The kitchen is the heart of the home. It's not merely where we cook, it's where households come together, where we chat, entertain and often, where we eat. If we were to rank the rooms of a home by importance, the kitchen would always be number one.

Because of its importance, it's usually the first area of the home people choose to renovate. If you are thinking of giving your kitchen the facelift it deserves, we've put together some costs, tips and advice to help you out. 

Why should I remodel my kitchen?

Many choose to remodel because they want their kitchens to be more modern, practical or aesthetically pleasing. However, the style and quality of your kitchen can also have a significant impact on your property's value – by upgrading it; you stand to increase your home's resale price. Likewise, kitchens and bathrooms are the first things buyers evaluate when looking for a new home. A kitchen that is outdated or in shabby is likely to deter potential buyers and hurt your property's chances when it's time to resell.

How much will my new kitchen cost?

Naturally, the cost of a new kitchen depends on a lot of variables – design, size, specifications, labour – but generally speaking a new kitchen is likely to cost between $12,000 and $30,000.

Before you get started on your renovation, break down your overall budget into categories. Then get some quotes and estimate your spending per category. Hopefully, this will help you decide where you can save and whether you can afford a low-end, mid-range or high-end design.

For example:

• Design Fees
• Installation
• Appliances and ventilation
• Cabinetry and hardware
• Countertops
• Lighting
• Flooring
• Faucets and plumbing

How can I save money?

There are plenty of ways to save money on your remodel if budget is a concern. Stores like Ikea and Bunnings offer full kits at a low cost, although the result may not be as startling as a custom-built kitchen.

What materials should I choose?

It pays to think carefully before you buy. Luxury materials like marble bench tops may look stunning, but they also come with a hefty price tag. If you are trying to save and willing to compromise just a little on design, there are cheaper options available like engineered stone that will have a similar effect. For comparison, marble will generally cost upwards of $700 per square metre, while engineered stone will cost upwards on $500 per square metre.

What appliances should I buy?

New appliances are another significant expense, and you will want to choose wisely. There are endless varieties and brands on the market, so choosing the right ones can be challenging. The differences in cost can also be quite substantial. A basic oven from Ikea can cost as little as $300 while an oven from a top-of-the-line brand like Gaggenau will cost upwards of $3000. When in doubt, go with a trusted mid-range brand.

Is DIY a good idea?

Of course, if you have the skills and time, doing your renovation yourself can save you a lot on labour costs. However, if you are inexperienced, we recommend hiring a professional to do it for you. A dodgy DIY job can cost you more money in the long run, especially when you need an expert to come in a fix your mistakes. Likewise, the finished result can look subpar – which defeats the purpose of buying a new kitchen.   

When should I splurge?

Sticking to a strict budget may be smart, but it’s not always fun. If you are looking for things to splurge on, then a new kitchen offers a wealth of opportunities - soft close cabinetry, a new island bench top, a deluxe steam oven!

If you are thinking in terms of property resale value, then your bench tops and appliances are where you should be spending your money, as these are the things buyers will judge first.

Also, consider what luxuries might make your life easier. A Billi tap will filter your water instantly, while a self-cleaning oven will spare you from your least favourite chore. A Double DishDrawer from Fisher & Paykel only requires a half load, which makes it great for couples.

Hopefully, that covers all your questions about what a new kitchen will cost. Now it’s time to start planning. Whether you are going all-out glamour or simple and clean, we wish you luck!