Do You Really Need to Remodel Your Kitchen?

Kitchen remodeling even with a small kitchen design can be extremely expensive, depending of course on what you want changed and how. In today’s day and age of tough economic times, we just can’t spend such high amounts to remodel your kitchen. That’s why when it comes to improving your home, being smart about your budget is absolutely vital. By making smart and frugal decisions, you can save more than you expected in a ‘remodel’ and still have a new kitchen to enjoy!

Here are a few ideas to get you brainstorming on how to save money on your kitchen’s semi-renovation:

Consider repainting over replacing

If your kitchen cabinetry is still functional and in good shape, consider giving it a fresh coat of paint rather than replacing it altogether. Kitchen cabinetry replacement is expensive and can be your biggest expense; costs range between $2,500 to $25,000. (Plus transportation & installation costs!)

Instead, save money by painting your cabinetry a neutral color and changing the hardware. These smaller changes will do wonders for the look & feel of your kitchen!

Just look at the difference a simple coat of paint made to this kitchen:

Organize, organize, organize

If it’s more shelving and storage space that you need, consider alternate options to an entire remodel.  Simply organizing and having enough storage space can change the kitchen drastically! Pot racks, lid holders, shelving, pullout trays, utensil crocks and drawer organizers can make everything easier to handle.

Update the light fixtures

A simple change to the light bulbs and lamps in your kitchen can create a whole new atmosphere. Replace lighting in your kitchen with halogen floods – it will add brightness to the room while still saving energy over incandescent bulbs. Under-cabinet lighting can also help, especially in giving you enough light to cook and chop on the counter-top. You can find really affordable, easy-to-install options!

Need to replace appliances? Find high quality, but lower price appliances

There are many tricks to find cheaper appliances – whether online or at brick and mortar stores.

Online:
Use online comparison services to find appliances for a better price, or find great deals like free shipping or discounts. Stores usually have sales throughout the year, especially to get rid of their excess inventory – follow their sites, social media and newsletters to be first to find out about a great deal.

Brick and Mortar:
When shopping in major retail stores, look for scratches and dents in the appliances.  Most stores will give you a discount for these ‘flaws’, even if they are really not noticeable or can be easily hidden. (Little tip: there are offsite and online sites that sell only scratch and dent appliances!)

 What other ideas do you have to remodel your kitchen for cheap?