Creating a Budget
Consider everything that you'd like to update, replace and/or add in your kitchen and use the following estimates to create a budget for your kitchen renovation project. Your total expenses can vary due to the kitchen's square footage, layout changes, and material costs.
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, a major remodel budget should be approximately 15-20% of your home's value. For example, if you have a $250,000 house, set aside a renovation budget of $37,500 - $50,000. A kitchen remodel can see up to an 85% return on your investment.
See the cost breakdown of doing a refresh vs. minor remodel vs. a major remodel.
Refresh $1,500-$10,000
MAY INCLUDE:
- New basic cabinets or painting existing cabinets
- New cabinet hardware
- New countertops and backsplash
- New sink and faucet
- New lighting
- New window treatments
- One or more new basic appliances
Minor Remodel $10,000-$25,000
MAY INCLUDE:
- New basic cabinets and hardware
- All-new budget-friendly appliances
- New countertops and backsplash
- New sink and faucet
- New lighting
- New ceramic tile or laminate flooring
- New window treatments
Major Remodel $25,000+
MAY INCLUDE:
- Mid-level or premium cabinetry
- Professional-style appliances
- Stone countertops and backsplash
- Apron-front sink and pull-down faucet
- New island
- Stone flooring
- Multilevel lighting
- Designer window treatments
If you're ready to start your kitchen project, use our Lowe's Kitchen Planner. Take a style quiz, get a cost estimate and work with a designer to select products.
Do-It-Yourself
Review these issues and questions to see if you are prepared and able to complete a kitchen project yourself. Poorly done remodeling jobs don’t just look bad and turn off future home buyers—they also can create expensive-to-fix safety and structural problems. Most cities and counties require permits for certain kinds of remodeling projects, and some require homeowners to pass proficiency exams before starting the work. Know what is required in your area and make sure your work will pass any required inspections.
Before you start
- Do you understand the entire scope of the job completely—from budget to materials to code?
- Do you have the knowledge, experience and tools needed for the job?
- Do you have the time and temperament to deal with both your day job and the project?
- Can you deal with permits, licenses and inspections?
- Brush up on your DIY skills for kitchen projects.
What’s Your Kitchen Profile?
Needs Checklist
Download and print our checklist of kitchen needs and check out the rest of our Kitchen Planning Guide series:
Kitchen Planning Guide: Inspiration and Ideas