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By Kathy Wilson
Most people who want to redo their kitchen put their initial focus on hiring a kitchen remodeling contractor.
That makes sense, but you'd be better served to first figure out what you want to accomplish with your kitchen remodel.
From a practical perspective, figure out exactly what you want to change in your old kitchen, and what details you want in the new kitchen. Use a notebook to list everything you want in your dream kitchen.
Then tear out magazine pictures of kitchens you like and include them in your notebook; this will help your contractor visualize what it is you are looking for. You may have to prioritize your wants and needs to fit your budget later on, but knowing what you want will go a long way toward getting a kitchen you'll love.
And know your budget. One of the biggest complaints of people who have gone through a kitchen remodeling is that they went way over budget.
If you don't know how much you can afford, you might choose an option that's too expensive and you will only resent the project later if you are stressed about finances. You also want to consider that you may not get a good return on your investment if you remodel your kitchen too lavishly in comparison to the rest of the home, and in comparison to your neighborhood.
Also, make sure you realize that a kitchen remodel takes a lot of time, makes a mess, is very inconvenient, and can be stressful. Many people don't get this, so they go into it with unrealistic expectations. Prepare yourself for dust, having strangers walk in and out all day, preparing meals and doing dishes in another room, or eating lots of take-out. Knowing what you are getting in to -- and being prepared to deal with it -- can lessen the strain on the family, and on the contractor.
Get Your Contractor
Once you have armed yourself with a good plan, a set budget and a good attitude, it's time to find a contractor.
Ask for referrals and check them out, being sure to ask the homeowners how they got along with the contractor as well as how good a job he did.
As with any home improvement project, check out the contractor's credentials and licensing with local and state boards. Then make sure you meet with several contractors before making a final decision. Be certain the contract they offer addresses every aspect of the job, including a change order and dispute resolution clause. Remember, these people are going to be in your home, as well as being involved in a major financial investment, so check them out thoroughly.
The Home Stretch
So, the contractor has been chosen, work is almost done, and you can't wait for them to finish and get in your new kitchen! Before you sign the final paperwork, do a thorough inspection of the work. If you have questions for your contractor, ask. You've spent a lot of money, so you deserve to get exactly what you agreed to (even if you might just want to have it over). Don't let minor problems go unresolved in an effort to reclaim your home faster!
Kathy Wilson is a home and garden writer, author and consultant and is the home decorating expert for LifetimeTV.com. Visit her for more home and garden ideas at TheBudgetDecorator.com and TheGardenGlove.com
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