9 Critical Kitchen Remodel Steps Homeowners Should Take

Kitchen remodels are often at the top of the list for home improvement projects. Whether it’s a full-scale renovation or a smaller touch-up, kitchen remodeling can breathe new life into one of the most central and active spaces in your home.

That said, the kitchen remodeling process can feel daunting, and many average homeowners are unsure about how to get ready to start. Most of the information out there focuses on the physical steps of construction, but the reality is that most homeowners hire a professional contractor (or general contractor) and never pick up a hammer or saw themselves.

For that reason, I want to avoid the nitty-gritty of electrical wiring, insulation and drywall, or installing countertops. Instead, let’s break down the steps to remodel a kitchen from your perspective as a homeowner, and walk through the journey from the early stages of brainstorming all the way to the finish line.

Step 1: Envision Your New Kitchen

To remodel a kitchen, you need a general idea about what you want. At this point, you aren’t trying to nail down every detail of your new kitchen. Instead, you want to begin outlining the problem areas that are most important.

To get started, identify any concerns with your old kitchen. Are there pressing issues with plumbing, cabinets, or old appliances? Do you have enough square foot space to comfortably prepare meals? Are there things that seem to annoy you every time you use your kitchen?

Make a note of these issues and consider whether any problem areas extend beyond the kitchen into adjoining rooms.

Next, imagine your dream kitchen. This is the moment to think big—even if you’ll have to scale back later. If you were doing large structural changes, what would the end result look like? Do you envision new flooring, laminate flooring in certain spots, or a center island for entertaining?

Now that you have a list of problems to address and a list of aspirational goals, it’s time to prioritize. Go through and circle any “must-haves.” Then put a star next to the “nice-to-haves.” If you can rank them, all the better.

With this info, you’re much closer to being ready for a real planning stage for your kitchen remodeling plans. Based on your lists, you can start to sense whether you’re talking about a full entire kitchen remodel or a more limited project.

Step 2: Consider Your Budget

The cost of kitchen remodeling projects varies widely. Not surprisingly, larger projects can be quite pricey, while smaller updates are more economical. Since it can be hard to come up with an exact number, jot down a general range of what you can realistically afford.

As you get deeper into the entire project, you can decide which elements of a kitchen remodel are worth the investment. Perhaps you save money by repainting cabinets instead of installing custom cabinets. You might also consider the labor costs for each upgrade. An experienced firm can help you evaluate tradeoffs and design a renovation that fits your budget.

Step 3: Research and Hire a Remodeling Company

Research and Hire a remodeling company for significant kitchen renovations to help ensure smooth project execution. Our firm is a design-build company: we work hand-in-hand with our clients throughout the entire project, keeping everything under one roof. Our team includes a kitchen designer who plans the layout and a dedicated project manager who makes sure every detail is done to exacting standards.

Clients tell us this approach provides far more confidence than having to separately vet kitchen designers and then find a general contractor. Always ask about experience, review a project portfolio, and look for a professional contractor who’s bonded, insured, and clear about costs and timelines.

Step 4: Review Options for Kitchen Remodels

Review Options For Kitchen Remodels once you’re working with a designer. You can explore the key changes you want in your kitchen. A typical remodel may involve new appliance installation, refreshing cabinets, installing a garbage disposal, or replacing countertops.

If you want a bigger transformation, the designer may suggest large structural changes, like removing walls between the kitchen and dining rooms to create a more open layout. This might require more electrical wiring, mechanical updates, or insulation and drywall work, but it can reinvent your space.

Whatever the scope, choose a skilled and collaborative team that can integrate your “must-haves” while respecting your budget. If you’re considering the DIY route, just remember that major renovations usually require a professional contractor for the best outcome.

Step 5: Finalize the Design

Finalize the Design stage after evaluating different ideas. Beyond the overall layout, the plan should specify what’s being replaced and what stays, including cabinets, countertops, and appliances.

With the final design in place, your remodeling company can pull any building permits required by local codes. Having a clear blueprint also helps pinpoint how many square foot sections of flooring or wall space might be involved. The final design provides clarity on your schedule, making it easier to predict when you’ll reach that finish line.

Step 6: Pick Fixtures and Finishes

Picking Fixtures and Finishes depends on what you’re replacing. You and your remodeling company will select elements like light fixtures, paint colors, sinks, faucets, or laminate flooring if you prefer. Even a detail like adding a second sink or mini fridge can make a big difference in convenience.

Review these choices with your designer to ensure that your selections fit both the style and the layout. Sometimes, a center island is an excellent choice if you have the square foot space for it.

Step 7: Prepare for the Remodel

Prepare for the Remodel before the remodeling company comes on-site. Clear out items in your kitchen, as it’s impossible to install new cabinets if they’re still stuffed with dishes.

If you’re having a major kitchen remodel, remember you won’t have full use of your kitchen during certain phases. If it’s a long process, you may set up a temporary spot with a mini fridge so you’re not completely without a way to keep food fresh. Ask the pros about any days they’ll shut off water for new plumbing or to handle the electrical wiring.

Step 8: Track Progress

Track Progress while working. A well-organized remodeling company provides regular updates so you know what’s happening on any given day. Some firms offer online calendars or even smartphone apps to help you monitor progress.

Staying informed also helps if you notice any unexpected issue in your old kitchen walls or floors—be sure to mention it so it can be addressed before it turns into a bigger concern. This open communication ensures nothing is overlooked when you’re racing toward that finish line.

Step 9: Review the Outcome

Review the Outcome thoroughly once the final touches are complete. It’s time for you to go through a punch list with your remodeling team to verify that everything matches the design. A good professional contractor will also do a final inspection to ensure code compliance and address any minor details.

At Compelling Homes, we offer a three-year warranty on our work. This means that even if you don’t spot something right away, we’ll still be there to make it right—long after the entire project is officially done.

Following These Kitchen Remodel Steps

If you’re ready to start thinking about a kitchen remodel, I hope understanding these milestones gives you a sense of reassurance. Whether you’re doing small upgrades or tackling a major kitchen remodel, an experienced professional contractor can make this process feel seamless from concept to completion.

For many homeowners, letting a design-build firm handle your renovation is the last thing you’ll need to worry about—it can bring real peace of mind while ensuring the entire kitchen project stays on track. Whether you’re choosing new cabinets, adding a garbage disposal, or simply focusing on remodeling plans for your next phase, a cohesive approach will help you meet your goals.

If you live in Des Moines and plan to remodel a kitchen, find out how much you ought to budget by downloading our cost guide. Click the banner below to get it.