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BackSmart Kitchen Remodeling: Maximize Value on a Budget11/01/23

We’ve all been caught in the constant scroll of “dream kitchen” posts. You know, the dreamy and gorgeous kitchens you see on Pinterest, DIY remodeling videos that make it all seem so easy, and even the before and after pictures that make your jaw drop. However, when we snap back to reality, we know that remodeling the whole kitchen can be expensive, time-consuming, and probably something you should leave to the professionals.

We want to provide some ideas for smart kitchen remodeling updates. This will allow the homeowner to maximize the resale value of your home when the real estate market is so competitive, all within your budget. Let’s get to know those ideas before you start planning for your kitchen remodeling. 

Upgrading Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets occupy most of the area of your kitchen. They can be utilized in many forms, including closed off and hidden, or without doors to showcase your minimalistic vibe.  As many kitchen remodels are now optimizing open-shelving, home remodeling companies still recommend updating your kitchen cabinets during the remodel to some capacity. To upgrade the cabinets, you can recolor them to a pleasing neutral color, or even add a pop of color. The soft colors are more popular to make the space feel more warm and inviting, but the pop of color is also fun and adds personality! 

Along with the color, there are different types of finishes that can change the vibe of the kitchen cabinets. You can also replace the cabinets or the handles with more beautiful ones. Many options to consider that will make a huge difference in the overall appearance of the kitchen. 

Upgrading Countertops

If you want a luxurious look to your kitchen, then you must update the countertops to something more aesthetic. There are many options, like using marbles, quartz, or other natural stones. These countertops are easy to clean and economical, yet they provide a lavish look to your kitchen. Countertops can certainly be the center-point of your kitchen remodel, as many of the residents prepare food, serve food, or relax around the countertops. Usually, people like white stones more as they look bright and make the space feel bigger. Check out this article on the 33 Best Types of Kitchen Countertops, which provides an option, look, and feel for all budgets and home styles. 

Upgrading Appliances

Outdated and poorly functioning appliances can make your kitchen feel out-dated, and is frankly inefficient. Among many reasons, it’s important to upgrade the kitchen appliances while remodeling to get the biggest bang for your buck. You can resell the old appliances and buy more cost-effective, eco-friendly appliances that can help you save money. You may need to spend more to upgrade those appliances at first, but in the long run, they’ll maximize the kitchen’s value. Aside from the aesthetics of new appliances, technology changes so quickly that homeowners want to have the “latest and greatest” so updating appliances is one way to stay in the game. 

Smart Kitchen Remodeling Maximize Value on a Budget

Upgrading Flooring

Flooring isn’t typically the main focus area of your kitchen, but it’s not less important when remodeling. The flooring can also be used to accent the countertops, island, or color palette. The floor used during a kitchen remodel should be durable, easy to clean, and natural looking. The flooring should be installed properly so the appliances are balanced, floor won’t squeak, and there are no uneven spots. 

Upgrading the HVAC system

It’s a good cost-saving idea to upgrade your HVAC system, specifically the kitchen system, to an eco-friendly system. You can resell the old HVAC system at a good price and get an energy-efficient HVAC system. HVAC systems not only cost less than the fuel system, but they also save a lot of money while operating.

Lightings

Lighting is very important for a kitchen renovation, because it will affect the colors and overall vibe. From can lighting to chandeliers, some lighting can be both functional and stylish; so it’s important to select the best option for your space. In addition, there are many lighting options to choose from on a budget, so look around before jumping into a purchase.

Backsplash

Many older kitchens don’t have any backsplash or sometimes have cheap contact paper that doesn’t look so good. But backsplashes can actually increase the value of your kitchen if you install a quality backsplash. A quality backsplash doesn’t have to be an extremely expensive purchase, so a kitchen remodeling project shouldn’t allocate a large portion of the budget on this. A new backsplash can make the kitchen look complete and full, and anyone visiting the kitchen will sense that the kitchen is well-maintained. 

RELATED: Where to start and stop your backsplash

kitchen island remodel Adding a Kitchen Island

A kitchen island is a popular feature because it comes with so many benefits, along with upgrading the look of the whole kitchen. It’s a kind of space that brings people’s attention while making the kitchen look bigger. Though you shouldn’t add an island to a small kitchen.

However, the island can be good storage for appliances and other products. You can hide power outlets inside the island. And you can do food prep and serving on the island counter.

Adding a Multipurpose Work Area

There is another way to maximize kitchen value while remodeling on a tight budget. You can make a multipurpose work area in the kitchen by adding a desk area where you can utilize the space for your work from home responsibilities. You can then flip it to food prep.  Also, another great use of the space is having kids use the space to do their homework while their parents can cook and supervise them. 

Additional Storage

The kitchen is a space that can always use more storage. There’s never enough room for your cutlery, Tupperware, bowls, cookware, and appliances, however the goal is always to remove the clutter from your countertop. That’s why you need to make some additional storage during your kitchen remodel. Some ideas are storage under the island, blind corners, shelving, etc. These storage units can add more value to your kitchen, and tidy up the clutter.

Declutter

Speaking of clutter, if you like watching DIY home improvement videos, then you must’ve seen how those people get rid of old materials by destroying them with hammers. Don’t just follow everything they do! You can certainly declutter and donate. 

You can carefully remove the old cabinets, countertops, flooring, appliances, or any other materials and list them for resale. It will bring you some good money that you can use to improve your kitchen more without spending raw money. So, it’s a good way to maximize the kitchen renovation value on a budget.

Other Ways to Save Costs

  • Avoid changing the structural system and layout of the kitchen if you want to save money.
  • Don’t buy kitchen renovation products online; it’s best if you see and buy them in person.
  • If you’re unable to pay for the remodeling process but it’s an emergency to finish the project soon, you can consider getting home renovation loans or a second mortgage and repaying them over time.
  • Don’t do midway changes while remodeling the kitchen.

Kitchen remodeling doesn’t have to be a complex job if you can plan out the renovation process and budget beforehand. Some people may advise that you can save a lot by DIYing everything. But unless you’re an expert on DIY, you shouldn’t try doing everything; otherwise, it’ll be a mess and cost you a fortune. If you’re in the Kansas City area and want to consult with a design and build company, reach out to Wineteer for a free estimate. Not all home remodeling projects fit within the DIY scope, so knowing and trusting a top kitchen remodeling company can save you money in the long run. 

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