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How to Find the Remodeler You Really Want
A Remodeler Selection Guidebook
(courtesy of David Lupberger)

Virtually all homeowners approach the remodeler selection process with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. Deciding to remodel your home is exciting, but it can also be a fearful because your dream home and thousands of dollars are at stake. Feeling confident that you'll choose well is difficult when these mixed emotions are present. Read more...

Kitchen Remodeling Made Easy
(courtesy of Brenan Roser, Charter Kitchens)

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen? The following is an outline to help develop your budget and brainstorm your kitchen plans.

Determining the Budget

Tip #1:  Don't become discouraged or vulnerable to sticker shock. Price ranges for kitchen projects vary drastically. Realistically determine what you are willing to spend on this project by doing a little research into the variety of products available on the market. Plan to visit home centers and kitchen distributors to get a feel for your options and the pricing associated with these options. Product (cabinetry, countertops, and appliances) and payment options are numerous. Initially, just shoot for a ballpark figure that can help you determine your approach to the project.
 
Tip #2:  In meeting with kitchen specialists, be cautious of those who are reluctant to help you understand costs. The sign of a well run company is their commitment to making you happy, not how much you plan to spend. If your consultant appears more interested in getting paid or discussing a retainer fee, you are in the wrong place.

Brainstorming the Plan

Once you have some budget in mind, the project becomes fun. Now is the time to start fantasizing about your dream kitchen in terms of both functionality and aesthetics. This can be done with or without the kitchen specialist, depending on your comfort level and knowledge, so let's get started.

Tip #1:  First, draft a list with two columns: one for needs and the other for wants.  Go crazy with this list and be sure to include functional and visual appeal items in both of these columns. A list like this can be a huge time saver for you and your kitchen specialist. Taking the time to determine your budget, wants and needs before meeting your specialist will help you better communicate your desires.  

Tip #2: Make sure the designer and sales professionals helping with your selections are focused on your dream kitchen and not their own. While tastes may differ, a good kitchen consultant may have insight into potential problems areas or have ideas that can better address your needs.