Many people believe that the kitchen is the most important room in a home.

Realtors often say that selling a home with a fantastic kitchen is much easier, and quicker, that selling a home with outdated kitchen cabinets, faded countertops, and worn-out hardware. Besides selling the house, a new kitchen makes your home feel more comfortable and livable.

Unfortunately, kitchen remodeling projects can be very expensive. According to Home Advisor, the average cost for remodeling a home is right around $20,000, with many projects going above $45,000!

However, with a little research, patience, and know-how, you can easily spruce up your kitchen for less than $20,000. We’d like to show you how…

It’s important to remember that prices will vary by contractor, retailer, manufacturer, geographic area, and more. This is simply a general outline for ways to keep the cost below $20,000, but you may find that prices are higher (or lower) depending on where you live and who you work with.

Appliances:
You may want to add a gorgeous stainless steel refrigerator and matching stove, but before you head to the department stores, browse online sources. You can shop for slightly used or even new appliances online. While you may not get the warranty of new appliances, you should find excellent deals on reliable equipment. Look at retail sites like Craigslist, Amazon, eBay, Overstock, and manufacturer’s sites like Maytag or Kenmore.

Countertops:
If you love the look of granite countertops, start by searching lower-grade granite. Although it is cheaper, you will get the high-quality look of real granite without the high cost. Smaller areas like kitchen islands or small countertop sections can benefit from granite remnants, smaller pieces left over from large projects. Many granite companies sell these scraps at a significantly discounted rate.

You may also want to consider using granite tiles instead of a single piece of stone. Tiles are less costly, easier to find, and simpler to install, making purchase and installation easier on your budget.

Cabinets:
It will take a little more work on your part, but painting your cabinets is one of the best ways to improve the look of your entire kitchen while spending as little as $200. If you want all-new cabinets, it can be tempting to order custom cabinetry. However, this can get expensive fast. A more affordable option might be to order from sources like Ikea or Menards. You could also ask stores if they have any leftover cabinets that people ordered but didn’t pick up. These will be waiting with a major discount.

Backsplash:
A good backsplash will provide a high-quality accent to your countertops, but choosing expensive or custom-order materials will quickly increase the price. Instead, try laminated thermoplastic panels. These materials can be installed by anyone, and they look like a more expensive product to the untrained eye.

Hardware:
There are dozens, if not hundreds, of websites that offer kitchen hardware like cabinet door knobs, hinges, and bar pulls. Knob Deals, for example, has a section entirely dedicated to items under $1.00 each. Overstock.com has a full section of hardware that is generally more affordable than other stores. By simply adding new knobs and bar pulls to your cabinetry, you’ll improve the appearance and quality of your kitchen in one affordable step.

Want to learn more about kitchen remodeling? Contact us today and let us help you have the kitchen of your dreams at a price you can afford!