2024 New Jersey Kitchen Remodel Checklist

How Do You Plan a Kitchen Remodel?

With a kitchen remodel, what should come first? Start by pinpointing what changes are needed to make your kitchen a space that everyone in your household can enjoy.

Your goal is to create a kitchen that functions smoothly, offers plenty of space, and has ample storage to keep countertops clutter-free. Here are some key questions to ask yourself as you begin the planning process:

• Is the current style of my kitchen outdated or no longer reflecting my personal taste?
• Does my kitchen feel cramped? Are we constantly bumping into each other while preparing meals or going about our daily routines?
• Am I struggling with a lack of storage? Are my cabinets overflowing, making it difficult to find space for everything?
• Is my kitchen designed with long-term safety in mind? Do I need to incorporate aging-in-place features?
• Is my kitchen dimly lit or lacking natural light?
• Does my kitchen meet my cooking needs? Do I have enough space for all the appliances and gadgets I want to use to create delicious meals?
• Does my kitchen layout follow the Golden Triangle Rule for efficiency?
• Would a walk-in pantry or a back kitchen provide the extra storage and workspace I need for entertaining?

As you consider these questions, take notes to help identify what's not working in your current kitchen. This will guide you in determining the upgrades needed to make your daily routines and entertaining more enjoyable, ultimately creating a kitchen that you truly love.

How to Design a Kitchen Remodel

Once you've identified what's not working in your kitchen and what it's missing, it's time to dive into the details of each individual element. This involves exploring your options for everything from style choices to practical features that will enhance your daily life.

Kitchens are among the most complex rooms to remodel due to the multitude of finishes, features, appliances, and necessary electrical and plumbing updates.

For example, changing your kitchen layout might require relocating plumbing and electrical lines. Expanding your kitchen will likely extend the construction timeline, require more finishes, and necessitate updates to your plumbing and electrical systems.

While this may seem overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Choosing the right design-build team can turn what could be a stressful process into a smooth and satisfying experience.

Here’s a quick look at some of the finishes you'll need to decide on:

• Countertops
• Cabinets and custom storage solutions
• Backsplash options
• Appliance selections
• Lighting fixtures
• Flooring materials
  
  

With careful planning and the right guidance, your kitchen remodel will be a rewarding project that transforms your space into something truly special.

Balancing Style and Functionality in Your Kitchen Remodel

When planning a kitchen remodel, it's important to remember that style is just one piece of the puzzle. The kitchen is the hardest-working room in your home, so functionality is equally important.

Fortunately, your design-build team will guide you in planning a space that not only looks stunning but also meets all the practical needs of you and your family. Here are some key considerations:

• Adjusting the layout for better flow
• Expanding the kitchen or creating an open floor plan
• Incorporating aging-in-place features for long-term safety
• Adding extra storage to keep things organized
• Integrating smart features for added safety and convenience
  
  

These are just a few of the many factors your designer will help you navigate to ensure your kitchen remodel is a success. To make the planning process smoother and avoid feeling overwhelmed, keep our kitchen remodel checklist handy as you begin your journey.

What Is a Realistic Budget for a Kitchen Remodel in New Jersey?

Setting a budget is one of the first steps in the kitchen remodeling process and plays a crucial role in shaping your project. Your budget will influence the quality of finishes you choose and the extent of any structural changes you plan to make.

Consider where your financial investment will come from, how this investment will impact your home's value, and what your vision will realistically cost to establish your kitchen remodeling budget. Cost is one of many aspects that make working with a knowledgeable design-build team an essential part of your remodel. 

To help you get started, we've broken down average kitchen remodeling costs specific to New Jersey to give you a clearer understanding of what to expect.

How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen in New Jersey?

Kitchen remodels can range from simple updates to extensive structural changes. The scope of your project, the quality of finishes, and the current condition of your kitchen will all impact the overall cost.

Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to spend on a kitchen remodel in New Jersey:

A Good Kitchen Remodel and What It Includes

A good kitchen remodel typically falls between $80,000 and $100,000. This budget covers essential upgrades like new countertops, backsplashes, fresh paint, and updated fixtures, including sinks, faucets, and lighting. You’ll also have room to update flooring and refresh cabinet fronts, achieving a noticeable improvement in both function and style without altering the kitchen's layout.

