Focus Magazine of SWFL Swimsuit Heat Wave

Remodel Recipe Things to Consider When Redoing Your Kitchen By Lina LaSalle You’ve wanted to remodel your kitchen for a while, and you can’t stop thinking about quartz countertops, tiled backsplashes, a built-in wall oven, custom-made cabinets, and more. And guess what? You’re not alone. For the first time since 2008, kitchens have overtaken bathrooms as the number one remodeling project for homeowners. According to Dan Fritschen, that’s good news, because it means that “luxury” is returning to what has been a tighter-budget, more “practical” remodeling market (think adding a new bathroom because of an expanding family’s needs). “Now, I’m not trying to discourage you from remodeling your kitchen, because the results can be more than worth the inconvenience,” says Fritschen. “And the inconvenience can definitely be minimized through good planning. I’m just suggesting that you carefully consider the project before pulling the trigger…then consider it again for good measure.” Fortunately, you’re not alone when it comes to making the big decision. However, Fritschen says, before you start ripping up your old linoleum and shopping for stainless steel appliances, it’s smart to think about why a kitchen remodel is considered a “luxury.” “There are several new—and free—tools available online at my website,”shares Fritschen. “And they’re all designed to help you minimize stress and get the best results.” “Redoing a kitchen is not something I’d advise doing on a whim,” shares Fritschen, founder of www.remodelormove.com. “Not only do kitchens cost more than any other type of room to build or remodel, they also typically take the most time to complete and can totally disrupt a family’s sense of comfort and routines.” If you’re in the consideration—or even early planning—stage of a kitchen remodel, read on for more of Fritschen’s experiencetested advice: First, decide if remodeling is right for you. If remodeling were as easy as daydreaming about your dream kitchen, every family would have a stylish, cutting-edge cooking space. In the real world, though, you have to consider a multitude of variables: Can we comfortably pay for this remodel? Is my family emotionally ready to deal with the disruption and construction? What changes do we want to make, exactly? And don’t forget: Would it be easier or less expensive to move to a new home instead? Think about it: For weeks or even months, you might be without a sink, a range, a dishwasher, and more. You may have to move your refrigerator and microwave to another room, and use a bathroom or utility room sink to wash up. As a result, you’ll be eating out (a lot), or putting the backyard grill to heavy use. And all the while, your house will be full of workmen, and your bank account will definitely be taking a hit. 7 4 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Focus Magazine of SWFL Swimsuit Heat Wave | Page 74