Introduction
You’re in the market for a new kitchen. You can’t wait to have your old countertops, cabinets, and appliances replaced with shiny new ones that are modern, easy to clean, and functional.
But before you start measuring the dimensions of your soon-to-be new kitchen, take a moment to do some research on how much it will cost you for a kitchen remodel.
Your budget will determine whether or not remodeling your current kitchen makes sense. If you have money that sits around in savings earning nothing every year while there’s an opportunity to invest in something worthwhile like a new kitchen—then go ahead and get started!
Kitchen remodel vs. renovation vs. expansion vs. makeover vs. redesign
You might be wondering: What’s the difference between a kitchen remodel and a kitchen renovation? And what about an expansion? Here’s what you need to know:
A kitchen remodel is when you’re adding new cabinets and appliances, while still keeping the existing layout and floor plan.
A kitchen renovation is when you’re tearing down walls, floors, and ceilings—and maybe the entire building—to build something entirely new.
A kitchen expansion is when you add onto your existing structure to make it bigger.
A kitchen makeover: is similar to a kitchen renovation but involves only cosmetic changes like paint or new lighting fixtures. This can be done in conjunction with a more extensive renovation if desired.
A kitchen redesign or update is when you’re looking for something completely different from what you have now—like an entirely new layout—then a kitchen re-design might be exactly what you need! You can change everything from the flooring to the appliances to the sink placement with this type of remodel.
Kitchen Updates: In many cases, homeowners will hire an architect or interior designer for small changes that don’t require replacing existing components. These include things like repainting kitchen walls or changing the layout of appliances in the space (like moving them around).
Reason to remodel your kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where you can express your style and personality, entertain guests, and prepare meals for your family. Remodeling your kitchen will increase its value to potential buyers and make it more functional for you!
If you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, here are some reasons to get started:
It will increase your home’s value.
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in any house and it’s typically the first room potential buyers see when touring a home.
If you’re planning to sell your home in the future, consider remodeling the kitchen first so that you increase your home value before you sell.
Benefits of remodeling your kitchen
New kitchen remodels are a great way to change up your home and give it a fresh look. But they’re also a good investment because they can increase the value of your home by up to 20%!
How to know when it’s time for a kitchen remodel and which type?
When is it time for a kitchen remodel? If you’re unsure, here are some signs to look out for.
If your kitchen is falling apart, it may be time for a remodel. Consider the condition of the cabinets, flooring, and appliances. Are they in good shape? If not, there are likely more expensive repairs on the horizon.
Do you want to change the style of your kitchen? Are you tired of looking at that dated tile backsplash and tile floors? A remodel could help refresh your kitchen’s aesthetic and bring it into the 21st century.
Do you need more storage space or counter space in your kitchen? Maybe you’ve had to move everything out of the pantry, so there is room for your new refrigerator during a renovation project. Or maybe there aren’t enough drawers in your kitchen cupboards to organize your belongings. A full remodel could give you enough room to add a pantry or reorganize some of those cabinets!
You have trouble cooking in your current space—maybe there’s not enough room for everything or the layout isn’t conducive to the way you cook (e.g., if you’re constantly bumping into things).
You may not have broken appliances yet, but your appliances are old and starting to break down more often than they should—this can be a sign that they need replacing as well.
You’re renovating your entire house, but there are still parts of your kitchen that look outdated or unappealing (e.g., if it doesn’t have a modern look or feel).
Planning Your Remodeling Budget
To get an idea of what your particular project might cost, consider these factors:
What kind of kitchen will you have? If you’re looking for a completely new kitchen that includes cabinets and energy-efficient appliances, it could add up to $35K or more. But if you want to update your countertops or replace your faucet, it’ll be less than half that amount.
Do you want custom cabinetry or prefabricated cabinets? If you’re going with prefabs, expect to pay between $1K-$3K per cabinet—and this isn’t including installation costs!
Custom options are pricier but more durable and energy-efficient over time because they’re built to fit your space perfectly instead of being mass-produced overseas before being shipped here with imperfections like misaligned doors and drawers that don’t close properly due to poor quality control standards (which can happen).
The average cost of a kitchen remodel is roughly $24,000.
The average kitchen remodel cost is roughly $24,000, but that doesn’t mean you should expect to shell out the same amount. The exact number will depend on your project and how much work you do yourself. You can save anywhere from 20% to 50% by doing some of the work yourself, but it will still be a significant investment.
A DIY kitchen remodel can be significantly less than hiring a contractor because you won’t have to pay for their labor or materials (which are usually expensive).
However, if you’re not confident in your skills or don’t have the time for this type of project then we recommend hiring an experienced professional who will oversee everything from start to finish.
The cost of a kitchen remodel varies depending on many factors.
