"Just because you cannot afford a remodel, does not mean you need to be depressed about your kitchen," Lederer said. Mahogany Builders' five tips can drastically change the look and feel of your kitchen for $1000. These improvements will add value to your home and make you feel better about living environment. According to the National Association of Home Realtors, kitchens are the most important room in the home when making a home purchase as it is often a place of family gathering.
Tip 1- Backsplash: A backsplash can transform the feel and style of a kitchen. A bright color or interesting pattern can become focal point for an updated look. For an average kitchen you only need 20 square feet of tile, and given the low cost of tile, you can afford to splurge. Many tiles retail for $10 per square foot or $400 for the entire backsplash.
Tricks to remember:
You only have 18" or less between the counter and the cabinet so make sure your tiles are small enough to develop a pattern.
Anticipate the adjustments that will need to be made to outlets and switches.
Tip 2 - Fixtures: Replacing fixtures in the kitchen can make drab cabinets look new again and add elegance and style. Best part? It takes less than an hour and is cheap. Use glass or ceramic knobs and pulls. Some can be bought for about $8 per knob or less. Reclaimed knobs are also a great idea. Lederer recently took advantage of a condo conversion in a vintage building and acquired several turn of the century pulls. With a little elbow grease and shellac, you can get transformative results.
Tip 3 - Kitchen Sink: Your kitchen sink is more of a focal point than you might realize because it stands out high as an eye catching fixture. Replacing a worn faucet head with a shiny new head polishes off a kitchen with new sophistication. Any hardware store can get you an entry level faucet in a variety of styles for under $150. More stylish or higher quality faucets can be found at a plumbing supplier.
Tip 4 - Flooring: Most people think flooring projects are too expensive to be considered for an update. Consider an update rather than a gut. Refinishing hardwood can actually be completed in under two days at a reasonable cost through sanding and refinishing. Likewise, if you have tile or ceramic, professionally cleaning and sealing is affordable and can bring an old floor back to life.
Tip 5 - Light Fixtures: A lighting fixture can transform a kitchen and there is no end to the options and price points for a new chandelier, sconce or fixture. Web sites such as Overstock.com have great lighting options you may want to check out. If you don't have experience with wiring lights Lederer recommends calling an electrician.
For more information on Lederer and Mahogany Builders, visit his Web site here.
