AND HOW TO MAKE IT AFFORDABLE

It’s safe to say the current situation in the United States is…weird. If history has shown us anything it’s that an unstable political climate puts a tremendous amount of stress on our economy. There are so many factors involved in this that the explanation is way beyond anything our humble blog can explain. But what we can address is how this affects the real estate market and the benefits that a smart, well planned remodel can provide for homeowners.
Let’s start with the benefits of a remodel versus buying new.
IMPROVE, DON’T MOVE!
Buying a new home can come with significant costs beyond the purchase price, including closing costs, real estate agent fees, moving expenses, and higher property taxes. By remodeling your current home, you can avoid many of these costs and focus your budget on the improvements you truly want.
Instead of spending $500,000 + (the median home price in Portland) on a new home plus the cost of actually moving, you could invest a fraction of that budget to update your current home with a remodeled kitchen, bathroom, basement, or even an addition.

CUSTOMIZE TO YOUR PERSONAL TASTE AND STYLE
One of the biggest advantages of remodeling is that you can design your space exactly how you want it.
Choose layouts (we’ll discuss this option later regarding keeping a remodel affordable), finishes, and features that suit your taste and lifestyle.
Create spaces tailored to your needs, like a home office, an open-concept kitchen, or an additional bedroom.
Buying a new home might require compromising on certain features, but remodeling gives you complete control over the final result.
MOVING IS A DRAG
Moving to a new home is a time-consuming and often stressful process. Between packing, selling your current home, finding a new one, and relocating, the process can take months. Remodeling, on the other hand, allows you to stay in the home and neighborhood you already love while making it better suited to your needs. Admittedly remodeling can also be a stressor which is why it's so important to choose the right contractor.
If you enjoy your current neighborhood, remodeling allows you to stay close to your favorite schools, friends, community amenities, and local hangouts.
You won’t have to uproot your family or adjust to a new community.
INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME
Certain remodeling projects offer a strong return on investment (ROI), increasing the value of your home should you decide to sell in the future.
High-ROI Projects: Kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal improvements (like new siding, decks, and landscaping) tend to provide the best returns.
Build Equity: By improving your home, you’re investing in its future value, which can pay off when it’s time to sell.
By remodeling, you can help boost the value of your home and even your neighborhood as a whole.
THIS IS IMPORTANT: UTILIZE ENERGY EFFICIENT UPGRADES
While the initial investment may be a tad more, older homes can often benefit from energy-efficient upgrades, such as new windows, better insulation, or energy-efficient appliances. These upgrades not only make your home more comfortable but can also save you money on utility bills in the long run, i.e. permanent affordability.

BUYING A HOME IS COMPLICATED STUFF
While buying a new home can sometimes seem like the simpler option, it often comes with hidden challenges:
In many markets, home prices have increased significantly over the past several years, making it more expensive to buy a new property.
In high-demand areas, read Portland, you may face bidding wars or have to settle for a home that doesn’t meet all your needs.
Our economy is, let’s say, fragile right now. If interest rates have risen since you purchased your current home, a new mortgage could come with a higher monthly payment.
Finding the perfect home in the right location can be a challenge, especially in high demand urban and suburban areas. You may have to compromise on features like square footage, layout, or outdoor space to stay within budget.
Additionally, buying a new home often comes with unexpected expenses, like repairs, maintenance, or upgrades you didn’t anticipate when buying. These costs can add up quickly and negate the perceived benefits of moving as well as adding to an already stressful situation.
Not to mention, leaving a home filled with memories can be an emotional process, especially for families who have lived there for many years. Staying in your current home and remodeling allows you to preserve those memories while making the space work better for you.
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE: WHEN DOES BUYING A NEW HOME MAKE SENSE?
While remodeling offers many benefits, there are situations where buying a new home may be the better option:
If your home has major problems like a failing foundation, extensive water damage, or other costly repairs, it may be more practical to move.
If your lot or permitting doesn’t allow for additions or your family’s needs significantly exceed your current home’s capacity, buying a larger home might be necessary.
If you’re looking to downsize, relocate to a different area, or move closer to work or family, buying a new home could be the right choice.
HOW TO TURN YOUR REMODEL INTO A SMART INVESTMENT
For most homeowners, remodeling provides the best of both worlds: the comfort of staying in your current home and the benefits of a new, updated space. Here are a few tips to maximize your remodeling investment:
Keep your focus on high impact areas. Start with rooms that add the most value and functionality, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. A kitchen remodel, for example, can make your entire home feel more modern and functional.
One of the most important ways to preserve your investment is by partnering with an experienced remodeling company to ensure your project stays on budget and on schedule while delivering professional results. (Creative solutions and a solid warranty are a must.)
We all love a good trend, but with social media and fast fashion (yes it is relevant to home design) choose designs and materials that will stand the test of time, both in style and durability. Trendy items can be saved for less permanent and spendy decor. Think fabrics, dishes, hardware and artwork.This will help maximize your investment and ensure you enjoy your remodeled space for years to come.

