benefits for your home are huge. In terms of resale value, a newly, well-done kitchen makes a huge difference to the appeal and overall price. This investment can be a lengthy and expensive process, so take a look at the following dos and don’ts to ensure your remodel is a financial and aesthetic success:
Don’t DIY It
Remodeling a kitchen or bathroom is a very different task from say redecorating your bedroom. A kitchen is a functional space, and an incorrectly designed one can cause hell in the future. Professional designers can anticipate your needs and create a layout that works.
Do Your Research
This is one of the most important steps in the remodeling journey. You need to ensure the designers and contractors will do the very best, whilst also giving you a fair price. Use the internet to look around, find previous examples of work and customer reviews. You can ask contractors for references if need be. When it comes to designers meet with a few and discuss ideas so you can figure out who matches you best in terms of style.
Do Think Carefully About the Space
The aesthetics of a room are always important, but you need to think how you and your family use a space. Islands are a fashionable choice for kitchens nowadays, but you have to figure out the logistics and if it fits with your lifestyle. Is the kitchen a place for everyone to commune? Do you often have dinner parties and need preparation space? Do two of you often cook together? Do you like to use lots of modern appliances? Do you need materials that clean easily? At the forefront of your mind should be functionality and you need to figure out your habits in order to create a room which complements them.
Do Plan Ahead
Before meeting designers, ensure you have a diagram of a current layout of your kitchen (size/windows/doors etc.), an idea of styles and color palettes and a list of goals for the room. Do you want to create more space? Do you need more storage? Do you want more preparation areas? If you have all of this clear in your mind, the designer will help incorporate all of your ideas in a way that works for that space.
Don’t Under Budget
Unfortunately remodeling a kitchen is not the cheapest project to undertake. You need to look at it as in investment – you use this space every day so it’s important that it gets done correctly. During the beginning of the process, create a budget and then add 10% for unforeseen expenses to be on the safe side. Stick to your pre-calculated budget as best you can.
Don’t Rush
The design and planning process takes time, and planning is an imperative part of the process. The last thing you want is cabinet doors that don’t open without hitting one another or a sink in an incorrect place. This same rule applies to contractors and designers; if the one you really want is busy then wait.
Do the Paperwork
When getting a quote from a contractor, ensure to get it in writing with all the details for future reference. Keep all your receipts/contracts together for tax reasons, and if you choose to sell your home you can use these as evidence of the kitchen’s value.
