Remodeling your kitchen can change the look and feel of your entire home. When planning for a makeover, these five changes, plus new appliances, can transform your old kitchen into the kitchen of your dreams. After witnessing thousands of kitchen transformations take place, we highly recommend choosing a professional before you attempt to do this alone. Start by pulling together your ideas from this important prep list.

Paint

Neutral colors are always great because you can accent them with accessories such as wall decor or curtains in a bold hue. Even if you choose a stronger color palette, narrow your selections of color to compliment your cabinets, countertop, and flooring options.

LIGHTING

Probably one of the most overlooked changes is kitchen lighting. New lighting options not only impact the look of your kitchen, but they can also make a dramatic impact on your color schemes and brightness. Lighting in the kitchen has substantially shifted to ornate and custom-crafted works of art that enhance the uniqueness of your dream.

CABINETS

Another change that will transform your kitchen is painting or replacing your cabinets. If your kitchen carries period-style design elements, hiring a professional to paint your current cabinets might be the answer. Replacing all your cabinets will give you the most updated look possible with more space and functionality.

COUNTERTOPS

Changing your countertops can be one of the most expensive makeover steps, but the options for colors and styles are almost endless. Countertop surface materials are constantly changing, so make time to touch and experience your options in person. Take additional time replacing your sink and hardware to compliment this true transformation.

FLOORING

We saved the most expensive change until the end of this list. But don’t be too alarmed because there is a wide range of price points in tile, wood, and vinyl flooring. Even the most reasonable vinyl flooring resembles tile or wood, giving you the complete dream makeover on any budget.