With the holidays right around the corner, the last thing you want to spend money on is a home modeling project. However, remodeling your kitchen can make your holidays a little more cheery without the leaky fridge, the oven that takes forever to heat up, or the broken cabinet door you’ve been trying to hide. All of these aspects and more can be accomplished without overspending or cutting your monthly budget. Follow these simple tips to save money when remodeling your kitchen this year.
Tip #1: Plan to replace
Before embarking on any home makeover, it is important to be able to finance the remodeling project. Evaluate your kitchen, taking note of the aspects (big and small) that you would like to change. From woodwork, window treatments, and door knobs to appliances, countertops, and backsplashes, chances are one or more of these aspects haven’t been updated in the last 5 years. Now is the time to change, before your family and friends arrive to celebrate the New Year.
Tip #2: Create a budget
Before beginning any aspect of the makeover, make sure you have a more than adequate budget to handle the costs. Where are you going to find the extra dough to finance this new project? Consider cutting back on daily luxuries like coffee at the local diner, fast food lunches, and other unnecessary stops; they can add up quickly. Do your research and estimate how much each replacement will cost. Add an extra mattress to the budget in case you don’t like the replacements you bought the first time.
Tip #3: Replace the small stuff
Often simply replacing cabinet hardware can instantly transform your kitchen. If you have white cabinet drawers and tops, consider installing a dark finish, such as oil-rubbed bronze cabinet pulls. The contrast between dark and light is attractive, elegant and elegant. If you decide to replace your drawer pulls, make sure the hardware matches throughout the room, including lock sets, door knobs, and cabinet hinges.
Tip #4: Look at the stars
Whether you’re entertaining a party of fifty or just cooking for a family of five, having up-to-date appliances can make life so much easier and save you money at the same time. If you want to replace your refrigerator, dishwasher, or oven, look for appliances with the Energy Star logo; these products are designed to provide optimum performance at only a fraction of the cost of typical older models.
Tip #4: Drive traffic
The holiday season means bringing loved ones together, but it doesn’t mean cramming everyone into one room. Set and keep traffic moving through the kitchen, without ending in the kitchen. Make sure there is enough space between countertops, the dishwasher, and the sink so the chef or party host can juggle dishes and cooking without tripping over guests or children.
Tip #5: Celebrate in Style
What is a Christmas party without decorations? Instead of rushing to buy expense decorations, look elsewhere first. Before you toss that old soup can, consider creating a tin candle holder with the kids; Just tap the holes on the sides and create unlimited decorations. Not only is it inexpensive, but it’s also a great way to get your family involved.
If you’ve already received tons of Christmas cards and don’t want to throw them away, hang them up in style. Cut a 12-inch piece of fabric or ribbon and hang it on your kitchen door. Attach the cards one below the other to display this year’s photos of friends and family.
Tip #6: Let it shine in 2009
With these tips in mind, you and your loved ones can celebrate the season in comfort, without worrying that you’ve spent a year’s savings. So sit back and relax with family and friends and ring in 2009 with your newly designed, affordable kitchen renovation.