Whether your kitchen remodeling budget is tight or you simply want to be smart with your money, knowing how to plan a kitchen remodel is absolutely essential for getting the most bang for your buck. With many kitchen renovations costing upwards of $20,000, it’s a significant investment in your home and one that shouldn’t be taken lightly.
With that in mind, let’s look at some ways you can save money on a kitchen remodel but still end up with a stunning kitchen that’s both functional and beautiful. You’ll find that all it takes is some diligent planning and a focus on what truly matters.
How to Save Money on a Kitchen Remodel
#1: Hire a professional kitchen designer.
Wait, aren’t we talking about saving money and not spending more of it? Yes!
At first glance, you may think that hiring a pro to design your kitchen will cost more money than it’s worth. While it’s true that there is an up-front cost to utilizing the services of a kitchen designer, it will actually help you save money on a kitchen remodel in the long run. That’s because a professional has both the expertise and the experience to help you avoid expensive remodeling mistakes.
In addition, someone who designs kitchens on a daily basis knows exactly what will work and where it should go to meet your kitchen renovation goals. This will save you a lot of hassle and time. And, you know what they say … time is money!
#2: Determine your kitchen renovation goals.
One of the easiest ways to save money on a kitchen remodel (or any remodeling project, for that matter) is to do it right the first time. In order to do that, you need to decide exactly what you hope to achieve by renovating the room. There’s no sense in spending the time and money to create a beautiful space, for example, when it looks pretty but doesn’t meet your needs.
Think about how your space needs to be used. Will multiple people be cooking at the same time? Would it be helpful to have a kitchen island with bar seating so your child can do their homework nearby while you prep meals? Do you plan to entertain often?
These are just a few of the questions you should ask yourself while determining what matters most. When you know exactly what you must have, you’ll be able to make wise decisions when you have to choose between wants and needs in order to stay within your budget.
#3: Design with multiple uses and the future in mind.
Our clients are most satisfied with their kitchen remodel when they end up with a space that meets their needs now but will also do so in the future. For example, if you’re planning on having a family, it’s good to let that influence your kitchen design now. If you go with a kitchen built for two, you’ll be dissatisfied in a few years when you have several children who have to utilize the space, too. Save money on a kitchen remodel by planning ahead!
Also, think about how you will need to use the space in the very near future, such as during the holidays or when you entertain. If you normally only cook for two but frequently have guests, your kitchen size and design should reflect that. This includes not only the layout but also the appliances you choose. For example, you may want to opt for a larger cooktop to accommodate cooking for dinner guests.
#4: Make decisions based on value, not only on cost.
There are so many materials and products on the market these days that you may find it difficult which ones to choose. However, you can easily save money on a kitchen remodel simply by looking at the value these materials or products will bring.
For example, let’s say you’ve had your eye on a high-end dishwasher that cleans phenomenally and is also whisper-quiet. This product may be worth the extra money if you know it will save you time (no more pre-rinsing dishes!) or help cut down on noise since you have an open floor plan. For someone else, however, this product could simply be a luxury item and not truly add value to their everyday life.
It’s also helpful to think about how long you plan to live in your current home. If your kitchen remodel is simply a facelift so you can sell your home quickly, you can easily save money by just going with basic materials and appliances that aren’t top-of-the-line. In contrast, if this is your forever home, you’ll save money in the long run by getting what you want and need now (even if it costs a little more) versus having to replace it in a year or two because you skimped on price and quality.
#5: Evaluate function vs. beauty.
At Sea Pointe Design & Remodel, we always aim to help homeowners achieve both function and beauty with any remodeling project. Some of the materials that add the most beauty, however, are often also the most expensive. When cost is a question, it’s important to consider which is more important – the look the room will have with that product or material, or the functionality it will provide.
Orange County Kitchen Design and Remodeling
One word of caution for you as you begin to think about renovating your kitchen: Don’t focus so much on how to save money on a kitchen remodel that you don’t enjoy the process! Determining and then sticking to a remodeling budget is important but don’t lose sight of the end goal – the transformation of your current space into something you’ll love and enjoy now and in the future.
Are you ready to start planning your Orange County kitchen remodel? If so, the design-build team here at Sea Pointe Design & Remodel is ready for YOU. Simply give us a call at (949) 861-3400 or fill out the form below to schedule your complimentary design consultation. You can also join us on May 5, 2022, for the Ultimate Kitchen Design & Remodeling Webinar where you’ll learn the must-have kitchen design and remodeling knowledge to proceed feeling confident.