How to start the process of renovating your kitchen

Well, is this a do-it-yourself (DIY) job or are you looking for a reliable kitchen renovation company? Ask yourself the following questions:

o Do I like the layout of my kitchen or do I want to change it?
or Can I just face the existing cabinets?
o Do I want to replace the kitchen counter?
o Do I need new kitchen appliances?
o Will those appliances be different sizes than the ones I have now?
o Do I need better lighting, more electrical outlets, new plumbing?
o Do I want to replace the floor covering?
o Do I have the time and know how to do everything myself?

Unless you are in the construction renovation industry or are incredibly skilled and technically savvy, a kitchen remodel, including refinishing the cabinets, is a great project to undertake on your own!

If you’re like most people looking to renovate their kitchen or bathroom, you want it remodeled right, remodeled right, and remodeled fast! Let’s face it, you don’t want to be without running water and a sink for more than a month!

So how do you find a reliable kitchen renovation company? Unfortunately, there are many shady contractors out there who will take advantage of you, the homeowner.

The answer: Do your due diligence! Go online, visit home shows, visit kitchen showrooms. Choose 3-5 kitchen cabinet companies in your local area and use the links below to validate the companies you want to interview:

o Better Business Office
or Angie’s List
o State Contractors Licensing Board

Here is a checklist of the qualities of a reliable kitchen renovation company:

o Licensed, Bonded and Insured
o A proven track record: multiple years in business
o Good references
or Employees vs. subcontractors
Showroom
o Professional kitchen designers
o A complete contract with a clear scope of work and timeline.
or Your own website

Now you’ve narrowed it down to a few companies that fit the above criteria. When you call to make your appointment, be prepared with the availability of you and your partner so that you can both be there to hear all of your options, view samples, and have the kitchen designer answer all of your questions.