Kitchens often top the list when it comes to renovation projects. Whether your upgrading to sell or sprucing up your own place, a kitchen makeover can have a large impact. Kitchen renovations aren’t without their challenges though, and if homeowners aren’t careful, the costs can quickly surpass their initial budget. For St. Louis homeowners ready to renovate their kitchens, here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

Assess Your Budget

As mentioned above, kitchen renovations can be costly. The first step of any renovation project should be to consider your budget. What are you comfortable spending? Know your maximum budget and what you’d ideally like to spend. In more extensive renovations, unexpected expenses can often pop up. Keep this in mind when setting your budget. You’ll want to leave some wiggle room so that you’re not left with a half-finished project and a maxed out budget.

Envision Your End Goal

Another important thing for homeowners to do before they set out on their renovation is to think about their end goal. Are you creating a kitchen that your family can enjoy for years, or are you designing a space that will help you sell your home at top dollar? If you’re renovating for you, you can get a bit more personalized with your options, though it’s often smart to ensure it would still appeal to buyers down the line should you try to sell. If you’re designing to sell, functional and simple are often the best places to focus. Check out some images online or in magazines to give yourself some visuals to work with.

Get Creative

Especially if you’re operating on a smaller budget, getting creative is key. A simple coat of neutral paint on kitchen cabinets can be an instant facelift. Updating cabinet knobs and drawer pulls is often another inexpensive update. Changing the wall color and decor can also freshen up the space. Don’t underestimate the power of a little creativity when it comes to changing up your kitchen. It can really help you make a statement while also saving some money.

Consult Professionals

If you are planning for a larger renovation, it’s important to know when to bring in the professionals. Kitchens are often the center of a home and their functionality is essential. If you have any major changes in mind, working with a contractor can help you get the job done right. If you have the skills to address changes with plumbing, electric, or gas yourself, that’s great, but if you’re uncertain, it’s always best to get a second opinion.

Consider Storage

Kitchen storage is important, and it can sometimes be overlooked in a renovation. Think about how well your current spaces meets your storage needs and work from there. If your pantry could use some reorganization, or your cabinets need to be decluttered, you’ll want to think about this before you get started renovating. Perhaps you add in more overhead cabinets or find an island that has storage underneath. There are many options when it comes to kitchen storage, and it’s important for homeowners to think about these as they plan their updates.

For St. Louis homeowners looking to give their space a boost, the kitchen is a great place to start. Whether you stick to simple changes like paint and fixtures, or you undertake a larger remodel, updating your kitchen can really make an impact. Have you considered a kitchen renovation? Where would you start? Share your ideas with us in the comments.