How to Get The Best Value From Your Kitchen Remodel

30 Jun How to Get The Best Value From Your Kitchen Remodel

For many homeowners, a smart kitchen remodel is one of the best ways to invest in your property and add long-term value. 

But how do you get the most bang for your buck? 

The truth is, not every upgrade delivers the same return. Overspending in the wrong areas—or making choices that don’t align with your home’s market—can cut into your potential gains. 

In this guide, we’ll share practical tips on how to plan your renovation, choose the right materials, and work with a trusted contractor to help you get the best value from your kitchen remodel. 

Understand Your Goals and Set a Realistic Budget

Before picking out countertops or browsing cabinet styles, take a step back and ask yourself what you want out of your remodel. 

Are you remodeling to sell your home in the near future? Or are you planning to stay put and simply want a more functional, updated space? Clarifying your goals will help you prioritize what really matters and where it makes sense to spend.

Once your goals are clear, it’s time to set a realistic budget. Kitchen remodels can vary widely depending on the scope of work, materials, and labor. According to Houzz, a minor kitchen remodeling project could cost $20,000-74,000, while a bigger remodel could be anywhere from $60,000-200,000. 

Keep in mind that unexpected expenses can come up, so it’s smart to build in a buffer of 10–15%. Once you have a clear budget and have set goals in place, you can start focusing on the updates that offer the greatest return on investment.

Focus on High-Impact, High-ROI Upgrades

Not every kitchen upgrade delivers the same return on investment, so it’s important to focus on the features that pack the biggest punch—both for your day-to-day enjoyment and for resale value down the road. 

Fortunately, you don’t need a full gut renovation to make a noticeable difference. Some of the most cost-effective, value-boosting upgrades include:

• Refacing or repainting cabinets
• Updating countertops
• Installing modern lighting
• Replacing old appliances for energy-efficient ones

These types of improvements tend to yield strong ROI because they improve both form and function.

Stick to upgrades that match the overall style and value of your home. A $10,000 range may look impressive, but it won’t necessarily increase your home’s value in proportion—especially in a mid-range kitchen.

Keep the Layout (If It Works)

Another smart way to keep your kitchen remodel cost-effective is to leave the existing layout intact, as long as it works well for your needs. 

Moving plumbing, electrical lines, or gas hookups can quickly drive up labor costs and extend your project timeline. In fact, layout changes are often one of the most expensive parts of a kitchen renovation.

If your current kitchen already has a good flow and the area between the sink, stove, and fridge is efficient, there may be no need to change the footprint. Instead, focus on updating surfaces, appliances, and storage solutions to give the space a fresh, functional feel.

That said, if your kitchen layout is outdated or cramped, consult with a professional to explore cost-effective improvements. Sometimes, minor adjustments like removing a non-load-bearing wall or reconfiguring cabinetry can make a big impact without blowing the budget.

Choose Materials Wisely to Balance Style and Longevity

Selecting the right materials is one of the most important steps in any kitchen remodel. It’s also one of the easiest places to go over budget. 

While it’s tempting to opt for the trendiest finishes or luxury brands, those choices don’t always translate into long-term value. Instead, aim for a balance between style, durability, and cost-efficiency.

For example:

• Quartz countertops offer a high-end look with excellent durability and lower maintenance than marble.
• Shaker-style cabinets provide a clean, timeless look that works across a variety of styles, from traditional to modern farmhouse.
• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and engineered hardwood floors are budget-friendly alternatives to real hardwood that still offer excellent durability and style.
• Brushed nickel or matte black fixtures and finishes offer a modern edge without going out of style in a few years.

Choosing classic, neutral finishes often has broader appeal, which can help maximize resale value down the road. And if you want to incorporate a few trendy elements—like a bold backsplash or cabinet hardware—you can do so in ways that are affordable and easy to update later.

Bonus Tip: Shop local when choosing materials. Winston-Salem has great suppliers and showrooms that often offer better pricing and service than big-box stores.

Don’t Over-Improve for Your Neighborhood

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make during a kitchen remodel is investing more into the renovation than the home or neighborhood can support. 

While it’s natural to want a stunning kitchen with all the bells and whistles, going too high-end in a modestly priced home can actually hurt your return on investment.

In Winston-Salem, neighborhoods vary widely in home values—from historic homes to newer builds. Keep in mind that a $70,000 kitchen in a neighborhood of $250,000 homes may not deliver the same payoff as it would in a luxury area.

What to do instead:

• Research comparable homes in your area to see what buyers expect.
• Talk to a local real estate agent or contractor to understand resale potential.
• Prioritize upgrades that align with your home’s current value, not just your wish list.

Remember, the goal is to improve your kitchen in a way that makes your home more appealing, not to price it out of the local market.

Hire a Trusted Local Contractor

Even the best kitchen design can fall flat without the right team to bring it to life. Hiring an experienced, locally-based contractor ensures your project is handled with professionalism, clear communication, and knowledge of local codes and suppliers.

A quality contractor does more than manage timelines. They help guide your decisions, keep your budget in check, and anticipate challenges before they become costly problems. They’ll also have connections to trusted tradespeople and know where to find good value on materials.

Here’s what to look for in a contractor:

• Verified reviews or referrals from past clients
• A clear, detailed proposal with timelines and itemized pricing
• Proper licensing, insurance, and knowledge of Winston-Salem permitting
• A portfolio of completed kitchen remodels in the area

When you work with someone who understands your goals and respects your budget, you’ll get better long-term value from your renovation.

Final Thoughts

A kitchen remodel is one of the smartest ways to enhance both the beauty and value of your home, but only if it’s done strategically. For homeowners, thoughtful planning, smart material choices, and the right team can make all the difference between a costly project and a rewarding investment.

By setting a clear budget, focusing on high-impact updates, and working with a contractor who understands your vision, you can create a space that not only meets your needs today but also adds lasting value for the future. 

Whether you’re renovating for resale or simply upgrading your forever home, your kitchen has the potential to become one of your home’s most valuable assets.

Ready to start your kitchen remodel in Winston-Salem?

At Timber & Stone Renovations, we specialize in kitchen remodels that deliver style, function, and strong return on investment—without the stress. 

Let’s talk about how to bring your vision to life while adding real value to your home. Contact us today to schedule your consultation, or give us a call at (336)778-0588.