Experience has shown us over and over that many people go into their new kitchen or remodel in the Chicagoland area with tunnel vision – mainly focused on their budget.

Many times this single focus leads to them to NOT look into options we KNOW they would want to do. Even to where they would give up something else in order to make the budget work. But the budget ends up ruling the day and they go down a limited road.

Kitchen and bath industry studies have shown that over 1/3 of homeowners, after their project is complete, wish they had done more and regret that they didn’t. Whether it’s better quality cabinets, more organization and accessories inside of them, or a higher grade of countertops, whatever. It’s a sad feeling to have after spending a chunk of your life for something you and your family should enjoy for years.

Have you had multiple thoughts or discussions about whether or not you should do a kitchen remodel in the Chicagoland area? If the answer is yes, have you had the thought of when you should do it?

There are many reasons today is the best time, but on top of those reasons is the fact that time is running out on most of the incentives that make it such a great time to remodel.

From market dynamics like the economic downturn and low interest rates making remodeling less expensive, to manufacturer incentives that will not last much longer, to the fact that cabinet companies are beginning to get MUCH busier, everything points to an urgency to remodel now. The "best time" won't last much longer.

Saving up for a remodel can be challenging, but if you really want changes in your home, it pays to make a few tweaks to the way you live.

Often, it is the seemingly small repeated purchases and activities that make a big impact on our bank accounts over time - like that morning cup of coffee you buy at Starbucks instead of making it at home. Or, there’s that new shirt you just have to own (even though you have plenty of clothes to wear already).

Making changes

As much as you try to stick to the budgeting guidelines you and your remodeling professional worked hard to break down, it can get difficult. Maybe you budgeted for the “Good” but you fell in love with the “Better” or “Best.” The heart wants what the heart wants, right?

Luckily, if you’re in the midst of planning a Chicago area remodeling project with us, you can’t really go wrong, as we work hard to get you the look you want within your budget comfort zone. Alas, you may find yourself wanting to splurge in one area, and forced to cut back in others. So, what should you leave out?

Cutting back to save budget

Anyone who has previously set a budget and remodeled their kitchen or bathroom will probably agree – if you’re not careful, it’s easy to overspend and bust your budget. With so many products and stylish pieces available today, you have to make a conscious effort not to let things get out of control– which is why we advise you to pull apart all the pieces that will make up your remodel, and assign a certain amount of your budget toward each section.

If your median budget is $30,000 and you plan to do a complete overhaul of your kitchen, you shouldn’t be spending $20,000 on cabinets (unless of course you want to and you plan everything out accordingly). So what should you be spending in each area?

Remodeling costs uncovered

We have good news and bad news when people come to us asking how much cabinetry costs. The bad news is…we can’t give you an accurate quote before getting to know a lot more about your project and the materials you prefer. The good news is…cabinetry costs can range based on your budget. Brakur produces cabinetry from basically any budget range (within reason).

Since we know the vague answers to your cost questions are unfulfilling, we’ll at least give you some helpful information that may come in handy as you start your project.

Generally speaking – where does price differ?

Remodeling your kitchen can be a lot of fun, but it can also get a little confusing when you dive in without a survival plan. Before you start making decisions, there are many other things to check off the list – gathering ideas, establishing your needs, wants and desires, setting your budget, finding a trustworthy professional, gathering quotes and more. It’s enough to make your head spin if you’re not ready for it all.

"How much will it cost me?" is a question that goes through many homeowners’ minds when they get the bug to remodel. While it is impossible to put an exact price on a remodel (without knowing all of the details), it is good to know the average of other people’s remodels.