7 Tips for BudgeTing Your KiTchen renovaTion projecT WiselY Renovating your kitchen can be a very exciting but very costly affair. Seven practical tips that you may use to manage a budget so that you can keep your finances in order without compromising quality or style: 1. Set a Realistic Budget from the Start Determine how much you can afford to spend on the renovation of your kitchen. Build in a cushion to this budget, around 10 - 15%, for those 'oh no' moments when things go awry. Clearly spell out your priorities and the elements for which you might splurge on high - end appliances or countertops and then stick to it as closely as possible. 2. Careful Planning of Design and Layout Changes in layout, plumbing, or electrical wiring can quadruple the costs. Work with whatever layout you have to save your budget. For a small change, consult a professional kitchen renovation contractor designer and create a really efficient plan that minimizes unnecessary expenses. 3. Essential Upgrades Pay more attention to aspects which are going to make a big difference for functionality and aesthetics. Identify which aspects to splurge on as those might be high - end countertops, good sturdy cabinets, or energy efficient appliances. Cut back on elements that do not necessarily require top - of - the - line material to be really effective, so these may be products like drawer pulls, faucets, or lighting. 4. Material Price Research and Comparison Material costs vary dramatically depending on where you shop. Take some time to compare prices at several suppliers, both online and local. Don't be afraid to look for cheaper alternatives like using quartz instead of granite or high - quality laminate inste ad of wood, so long as it gives you a beautiful look at a lower price. 5. Do it yourself where possible Do some work yourself, for example paint, put up the shelves or install backsplashes. This will save you some labor cost. If really talented and feel at ease with DIY, you could save a lot of money. But for complicated tasks such as electrical or plumbing, hire professionals to have peace of mind and avoid costly mistakes in the process. 6. Refurbish Instead of Replace Cabinets often account for a lion's share of the budget in any kitchen renovation project. Replace only the facade or paint of existing cabinets. This easily breathes new life into the appearance of the cabinets and saves thousands of dollars. Replacing ca binet handles, knobs, and hinges is also quite noticeable for less than a full replacement. 7. Track Your Expenditure Properly Be watchful of your expenditure over the renovation. You can use a spread sheet or budgeting app for recording such expenditures relating to materials, labour , and other miscellaneous costs. Once you are organized, you can easily spot any area where you over expenditure , and the necessary change can be incorporated before your budget runs haywire. Keep an eye on the money and heed these words to create a kitchen you love. It may pay off a thousand - fold at the end to have a careful plan and spend mindfully for your budget - friendly renovation. F or more please visit Ozarks Home Renovations