Wisconsin Kitchen Mart Suggests Ways for Homeowners to Keep Their Kitchen Remodel on Budget

Remodeling a kitchen can be a big investment – from new countertops and cabinets to flooring and appliances. But with deliberate planning, homeowners can make the most of their investment and keep their budget on track. Wisconsin Kitchen Mart, which has provided award-winning design/build services since 1951, suggests ways homeowners can build the kitchen of their dreams without going over budget.

Matt Godfread, a designer for Wisconsin Kitchen Mart, said that many people think they should plan their remodel based on the value of their home, but this is not necessarily the best route.

“When thinking about developing a budget, it should not be based on the percentage of your home, but rather on what you are going to value most as the end result,” said Godfread.

Godfread stressed the importance of selecting materials before the project begins. There is a range of prices available when choosing countertops, backsplashes, cabinets, and flooring. He said a good way for homeowners to stay within budget throughout the project is to choose materials in their price range. “It’s important not to leave any open-ended items at the beginning, so there won’t be any surprises with overspending on the project,” said Godfread.

According to Rob Radiske, vice president and designer at Wisconsin Kitchen Mart, repurposing funds for materials or appliances homeowners may value more is another way to stay on budget. If homeowners decide they want something more expensive throughout the project, they should consider taking the funds from something they do not necessarily need. “Rather than replacing a dishwasher that is still working, maybe the cost could be used toward countertops,” he said.

Radiske added that investing some time into labor is a way to preserve a portion of the budget. Homeowners who remove some or all of the existing materials that are being replaced will save money on the front end. “Countertop, cabinet, and flooring removal are relatively easy,” he said.

Both designers emphasized the importance of keeping changes to a minimum throughout the process. “Establishing your budget and sticking to it throughout is the most important,” said Radiske. “A good contractor will give you the project cost up front.”

For more information, visit Wisconsin Kitchen Mart’s 18,000 square foot showroom at 3601 W. Wisconsin Ave., featuring a wide variety of kitchen and bathroom displays in all sizes and styles, a 2,400 square foot idea house, and a new Kohler space with faucets, fixtures, sinks, tubs, toilets and more. Call 414-342-3300 to schedule a showroom appointment or go to WisconsinKitchenMart.com.