Is a Kitchen Renovation Worth It?

There's a common saying that the kitchen is the "heart" of the house. In the hands of a skilled designer, it has the ability to improve a home's aesthetics and functionality.

Both of these statements are correct.

And when it isn't, it may make the whole house feel antiquated and inefficient, which might be a deal breaker if you're trying to sell.

Many people prioritise kitchens when it comes to remodelling their houses.

Considering the kitchen's significance, this makes sense.

A kitchen remodel can increase the value of your property, but is it really worth it?

For most families, the kitchen is the heart of the home.

Whether it's a boisterous breakfast or a peaceful dinner, your loved ones will gather in the kitchen to share stories about their day.

Consequently, whether you intend to stay in your home for the foreseeable future or plan to sell it soon, you should put money into both practical and aesthetically pleasing renovations.

If dinnertime decision-making is a constant source of stress for you, a kitchen remodel may seem like a waste of time and money.

But don't worry; the kitchen's functionality won't be drastically altered by your choice of faucet or backsplash tiles. If you give your new kitchen the attention it deserves, you will be thrilled with the results.

How to Budget for Renovations?

The first step towards a successful kitchen remodel is establishing a financial plan.

What is your budget for the cabinetry in your house? What about state-of-the-art machinery? Do you think new lighting will be required? There should be a well-thought-out strategy in place outlining the specific projects you wish to do and the total amount of money you are prepared to spend.

If you're looking for a high-quality, affordable builder in Melbourne, you're in the right place!

Check MJS Construction Group! Keeping yourself accountable in this way can ensure that the renovation goes according to plan.

There are three budgeting tips that follow:

• The first piece of guidance is to settle on spending the bulk of your money on fixtures and fittings that you do not plan to replace often, such as appliances and cupboards.
• Another piece of advise is to avoid going crazy with kitchen upgrades. It doesn't matter how well your improvements turn out if they make your home significantly more expensive than others in the area. If you aren't sure what is typical for the area you want to buy in, a real estate agent can help you out.
• The next piece of advise is to set aside 10-15% of your entire budget to deal with surprises. A renovation's ultimate price tag virtually never ends up being less than expected.

Making educated judgements about your kitchen makeover will be much easier once you have a firm financial plan in place.

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How Can I Save Money on Kitchen Remodeling?

As for the first piece of guidance, it's simple: Make a strategy and get yourself organised. You don't want to instal new counters to find out later that you have to remove them to accommodate a farmhouse sink.

It's fine to split your time between multiple projects, especially if you're working on some of them alone, but don't forget to do all of your homework first.

Spending more resources than necessary to do work twice is inefficient.

An excessive amount of money is not necessary to update your kitchen. Here are several time-tested approaches of save money that can make a big difference without breaking the bank:

• Your Cabinets Need Painting or Refinishing. Refinishing or repainting your existing cabinets can give your kitchen or bathroom a whole new feel without the cost or hassle of starting from scratch. Have the cabinet door fronts seen better days? Make your kitchen seem brand new by refacing the cabinets. In comparison to simply painting the cabinet boxes, this option is more costly.
• The Backsplash Is Not to Be Disregarded. Even if you're on a tight budget, a new tile backsplash may do wonders for your kitchen's aesthetic for just a few hundred dollars. It's not prohibitively expensive to hire help, but you can save even more money by doing the work yourself.
• Cover your appliances in paint. Body shops can refinish and paint your appliances if they are in good working order but the colours are out of date. You can save a lot of money by not purchasing new appliances and instead using the ones you already have.
• Think About Your Choices Before Deciding on Flooring. Vinyl flooring has come a long way and now offers the look and feel of more expensive materials for a fraction of the cost. For a trendy but inexpensive revamp, try one of the many designs available that evokes the look of high-end finishes but is actually far more affordable.

And the only reason you're doing all that work on the kitchen is so that you can sell the house, right?

Don't assume that every renovation will increase your home's resale value.

Even a modest investment might provide significant returns when it comes to preparing your home for sale.

Spend-Smart Strategies for Your Kitchen Makeover

Paint and Save on Cabinets

New cabinetry might increase your kitchen remodel costs by 30–40 percent.

So, if you like their placement and functionality but not their finish, you may paint them instead of buying new ones.

Even if it needs a lot of work, your bank account will be grateful if you choose to do this project on your own.

New custom cabinets are not as cheap as a good paint job, even if you use a professional painter.

If you want to provide the sense of greater space and freshness in your kitchen, try removing the doors from some of the upper cabinets and installing open shelves instead.

Splurge on a Quality Faucet

Most of the time in the kitchen, people will be at the sink, so it makes sense to put a premium on the faucet by going with a high-end brand and a simple, easy-to-operate style.

