Planning Your Budget

Budget is typically the first constraint that comes to mind when thinking about remodeling your kitchen. It’s essential to take the time to accurately calculate your budget at the start of the process. There are several factors to consider when planning your budget and a few things you can do to help your money stretch further.

Make a list of your costs.

To start with, you should try and come up with an estimate of your costs. Don’t worry about the total at this point, use this list as a rough idea of how much your ideal kitchen will cost. Take into account labor, materials, appliances, furnishings, and professional advice to ensure your budget is accurate.

Rank your priorities.

Now you have a rough idea of cost, it’s time to think about your priorities, that way you’ll be able to reconcile your dream kitchen with your budget. It’s crucial to make functionality a priority if you need a particular appliance— put that higher on your list of priorities than any stylistic aspirations.

Go for durability.

While cheaper materials make for easier reading on the budget sheet, high-quality materials offer value via durability. By the time you’ve replaced your inexpensive countertops, you’ll have spent a lot more than if you had gone for a more expensive material in the first place. If your budget allows you to choose long-term and durable solutions, you’ll be thankful in the long run.

Stick to the plan.

Once you’ve got a plan for your kitchen remodeling, stick to it as closely as possible. Any changes along the way can add up, and before you know it, you’ve exceeded your budget. If you take the time in the planning phase to come up with a comprehensive budget—be disciplined during the process to prevent spending more than you planned.

Recycle old appliances.

There are a few good ways to make your budget stretch that bit further, and recycling your old appliances is one of them. Some appliance companies will allow you to trade in earlier models for a discount on new ones. Equally, you can sell your second-hand appliances online. You can put the money you make back into your kitchen remodel to achieve your dream kitchen.

Prepare for unforeseen expenses.

In any house remodeling project, a contingency fund is essential, but this is especially true in the kitchen. The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house, and you must get it right. With a sum of money set aside in case you go over budget, you’ll be able to spend on a few extra features that matter to you. While it’s imperative to establish a budget and do your best to stick to it, a little money set aside could go a long way. And if the contingency fund goes unspent, you can through a great party in your new kitchen!