Kitchen remodel ideas on a budget: How to save

Renovating your kitchen is an exciting opportunity to transform one of the most important spaces in your home. However, the cost can quickly add up if you aren't careful. Without a clear plan, it's easy to overspend on upgrades, which can cause your project to cost far more than you anticipated and take longer to complete.

The national average for a major kitchen renovation is $79,982¹ — but don't let that number discourage you. By planning ahead and exploring cost-saving options, you can create your dream kitchen for less. Read on to learn about some kitchen remodel ideas on a budget to help you bring your vision to life without overspending.

Kitchen remodeling cost

The cost of your kitchen update depends on where you live, who you hire, the materials you choose, and other factors. According to The Journal of Light Construction¹, you can expect to spend approximately $27,000 to $80,000, depending on the scope of the project and the finishes you select.

Investing heavily in a kitchen update may not be a good choice if you are concerned about recouping costs when selling your home, however. With a minor kitchen remodel, you can expect to recoup 96.1% of the cost, while a major kitchen remodel only recoups 49.5%. Opting for a more modest remodel not only saves you money upfront, but it also offers a better return on investment.

Read on for some suggestions on how to save money on your kitchen remodel.

Keep the current layout

Changing the layout of your kitchen might look simple on HGTV, but moving around major appliances and electric, water and gas lines will definitely add to the overall project cost. If your kitchen already has a functional layout, consider keeping the footprint as-is.

For example, this couple was able to create an open concept without changing the existing layout.

Cut cabinet costs

Cabinets represent almost 30% of kitchen renovation costs. Let's break down a few ways you can save on this potential budget-buster.

• Consider RTA cabinets: If your cabinets are in rough shape and need replacing, ready-to-assemble (RTA) is a good option. RTA, or semi-custom cabinets, can be half the cost of full-on custom cabinets depending on the material, style and cost of installation.
• Give your cabinets a facelift: If you have high-quality cabinets but they're just old or outdated, you may want to consider painting or refinishing for a fresh look. This DIY project can save you a considerable amount of money.
• Try open shelving: A modern and frugal option is open shelving. It can save you a few thousand dollars — doors are pricey! You can also mix open shelving with full cabinets, creating a truly custom look.

Save on flooring

For kitchen remodels on a budget, you can lower your flooring costs without sacrificing the quality or appearance by choosing budget-friendly materials. For example, vinyl, laminate or engineered wood often look like high-end materials, but are a fraction of the cost. Peel-and-stick vinyl tiles or planks are also affordable, stylish and easy to install.

If your kitchen has wood flooring that's in decent condition, consider refinishing it instead of replacing it. Wood flooring can be sanded, stained and sealed to give it a like-new appearance for a fraction of the cost of new flooring.

More ways to save on your kitchen remodel

Remodeling a kitchen on a budget is possible by looking for creative ways to maximize every dollar. Here are some additional ways to bring your dream kitchen to life for less.

• Get multiple quotes: If you will be hiring contractors, compare quotes to find the best price for the work you need done.
• Reuse what you can: Consider reusing existing items like sinks, fixtures and appliances if they are still in good condition.
• DIY when possible: Tackling small, manageable projects yourself — like installing new hardware, a backsplash or adding a fresh coat of paint — can help you save on labor costs.

Consider a HELOC to pay for your kitchen remodel

How you fund your kitchen remodel can impact the total cost of the project. Although credit cards are convenient, they often have high interest rates that can cause your balance to grow if you are unable to pay off the full amount right away. One option to pay for your kitchen remodel is a home equity line of credit (HELOC).

A HELOC is a flexible financing option that allows you to borrow against the equity in your home. It typically has a lower interest rate than credit cards or personal loans. With a HELOC, you can draw funds as needed up to your credit limit. For example, you could draw funds for new flooring, and then later draw additional funds for cabinets, countertops, appliances and other remodeling needs.

Similar to a credit card, you can repay the money you borrow to replenish your available credit. You also have the option to make interest-only payments during the draw period, which can help with budgeting. After the draw period ends, you'll make regular monthly payments over a fixed term to repay the balance.

Ready to remodel?

Remodeling your kitchen on a budget is possible with the right strategies. With careful planning, a focus on affordable upgrades and finding creative ways to cut costs, you can create a beautiful and functional space without overspending.

The funding you use for your project is just as important as the choices you make during the renovation. A HELOC can help you save on interest while providing a flexible way to access funds when you need them. Learn more about how a HELOC can help you create the kitchen of your dreams.