A Better Kitchen Remodel and What It Includes

For a better kitchen remodel, plan to invest between $100,000 and $150,000. This budget allows for custom cabinetry, high-end materials, and modern design features like built-in appliances and designer fixtures. You can make layout changes for enhanced functionality while creating a more personalized and stylish kitchen.

The Best Kitchen Remodel and What It Includes

A top-tier kitchen remodel starts at around $200,000. This budget includes luxury materials, custom all-wood cabinets, a kitchen island, and premium fixtures. It’s ideal for homeowners looking to make significant structural updates and create a uniquely high-end, fully customized kitchen that blends stunning aesthetics with top-notch functionality.

How Much Value Does a Kitchen Remodel Add to a Home in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, a kitchen remodel not only improves your home's functionality and appearance but also contributes to its overall value. The return on investment (ROI) can vary, with minor remodels in the area often recouping around 77% of their costs, while more extensive or gourmet remodels might return about 50% to 60% of your investment.

What Is the Biggest Expense in a Kitchen Remodel?

When planning your kitchen remodel, one of the most significant investments you'll make is in your cabinets. On average, cabinets can account for about 25% of your overall budget—and for good reason.

Cabinets need to be strong and reliable, holding up hundreds of pounds of dishes, cookware, and pantry items without fail. It's easy to see why remodeling your kitchen cabinets can be a substantial cost, but it’s a worthwhile investment that will pay off in both functionality and style.

To maximize your investment, consider customizing your cabinets to enhance both organization and efficiency. Here are some innovative kitchen upgrade ideas for custom cabinet storage:

• Hidden in-drawer outlets and USB ports
• Lower cabinet drawers with built-in dividers
• Pull-out lower shelves
• Pull-down upper shelves
• Pull-out kitchen bins
• Motion-activated inner cabinet lights
• Corner drawers
• Toe-kick drawers for baking sheets

What Style Cabinets Should You Choose?

Beyond their practical function, your cabinets play a major role in the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Opting for all-wood cabinets in a style that resonates with your personal taste can bring you joy every time you step into the space.

However, that doesn’t mean you need to splurge on the most expensive options. Your design-build team will work closely with you to strike the right balance between cost and customization. Here are a few kitchen cabinet design ideas to inspire you:

• Cabinet panels for your panel-ready appliances
• Shaker-style cabinets
• Flat-front cabinets
• Glass display cabinets with integrated lighting
• A mix of open shelves and upper cabinets
• Floor-to-ceiling cabinets
• Two-tone cabinet finishes

And let’s not overlook the powerhouse of kitchen storage—your kitchen island. Instead of settling for standard open shelving, collaborate with your designer to create custom storage solutions that suit your specific needs and style.

Features like wood-turned legs, a cantilever edge for seating, picture frame trim, or a sleek waterfall design can turn your island into a stunning focal point that enhances both functionality and aesthetics.

Time to Assemble Your New Jersey Kitchen Dream Team!

You’ve thought long and hard about the upgrades you want, identified what isn’t working in your current kitchen, and set a realistic budget—now it’s time to find the perfect team to bring your kitchen dreams to life.

When choosing the right kitchen remodeling experts in New Jersey, you’re not just looking for contractors; you’re looking for partners who can turn a daunting task into an exciting journey, leaving you thrilled with the results.

Seek out New Jersey remodeling contractors known for their expertise in kitchen design and a proven track record of delivering stunning transformations with ease and enjoyment. A great design-build team will guide you seamlessly from your vision to a beautiful, functional kitchen. How? A design-build team includes every professional you'll need for a successful remodel in-house! 

Choosing the Right Kitchen Remodeling Team

Starting a kitchen remodel might seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be when you have our comprehensive kitchen remodel checklist on hand. This checklist is your key to ensuring that every detail, from selecting the latest appliances to designing a layout that works for you, is carefully planned.

JMC Home Improvement Specialists is here to bring your kitchen vision to life, ensuring that every aspect of the remodel meets your needs, fits within your budget, and impresses with style.

We specialize in creating detailed, client-focused plans with precision, enhancing both the value and enjoyment of your home. Ready to start your dream kitchen project?

Reach out to JMC Home Improvement Specialists, and let’s begin planning your expertly designed and beautifully crafted kitchen remodel!