Are you in the market for a kitchen renovation? If so, you’re in the same boat as many Australians. With a kitchen renovation, you can update your home and add value to it. However, it’s important to make sure that you plan everything out correctly so that the renovation goes as smoothly as possible.
Speak to Professionals
First and foremost, know that you don’t have to go through the renovation process alone. It can be helpful to consult with different professionals to get an idea of what you should do. You can speak to an architect, a kitchen designer, or even a builder. Together, they’ll help you figure out what kind of layout will work best for your kitchen as well as what materials to use.
Create a Budget
One of the most important things to do before starting any kind of home renovation is to create a budget. Why? Because it will help you keep track of how much money you’re spending and it will also contribute towards realistic expectations. When creating a budget, be sure to factor in the cost of materials, labour, permits, and any other miscellaneous fees. Also, keep some behind as a contingency.
Set Some Goals
Next, think about what you want to achieve with your kitchen renovation. Do you want to create more storage space? Update the appliances? Change the layout? Add value to your property for selling? Once you know what your goals are, you can start to look into different ways to achieve them.
For example, those who simply want to update the room a little can introduce a new coat of paint, an island, and upgraded storage solutions. On the other hand, those who want to do a complete gut job will need to factor in the cost of new cabinets, countertops, flooring, plumbing, and more.
If you want to add value to your property, a kitchen renovation is a solid way to go. However, remember to use tools like Property Pricer to get an accurate estimate of your home’s value.
Ensure it Fits YOUR Needs
Don’t just copy a kitchen from a magazine (or Pinterest!) and assume it will work in your home. You need to take into account the dimensions of your room, the amount of traffic it gets, and how you use the space.
Your kitchen should be functional first and foremost; that means if you love to cook, you’ll want plenty of counter space and storage. If you entertain often, you might want an open layout so guests can mingle while you cook. So long as your kitchen meets YOUR needs, you’re on the right track.
Don’t Overlook the Little Things
When you’re planning your kitchen renovation, it’s easy to get caught up in the big-ticket items: new cabinets, countertops, appliances, and flooring. But don’t forget the smaller details that can make or break your space. Things like hardware, backsplashes, and light fixtures may seem like minor details, but they can have a major impact on your kitchen’s overall look and feel.
Think About Resale Value
We’ve already touched on this, but those planning to sell their home soon should keep resale value in mind when planning a kitchen renovation. Even if you’re not selling anytime soon, it’s still a good idea to think about what potential buyers might want in a kitchen. After all, the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in a house, and it can be a make-or-break selling point.
