In today’s cost-of-living crisis, many of us are feeling the pinch, and home renovations may seem out of the question. However, the past couple of years have also seen us spending more time at home than ever before, and we’ve noticed areas that are in dire need of an update, such as the kitchen. If you are looking to for a budget-friendly but fabulous kitchen renovation, doing it yourself can save you a lot of money. So, if you’re strapped for cash but you’re determined to have the kitchen of your dreams, here is some of what you can do.
Create a Budget – and Stick to it!
Creating a budget is the first and most important step, but you must also try and stick to it! There is no point in taking on the project yourself to save money only to go completely over budget and spend the equivalent of what it would have cost to have it done by a professional kitchen design team. Instead, create a budget using a spreadsheet so that everything is accounted for, including materials, fixtures and fittings and labor costs for any jobs you aren’t qualified to take on. Having it all laid on out a spreadsheet will enable you to clearly see if there are any areas you can cut back on, by choosing less expensive materials, for example, or leaving a certain job until a later date when you have the funds.
Wait for the Sales
You might be tempted to splash out on a big purchase when you’ve found the one you want, such as a farmhouse-style range cooker, but if you wait for the sales, it can really pay off. If you are planning your renovation towards the end of the year, you have Black Friday and the January sales to look forward to. You may end up making huge savings this way, so make sure to wait and shop around.
Reuse What You Already Have
Carrying out a kitchen renovation on a budget doesn’t always mean leaving out certain features or making compromises. A lot of what you already have can more than likely be reused and upcycled. The biggest money saving tip is to leave yourkitchen cabinetry intact but simply have it resprayed. Bland wooden kitchen cupboards can be transformed with a bit of degreaser and a lick of paint, with blues and greens trending for 2023. Complete the look with brand new door handles and it will look like you’ve had a complete kitchen refit.
Prioritize Where You Will Invest in High-Quality Materials
If you save in some areas, you can afford to invest a bit more in others. For example, energy saving appliances are a wise investment as you will be cutting down on your utility bills. Also, a durable countertop made of a material like quartz will last years and save on maintenance. And, if you want to ensure your kitchen looks stylish at the same time, you should try to spend a little more on things like dining room chairs and tables. Your kitchen will no doubt get a lot of use and trying to cut corners when it comes to furniture will only mean that you have to replace it further down the line when it starts to show signs of wear and tear.
By using these money saving tips, you will have the kitchen of your dreams in no time!