The kitchen is often said to be the heart of a home. We cook, eat, and even entertain in the kitchen, much time is spent here. So when dreams of an updated kitchen start filling your mind, it’s time to call in the experts. A full kitchen remodel is not a typical DIY project. It takes planning, experience, and a budget.

When choosing a contractor, it’s always good to get a multiple quotes. Make sure all contractors are quoting you for the same quality of materials and that they aren’t leaving anything out. When it comes down to making the final decision of who to work with, don’t look at just the numbers. Do a little research and ask for their current licensing and insurance coverage and a list of former customers to talk to about their experience. You can even check them out with the Better Business Bureau.

Hiring a remodeling contractor will help ease the stress of a large remodeling project. Any reputable contractor will be able to help you design not only a beautiful kitchen but a functional one. Ask them lots of questions in the planning stage. Most likely, they will have a couple of solutions or ideas. It’s their job to stay up to date on the latest trends and technology. In fact, your contractor will be able to walk you through your kitchen before it is even gutted by creating a 3D rendering of your dream kitchen.

An experienced, remodeling contractor will also be able to help keep you on budget. Kitchen remodels can cost between $20,000 and $70,000 or even more. This depends on a lot of things such as kitchen size, materials, and labor. To be a more specific on materials, these are the basics: cabinets, counters, island, new appliances, flooring, backsplash, paint, lighting, electrical, plumbing, and gas line installation. All of these things may not be needed. For example, you may not have the need for a gas stove and are sticking with electric. Maybe you are keeping your existing flooring because you have a timeless, terra cotta tile that is original to your home that you just couldn’t fathom parting with. Whether you are remodeling for your own personal needs or just for a better resale, a kitchen remodel adds much value to your home.

Before construction be prepared to be without your kitchen for up to a 8 weeks or more, if there is structural work to be done. Move your refrigerator somewhere where you can set up a makeshift kitchen. Have a microwave and small shelf or cabinet for food storage. Communicate with your contractor on times of construction and even what entry way should be used by all workers. The contractor will set up dust barriers so that dust will not travel to other areas of your home. Make yourself easily accessible in case any project delays come up that require your decision or feedback. The more detail you put into the planning stage (before construction) of your kitchen remodel the easier it will be for everyone to stay on track and on time to completion!

A kitchen remodel can add monetary value to your home as well as personal value. It’s a place for your family and friends to spend quality time together and depending on the remodel, it can add up to 90% of the remodel cost to your home! Now that you have a good idea of what to expect for a kitchen remodel, you can keep your eyes peeled for ideas of what you’d like to see in your dream kitchen... or maybe you already have it envisioned?