Kitchen Remodeling: Staying on Budget
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
Kitchen remodeling is exciting, but can wreck havoc on your pocket book. Make life easy for both you and your remodeling contractor with these budgeting tips.
Source
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
Define Your Kitchen Remodeling Budget
Before giving the remodeling contractor permission to start work, you should agree on a budget. The budget should include costs for:- Labor - the remodeling contractor, electrician, plumber, etc.
- Construction materials - from lumber to drywall to wiring
- Kitchen cabinets
- Appliances
- Plumbing fixtures, such as the faucet, sink and countertop
- A contingency fund (usually 10 to 20 percent of the total project cost)
Ongoing Kitchen Remodeling Costs
Each week you should meet with the contractor to discuss your project status. A good contractor will alert you to potential cost overruns and provide information on:- The cost of potential project changes
- Alternatives for staying within your remodeling budget
Kitchen Remodeling Bombshells
Kitchen remodeling usually carries a few surprises, like faulty wiring in the walls or worn out plumbing pipes under the dishwasher. To ensure these bombshells don't blow your budget:- Talk with your remodeling contractor about common problems before hand
- Have contingency plans. If you find an $800 home improvement surprise you can go with a less expensive countertop to save costs.
The Essential Home Improvement Project
A kitchen remodeling project is among the most important home improvement projects, impacting both your home value and lifestyle. A kitchen remodeling also can have a big impact on your bank account. Remember to discuss your budget in detail with your contractor while your walls are still intact so you can work toward keeping your budget in line.Source
About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.
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