Budget Kitchen Remodeling Ideas

Experts say there isn't much difference in reliability between high-end appliances and less expensive ones.

Countertops affect kitchen lighting. Dark colors and shiny finishes don't disperse light well, so plan accordingly.

Kitchen upgrades generally return between 80 percent and 105 percent of their cost during resale, experts say.

Be sure to budget for the cost of eating out/ordering in if you're staying in the house during the renovation.

Tackle some of the demolition (removing cabinets, appliances and flooring) yourself to keep remodeling costs down.

The best strategy is to create the illusion of space through efficiency, regardless of your kitchen's size.

Add interest or create a focal point by using a different material than the cabinets for the island countertop.

There's no rule that dining furniture has to match or that you have to keep a set together.