The number of cabinets you have will help determine the kitchen remodeling costs. A kitchen with many cabinets is more complicated to remodel than one without. If you have a small kitchen and want to keep it that way, consider removing some cabinets to open up the space and make it feel bigger.
The number of appliances you have in your kitchen also impacts its overall cost. Appliances tend to be expensive purchases, so if yours are outdated or broken, now is the time to replace them before beginning a large remodeling project that could cost hundreds or thousands of dollars more than usual if not done correctly.
The kitchen remodel cost will vary depending on your project’s size and the materials you choose. But here are some rough estimates for a few different types of kitchen remodel costs.
Types of kitchen remodels
Kitchen upgrades come in all shapes, sizes, and varieties, which is why there isn’t any exact typical kitchen remodel cost. Here are some of the kitchen remodeling costs associated with sized projects:
Small kitchen remodel: $2,000 – $10,000
A small kitchen remodel is a great way to refresh your space without completely overhauling it.
What does it involve? You can change the paint color, add new cabinets, or buy a new range and sink.
These changes will not only give you a fresh look and feel, but they’ll also help you get the most out of your kitchen space. You may find that once you’ve done these upgrades, you’re able to use your kitchen more often (and more efficiently).
What does it typically cost? A small kitchen remodel costs anywhere from $2,000-$10,000. If you’re only making one or two changes—like swapping out your countertops—then expect to pay between $1,000-$4,000 for materials alone and about $2 per square foot for labor.
Medium-sized kitchen remodel: $10,000 – $20,000
A medium-sized kitchen remodel is one that involves replacing your cabinets, countertops, and flooring (if you have wood floors). It also includes making any necessary updates to the plumbing fixtures, electrical wiring, and light fixtures. You’ll also likely need to install new appliances—that’s why we say this kind of remodel is best for those who want a new look for their kitchen without having to spend too much time or money on it.
What does it typically cost?
The average cost for a medium-sized kitchen remodel is between $10,000 and $20,000. This may seem like a lot at first glance, but keep in mind that this price range includes everything you need to get your dream kitchen up and running—and there are plenty of ways to save money while still getting what you want!
Complete kitchen remodel: $20,000 – $50,000
A major kitchen remodel typically includes tearing out all the stock cabinets and plumbing fixtures, installing new cabinets, installing new plumbing fixtures, replacing the flooring, and installing new appliances. It may also include adding things like a kitchen island or walk-in pantry or changing the whole kitchen layout.
Major kitchen renovations aren’t just about replacing old stuff with new stuff—it’s about making sure that everything works together well and has a cohesive aesthetic.
Upscale kitchen remodels can be as much as $150,000+
An upscale kitchen remodel or kitchen makeover is an interior renovation project that focuses on improving the aesthetics and functionality of the kitchen, while also maintaining its overall style. This can mean anything from installing new cabinets and countertops to redesigning the layout of a room or adding new high-end appliances.
The cost of an upscale kitchen remodel varies greatly depending on the work and materials used. In general, you should expect to pay between $50,000 and $150,000 for this type of project.
Depending on your budget, you may also want to consider hiring a designer or architect who can help with the planning process so that your kitchen remodel meets all your needs and stays within your budget.
Common costs
The bulk of the kitchen remodel budget is typically spent on installing new kitchen cabinets and countertops, which costs about $8,000 on average but custom cabinets will run you a bit more.
The second-most expensive part is usually the appliances, which cost about $4,000 on average.
Finally, a backsplash costs about $1,200 on average.
Is remodeling a kitchen worth it?
A kitchen remodel is worth the investment.
When you’re planning to sell your home, it’s important to consider how you will make your house more desirable to potential buyers. While some upgrades are necessary—like a new roof or upgraded plumbing—kitchens are also one of the most important rooms in a house and can make all the difference during buyer tours.
A good kitchen can make your home more comfortable and enjoyable to live in, which can translate into increased value when you go to sell it down the road. That’s why we always suggest remodeling or updating this space before listing a property for Sale!
Consider a DIY kitchen remodel
A DIY kitchen remodel can cost significantly less than hiring a contractor, but it isn’t for the faint of heart.
If you’re up for the challenge and have some time on your hands, you may save yourself some money by doing it yourself.
But if you’re pressed for time or don’t have any experience with home improvement projects, it might be better to hire someone else to do the work so that you can relax during this big change in your life.
Pros of a DIY kitchen remodel:
You’ll have more control over the design and materials used in your project
You’ll learn how to do basic construction work on your own
You’ll save money on labor costs
Cons of a DIY kitchen remodel:
It’s easy to underestimate how much time and effort will be involved in your project (this is especially true if it’s only your first time doing this kind of thing!)
