Six Questions You Should Ask Yourself
Before Remodeling Your Kitchen
Who doesn’t love the thought of a new kitchen? Remodeling your kitchen can be quite an undertaking, but it will also be one of the most exciting renovations to your home. Before taking on this project, ask yourself a few questions to help you organize your thoughts and prioritize your design ideas.
WHAT IS YOUR ULTIMATE GOAL?
What is the ultimate goal that you would like to achieve with your kitchen remodel? Do you want to enlarge the area and add additional storage, or is your main focus to update and modernize the existing space? The ideal scenario may be to build out and add more square footage to create a larger kitchen, but, keep in mind, this option comes with a larger price tag. Your builder can suggest ideas to reconfigure the layout and help you determine the best plan for your space. Before beginning any designs or architectural plans, it is important to share your vision… and your wish list.
DO YOU ENTERTAIN?
Do you like to cook and entertain? Including high end appliances in your kitchen may be essential if you are a serious chef. Other options for entertaining might include a butler’s pantry, a bar sink, an ice machine, a warming drawer or a wine and beverage fridge. If you host often, adding an island or peninsula, to offer extra seating, will probably be on the top of your list of must haves.
IS THIS A GOOD INVESTMENT?
Is remodeling your kitchen a good investment? Renovated kitchens and baths tend to facilitate the sale of a home since many buyers are looking for a move-in ready place. But it is also important to consider how long you plan to stay in your current home before you start a remodel. If you plan to sell soon, a hefty investment may not make the most sense because your style may differ from the future buyer’s taste. But if this is your “forever” home, then craft your wish list and start the conversation!
DO YOU LIKE THE LAYOUT?
Are you happy with the current layout of your kitchen? If so, keeping the current layout will save you money on your renovation. If you maintain the plumbing, electric, heating and cooling in their existing locations, you will save considerably on the expense that you would incur if you moved them. Many homeowners want to create an open concept between the kitchen and dining room by removing a wall or two. Accommodating a larger table and sharing your cooking space with your guests, is right on trend. Making your kitchen as functional as possible is a top priority since it is probably the most highly trafficked room in your entire home.
WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET?
Have you considered how much you are willing to spend? Be forthcoming with your designer or builder and let them know your comfort level concerning budget. If you are updating your kitchen from top to bottom, it is one of the most expensive rooms in your home to renovate. A full remodel typically encompasses replacing all cabinetry, counters, appliances and flooring as well as updating the plumbing, electric, heating and cooling. Consider having a contingency budget for any unforeseen circumstances that may be hidden behind the walls or under the floors, especially if you have an older home.
HAVE YOU RESEARCHED YOUR PROFESSIONAL?
Have you researched your builder or designer? Ask for references and take a few minutes to reach out to them. Confirm that your builder is both licensed and insured. Check out their website and see if they belong to any professional organizations such as the Better Business Bureau and the local chamber of commerce.
Most importantly, your kitchen remodel should reflect you and what works best for your family. You should make the improvements that will have the greatest impact on your day-to-day living and that you know your family will enjoy. At Under
Construction Builders, we look forward to helping you realize your dream kitchen from budgeting to design to construction.
Under Construction Builders has over 25 years of experience building and renovating on Long Beach Island and in South Jersey. We specialize in modernizing kitchens and bathrooms and adding additional living space to offer the perfect solution to update your home. For more information, visit our website at www.ucbuildersnj.com , our Houzz profile at www.houzz.com/pro/ucbuilders or call our Ship Bottom office at 609-661-6055.