Top 10 Things to Know Before Starting a Kitchen Renovation in New Jersey
Planning a kitchen renovation is exciting—but without the right approach, it can quickly become overwhelming. From hidden costs to layout decisions, what you do before the first cabinet is installed can make or break your renovation experience.
At My Soho Kitchen Cabinets, we’ve worked with homeowners across central and northern New Jersey to simplify and streamline their kitchen remodels. Whether you’re upgrading your forever home or modernizing before selling, here are 10 essential things to know before starting your kitchen renovation.
1. Start with a Clear Vision
Before you even browse tile samples or paint swatches, get crystal clear on why you’re renovating.
Are you remodeling for resale value?
Do you want to make your kitchen more functional for daily life?
Are you craving a modern aesthetic that reflects your personal style?
Knowing your “why” helps guide the “how”—from design to budget to timeline.
💡 Pro Tip: Jot down what frustrates you about your current kitchen. It’s often the best place to start.
2. Set a Realistic Budget (and Pad It)
Kitchen renovations in New Jersey can vary widely depending on size, material choices, and structural changes. Most homeowners spend 5% to 15% of their home’s value on a remodel, but that’s just the starting point.
📊 According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a midrange kitchen remodel in the Northeast recoups over 70% of its cost at resale.
Don’t forget to build in a 10–20% contingency for unexpected expenses like electrical upgrades or hidden plumbing issues—especially in older homes.
🔗 Explore more: How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost in New Jersey
3. Your Layout Matters More Than You Think
You can spend thousands on finishes, but if your layout is awkward or inefficient, it won’t matter. Think about:
How you move between your sink, stove, and fridge
Whether you host guests or cook as a family
How much countertop and storage space you really need
🔗 Need help choosing? Read: How to Choose the Right Kitchen Layout for Your Home
4. Maximize Storage Early in the Planning
One of the most common renovation regrets? Not enough storage.
Built-in solutions like pull-out pantries, toe-kick drawers, and vertical tray dividers can drastically improve how your kitchen functions—without increasing its footprint.
5. Prioritize High-Impact Upgrades
You don’t have to splurge on everything—but investing in a few high-impact upgrades can go a long way:
Quartz countertops for durability and resale value
Soft-close cabinets for a polished feel
Under-cabinet lighting to enhance both function and ambiance
🔗 Learn more: Best Countertop Materials for Your NJ Kitchen
6. Plan for Life During the Renovation
No one likes eating microwave dinners in the living room—but during a renovation, it might be your new normal. Set up a temporary kitchen space, prepare freezer meals, and if needed, arrange to be out of the house for key demo or install days.
7. Don’t Follow Trends Blindly
Design trends can be inspiring, but they aren’t always practical. Focus on a timeless foundation—like neutral cabinetry or natural stone counters—and layer in trends through lighting, hardware, or wall color.
🔗 Need help deciding? Check out: Kitchen Cabinet Trends NJ Homeowners Love in 2025
8. Hire a Full-Service Team (It’s Worth It)
Working with a full-service contractor means one team handles design, materials, permits, and installation. At My Soho Kitchen Cabinets, this approach reduces miscommunication and helps projects move up to 25% faster than multi-vendor jobs.
🔗 Learn why it matters: Why Hiring a Full-Service Kitchen Contractor Saves You Time and Money
9. Know Your Local Codes and Permit Requirements
Depending on your town, permits may be required for plumbing, gas lines, or structural changes. Reputable contractors will pull the right permits and stay up-to-date with local building codes. This is especially important in areas with older housing stock.
🔗 External reference: Architectural Digest – What to Ask Before Your Kitchen Remodel
10. Start with a Free Consultation
The first step to a successful renovation? A thoughtful plan. Whether you’re in a modern townhouse or a 1950s colonial, your kitchen should reflect how you live today.
Book a free consultation with the design team at My Soho Kitchen Cabinets—and let’s build something beautiful, together.