If you’re hoping to save money on your kitchen remodel, you’re not alone. Any remodeling project can be expensive, but kitchens are often one of the costliest projects a homeowner can start. Whatever your budget, there are always ways you can save. Work within the existing footprint Many homeowners think they need to tear down walls or add on to get more space or functionality in their kitchen. This may not always be the case. Look at this room as if it were empty — just walls and windows — and ask yourself how you would reconfigure it so that it would work best for how you actually use the work areas. You may be surprised to find that you have the space you need but the current layout isn’t the right design or the best use of space. Do the demolition yourself Doing your own demolition is a good way to save money on any remodeling project, and it doesn’t take special skills or knowledge to do it. You just the right tools, time and strength. There’s one important caveat to this tip, however: No homeowner should tear down a wall before first consulting with an architect to ensure it isn’t a load-bearing wall. You should also check to make sure no electrical wires are running in the wall. These concerns aren’t an issue when it comes to removing existing cabinets and pulling up floors. Those demolition projects are easy to do and can save you hundreds of dollars. Choose appliances wisely Some appliances are worth investing in and others aren’t. For example, a cooktop typically has a longer life than refrigerators, so it makes more sense to invest in a better quality cooktop. Don’t forget to consider the cabinets when choosing appliances, especially if they’re already in place. Allow plenty of space for opening doors. And consider stainless steel: it’s the finish most people want in appliances. Don’t move the kitchen sink Moving plumbing is one of the most expensive items in when it comes to remodeling the kitchen. It’s also often the cause of unexpected problems, especially if your home is older, because you may encounter leaks or pipes that aren’t up to today’s building codes. If possible, work around the existing kitchen sink location and move other fixtures instead. Read More