Cook Up a Resolution: 4 Reasons to Remodel Your Kitchen in 2010

December 19, 2009

Resolutions--you make 'em and you break 'em. If sprucing up your sautéing spot is something you've put on the back burner for years, make 2010 the year you adhere to your kitchen renovation resolutions. Here are four reasons to finally turn up the heat on your remodeling resolve.

• Over 70 Percent ROI: Most of us launch into a home improvement project because we want to upgrade our living space. But a well-planned remodeling project can add value to your home as well. According to Remodeling's 2009-2010 Cost vs. Value Report, the average cost of a minor kitchen remodel is $21,411. The return on that investment (ROI) is 78.3 percent. Major remodels of the kitchen will run you just shy of $57,000, but the ROI or return on investment is still a hefty 72.1 percent.
• DIY Improves Your ROI: There are a number of ways you can lower your costs and, by extension, improve your ROI. Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects are especially effective. Tackling the plumbing or installation of your new stove is not recommended--unless, of course, you are actually licensed to perform these tasks. But it is possible for even the beginning do-it-yourselfer to install kitchen countertops and flooring. Vinyl laminate countertops can be laid right over existing surfaces and can add a quick, relatively inexpensive uplift to your kitchen. Similarly, vinyl flooring--especially if you are using self-stick vinyl tiles--can be conquered with some measure of ease. If you're ambitious, you may even install your own new granite countertops or ceramic tile floors.
• Energy Efficiency: Making green choices during your kitchen renovation can help you reduce your impact on the earth or simply reduce your bills. As an added bonus, greening your home can improve your resale value. If you are replacing appliances, choose products that have earned the ENERGY STAR to save water and electricity. Upgrade your lighting by choosing energy-efficient lighting fixtures and using compact fluorescent light bulbs. You can even get a boost by choosing insulating material for your floors. Cork flooring is a natural insulator--it's also a doable do-it-yourself project.
• Quality of Life: There's an old quote that says the kitchen is the heart of the home. A comfortable, workable, even beautiful space is sure to enhance the memories you make there. Whether you're rolling out gingerbread cookies with your grandson or hanging out with your daughter while you stuff the Thanksgiving turkey, a well-designed kitchen is a gathering place.

Don't let another year go by. If you resolve to remodel your kitchen, you may find the silver lining of this recession--good contractors are easier to find, and the price of materials is lower.

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