A Sample Checklist Before Your Kitchen Remodel Begins

You are ready for a new kitchen and cannot wait for the remodelers to come in and start ripping out all those old cabinets and counter tops to replace them with something newer, more elegant and far more functional. Before they do arrive though take one last look at your kitchen design plans, as there are several factors that homeowners can often overlook, especially if they have done much of the planning work themselves.

Some points you should definitely consider in your review of your kitchen remodel include the following:-

• Is there going to be enough room to open all the drawers and cabinets in your new kitchen properly?
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• Is there going to be adequate counter top space between the sink, stove and refrigerator?
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• Is the microwave going in right place? If there are kids in the house is it low enough for them to use safely?
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• How well will your new kitchen flooring match with that in adjoining rooms?
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• Do you have enough lighting planned? Under cabinet lights are often overlooked but they are incredibly useful in most kitchens and really should not be forgotten.
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• Is the work flow between all the appliances going to be smooth? Transit between them all, including the dishwasher should be as easy and clutter free as possible.
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• Will you have enough storage space?
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• Are you really happy with the overall design plans?

If, after you have asked yourself all these questions, you are still happy with the planned design that is great, let the work commence.  However if you have any nagging doubts, even if the kitchen plans were drawn up by a kitchen remodeling expert, voice them now.  Changing something mid project can be an expensive headache and derail the project's timeline by days or even weeks. It is your kitchen, your money and ultimately it is up to you to make sure that the design is exactly what you wanted it to be.

Learning to Negotiate a Bid

The general advice people receive when they are considering a home remodeling project is to solicit bids from at least three home design contractors. This is called competitive bidding. This is a way to "comparison shop" just as you would when buying a television or appliance, the only factor you're using in making your purchase decision is price. It's a good way to shop for a product, but might not work well when buying a service, which is what general contractors provide.

Let's introduce you to an alternative to competitive bidding which you may not be aware of, a negotiated bid. This is not a situation where you haggle the price with the contractor. Rather, you and the contractor become allies in making your project a reality.

The procedure for negotiating a bid goes usually goes something like this: First, you pick a contractor you like and trust before the design process has begun or is in its early stages (there are many ways to find a good contractor; referrals from friends, NARI.org or NKBA.com). You and the contractor work together as a team to develop a project which fits your needs as well as your budget. This is a simple explanation of the negotiated bid process. You'll probably require a bit more information before being sold on the concept but before we move on let me draw your attention to a few key words which need to be understood in context: trust and team.

Kitchen Remodeling Ideas That Won't Break the Bank!

Want a brand new kitchen design but don't know where to begin?  These bright kitchen ideas can jump-start your creativity without putting the brakes on your budget.

Great Kitchen Design Ideas for your Kitchen Makeover

It's time for a change! Which of these five kitchen ideas suits your fancy?

1. Reface your cabinets. With a few coats of paint or stain, you can brighten up your old cabinets without destroying your budget. Not ready to reface? Add new hardware for a quick and attractive change.

2. Upgrade appliances. That avocado fridge has got to go! Invest in sleek stainless steel or opt for a brightly-colored appliance, such as a cherry red stove or a sky blue refrigerator.

3. Add more lights. That big overhead light looks okay, but does it provide enough task lighting? Add lights under the cabinets and put accent lighting on the walls to highlight architecture or works of art. You could even consider upgrading the overhead fixture with a classy chandelier or funky art-deco piece.

4. Replace the countertops. Changing your kitchen countertops can turn a so-so kitchen into a bold statement. If you want a classic look, go for ceramic tile or stainless steel. Want something more opulent? Turn to granite, slate, or even glass.

5. Add unusual furniture. Consider a bookcase tucked in the corner to handle all those cookbooks, or a small wine rack that fits on your countertop. A plush chair in the corner can create a nice sitting area, and a small desk with a chair can make a handy computer station.

What unique kitchen remodeling ideas can you imagine? Kitchen makeovers can be fun projects that bring new life to one of the most important rooms in your home.