Kitchen Remodel ROI: What’s Worth the Money?

Let’s get one thing straight: remodeling your kitchen isn’t just about impressing guests with a Pinterest-worthy backsplash or finally ditching that avocado-green oven from the ’70s. It’s an investment. And like any good investment, you want to make sure the money you put in comes back to you—ideally with interest.

Before we jump into the dollars and sense (see what we did there?), let’s talk about who can help you do this right. Dream Team Remodel is all about bringing form, function, and ROI together in one beautifully renovated space. With their help, you can avoid throwing your renovation budget into a sinkhole.

Now, let’s dive into the remodeling decisions that actually give you some bang for your buck.

Cabinets: Replace or Reface?

Cabinets are often the most visible part of your kitchen, and they can either make a space look fresh and modern or like the opening scene of a home renovation reality show. Replacing them entirely can be costly, but in many cases, refacing—replacing the doors and hardware while keeping the structure—offers a nearly-new look at a fraction of the cost.

ROI Verdict: Reface if the layout works. Replace if your current cabinets are on their last legs. Custom cabinetry is nice, but unless you’re going for a total layout change, keep it simple.

Countertops: Worth Every Penny

Few upgrades make as big a visual impact as new countertops. Quartz, granite, and even newer, lower-maintenance options like porcelain or ultra-compact surfaces (hello, Dekton) can modernize a kitchen in an instant.

And let’s be honest, cooking feels more fun when your counters don’t resemble a crime scene from a marinara sauce explosion.

ROI Verdict: High. Durable, low-maintenance counters add style and resale appeal.

Appliances: Don’t Go Overboard

We’ve all been tempted by the matte black smart fridge with a screen bigger than your first apartment TV. But unless you’re living in a luxury market, mid-range, energy-efficient appliances will do the job and help you recoup costs.

Save the ultra-high-end gear for when you’re opening a cooking school.

ROI Verdict: Moderate. Go for efficiency and quality over gimmicks. Bonus if they match.

Flooring: Function First

Your kitchen floor needs to survive spills, dropped knives, and that one guest who never takes off their shoes. Durable options like luxury vinyl plank (LVP), tile, or engineered wood can look great without the premium price tag of hardwood.

ROI Verdict: High if you choose something resilient and stylish. Steer clear of anything too taste-specific.

Lighting: The Underrated MVP

Good lighting can completely change how your kitchen looks and feels. Swapping in modern pendant lights or under-cabinet lighting is one of the easiest ways to make a kitchen feel high-end without breaking the bank.

ROI Verdict: Very high. It’s a small cost with a big visual return.

Layout Changes: Tread Carefully

Opening up a space or moving plumbing can be a game-changer—and a budget-buster. If you need to knock down walls to get the functionality you want, do it. But understand that major layout shifts can eat up a big chunk of your budget, and not all buyers may appreciate the change the way you do.

ROI Verdict: Variable. Only worth it if it drastically improves flow or fixes a major flaw.

Backsplash: The Jewelry of the Kitchen

A beautiful backsplash ties the room together and shows you care about the details. It’s like wearing the right watch with a tailored suit. Subway tile is timeless, but don’t be afraid to mix in a little personality—just don’t go full disco ball.

ROI Verdict: High. It’s affordable, fun, and makes the space feel finished.

Paint: Cheap and Cheerful

Never underestimate what a fresh coat of paint can do. If your kitchen walls are more “grimy taupe” than “elegant greige,” grab a roller and get to work. It’s a budget-friendly way to brighten and refresh your space.

ROI Verdict: Extremely high. Especially if your current walls are scuffed, dingy, or a dated color.

The ROI Sweet Spot

So what’s the magic number? According to national averages, a minor kitchen remodel (think cabinet refacing, new countertops, paint, and updated fixtures) can recoup around 70-80% of its cost. Major remodels? More like 50-60%, especially if they involve major construction or luxury upgrades in a modest neighborhood.

But numbers aside, a well-done kitchen remodel can help your home sell faster and at a better price. And let’s not forget the value of actually enjoying your kitchen while you live there.

Real-Life Inspiration

If you need a little design motivation, treat yourself to a burger at Town Square Pub N Grub in Dardenne Prairie. Because remodeling is hard work. You’ve earned it.

Wrapping It All Up

Kitchen remodels can feel overwhelming, but focusing on ROI-friendly upgrades can help you spend smarter. Aim for updates that add beauty and function, without going overboard on trends that may not last. Think timeless over trendy, practical over pricey.

And when you’re ready to get started, Dream Team Remodel has your back. They’ll help you make choices that not only look great but also make sense for your home’s value. Because at the end of the day, you want a kitchen that’s built to last, not just to impress.