NOW LET'S MAKE IT AFFORDABLE
It’s time to get creative! There are so many factors that control the cost of a remodel. We’re going to hit on a few here along with some tips to shave off some dollars without sacrificing quality. While the fun part is getting creative with finishes and the like, there are also some practical decisions you can make to reduce long term costs and expensive mistakes. We’ll get into both.
First, the fun part!
Cabinetry is often the largest chunk of the remodeling budget, as far as selections go. Here are some tips to significantly reduce that dent.
READY TO ASSEMBLE
Ready-to-Assemble, or RTA cabinets are a cost-effective option for homeowners who are willing to roll up their sleeves. Here’s why:
Since RTA cabinets are shipped flat-packed and assembled on-site, you save on assembly fees.
RTA cabinets are often made with durable but budget-friendly materials like MDF, laminate, or Therma Foil. (Plywood is definitely an option, however the quality and longevity is sharply reduced.
If you’re handy, assembling and installing cabinets yourself can save even more money.*
*Note that any DIY aspect to remodeling could result in delays not caused by the general contractor, so staying on schedule is extremely important.

STOCK/SEMI CUSTOM CABINETS
Stock cabinets are pre-made in standard sizes and are one of the most affordable cabinetry options. Semi-custom cabinets offer slightly more flexibility, such as additional sizes or finishes, but are still less expensive than fully custom cabinets.
Stock Cabinets are perfect for homeowners with standard kitchen layouts and are available in a variety of styles and finishes.
Semi-Custom Cabinets are a great solution If you need minor modifications (like additional drawers or specific dimensions), semi-custom cabinets provide a middle ground.*
* Money saving rule of thumb: “More doors, less drawers". Drawers and specialized pullouts can bulk up your budget fast! If you can live without that pull-out trash can or corner lazy susan, you’ll save a chunk.
REFINISH OR REFACE INSTEAD OF REPLACING
We are currently remodeling a kitchen in a NW Portland condo that had lovely cabinetry with a great layout. There was no need to replace them, so we did a solid for the environment and our client’s budget by giving them a few coats of high quality cabinet paint in the prettiest shade of light green. Huge difference!
If you have existing cabinets that are in good structural condition, refinishing or refacing them is a great alternative to buying and installing new ones.
Repainting or staining cabinets can dramatically change their appearance. For example, painting old wood cabinets in a classic color like navy blue, white, or light green (!) can give your space a fresh, clean, modern look.
Refacing involves replacing just the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the original cabinet boxes. You’ll save on materials and installation costs.*
*If your existing cabinets are part of an older home, as in pre-standard sizing, refacing might have to be customized, thereby raising the cost. Paint or stain could be a great option as many older cabinets are made of solid wood and built to last! Fill, sand, paint, add some cabinet jewelry…could be better than new.

OPEN SHELVING*
Incorporating open shelving is a decorative and affordable way to reduce the amount of cabinetry you need. Cabinets are priced by the linear foot, so if you reduce even 10 linear feet of cabinetry you will save quite a bit. Plus its a great place to put all of those personal little trendy items mentioned above, that are easily switched out for the price of a new set of dishes or fresh flowers in a vase.
Open shelves require less material and labor than traditional cabinets.
Open shelving can create a light, airy look in your kitchen while providing easy access to everyday items.
The use of wood planks or reclaimed materials is not just gorgeous but it's unique, individual, and planet friendly too!
*Hot tip: Kitchens are messy, especially if you have a hard working kitchen. It is best to keep open shelving opposite and away from the stove as no amount of money will be worth scrubbing down jars and dishes that are covered in sticky oil and dust every week .
SKIP EXPENSIVE ADD-ONS
Adding to the “doors not drawers” concept there is a myriad of amazing add ons for cabinetry, that usually come at a not so amazing price.
While soft-close hinges, pull-out trays, and custom organizers are tempting, they can quickly inflate your cabinetry budget. Instead, focus on essentials and then add extras later if your budget allows. Would you rather save for your kids college or have to shut a few cabinet doors everyday?
Fancy knobs, pulls, and hinges can be swapped out for more affordable options. YAWN. Ok, boring, so now what? Consider investing in mixed hardware. Maybe two prominent cabinet doors can rock the Rejuvination bling and the rest can be more standard in a matching or complementary finish. Or just the top row gets the goodies. Think outside of the box! Investing in one or two high end pieces sets the tone for the rest of the more affordable hardware.
Instead of custom spice racks or trash can pull-outs, use store-bought organizers to achieve the same functionality. You can always go back at a later date and upgrade these items.
Want to get even further outside of the box? Try using an existing antique cabinet as a pantry or larder. Or better yet, go to your local antique mall and have a look! A few retrofitted shelves and hooks and you have a one of a kind stunning piece de resistance.
Want more drawers, but want to follow our drawer rule? Use a vintage dresser that can double as a work surface. Adding a butcher block topper, or a scrap piece of marble is an
easy affordable compromise.

