Some of the big box building supply stores have talented people who will sit down with you to work up a plan for kitchen, bath, and even an addition renovation. Some of these individuals are truly excellent at this task and their experience allows them to create plans that most people would never think of. Make sure you show up with an accurate floor plan, showing all dimensions and proper placement of windows and doors.

The least expensive kitchen and bath renovation is one that stays within the existing footprint. If you have to tear down walls, re-direct pipes, etc., then costs will rise quite a bit. If you have to remove any walls, let them be interior walls. Changes to doors and windows in exterior walls are more costly.

The sky is the limit with kitchen remodeling. In some cases, granite counter tops alone can cost as much as an entirely new “builders grade” kitchen. A high end or top grade kitchen will often cost three times as much as a “builders grade” kitchen of the same size and layout.

You will have to make a number of choices when renovating a kitchen, so use a checklist and get started early. Make sure you are using materials that are in stock locally. If you have made your choices PRIOR to dealing with contractors, you may find that they are more willing to work with you. Many contractors become frustrated by homeowners who can not or will not make up their minds in tile choices, cabinets, or other personal style decisions. Schedules have to be adjusted, thus delaying the overall progress of the project.

Kitchen remodeling can have a high return in resale price, provided the “old” kitchen was outdated and the renovation is a dramatic improvement. Remodeling from a grade-C kitchen to grade-A will reflect a high return in investment. Conversely, if your current kitchen is a solid grade-B and you make it a grade-A, you will not get as much “bang for your buck”. In the end, however, peace of mind is priceless.