For many people, their first home will not be their last home. Many homeowners view their first homes as starter homes and plan to sell a few years after their purchase. The goal for many owners of starter homes is to make a profit on their home or at the very least break even when they sell. Home renovation projects that provide a good return on investment are a great choice for those who plan on selling their first homes in the future. Kitchens are a popular remodeling project. Here are three tips for remodeling the kitchen of a starter home.

Know How Much to Spend

A kitchen remodel has many benefits. A remodeled kitchen is often easier for current homeowners to use and offers a good return on investment. A minor kitchen remodel averages a 72.8 percent return on investment, while a major remodel offers 68.7 percent return on investment, and a major upscale remodel offers only a 59.7 percent return on investment. Usually the more upscale a renovation is, the less the homeowners get back in value. A good guideline is to spend no more than 10 to 15 percent of the home's value on the kitchen remodel.

Check Out Other Kitchens in the Neighborhood

When it comes to kitchens, there are certain trends that stand out. Granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances, and white cabinets are long-time favorites with home buyers. However, it's important to remember that each neighborhood is different. Homeowners should look at comparable properties when deciding which style decisions to make. A home with a concrete countertop may not be the right choice if most buyers in the neighborhood are looking for granite. Looking at comparable properties can also help with the budgeting process. Homeowners are less likely to overspend on upscale appliances and materials if they are not popular throughout the neighborhood.

Gradual Changes and Do-It-Yourself Projects

Another thing that the owners of starter homes should know is that kitchen remodeling doesn't have to happen all at once. Making gradual changes along the way can make a huge change in the look of a kitchen and can make budgeting easier. There are also plenty of ways to save money by doing DIY projects. Painting kitchen cabinets costs on average $623 and is a more cost-effective choice than a full cabinet replacement. 

When it comes to kitchen remodeling in starter homes, there are a few things homeowners should keep in mind. The first is not to spend too much on the remodel. The goal should be to get as much return on the investment as possible. Checking out surrounding properties can also give homeowners a good idea of how their kitchen remodels should look. Making gradual changes and doing some of the work can also save homeowners money and provide a better return on investment.

For more information about kitchen remodeling, consult a company like Bryce & Doyle.