I use the same paint and line of cabinets usually, and things like tile have a common feel and style, but other items will vary. 

The last time they went on vacation for 4 days, I did a complete kitchen remodel (flooring, cabinets, countertops, paint, etc.).  

Other than painting the kitchen cabinets and replacing the light fixtures, I didn't do much to it.  

Estimating flooring, painting, cabinets, and general costs are easy.

If you have a perfectly servicable kitchen with dated but functional cabinets, countertops and appliances, the place is livable.

The only thing the house needs is paint on the kitchen cabinets and kitchen door, some updating to the bathroom, some paint for the porch area and the front step rails to be tightened...that's about it.

For example: If I had to repair x sq ft of the floor in the kitchen, and redo the cabinets, how would I properly estimate that?

We redid every kitchen (Home Depot cabinets and counter tops), refinished all the old hardwood floors added new blinds in all the 2/1's.

She’s never chewed one base board, door, cabinet, or counter.Given this excellent study with a large sample size, I have no problems renting to Great Dane owners.

As far as a Lowes VS Home DePot VS Sutherlands VS Menards debate, that's a personal choice.For my local market, I have 3-4 good quality custom cabinet shops within a 10-45 minute drive from my house.