What to expect from your first kitchen remodel

When you haven’t remodeled your kitchen before, it can be difficult to know what to expect. You may wonder how long the renovation will take, what it’ll cost, and where to even begin. At Rebode, we’re here to help you understand the entire kitchen remodel process so that you feel confident and in control from start to finish.

We’ll guide you through the kitchen renovation step by step—how to plan your first kitchen remodel, find the right designer, and set a realistic budget. You’ll also get an overview of typical timelines and what happens during each phase of the project. Finally, we’ll cover some common challenges you might encounter and how to handle them with confidence.

Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

As you read, we invite you to explore Rebode Jumpstarter, our free and easy-to-use online tool. After filling out a quick and easy questionnaire on your style and function preferences for your remodeled kitchen, Jumpstarter will allow you to view different cabinets, islands, countertops, storage solutions, and more in your own space using AI. We can even connect you with a local kitchen designer as you begin your remodel project.

Planning your kitchen remodel

Kitchen remodeling starts with a vision, whether it’s more space for cooking, better flow for hosting, or simply a fresh new look. Homeowners renovate for many reasons, but your personal goals are at the center of the entire process. 

As you prepare, consider:

• What you’d like to improve in your current layout
• The style and color scheme you want to bring in
• How your kitchen should function day-to-day
• Your budget and timeline goals

Taking early measurements can also help you start visualizing your options. With Rebode Measure, our 3D measurement app for iOs, you can capture your space and share it with your designer to streamline the process.

Although your kitchen designer will take precise measurements later, having an initial sense of scale gives you a valuable head start. If you’re eager for more details about the planning process, explore our full guide to how to plan for a kitchen remodel. When you’re ready, the next step is finding a kitchen designer, who will help finalize your vision.

Finding a designer 

Once you have an idea of what you want out of your new kitchen, you’re prepared to find a kitchen designer to partner with you on your remodel project. You can connect with a local designer through Rebode Jumpstarter when you’re ready to begin, and you’ll feel more confident in your first meeting if you’ve already started thinking through your style preferences, functionality goals, budget, and timeline. 

Don’t worry if you’re still working a few things out, though! Your designer will help refine your remodel plan and offer expert guidance to get the most out of your fabulous new kitchen.

Your designer will help you plan out your new kitchen’s layout, emphasizing both style and function. Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets.

Here are some ways your kitchen designer can add value: 

• Create 3D renderings of your kitchen using their own precise measurements, so you can visualize how your new space will look
• Optimize your layout to balance style and everyday functionality
• Suggest smart storage solutions that will simplify your daily kitchen tasks
• Analyze colors and finishes you love that coordinate based on shade and undertone
• Recommend and even hire other kitchen professionals to complete your remodel with expert workmanship

Your designer will be your trusted partner throughout the remodel, helping your vision stay true as your kitchen comes to life.

Kitchen remodel costs 

Setting a realistic budget is an important step for your first kitchen remodel–and your kitchen designer can help keep you on track. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recommends allocating about 10–25% of your home’s total value for a kitchen remodel. Once you know your overall budget, you can break it down across the key elements of your new kitchen.

The bulk of your budget (about one-third) typically goes toward kitchen cabinets, which form both the functional backbone and design focal point of your space. Cabinets provide storage and display, and a multipurpose island can add even more—serving as a space for food prep, dining, and work or study.

Other areas to budget for include installation, appliances, countertops, walls, ceilings, doors, windows, lighting, plumbing, flooring, design fees, and potential contingencies. For more detail on how to distribute your budget, check out our full breakdown of kitchen remodel costs.

Your kitchen designer will help you budget for every element of your remodel, from cabinets to windows and floors. Photo from MasterBrand Cabinets. 

Kitchen remodel timeline

Once you have a plan and budget, you might be wondering: how long does a kitchen remodel actually take?

While every project is unique, a full renovation typically lasts 10–20 weeks, depending on your space and goals. Your kitchen designer will create a realistic timeline, building in extra time to account for unexpected delays.

You don’t have to worry about perfecting your timeline, because your designer will use their expertise to guide you.

Here’s a rough breakdown of the kitchen remodel timeline:

• Consultation & Design (4–6 weeks): Work with your kitchen designer to finalize the layout, materials, and overall plan for your new space.
• Material Sourcing (4–8 weeks): Cabinets, countertops, and any custom pieces are ordered before demolition or installation begins.
• Demolition & Installation (2–4 weeks): Your kitchen will be largely unusable during this phase. The duration depends on the scope of your remodel.
• Finishing Touches (1–2 weeks): Remodel team completes painting, hardware installation, and final cleanup.

During the demolition and installation phase, set up a temporary kitchen in the garage, living room, or basement, keeping non-perishable food, small appliances, and dishware within easy reach. While this phase can be a bit inconvenient, your pristine new kitchen will soon be ready to meet all your cooking, dining, and storage needs.

Common setbacks

We hope you feel more confident now planning your kitchen remodel and understanding each phase. Before we conclude, we also want to prepare you for the possible hiccups that might occur along the way.

Common setbacks homeowners face include delays in permits, backordered materials, and long inspection wait times. Hidden issues in your home, such as water damage, outdated plumbing, mold, or hazardous materials like lead or asbestos, may not be discovered until demolition begins. These problems can affect your timeline and budget, so it’s wise to pad both for unexpected setbacks.

The crucial piece to remember is this: You are not alone in your remodel. 

Your kitchen designer and entire team of professionals are experienced in handling these contingencies and will guide you through the challenges. With clear communication and expert planning, you’ll feel supported every step of the way. In recent MasterBrand research, 95% of homeowners are satisfied with their kitchen remodel experience, even when contingencies came up. 

Kicking off your first kitchen remodel

Your dream kitchen is closer than you think! With Rebode Jumpstarter, you can get the creative juices flowing, explore design possibilities, and connect with a local kitchen designer who will guide you in your remodel journey. Take the next step—start creating your dream kitchen with experts who make the process seamless and exciting.