You should measure the distance from the sink's faucet and handle to the window sill to make sure everything will fit (and that you won't smack your knuckles).

Choose a sink that complements it by keeping things as simple as possible: If you want to avoid bending over while washing dishes, pick a single basin that's as big as your counter will allow but no more than 10 inches deep.

You won't have to make a silly bending motion because of this.

Prep Before You Paint

Whether you're painting the room yourself or want to keep an eye on the painter, these tips will help you get the job done right.

Select a semi-gloss sheen for all of the trim, a satin sheen for the painted cabinets, and an eggshell sheen for the walls; all of these finishes will be easier to maintain and clean.

It is important to properly prepare the surface to be painted before beginning the painting process, as imperfections such as cracks in the walls or nail holes in the trim will not be concealed by paint or primer.

Make use of sandpaper to round out any bumps, nail holes, or seams, and then fill and caulk any gaps.

You should also confirm with your contractor that you fully understand who is responsible for finishing the work if you have hired a team.

If you're wondering when is the best time to paint your kitchen, you might be shocked to hear that it's sooner than you think.

You can save money on labour (even if you end up having to do another round of touchups), avoid paint drips on your cabinets and backsplash, and get a clean, crisp edge where your backsplash and cabinets meet the wall if you paint before installing them.

Keep Character and Functionality in Mind When Choosing a Backsplash

Think of the space between your counter and cabinets as a blank canvas on which you may express your personal style. Subway tiles have a more standard look.

Unless the pieces are quite large, you should lay them out vertically or in a herringbone pattern.

Although the grout lines in intricate mosaic designs are a pain to keep spotless, the patterns' visual appeal more than makes up for the extra effort required to maintain them.

Of course, there are a plethora of additional options, such as glass, metal, stone, mosaic, embossed ceramic, and other tiles; there are also alternatives to tiles, such as beadboard or metal ceiling tiles.

Choose something that reflects your sense of style without being so extreme that it might turn off potential purchasers when you decide to sell your property in the future.

Consider Quartz

Quartz, a man-made material designed to seem like stone, has overtaken granite as the most popular countertop material, according to the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

Quartz has recently seen a surge in demand.

Quartz is so resistant to damage that it rarely needs to be sealed against things like stains, scratches, and chipping.

Considering a new project? Then MJS Construction Group builders Melbourne is the answer.

Quartz comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, and many of them accurately imitate the natural variation of more high-maintenance materials like marble and limestone, both popular choices for kitchen countertops but require extensive care and cleaning.

Here at MJS Construction Group, we pride ourselves on the wide variety of Melbourne home builders we have accessible.

Don’t Scrimp on Lighting

Choosing a kitchen light fixture can be done in one of three ways. (Here's a clue: you need to find every single one of them.)

These lights can be installed in the ceiling to provide general illumination across the open floor plan.

Task lighting can be provided over the countertops using this type of lighting. When it's the only source of illumination, it can be used to draw attention to the countertop, backsplash, and cabinetry.

Lighting for countertops, islands, and sinks should come from the ceiling using pendants or other lighting. Light from decorative pendants should be soft and not create any shadows.

Think About Wood-Look Flooring Alternatives

Wood has a timeless and rustic appeal, but it fades quickly in high-traffic areas like kitchens.

Most things that are dropped on porcelain break, but porcelain tile is durable, easy to clean, and available in a wide variety of styles, including ones that successfully mimic stone and wood.

Consequently, these kinder options should be seriously considered: Luxury vinyl and laminate flooring (like that shown) is durable, relatively soft and forgiving and comes in a wide variety of wood looks that can trick even the most discerning of consumers into thinking that they are purchasing the real thing.

Kitchen Updates That Add a Lot of Value

It's unrealistic for many people to take on a home repair project that will cost more than $20,000.

The best way to ensure that your remodelling stays within your budget and achieves your desired results is to tackle it one step at a time.

This means you should dissect your restoration into its parts and pick your upgrades wisely.

These five kitchen updates will boost your home's value without requiring a major overhaul, making them a great place to start if you're looking to get the most bang for your buck.

You should get the most value out of your resources by stretching them as far as they will go.

Repainting Cabinets and Adding in New Hardware

A kitchen's cabinets are one of the most expensive features, contributing close to 30 percent to the overall price tag.

By contrast, if you make use of your current cabinetry, you can save about ten percent.

Painting your cabinets and replacing their hardware may give them a whole new look for around $600, including the cost of the paint and the hardware.

You may either purchase trim that makes it look like your lower cabinets go all the way to the ceiling, or take on another DIY project that will increase height without requiring a major redesign.

