The ServiceMagic Connection | Five Tips to Simplify Your Kitchen ...

A kitchen remodel can be a long, daunting process. But the rewards, including a big boost in resale value, are great. Create a beautiful space without some of the unnecessary headaches by following this simple advice.

1. Plan, plan and then plan some more

Sure, planning takes time. But failing to plan can lead to even longer delays. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends spending six months or more just in the planning stages. This decreases the likelihood that you?ll change your mind mid-project about materials, colors or budget.

Start by looking for design inspiration. Read design magazines, visit home improvement stores and look at pictures online. Armed with style ideas, you can begin planning the layout of the kitchen. Does the current configuration work or could the flow be better? Are there walls that can be removed to open up the space? This doesn?t have to be an exact science; just come up with ideas. Next, make a list of the types of surfaces and materials that you?d pick on an unlimited budget, then make a second list of less expensive options that could work as a compromise if money runs short. Finally, set a budget and resolve to stick to it.

Need additional help? Check out this kitchen planning guide from Consumer Reports.

2. Tackle the project in stages

If you?re short on cash or overwhelmed by the prospect of tackling such a large project all at once, consider taking on the kitchen remodel in stages. Replace your cabinets and countertops first, then replace your appliances a few months down the road. Save the flooring for last to make sure it fits properly around new cabinets and appliances.

Keep in mind that this approach does not mean you can skip the planning stage. Poor planning is even more dangerous when you tackle the project in stages. Even if you don?t buy the appliances right away, for example, pick the models you want and make sure they will fit in the space. Having to rip out cabinets to make enough room for appliances is a nightmare, to say the least.

3. Hire a Pro

Hiring a designer comes at a cost, but a pro will significantly reduce your hassle. A designer?s job goes far beyond helping you make style decisions like which countertops and cabinets to buy. He or she can hire and schedule contractors, foresee potential problems and keep the project within time and budget constraints.

4. Shop for Materials Online

Think you can?t buy flooring or countertops online? Think again. There are plenty of online suppliers that will send free product samples to your home. Typically, you can request up to five at a time with no commitment to buy and no credit card required. In many cases, you don?t even have to return the samples.

Product samples save you the time and hassle of driving all over the place to home improvement, kitchen or flooring stores. Plus, you get to see how the colors and materials will look in your home.

5. Check Contractor Credentials

There?s nothing worse than dealing with an unreliable contractor. You know, workers that show up only some of the time or, worse, don?t show up at all. Even if you fire the contractor, you?re out time and money.

Before you hire any contractor, ask for references ? and actually check them. Check the company?s record with consumer organizations like the Better Business Bureau. If you?re a member, check Angie?s List. And most importantly, go with your gut. If something feels wrong, it probably is.

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Source: http://www.servicemagicconnection.com/five-tips-to-simplify-your-kitchen-remodel/

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