How to Make a Builder Grade Kitchen

Shop around for in-stock, mid-grade and well-priced cabinets, such as solid maple facing with press-board boxes and laminate countertops. Waiting for custom cabinetry will cost you time and money. Most big-box building supply stores offer installation services. Cabinets come with installation instructions and usually a toll-free number for questions and are quite simple to install, but at the least, have an expert cabinet installer properly measure for installation and make suggestions for the layout design as well as measure, make and fit your trickier countertops.

Choose builder-grade flooring in a neutral color. Many flooring retailers have an abundant supply on hand of one or two builder-grade linoleum choices. These options are typically average quality, but because of the volume sold, might only run you about $1 dollar per square foot, with installation costing about the same, as of the date of publication. If dark gray is the flooring color preference of the year, tie in a faux slate countertop for continuity.

Haggle for the best deal on appliances. You don’t have to pay full price for the fridge, stove and dishwasher. If you can’t find the brand of appliances that you want on sale, ask for the best deal possible. Call or visit every store that carries the line of products you’re after and purchase from the company that offers you the best price. You can even bargain for delivery, so go ahead and ask.

Match your products to the home and location. If you're renovating or building a top-notch kitchen in an upscale part of town, maximize your profit and the saleability of the house by choosing builder-grade products that fit the location, such as granite countertops vs. laminate or travertine floors over linoleum.