A small increase in budgetary outlay is required for each of these alternatives.

Swap Out Your Counter Tops

Your kitchen countertops are the focal point of the space and can make or break the look and feel of the kitchen. Therefore, replacing your countertops may be worth the cost for a variety of reasons.

Laminate and Formica are two materials to consider because of their inexpensive initial cost and ability to provide a modern, streamlined look.

These materials, because to improvements in manufacturing processes, now have a look that is notably more expensive than it was in the past, making them a great choice for revitalising an older kitchen.

Update Your Appliances

Potential buyers will have an easier time visualising themselves in the kitchen if the essentials, such as updated appliances, are already present.

Spending on appliances, such as a new fridge, an updated range, or a double oven, is one of the simplest and most useful ways to update your kitchen without significantly increasing the overall cost.

Also, household appliances are routinely discounted, so timing your purchase right can save you a lot of money.

Put In New Light Fixtures

Light fixtures and other eye-catching decor elements are a great addition to any room, even the kitchen.

The first thing that people see when they walk into a room is the decor, so it's important to make a first impression with something eye-catching or, at the very least, clean and modern.

To illustrate, pretend you have no idea where to begin. In this instance, it's best to contact an electrician to either assess the situation and advise on what can be done, or to rewire the space so that a different sort of fixture can be installed.

Swap out that old flush mount light for a pendant light instead for a more upbeat look.

Add in a New Kitchen Sink

Upgrading to a new kitchen sink from your old one is another one of those home upgrades that gives you a better return on investment than you might expect for the money invested.

Homeowners spend so much time at their kitchen sinks that they notice immediately if something is wrong with them.

A new sink and installation may be added for around $400, adding a fast and thoughtful touch that purchasers will adore.

Never Pay for These Things During a Kitchen Renovation

Don’t Choose Fragile Materials

The naked eye is often deceiving. Just because something seems nice doesn't mean it will make your life easier.

Kitchen materials should be chosen with durability in mind.

While the magnificent beauty of limestone is undeniable, it is readily damaged by water rings. Marble frequently experiences issues with etching and staining.

Recycled glass countertops can be beautiful, but they break far more easily than other types of countertop material.

If you want the durability of granite without the upkeep, quartz is an excellent material to utilise for your next home renovation project.

Never Forgo Cabinets

There are several good arguments to be made for minimising the number of cupboards in your kitchen.

You may be striving for a minimalistic style, but a kitchen sink window is a must-have.

The idea of reducing clutter for a more open appearance is enticing, but where are you going to put your dishes if you do that?

If you already have plenty of cabinet space, there's no need to give any of it up during a redesign.

Don’t Buy Cheap Appliances.

The expense of a kitchen remodel is high whether you want to do it yourself or hire a professional, but you shouldn't skimp on quality appliances to save money.

It's likely that this means you'll have to settle for less than the elaborate ceiling light you've had your eye on, but investing in long-lasting, energy-efficient equipment is much more vital in the long run.

Never Ignore Workflow

Getting the correct number of cabinets, investing in good appliances, and utilising long-lasting materials are all essential considerations when renovating a kitchen.

However, combining them into one usable office space won't maximise the redesign's potential.

Get the most out of your kitchen space by designing it such that the most-used areas, like the sink, stove, and fridge, are easily accessible to everyone who needs to use them.

Kitchen designers often refer to this arrangement as the "work triangle."

Don’t Refuse Help From a Professional Designer

DIY fans could be tempted to try a full kitchen remodel on their own, using their skills and creativity to avoid hiring a contractor.

That's what we mean when we say "you do it yourself." But as anyone who has gone through a remodel can tell you, even for a do-it-yourself kitchen renovation, it is always useful to obtain the opinion of an expert.

The advice of an expert can help you fine-tune your strategy and prevent you from making mistakes that could result in wasted money or resources, such as choosing a layout that isn't optimal for your needs.

Even better, many home improvement stores provide no-cost initial consultations.

Don’t Forget the Rest of Your House

Remodeling your kitchen can easily become a full-time job, distracting you to the detriment of other home areas needing your attention.

Since you probably won't be able to use your kitchen while it's being remodelled, you'll need to set up a makeshift exhibition space somewhere in the house.

Additionally, make sure that the dust, grime, and splatters from the restoration don't spread to the rest of your home.

Spending the extra effort to protect the rest of the house properly will allow you to enjoy the renovated kitchen to its fullest without worrying about any harm to the rest of the house.

Have a look at our list of recommended Melbourne home builders below to find the one that will help you realise your dream home.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

There must be time for a little levity and good humour during any kind of construction or remodelling job.