You’ll need to invest in tools, supplies, etc., which can add up quickly (and maybe even exceed what would cost if you hired someone)
Ways to save money on your kitchen remodel
If you’re looking for ways to save money on your kitchen remodel, here’s a few tips:
Look for used appliances.
You can save money by shopping for scratch-and-Dent or used appliances or buying a display model at the end of the year.
If you’re looking to spend less than five figures, consider purchasing used or refurbished appliances. You can find great deals on Craigslist and eBay. But make sure you know who you’re dealing with before handing over any cash—scammers are everywhere!
Check out scratch-and-dent models at your local appliance store (or other retailers), but be prepared to pay up if they’re in good condition and not just scratched up. They may still be cheaper than buying brand new ones though.
Don’t skimp when it comes to cabinets or countertops.
You should never skimp on the cabinets, countertops, flooring, and lighting. Even if you choose the cheapest option for these items in your kitchen remodel budget, they will not last as long as they should. In fact, some of these things are built to last for a specific amount of time and then break down after that. This is especially true when it comes to kitchens because they see a lot of wear and tear every day!
Ensure all of your plumbing fixtures (faucets, sinks, and drains) are high quality and can withstand everyday use.
Consider hiring a handyman instead of an expensive contractor
Other jobs, such as installing cabinets and countertops, flooring, and lighting fixtures can be done by a handyman. You can save big money by hiring one of these professionals to do the work for you.
Consider renting a dumpster instead of hiring a trash removal service
If you are doing a total gut job and removing all of the contents from the space, renting a dumpster could be much cheaper than hiring someone else to haul away all those old cabinets, appliances, and flooring materials! Plus it saves time. You can fill up the dumpster yourself and then leave it at the site when you’re done working. That way, it’s picked up at no extra charge by your trash company (or whoever is hauling away your stuff).
There are a few more ways you can offset the cost of your new kitchen.
The first step to getting the best deal is to understand how the kitchen remodel process works.
Bargain shopping: If you’re looking for a discount on your kitchen remodel, then you’ll want to get quotes from at least three different contractors. This ensures that you have an idea of what’s out there and what it will cost before making any decisions about hiring a contractor.
Getting multiple bids: It’s important not just to get one quote for your new kitchen but rather several estimates from different contractors so that you can compare each one based on price and quality of workmanship.
Paying cash: Most contractors will offer significant discounts if their customers pay in full upfront instead of financing the project over time at their own credit risk (i.e., interest).
Financing options for a kitchen remodel
If you’re planning on doing a kitchen remodel, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. There are several different types of financing that can help you achieve your major remodel without breaking the bank. Here are some of the most popular methods:
Home equity loans or home equity line of credit (HELOC): With a home equity loan, you borrow money against the value of your home and use it for whatever purpose you choose. Home equity loans typically have lower interest rates than credit cards, personal loans or other unsecured loans. You can use a home equity loan to pay off high-interest credit card debt or make improvements to your home such as adding a pool or new deck.
Home improvement loans: A home improvement loan is designed to help homeowners finance home improvements that increase the value of their property. These loans are usually secured by the property itself, so if you default on payment there’s a risk that your lender could foreclose on your house. They may also require you to have enough equity in your home to qualify for one (20% or more), so be sure to check with your lender before applying.
Personal loan: A personal loan is an unsecured loan that doesn’t require collateral (like a car), so it’s easier than other types of loans to qualify for.
Credit card: This option is only really viable if you don’t have any other debts or a lot of cash on hand. Credit cards charge high-interest rates, so they aren’t ideal for long-term projects like this one. However, they can be helpful if you need a quick cash infusion while waiting for other financing options.
If you’re new to home renovation, figuring out the costs can be very confusing.
Find out how big your kitchen is.
First, figure out the square footage of your kitchen, which will determine the remodel cost. Most times a kitchen remodeling project is priced out per square foot.
A good rule of thumb is to budget 5 -10% of your home’s value for a kitchen remodel.
For example, if your home costs $200,000, then you can expect to spend between $10,000 and $20,000 on the project. This doesn’t include labor costs—which range from $15 per hour for an unskilled worker up to $60 or more per hour for a highly skilled professional—but these are usually covered by homeowners’ insurance policies in case something goes wrong during construction work.
Plus there are lots of ways these days besides hiring contractors that can help save money on labor costs while still getting high-quality results:
You should consider using friends instead—or even yourself! So don’t forget about those options before deciding whether or not hiring someone else would be worth it financially speaking.
Conclusion
The cost of a kitchen remodel depends on your budget, but there are ways to save money. The average cost of a kitchen remodel is roughly $24,000. While this may seem expensive at first glance, it’s important to remember that you’ll be spending many years in your new space and will likely recoup those costs in savings on food costs alone!
Leave a Reply