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Affordable ways to update your kitchen

When it comes to home improvement projects, you’re likely to get the most bang for your buck in terms of return on investment at resale time by putting dollars into the most important room in your abode: the kitchen. The problem is that it can be downright daunting to afford a kitchen redo, especially considering the higher cost of materials and labor nowadays.

But fear not, financially limited homeowners: Modernizing your kitchen is doable for less, provided you plan, prioritize and shop wisely.

“It’s definitely possible to update your kitchen on a budget, particularly if you don’t have to complete a full remodel and your existing cabinetry is in good condition,” says Natalie Meyer, CEO/principal designer with CNC Home & Design in Cleveland. “Replacing countertops, adding a tile backsplash, updating lighting, and swapping out plumbing fixtures like your sink and faucet can help transform your kitchen while minimizing your investment, so long as you prepare a thorough budget beforehand.”

The key, agrees Josh Qian, COO/co-founder of Best Online Cabinets, is crunching the numbers.

“Budgeting allows you to prioritize your needs, allocate funds efficiently, and avoid unexpected financial pitfalls,” he says.

One of the biggest dollar-savers is do-it-yourself effort.

If you can do some of the remodeling work yourself, you’ll save money on a kitchen rehab. Getty Images/iStockphoto

“Labor is often up to 60% of a remodeling budget. But if you can DIY some or most of the project, including handling the demolition, painting, and minor plumbing work yourself, you can save big,” suggests Bob Berriz, an interior designer.

Here are several tips from the pros designed to lower your kitchen renovation costs:

Give your current cabinets a face-lift instead of replacing them. “Consider refacing cabinet fronts but keeping the cabinet boxes intact, or ponder repainting your cabinets,” Berriz notes.

Swap out the old cabinet hardware. “New handles, knobs, or pulls can easily upgrade your cabinets for a lot less,” recommends Malak Bellajdel, an interior designer in San Francisco. Meyer advises choosing more modern options in a bright or light-reflecting finish, such as polished nickel or chrome, while Bellajdel is a bigger fan of brushed gold, matte black, or stainless steel.

If you’re rehabbing your kitchen on a budget, consider replacing outdated light fixtures. Getty Images

Replace outdated light fixtures. “Install new pendant lights over your kitchen island or sink, which can help give your space a new look while minimizing the cost of your project,” adds Meyer.

Opt for more affordable countertop materials. “Choose laminate or quartz instead of more expensive options like granite, marble, or quartzite,” Qian says. Alternatively, consider super-customizable concrete or a butcher block countertop for a warmer look.

If a typical tile backsplash is beyond your budget or expertise, check the home stores for peel-and-stick tiles, which come in many designs, including intricate patterns and subway look-alikes. Getty Images

Replace your existing backsplash. “Peel-and-stick tiles have gotten really good lately and cost much less than traditional tile work — coming in many styles, from subway look-alikes to intricate patterns, all of which are pretty easy to install yourself,” Bellajdel points out.

Explore open-box or used appliances. “This can yield significant savings without sacrificing quality,” continues Qian. Shop around and look for floor models, slightly dinged items, or last year’s models to find the best deals, “and don’t be afraid to negotiate with a retailer, especially on appliance packages,” says Bellajdel.

Prioritize updates that provide the most visual impact for the lowest cost, such as new lighting and a fresh coat of paint. “It’s amazing what a fresh new paint color can do to update your kitchen,” Meyer adds. Bellajdel recommends choosing a durable paint like a semigloss or satin finish.

Add fresh new accessories and decor. “Artwork, area rugs, a vase of flowers, or even new towels and accessories such as soap dispensers can help give your kitchen a new look,” says Meyer.

Although DIY labor can yield major savings, be careful not to cut corners on plumbing or electrical work. Doing so can lead to safety hazards and more expensive fixes later. That’s why it’s often best to hire a professional in these areas.

“If necessary, using a pro contractor, electrician, plumber, or another trade professional to complete any aspect or scale of your remodel cannot only provide a better-finished product but help you work through and resolve any unexpected challenges that come up with your project,” suggests Meyer.

Lastly, “be careful about using really cheap materials for areas you use a lot — like countertops or floors. They might save you money now but could cost you more later if they wear out quickly,” cautions Bellajdel.

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