Avoid the WORST kitchen remodeling mistakes Everyone has heard the kitchen remodel horror stories about some contractor whom skips town with your money, or a contractor whom leaves your kitchen a huge, unworkable mess because a product is on back order. Let’s avoid those horror stories and get your kitchen remodel done the right way.

1. Don’t go with the first remodeling company you see online. This goes for the first company offering a big discount. Some companies can offer a savings if you sign up with them right on the spot. Avoid letting pushy tactics get you to sign a contract without much thought or research. Ask lots of questions, read reviews and ask for references. A remodel company’s work should speak for itself. If the reviews are reading the same thing over and over, describing poor quality and such forth, then you may need to pass on that company.

2. Don’t pay for the entire project until the entire project is completed. Most projects will require you to make a significant down payment. This is normal since the contractor has to place orders for products that are designed specifically for your kitchen. If you decided to withdraw from the project, the down payment is their financial safety net. However, you deserve a safety net too. It is good policy to always leave a portion outstanding until the kitchen is finished. 10% is pretty typical. If you have a problem giving your contractor a down payment, then you don’t trust them. If you feel your contractor is untrustworthy, it’s time for a new one. You should always be able to trust your contractor. They’re the one that will be in your home and making big changes.

3. Don’t stress yourself out if the project gets set back a few days. Think of the end result and how you will enjoy this kitchen remodel for a good amount of years, a few days off schedule will be ok. Projects will have draw backs and there will be things that come up and change plans. You will need to roll with the punches so to say, and trust your remodel team has everything under control.

4. Don’t expect a working kitchen until the project’s done unless otherwise stated. Make arrangements so you won’t need one. Cabinet refacing does not shut down your kitchen, but new countertops in addition to refacing will. You will probably be without running water and a sink for a day or two. New kitchens are shut down on day one, as soon as the old cabinets are torn out. Depending on the countertop chosen, you’re typically looking at 2-4 weeks before you have a fully functional kitchen again.

5. Don’t start your remodel before you’ve chosen your appliances. Make sure you have the specs in the contractors’ hands prior to cabinets being ordered. That way they can arrange a better fit for the appliance into the cabinets. This applies especially to wall ovens, built in microwaves, cook tops, and large refrigerators.