Anyone considering spending the time and money to remodel a kitchen needs to consider many factors. There are many things to consider when determining the cost of a kitchen remodel.

1. A plan that contains detailed steps is essential to ensure a successful kitchen remodeling project. Taking the time to create sketches, research prices, and coordinate activities is time well spent. Planning helps minimize misunderstandings and potentially costly surprises during the project.

2. The budget is essential. Completion of work is dependent on funds to cover the costs of all parts and labor.

3. Models in kitchen stores, showrooms, and trade publications are good examples, as are the kitchens of friends, neighbors, and relatives with similar sized kitchen areas.

4. The creation of various designs, which can be mixed and matched, helps to visualize the final result.

5. Measurements of appliances, cabinets and other items are essential before researching prices.

6. Lighting preferences are important. Actual lighting versus desired lighting is a factor. Combinations of ceiling, counter, and interior cabinet lighting should be examined, along with combinations of brightness and dimming.

7. Orders for cabinets, trim, appliances, and other essentials can take a while: four to six weeks in most cases, or even longer. Scheduling labor to coincide with deliveries saves money and hassle.

8. Clear communication with suppliers and contractors at every step is essential.

9. The use of trim, siding, and cabinet woods is part of the master plan, and these items are just as important as the major appliances.

10. Knowledge is power. Understanding the problems that others have had with similar projects helps to avoid them. While popular TV shows make it look easy, all projects are error-prone. Knowing the common mishaps that most people encounter minimizes the risks.

11. Experts in specific trades can help with this knowledge. Hiring a general contractor, carpenter, tiler, electrician, plumber, cabinetmaker/installer, heating expert, interior remodel designer, demolition crew or others as needed is well worth it. A custom remodeling company can handle all of this for the homeowner.

12. Thorough investigation of anyone hired is wise. There are many ways to do this: the Internet, friends, trade associations, the Better Business Bureau, and asking around at local hardware and supply stores. As in all trades, there are good people and “not so good” people. Choose carefully. Ask questions.

13. Finally, it is important to have an alternative kitchen available during the project. Coordinating this with a neighbor, friend, or family member early on helps.

These basics are a good start. All projects benefit from careful planning and advice. Kitchen remodeling is no exception.