How to Save Money on Your Kitchen Remodel

Remodeling the kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. Installing granite countertops, custom cabinets and hardwood flooring is going to cost a pretty penny, but not every kitchen remodel needs to come out looking like what you would find in a million dollar home. There are different levels of kitchen remodeling. You can save a lot of money and still end up with a beautiful kitchen following these simple tips.


1. Save on Cabinets:

• Consider refinishing instead of replacing. A paint job and some new knobs can make your cabinets look brand new.
• Look online for slightly used cabinets. EBay and Craigslist are great places to start.
• Check your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore. These outlets sell resale and surplus building materials at a fraction of the retail price. These items are donated and the proceeds help to fund Habitat homes. A great deal and a great cause!

2. Save on Countertops:

• If you must use granite for your countertops, consider granite tiles instead of granite slabs. You could save up to 65% going with tiles and your countertop will be just as beautiful as a granite slab with all the same benefits.
• Install Corian countertops instead of granite. Corian has many of the same features as granite; however it is a bit less expensive. More home owners are choosing Corian over granite also because it can be refinished and it is non-porous.

3. Save on Flooring:

• Choose laminate over hardwood flooring. Laminate provides an inexpensive flooring option and can be mimic the look of stone or hardwood flooring. It also holds up longer than hardwood, especially in the kitchen where it is likely to get wet often.
• Find out what is under your current flooring. Often a homeowner will find hardwood under their vinyl flooring. These hardwood floors can be sanded and refinished instead of replaced.
• Save on labor costs by installing a new vinyl floor over the old one instead of tearing it up. Simply lay synthetic floor leveler material over your old floor before you install the new one.

4. Save on Appliances:

• Don’t replace them. Your appliances have likely been updated more often than the rest of your kitchen. Unless they will look out of place next to the rest of your upgraded kitchen, you’ll save $1,500 to $5K leaving them as is.
• Don’t be afraid to haggle. According to ConsumerReports.org, 75% of people who tried to bargain with the salesperson succeeded.
• Ask about floor models or leftover stock of last year’s models. You will likely get a great discount if you don’t mind a scratch or two.

5. Save on the Kitchen Sink:

• Don’t move it. Moving the sink will require the plumbing to be rerouted which can be very costly. Design your kitchen remodel around the current sink placement.
• Keep the sink, but replace the faucet. You can update the look of your kitchen sink by simply replacing the faucet and not the entire sink.