How to Plan Your Kitchen Remodel Budget (Without the Sticker Shock!)
[this post has been updated from our original post 2/21/20 on www.cristinadepina.com/blog]
Let’s talk about budgets—specifically, kitchen remodel budgets. I know it’s not the most exciting topic, but trust me, getting real about costs upfront will save you stress (and unexpected expenses) later.
I’ve worked with many homeowners who are surprised when they see the total cost of a kitchen remodel. They aren’t shocked by the price of individual elements—a quality range, custom cabinetry, quartz countertops—but they never realized how quickly everything adds up.
It’s like buying a $4.65 coffee every morning. You don’t think much of it—until you realize you’ve spent $1,200 by the end of the year. Ouch.
A well-planned budget ensures you get the kitchen of your dreams without financial surprises. So, let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Figure Out Where You Are Today
Before setting a budget, take stock of what’s working (and what’s driving you crazy) in your kitchen. Ask yourself:
✅ Do I have enough storage, or is my kitchen always cluttered?
✅ Is my layout functional, or do I find myself walking in circles while cooking?
✅ Are my cabinets in good shape, or is it time for an upgrade?
Write everything down—the good, the bad, and the must-haves. This will help you (and your designer!) focus on what matters most.
Step 2: Get Clear on What You Want
Think about your dream kitchen. Do you picture:
✔ Custom cabinetry with built-in organizers?
✔ A spacious island for meal prep and entertaining?
✔ Quartz or natural stone countertops for a high-end, durable finish?
✔ A more open layout for better flow and function?
Your wish list should be comprehensive—even if you can’t afford everything at once. Sometimes, clients think they need to fix Problem A but later realize Problem C is the real issue!
Step 3: Understand Kitchen Remodel Costs
So, how much does a kitchen remodel cost? It varies based on location, finishes, and the scope of work, but here’s a general breakdown:
Cabinetry: 30-50% of your total budget
Countertops: 10-15%
Appliances: 10-20%
Lighting & Electrical: 5-10%
Flooring: 5-10%
Plumbing & Fixtures: 5-10%
Labor & Installation: 25-35%
For a mid-range kitchen remodel in Massachusetts, expect to invest $50,000–$100,000, while high-end renovations can exceed $150,000+.
👉 Pro Tip: Always set aside a 10-15% contingency fund for surprises. (Because in remodeling, there are always surprises!)
Step 4: Prioritize & Plan Your Budget
Now that you have a rough idea of costs, decide:
What are your non-negotiables? (Custom cabinets? High-end appliances?)
Where can you save vs. splurge? (Maybe opt for quartz instead of marble.)
What can be phased in over time if needed?
If you’re unsure, a kitchen designer can help you make smart decisions based on your budget and lifestyle. [wink, wink - that’s us]
Step 5: Choose the Right Team & Timeline
Before moving forward, ask yourself:
Do I have a kitchen designer to ensure functionality & aesthetics?
Do I need a contractor, or is this a cabinetry-only project?
Can I live in my home during the remodel, or will I need to relocate?
Am I prepared for the timeline? (Most kitchen remodels take 8-12 weeks.)
With the right team in place, your project will run smoother—and you’ll avoid costly mistakes.
Let’s Plan Your Dream Kitchen
Remodeling your kitchen is an investment, but with proper planning, it can be stress-free and even exciting. If you’re looking for expert guidance on kitchen design, cabinetry selection, and space planning, I’d love to help.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start designing your dream kitchen!
