As a new homeowner, one of the most exciting projects you can embark on is remodeling your kitchen. After all, in most homes, the kitchen is the heart of the house.
It’s where the family comes together at the end of the day to reconnect and share their stories. It’s the focal point when having guests over for dinner or hosting parties.
However, you’ll want to avoid common kitchen remodeling mistakes to ensure you don’t end up worse off than when you started. Keep reading for the top five mistakes to watch out for.
1. Not Starting Out With a Budget
What is your kitchen remodeling budget? Don’t have one? If so, you’re already getting off to a rocky start.
A predetermined budget is necessary for two reasons:
- It’s vital for planning your remodel in advance
- It keeps you from spending way more than you intended
Once you know what your budget is, you can start the planning process. However, some people determine that their budget isn’t big enough. In this case, you may want to spend a few more months saving up to make sure you do this thing right.
2. Forgetting About the Importance of Storage Space
One of the biggest turnoffs for buyers looking for a new home is inadequate kitchen space. This applies to the layout, counter space, and storage space.
Avoid the common kitchen remodeling mistake of forgetting to plan for food, cookware, and dishware storage. Find innovative ways to organize storage space that maximizes efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
3. Not Thinking About the Flow of Your Kitchen
Another thing people forget to think about is how their kitchen flows. While you may be tempted to pack your kitchen full of luxurious appliances and bulky decorations, remember that your kitchen should be functional above all else.
When designing and outfitting your kitchen, try to imagine how it will feel with multiple people streaming in and out while you’re preparing meals. They may be grabbing snacks, helping you cook, or just coming in to keep you company. Make sure you design enough room to prevent kitchen gridlocks.
4. Skimping On the Appliances
When remodeling your bedroom, your biggest worry might be how to find the best hybrid mattress and a dresser that matches your decor. However, a kitchen remodel is slightly more complicated.
In a kitchen remodel you have to worry about a whole host of appliances and this is as just as much about aesthetics as it is quality and function. For long-term satisfaction, don’t skimp on appliances.
This may mean taking out a small loan or using a home equity line of credit but believe us, you’ll want to be picky about the appliances you choose. Take time to decide between different refrigerator sizes, types of stoves, and more.
5. Settling for Poor Workmanship
Finally, avoid one of the biggest and most common kitchens remodel mistakes of trying to do everything yourself. While there’s nothing wrong with DIY and learning new skills, there are some things that are better left to professionals.
Practice some self-awareness here and accept your skill level. A kitchen needs to be masterfully finished. From the different styles for countertops to backsplashes and flooring, you deserve top-quality workmanship.
Looking for More Kitchen Remodeling Mistakes and Other Home Improvement Advice?
If you’re a homeowner looking for more advice on updating and improving your home, you’re in the right place. Check out some of our other articles for more tips on how to avoid kitchen remodeling mistakes, as well as everything else on homeownership. Good luck with your project!
