In many residential houses, an outdated kitchen cramps the style of the surrounding scenery along with the experience of avid cooks.
Many clients not only desire additional space but want to merge updated floor plans with new, state-of-the-art appliances. Those who are considering remodeling should be informed about the expenses related to the work involved, which vary considerably based on a multitude of variables.
What is the Average Cost to Remodel a Kitchen?
There are very few home improvement projects that demand as high of a price as renovation in the kitchen, averaging in the five figures at the minimum.
According to data by HomeAdvisor, the average remodeling cost hovers just under $26,000, a figure that represents $150 per square foot. However, expect a typical range of anywhere between $13,500 to $38,000. Still, these expenses can quickly soar, to as high as $75,000, depending on the extent and the size of the space.
Furthermore, the geographic location of the house impacts the total cost related to remodeling. For example, if you or your business has residency set up in the Southern regions of the country, you’re likely to spend nearly $20,000 less for remodeling than those residing in Western or Northeastern regions.
An additional factor includes the type of community you dwell in, as city-side residents typically pay higher in comparison to those in more rural areas.
Types of Remodels
It’s no surprise that the size of the kitchen, as well as its components, affect the expenses of a makeover. Yet, the scope of the remodeling work influences the price paid in a similar fashion. Generally speaking, kitchen remodeling is divided into three classifications.
Minor/small: In this scenario, clients often keep the layout but refresh and adjust minute details. Examples include installation of a new floor, a fresh coat of paint, converting appliances to save more energy. Average costs for this category sit at $25,000.
Midrange: Here, design elements are often added. Think new kitchen islands, custom cabinetry, or changing the lighting and the flooring. Expect to pay around $70,000.
Major/upscale: For this type of work, take the existing fundamental overhauls seen in midrange and small remodeling efforts, but either replace everything or simply install all-new appliances with top of the line systems for water-filtration, appliances, fully customized countertops, cabinets, and fixtures; all crafted with luxurious materials. Total costs for this level of craftsmanship sit around $142,000.
What costs the most when remodeling a kitchen?
Despite the fact that there is plenty of money to be spent on a makeover, there are no less than five components comprising the largest percentage of the budget. In accordance with data provided by HomeAdvisor, these include the following:
Cabinetry
The installation of cabinets and other related hardware eats up the bulk of the expenses, sitting at nearly 30%. Average expenses related to the items themselves are just over $6,600 but depend on costs related to refinishing, stock, and refacing.
Ventilation and appliances
Depending on just how many ventilation and appliances upgrades as well as sizes that you plan to remodel, customized builds will cost between $1,000 to $10,000 or anywhere from $200 to $1,000 for freestanding economy units. Expect an average for this category to encompass about 15% of total expenses, at a standard rate of $3,220.
Countertops
The cost of countertops takes up 10% of a remodel and is generally considered the fourth largest expense, with an average cost of around $2,300. On the lower end, countertops made of a paper composite can stretch as high as $6,000. Quality countertops, including those made of marble, can cost up to $10,000.
Installation
Installing every element and appliance of your renovated kitchen, including cabinetry, sinks, flooring, countertops, and faucets, encompass up to 17% of the cost of remodeling. The average price for installation is around $3,910.
How to cut down on costs related to kitchen remodeling
There are innumerable methods to saving money on your kitchen remodel. Here are several tips.
Pick stock items: Purchasing models that are ready-made in comparison to customizing your countertops and cabinets will save thousands.
Do it yourself: You can try to perform as many of the renovations yourself as possible. If and only if you plan to go down this route, you absolutely must ensure you know how to handle it properly. Failure to understand the proper methodologies will result in lower home value since buyers will have to now factor in expenses to fix it themselves.
Upgrade the least expensive option: Focusing on hardware instead of a total replacement of something like cabinetry can help maximize affordability.
Keep existing plumbing and piping: Not changing or moving any of the existing gas and electric, piping, or plumbing systems let you hone in on the aesthetics of the new kitchen.
How to know if a kitchen should be remodeled
You may not be certain upon initial inspection of a kitchen remodeling is the right course of action to take. Consider the following examples to help decide:
Funds: Do you have sufficient funds to spend on a remodel? Would the costs require a dip into your rainy-day fund? Unless you plan to try financing options, wait until saving prior to performing the renovation.
Living plans: If you just purchased a home and planned on living there for a period of greater than or equal to seven years, it’s recommended that you perform necessary remodeling prior to moving in.
Selling: By renovating early on, with the job performed well and correctly, you’ll not only retain the money spent, but you will also observe a significantly greater boost in return on investment (ROI). If your plan is to sell and every neighboring home has an updated kitchen, you’ll definitely need to remodel. The master bedroom, kitchen, and bathrooms are the most desired spaces for buyers searching the market.
Always make sure to do your homework. Regardless of the area you live in, research the necessary contractors and materials in order to acquire a proper picture of the overall expenses related to your project. Do not forget to budget on other expenses as well. Get several estimates and consider financing if needed.