By Gail Bicknell, ASID, CAPS
One of the most significant and appreciated investments you can make in your home is updating your kitchen. A bright, functional, well-designed kitchen can significantly increase the value of your home and add immeasurably to your enjoyment of living there. There is, however, no way around it being disruptive and, most often, a substantial investment. One question I field over and over is, “How much will it cost?”
The style, size, and layout of your kitchen all contribute to the bottom line, as do the selections you make in cabinetry, appliances, flooring, and countertops. Moving plumbing and gas lines can be a major expense and, to a lesser extent, so can electrical changes. These “behind the wall” changes, however, can substantially add to the functionality of a kitchen and that’s usually the primary reason clients seek to remodel.
According to HGTV, the average breakdown of costs in a kitchen remodel is 35% Cabinets, 20% Labor, 20% Appliances, 10% Windows, 5% Fixtures, and 10% Fittings, etc. Unfortunately, costs in central NJ, particularly for quality contracting, maybe even higher than the national average.
As in any remodel, when renovating your kitchen, first you must decide on your budget. Factor in from the start an additional 20% for the unexpected. I have never worked on a kitchen project that didn’t entail something unforeseen. Never. It is vitally important you determine a budget and work within it. Before you begin, work out a detailed cost breakdown. Then you must consider how you will finance the project. Home equity loans, refinancing, and personal loans are all worth looking into. Also, consider how long you expect to live in your home and whether the renovation will be for your family’s enjoyment and use or to enhance resale value.
Once you have determined your budget, it is time to set your priorities. Is it a state-of-the-art range, new windows, hardwood floors, high-tech enhancements, or soapstone countertops? Do you intend to stay in your home during the remodel or live elsewhere? The cost of renting and eating out should be taken into account. Keep in mind that your kitchen will be inaccessible for several weeks to a few months between the time of demolition and the completion of a functional new kitchen. Inspections, weather delays, damages, and your contractor’s schedule will all factor into the length of the project.
Work closely with an experienced architect, designer, or kitchen planner. They will guide you through the process and can direct you to reliable and proven sources and tradespeople. Perhaps most importantly, they will be there to help when something goes off track. The up-front investment in professional services will save you untold headaches and expenses as your project moves forward. Be sure to hire a contractor who is highly qualified and reliable. Your general contractor will be the ringmaster of the show! Work with the best you can find.
Finally, be aware of extra-cost items. Elaborate storage solutions, although nifty, can add tremendously to your bottom line. A pull-out corner base cabinet can add $1500. Drawers are just as accessible as doors with pull-out shelves and typically cost less. Unless you have very special dimensions or requirements, you shouldn’t need to invest in custom cabinetry.
Plan carefully, hire a good team, stick to your resolve, and be patient. It is worth it! A new kitchen can make a tremendous impact on your quality of life and the enjoyment you get from your home, as well as adding substantially to your resale value.
