Kitchen remodeling projects do more than improve your lifestyle. According to Remodeling Magazine's Cost to Value report kitchen remodeling projects can have as much as a 112-percent return on your investment. But, the secret to seeing a great return is keeping your kitchen remodeling budget under control.

According to this year's Cost to Value report, kitchen remodeling prices range from $15,000 for an inexpensive kitchen remodeling project to $85,000 on the high end. And, while the average kitchen renovation budget comes in at $45,000, one rule of thumb is to set your kitchen renovation budget at 15 percent of the overall value of your home. For example, if your home's worth $250,000 your kitchen remodeling costs should be $37,500. Or, alternatively, plan to spend roughly $100 per linear square foot. In addition, it's a good idea to set aside a 10-20 percent cushion, in the event of unforeseen kitchen renovation cost overruns.

While kitchen remodeling prices vary based on kitchen design, the National Kitchen and Bath Association notes the biggest kitchen renovation costs are cabinets (36 percent), countertops (14 percent), and appliances (12 percent). The rest of your kitchen remodeling budget will be spent on flooring, hardware, lighting and fixtures (6 percent each). The rest goes to construction, permitting and design costs, which can vary from 25 to 50 percent based on the size and scope of your project.

Remodeling on a budget means sticking to your budget! Don't overspend! One way to keep on budget is to decide prior to starting your kitchen remodeling project what your absolute necessities are. Then after you've identified the most important elements, you can add in the other options as your kitchen remodeling budget allows.

One of the best ways to keep your kitchen remodeling project on a budget is by getting qualified kitchen remodeling planning assistance. Unlike remodeling a dining room or bedroom, kitchen remodels involve gas, electrical, and plumbing, in addition to cabinets, counters, flooring, and appliances. Even if you are considering an inexpensive kitchen remodeling project, working with a kitchen remodeling planning professional can be very cost-effective. They can offer you various kitchen design options within your stated home remodeling budget, help with space planning, plan for appropriate workflow, and assist with material selection, ensuring your kitchen is both functional and stylish, adding to your home's value.

As with any project, it's important to get kitchen remodeling estimates and references from several kitchen design professionals prior to beginning your project. A kitchen remodeling cost estimate will not only give you a concrete idea of the costs associated with your kitchen remodeling project, but the estimate will allow you to see which of your "extras" need to be removed and which can be added back in.

So, if you're preparing to remodel your kitchen, remember this: With some professional help and a bit of planning, you'll be on your way to adding value to your home, without breaking the bank.

National Kitchen and Bath Association, 2002 Design Trends Survey Update
Realtor Magazine Online, Cost to Value Report
http://www.realtor.org/rmomag.NSF/pages/feature1dec05_kitchen?OpenDocument