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How’s Business? Update your kitchen for less

By Joseph Palumbo III

Most real estate professionals will say the kitchen is one of the most important focal points in a home. The kitchen decor has a life span, with changing styles coupled with the general wear and tear the average kitchen takes on a daily basis.

We would all love to update our kitchens, but these trying financial times have us second-guessing if we have the resources to do so. I spoke with several Queens general contractors to get their opinions regarding updating your kitchen on a budget.

First, consider the color of your walls. A paint color that was stylish a few years ago is likely not in style today. You are also likely to have nicks and marks you have become oblivious to until you start thinking about and consider a change. Refacing your cabinets, as opposed to installing new ones, can be huge in changing the look of your kitchen.

But you may still like your cabinets and want to consider changing cabinet hardware. This entails changing handles that are off-kilter or need to be replaced. It can make a difference in your kitchen’s appearance.

Think carefully about changing your lighting fixtures. Old-style fluorescent fixtures as opposed to modern-style track lighting can make a difference in your kitchen’s appearance. Even mounting smaller light fixtures under cabinets can also brighten things up.

Changing your faucet to something on the expensive side can make your kitchen look great and is more cost-efficient than a new kitchen. If your floor looks worn, consider possibly laying self-adhesive vinyl tiles. Having the appearance of a new floor can add style to your kitchen when on a budget.

So How’s Business regarding updating your kitchen on a budgeti The average kitchen renovation makeover runs in the neighborhood of $25,000. Some of the tips relayed can save you money and give you a more modern-looking and renovated kitchen. If you only did a couple of the suggested tips, you will improve your kitchen’s appearance and may even have fun accomplishing it in the process.

Contact Joe Palumbo at 516-297-4034 or by e-mail at jp@c21amhomes.com.