Research to Do Before Your Kitchen Remodel

When planning a kitchen remodeling project, the first step is to call a remodeling company, right? Maybe not. Before you start talking with the professionals, do some research so you’re in a good position to get make informed decisions with your remodeling professional.

Figure Out What You Want

Research the different options for flooring, cabinets, counters, and appliances. This will help you figure out what you do and don’t like. Be sure to check out the remodeling information and remodeling how-to sections of our website, where you can learn a lot of valuable tips, trends, and ideas for remodeling your kitchen.

Consider Resale Value

If there is a chance you’ll sell your home in the future, you want to make sure you’ll get your money’s worth out of the kitchen renovation. Buyers love remodeled kitchens, but they may not tend to like “trends,” so if you plan to sell, choose trendy items carefully. Try to make choices that will appeal to the widest range of searchers and perhaps save the bulk of your investment for high-end appliances you can take with you.

Plan for Your Retirement

If you don’t believe you’ll sell your home any time soon, make sure your kitchen remodel reflects YOU. Get the cabinets, flooring, and lighting you love. If you love skylights, make sure your remodeled kitchen has plenty of light. Whether you like bright colors, white cabinets, or dark wood, your kitchen should reflect your style, your style of cooking, and your family’s use of the room. Also think ahead and ensure the kitchen has room for mobility assistance tools, easy-grasp knobs and handles, or perhaps adjustable-height counter areas so everyone is comfortable working.

Review Financing and Budgeting

Remodeling your kitchen can fit almost any budget, so you should begin explore what money you’ll use. Should you pull from savings, sell stock, refinance your mortgage, or use a home-equity line? Each has advantages and disadvantages. Do a little planning on your own, but because each remodel is different, talk with a professional remodeler and your financial advisor to get the best advice.

Find a Professional Kitchen Remodeler

Ask friends and neighbors who they worked with on their kitchen remodel. Look at the companies’ websites, check out their Better Business Bureau ratings, and read Angie’s List reviews. Create a list of questions to ask to help you feel more comfortable with the company. If they give you the hard sell, pressure you, or ever make you feel uncomfortable, they are not the right contractor for you. Also check on their guarantee. The best company will go above the industry standard to keep your happy…and they’ll be the first company you call when it’s time to work on the bathroom renovation!