Home Remodeling Tips: Does Your Kitchen Need To Be Rebuilt?
Renovating the kitchen can sometimes be a very expensive home improvement project. For most homeowners, kitchen renovation plans start with setting a budget, and unless you have a lot of money to spend, it’s important that the project comes as close to that budget as possible. But how can you do that? Well, as long as your budget is realistic to begin with, there are a few steps you can take to make sure you don’t experience a home renovation budget breakdown that breaks your back and tears your guts.
If you have a plan, stick to it
This may seem obvious, but a big part of sticking to your budget is committing to it, which means staying true to what you originally planned and budgeted for. According to home design and renovation experts, people come up with a budget based on a particular set of finishes, but in the end they fall in love with something much more luxurious and can’t resist. Obviously, those decisions can seriously derail a budget. For example, if you’ve budgeted for a mosaic backing instead of glass, choose to stick with mosaics. Likewise, if you’ve kept your plumbing costs down by leaving your sink and dishwasher in their original condition, don’t make the last-minute decision to move them across the room.
Get written quotes first
Get written quotes from trusted home renovation contractors – This is a crucial second step. Unless you know, and have it in writing, everything that is included in a quote from, say, an electrician, the final bill can sometimes come as a surprise. So make sure all of your traders know exactly what you expect from a job so they can quote accurately. Get all quotes in writing to avoid confusion and arguments when the job is complete.
Create a small contingency fund
It would also be wise to set up a small contingency fund, because it is almost impossible to take into account all the unexpected problems that can arise along the way. It is also a good idea to create a contingency fund in your budget. Many experts often advise clients to set aside an additional 10 percent of their total kitchen renovation budget as money that can be used if the unexpected comes up.
Stick to your original budget
Constantly remind yourself to only buy the appliances you have budgeted for. Also, if you’ve budgeted for inexpensive mid-tier appliances, don’t change your mind when shopping. Experts consider this to be a classic and novel way to blow the budget. It’s so easy to get carried away with a refrigerator or oven that’s a ‘better’ brand, looks fancier, or comes with more bells and whistles than you’ve budgeted for, but be strong because more expensive appliances can literally add thousands more to the expense of your kitchen. Create a shopping list first to take with you when you go shopping for appliances and stick to it.
Most people start to take a look at the kitchen when they buy a house, because many see it as the most important room from the point of view of functionality and design. If you plan to sell your home in 3-5 years, focus on a small kitchen renovation that updates a few major areas, such as the cabinets and countertop. If you plan to stay 7-10 years, you may want to add appliances and some new tile.
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