Kitchen Remodel Question

[Callen Stewart]

Hello, I am just getting started in real estate, as this is my first BRRRR project. I am 23, so I lack experience. I have read countless books. However, I know how important experience is, and any advice would be much appreciated.

          Below, I have posted a picture of a specific kitchen that I am remodeling. I prefer to keep as much of the cabinets as possible and just paint, replace hinges and handles. I am not sure if I should move the sink and replace it with an oven or place an oven in another place. Furthermore, I can't figure out where to put a fridge, dishwasher, and microwave. Also, should I add some cabinets or an island? I have a budget of $12,000, excluding flooring. Thank you in advance. 

-Callen Stewart

Lubbock, TX

[Annette Hibbler]

I've designed and remodeled many kitchens. Some smaller than this one. Here's what I would do with a $12K budget.

1. Rip it all out and start from scratch. 

2. Keep the existing sink location. Place dishwasher on the right or left side.

3. Place the new base and upper cabinets along the back wall (where sink and window are) and extend them only along the wall where the stove is located in the pic.  So you'll essentially have an "L" shape. 

4. Keep the stove on the same wall. Replace it with a newer brand and surround it on both sides with base cabinets and countertops. Don't place the stove at the end of the cabinets. Better to snug it in between cabinets with countertops on either side. Make sure to leave enough space for the stove when installing cabinets (generally 16" inches but double-check).

5. Place a microwave with built-in venting above the stove. Tip: Buying all your appliances in one place saves money. Look out for black Friday sales too! We've gotten best deals at Best Buy stores that beat out Home Depot & Lowes. Plus, they will often hold them for you until your ready to install.

6. Keep the opposite wall clear for the fridge (make sure you have a fridge outlet there). You do not have to provide a fridge.

We buy our kitchen cabinets through IKEA. They look custom but at warehouse prices. The wall cabinets (upper cabinets) are much easier to install because they run along one metal rod. So instead of drilling holes through the back of every cabinet into the wall, you only place one metal rod and the cabinets easily hook onto the rod with bolts then slide in (left to right). This ensures cabinets are level and makes adjustments and switching out cabinets so much easier! They are also remarkably durable. The cabinet hinges are the best I've ever found thus far. I have them in my own kitchen.