How Much?

COST

A kitchen renovation is a disruptive and expensive project that buyers should approach carefully and thoughtfully.

CABINETRY

When it comes to choosing cabinetry, buyers are faced with a myriad of choices. While less-expensive and quick-to-deliver cabinets from the big box stores can seem like an easy way to cut costs, more expensive cabinets from kitchen design showrooms are supported by construction management, installation services, and experienced designers who can help buyers avoid planning mistakes. 

A good way for buyers to think about their kitchen cabinet purchase, is to compare it to dress shopping. A casual dress for lounging around the house is not from the same store as a formal dress one might wear to a wedding. The dresses have totally different price points, longevity, and uses. Cabinetry can be looked at in much the same way. Cabinetry made in a kitchen cabinet factory will be higher in quality, longevity, and usefulness than its affordable counterpart.

Homeowners trying to determine the right budget path for their kitchen should consider two main factors. The first is their homes’ value in relation to the homes in their area. As well as their homes value and in relation to the market. The second consideration is intended length of occupancy in the home after renovation is complete.

If the home is at an entry-level price point or falls into the starter home category and the homeowner wants to sell the home within five years of the kitchen renovation, cheap and cheerful should be their motto for the project. 

Cabinetry, tiles, flooring, and appliances should all be kept within the entry-level price point range. Splurging on a fully integrated paneled counter depth refrigerator is likely not a good choice for a kitchen in a home that will be sold in a few years. 

Homeowners should save their money for their forever home so they can get the maximum return on investment on the starter home. In the starter home category, any extra dollars should be invested in a good contractor who will make sure to close out permits and carefully handle plumbing and electrical work.

Choosing the cheapest contractor’s bid can often result in disaster. Homeowners should choose a contractor who seems capable of resolving conflict, as construction is full of unexpected bumps in the road that must be negotiated with care.

In the case that a homeowner has purchased what they hope is their forever home, a more substantial investment in the kitchen is advised. This investment may includes cabinetry from a kitchen cabinet manufacturer. 

Kitchen cabinet manufacturers exist for several reasons. The finish that goes into kitchen cabinetry is specially formulated to hold up better against grease, steam, and acidic liquids.  A quality kitchen cabinet finish holds up better to cleaning, and doesn’t become sticky when cleaning solutions are used to wipe up spills. In addition, the finishes from quality kitchen cabinet manufacturers are much less susceptible to chipping, so the need for regular touch-ups is diminished. Finally, a homeowner’s kitchen layout can be greatly enhanced by the flexibility of a range of custom sizes available from custom cabinet manufacturer.

If your home has a mid to high price point in the housing market then choosing the higher quality cabinetry is an appropriate choice. A well-designed, high-quality kitchen can dramatically improve the comfort of your home. Not to mention, it will look consistent with the quality of your other furnishings and feel commensurate with the price point of your home. An inexpensive kitchen in an expensive home diminishes your home’s value, can be an eyesore and leave you disappointed in your home’s interior.

Remember—a high-quality kitchen and appliances should have lifespans of twenty years.