Before You Begin Your Kitchen Makeover...

Sometimes the need to replace an appliance can lead to the urge to do a makeover on your kitchen. Some people get inspired by visiting other peoples' homes.  Others see a picture in a book or on a website and wish that they had kitchens that looked that nice.  Still others simply get bored with their current look and decide that the entire room needs an overhaul. So—now that you have the inspiration to make over your kitchen, how do you get started?
Budget
The first thing you need to do is to sit down with your bills and bank statements and figure out whether or not you can afford to do a full kitchen makeover.  Some people are financially able to completely remodel and renovate their kitchens.  Others have limited budgets and need to be creative with the few dollars that they do have.  One thing is for sure: it is not a good idea to start your kitchen make overs without first deciding how much money you can/want to spend.  In fact, starting a makeover without consulting your budget is the best way to make sure that your makeover does not get finished!
Research
Once you have figured out how much money you can spend on your kitchen makeover, it is time to start researching your future kitchen.  The urge to run out and start shopping might be strong but it is important to resist.  Look through design books and websites.  Figure out exactly what you want your kitchen to look like and then figure out a way to make that happen with the money that you have available.  Take the time to research appliance reviews and manufacturers.  Ask for some quotes from designers and contractors.  Get everything in writing so that when it does come time to start hiring and purchasing you will be prepared.
Shop Around
Finally—once you have decided how you want to do your kitchen makeover and you know which appliances to buy/supplies you need, it is time to start shopping.  It is important to shop around.  It is also important that you do not rule out thrift store finds!  Thrift stores and second hand stores are great places to find one of a kind items or kitchen products for lower prices that, with a little bit of work, can be fixed up to look like new!  Going to refurbishing shops is also a great way to save money on kitchen fixtures like cabinetry. 

Remodeling your kitchen or doing a kitchen makeover does not have to be tedious.  With the proper preparation, making over your kitchen can be a fun and exciting project. Who doesn't like to take something old and make it look new again?  As long as you are careful and watch your budget there is no reason that you cannot give your home the kitchen makeover of your dreams!