Initiating a home remodeling project may seem daunting, but there are some simple steps you can take to get your kitchen and bathroom remodeling project underway.
Find Your Reason for a Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel
First, decide why you’d like to remodel. By understanding why you want to make a change, you’ll be happier with the end result when you meet your goals. Common reasons homeowners begin a kitchen or bathroom remodel include:
- Wanting more storage or space for two people to cook.
- Changing tastes or lifestyle.
- Wanting to entertain more people in the kitchen area.
- Increasing home value for a future move.
Get Inspired for Your Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Project
It’s great to watch remodeling shows and browse design magazines for inspiration, but to really jumpstart your kitchen and bathroom remodeling ideas, start a stylebook.
Websites like Houzz and Pinterest make it easy to collect inspiring images that reveal your desired style. This helps you—and the remodeling professional you’ll eventually hire—clearly communicate your design preferences.
“Seeing the customer’s style ideas really helps save time by focusing more on what’s suitable to their tastes,” says Hanne Rex Michelsen, Interior Designer at Glenbrook Remodeling.
Prioritize Your Remodeling Goals
Next, make a list of all the upgrades you’d like and divide them into three categories:
- Must-have items
- Would-like-to-have items
- Dream items
Creating this list helps you and your remodeling contractor prioritize during the project. It also allows flexibility to adjust the plan if certain upgrades come in under budget or cost more than expected.
Plan a Realistic Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling Budget
Once your list is complete, it’s time to think about your remodeling budget. But don’t overthink it!
A good estimated breakdown for kitchen remodels is typically:
- 60% for cabinetry
- 25% for appliances
- 15% for countertops
However, you won’t have a clear idea of what your kitchen or bathroom remodeling project will cost until you consult an experienced design-build remodeler. A professional can evaluate your space and provide a detailed estimate based on the latest materials, rebates, and cost-saving options.
Too many homeowners get stuck in the budgeting phase and never begin their projects. Avoid that mistake. Get a detailed estimate from a licensed professional like Glenbrook Remodeling, and compare realistic bids from other contractors if needed. Remember, the lowest price isn’t always the best value.
When It’s Time to Hire a Professional Remodeling Contractor
Once you’ve organized your list and budget, it’s time to bring in a professional remodeling contractor to help turn your plans into reality.
When dealing with something as important as your home, don’t settle for just anyone. Hiring an unqualified or uninsured contractor can lead to costly mistakes. You owe it to yourself—and your home—to work with a trusted, experienced remodeling company that can deliver the quality you deserve.
What’s the Next Step in Your Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel?
Just like organizing a wedding, orchestrating a kitchen and bathroom remodel involves many people and moving parts. Designers, architects, plumbers, electricians, painters, and installers all play a role in achieving a flawless final result.
You could try to coordinate it all yourself (good luck!), or work with an all-in-one remodeling company to make things easier.
Glenbrook Remodeling is a trusted design-build remodeling company serving the Chicago North Shore area, handling every step of your project, from design and materials to installation. With our team, you can feel confident your remodel will be beautifully organized, completed on time, and within budget.
Let’s talk about your ideas and put your project into perspective. You can visualize your finished remodel with detailed plans and 3D renderings, all included in our free, no-obligation in-home estimate. Compare options, explore styles, and be confident you’re getting the remodel you want before spending a dime.
—
Contact us today to get started on a show-stopping kitchen remodel.