Remember that the goal of your kitchen renovation is to increase your happiness, so try to loosen up a little and not sweat the small stuff.

Do not be afraid to show off your imaginative side, either. If you're going for a laid-back vibe, go for a kitchen with an interesting backsplash or an island built of mismatched materials.

Adding square footage to your kitchen will increase the value of your home even if you don't recoup the costs of the renovation.

You'll feel a lot of satisfaction after finishing the task. Yes, by all means, make an effort to create a kitchen in which you take joy.

Check this list of Melbourne builder services to help you make an informed decision for your treatment.

Take advantage of our tips for finding a handyman, plumber, or another service provider so that you can hire with confidence.

Do extensive study on potential candidates before making a decision; going the cheap route or working with someone who doesn't know what they're doing will almost certainly drive up your costs in the long run.

Conclusion

When deciding to renovate their houses, many people choose to focus on the kitchen first. Is investing in a kitchen redesign worthwhile even if it does raise the value of your home? You don't have to go into debt to give your kitchen a modern makeover.

It is possible to completely transform the look of your kitchen by refinishing or repainting the cabinets. For only a few hundred dollars, a new backsplash might completely transform the look of your kitchen.

Doing the work on your own will help you save even more cash.

Don't assume that any and all home improvements will boost your property's resale price.

Putting even even a small amount of money into getting your house ready for sale could pay off handsomely.

Even if you hire a professional painter, the cost of new custom cabinets will still exceed that of a fresh coat of paint. Before starting to paint, you must ensure that the surface is adequately prepared.

It is more cost-effective to paint before installing cabinets and backsplash and prevents paint drips.

The National Kitchen & Bath Association reports that quartz is now more widely used than granite. There are three options to consider when picking a light for the kitchen.

Durable, reasonably soft, and forgiving, luxury vinyl and laminate flooring is a popular option.

Porcelain tile is versatile and available in many different looks, including realistic simulations of natural materials like stone and wood.

Kitchen cabinetry is one of the most costly elements, typically accounting for around 30% of the total cost.

There are a number of factors to consider when deciding whether or not to replace your countertops.

Even the kitchen benefits from the installation of decorative lighting and other focal points.

Getting a new kitchen sink instead of keeping an old one is one of those home improvements that yield a higher return on investment than you may imagine.

For roughly $400, you can add a brand-new sink and professional installation, creating a quick and heartfelt upgrade that buyers will enjoy.

Fans of the do-it-yourself movement may be tempted to use their expertise and ingenuity to tackle a major renovation project like a kitchen makeover on their own.

In spite of the fact that you're doing the work yourself, it's still smart to get an expert's input before beginning a kitchen remodel.

Consultations at many home improvement stores are offered at no cost. Laughter and good spirits are essential for any building or renovating project.

Keep in mind that renovating your kitchen should be done with the intention of making you happier.

We've compiled a list of top-rated Melbourne home builders, so look and see if any of them fit the bill for building your dream house.

Content Summary

• There's a common saying that the kitchen is the "heart" of the house.
• The first step towards a successful kitchen remodel is establishing a financial plan.
• What is your budget for the cabinetry in your house?
• Make your kitchen seem brand new by refacing the cabinets.
• Cover your appliances in paint.
• New custom cabinets are not as cheap as a good paint job, even if you use a professional painter.
• Select a semi-gloss sheen for all of the trim, a satin sheen for the painted cabinets, and an eggshell sheen for the walls; all of these finishes will be easier to maintain and clean.
• If you're wondering when is the best time to paint your kitchen, you might be shocked to hear that it's sooner than you think.
• Subway tiles have a more standard look.
• Choosing a kitchen light fixture can be done in one of three ways. 
• These five kitchen updates will boost your home's value without requiring a major overhaul, making them a great place to start if you're looking to get the most bang for your buck.
• Painting your cabinets and replacing their hardware may give them a whole new look for around $600, including the paint and hardware cost.
• Therefore, replacing your countertops may be worth the cost for a variety of reasons.
• Upgrading to a new kitchen sink from your old one is another one of those home upgrades that gives you a better return on investment than you might expect for the money invested.
• The expense of a kitchen remodel is high whether you want to do it yourself or hire a professional, but you shouldn't skimp on quality appliances to save money.
• But as anyone who has gone through a remodel can tell you, even for a do-it-yourself kitchen renovation, it is always useful to obtain the opinion of an expert.
• Since you probably won't be able to use your kitchen while it's being remodelled, you'll need to set up a makeshift exhibition space somewhere in the house.
• Adding square footage to your kitchen will increase the value of your home even if you don't recoup the costs of the renovation.
• Take advantage of our tips for finding a handyman, plumber, or other service provider so that you can hire with confidence.