1. What are my main objectives?
Whether your current kitchen works well and you just want minor upgrades, or you want a whole new look and want to add additional functional areas, it helps to identify the primary objectives. Perhaps you are simply upgrading for resale? Brainstorm what you’d really like as your primary goals, then check off or write in your answers.

* list the type of specialty cooking you want to enjoy, (e.g., baking, pasta, etc.)

Other notes about what I want in my kitchen area:

2. What do I like about my present kitchen?
Think about what currently works well, and what you want to keep, then check off those that apply and add any others in the space provided.

3. What features of my present kitchen do I most want to change?
Some possible answers might be cabinet style, countertops, appliances, floor, lighting, etc.

4. What are the most important functions of my kitchen?
Possible answers include (besides cooking) budget and household planning center, homework, entertaining, family eating space, laundry center, etc.

5. What kinds of things will I need storage to accommodate?
Examples include toaster, food processor, blender, everyday dishes, china, bulk groceries, cookbooks, trays, etc.

6. What specialty accommodations would I like?
Will you want to incorporate a desk/computer/printer space? An eating bar? Washer/dryer? Baking center?

7. Will I be moving or upgrading existing plumbing? Electrical?
Generally, the less plumbing and electrical locations are moved, the less you’ll spend. However, certain upgrades may be required by local building codes. Get professional advice and more than one estimate for these very important services.

8. Who will be the primary user?
What is their height, are they left/right handed, and do they have any special needs?

    Who else will be using the kitchen?
What is their height, are they left/right handed, and do they have any special needs? Also, consider how and when children will be using the kitchen, as this is important information when planning the location for storage, the microwave, areas for snack preparation, homework/crafts, etc.

9. Will the kitchen be used by more than one cook at the same time?
This will help you consider work flow, and whether you want more than one sink, double ovens, two dishwashers, a prep area, etc.

10. When do I want to complete this project?
Allow a minimum of 3 months, or a more realistic 6 months. This does NOT mean your home will be "torn up" for all this time. This includes plenty of time to plan and refine details, plus ordering materials, shipping, tear out, installation, re-organization.

11. What is the maximum amount I can invest in this project?
You do not need to share this information with anyone yet...it is your guideline. You will use this information primarily to help you set boundaries, both for the amount of money you can realistically invest in this project, as well as in terms of your time to participate in the actual remodeling. Many homeowners find they can invest some of their time to save money, but this is a personal choice. For a brief list of ways in which you might save money, see "How can I save money?"

NOTE: Kitchen remodeling remains one of the best investments you can make in your home. It is not uncommon for the return to yield 100% of the amount you invest. Still, industry experts generally recommend that the budget for a kitchen remodel be not more than 15% of the fair market value of the home. For example, if your home’s market value is $150,000, you might consider limiting your remodeling budget to $22,500 -- which can go a LONG way when done right!

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