About 1.5 million homeowners will remodel their kitchen in 2014. Costs vary, but here’s a snapshot of four budgets, based on the Remodeling 2014 Cost vs. Value Report (costvsvalue.com) and an analysis by Consumer Reports of what you might get for your money as well as the return on your investment.
Budget do-it-yourself
Cost. About $5,000
Time it takes. One month
What you get. DIY-painted cabinets and walls, and DIY-installed vinyl floor, laminate counter, entry-grade appliances, top-mount sink, two-handled faucet.
Return on investment. Depends on what your time is worth!
Minor midrange
Cost. About $19,000
Time it takes. Three months
What you get. Professionally installed standard wall oven and cooktop, vinyl floors, laminate countertop, midpriced sink and faucet; refaced cabinets; painted walls.
Return on investment. About 83 percent
Major midrange
Cost. About $55,000
Time it takes. Six months
What you get. Professionally installed semicustom cabinets, standard appliances, vinyl floors, laminate countertops, stainless-steel double-tub sink, single-lever faucet; painted walls.
Return on investment. About 74 percent
Major upscale
Cost. About $110,000
Time it takes. Six months or more
What you get. Professionally installed custom cabinets, stone counters, pro-style appliances, cork floor, backsplash, undermount sink with designer faucet, new lighting.
Return on investment. About 64 percent
—Daniel DiClerico (@dandiclerico on Twitter)
Kitchen Planning Guide
The best products for your project. To find the best flooring, countertops, and appliances for your kitchen remodel check the results of Consumer Reports' tests in our Kitchen Planning Guide.
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