Image via DeVol
NEXT UP, COUNTERTOPS
We all know how expensive marble and granite countertops are, besides being finicky little buggers. Quartz and quartzite are two great alternatives that most of us are familiar with, but still have a heavy price tag for the overall cost of finishes.
What to do?
Ok, hear me out. Laminate or tile. Here’s my case for each.

We all have some sort of triggered memory from chipped formica unpeeling at the corners and ripping a slash right through our arm or elbow (just me?). Or digging gunky food and grease out of grout lines in tile. It’s kind of gross. But we’ve come a long way baby!
When it comes to choosing countertops for your kitchen, bathroom, or other surfaces, Formica and similar laminate alternatives have shed (or are starting to shed) their “not the best of” midcentury reputation reminiscent of Frito casseroles from that era. Once considered a budget-friendly but lower-quality option, today’s laminate countertops offer impressive durability, a huge variety of relevant designs, and features that rival more expensive materials like granite or quartz.
GIVE FORMICA (LAMINATE) A CHANCE
Formica is a brand name that has become synonymous with laminate countertops, much like how "Kleenex" is used for tissues. Laminate countertops are made by fusing layers of paper or fabric with resin, which are then bonded to a particleboard or plywood core. The top layer is a printed design covered with a clear protective coating, creating a durable and modern surface.
In the past, laminate countertops were often dismissed as cheap or outdated. But it’s time to revisit this idea and give Formica (or laminate) a chance, don’t you think? Technological advancements in manufacturing and design have transformed them into an affordable, high-quality option for homeowners who want style and functionality without the hefty price tag of natural stone.
WHAT’S CHANGED?
The laminate countertops of yesteryear were prone to chipping, limited in design options, and often had visible seams and edges. But today’s laminates, including Formica, have addressed these issues with remarkable improvements:
Realistic Designs: Modern laminate countertops mimic the look of premium materials like granite, marble, and wood with incredible accuracy. Advances in printing technology allow manufacturers to create high-definition patterns with realistic veining, textures, and colors. Some laminates even incorporate textured finishes that feel like natural stone.
Durability Upgrades: Laminate countertops are now more resistant to scratches, stains, and heat than earlier generations. High-pressure laminate (HPL), the material used in premium options like Formica, provides a tough, long-lasting surface that holds up well to everyday wear and tear.
Seamless Edges (the best improvement IMO): One of the drawbacks of older laminate countertops was the visible seams along the edges and corners. Today’s laminates offer options like post-formed edges, which create a seamless transition between the countertop surface and edges (YES!!). This not only looks cleaner but also prevents moisture from seeping in.
Customizability: Modern laminates come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes, from glossy to matte to textured. This versatility makes it easy to find a laminate countertop that matches your design aesthetic, whether you’re going for a contemporary, farmhouse, or traditional look.
THE CASE FOR LAMINATE
Affordability
Laminate countertops are significantly more affordable than natural stone, quartz, or solid surface options. This makes them an ideal choice for budget-conscious homeowners who want a stylish look without the premium price.
Easy Maintenance
Laminate countertops are non-porous, which means they don’t require sealing or special treatments. Cleaning is as simple as wiping them down with soap and water, making them a low-maintenance option for busy households.
Lightweight and Easy to Install
Because they’re lighter than stone or quartz, laminate countertops are easier to transport, cut, and install. This can help reduce labor costs during a remodel.
Eco-Friendly Options
Many laminate countertops, including Formica, are made with sustainable practices and recyclable materials. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option, laminates may fit the bill.
Design Flexibility
From trendy matte black finishes to convincing marble-look patterns, laminate countertops offer virtually endless design possibilities. They can easily adapt to any design scheme, allowing you to achieve the look you want at a fraction of the cost of natural materials.
COUNTERTOP COMPARISON
While Formica and laminate alternatives offer many benefits, it’s important to understand how they stack up against other countertop materials:
Laminate (Formica) | Granite | Quartz | Butcher Block | |
Cost | $20–$50/sq. ft. | $50–$200/sq. ft. | $70–$150/sq. ft. | $50–$150/sq. ft. |
Durability | Scratch & stain resistant | Heat & scratch resistant | Highly durable but heavy | Prone to scratches & dents |
Maintenance | Low, no sealing needed | Requires sealing | Low, no sealing needed | Requires regular oiling |
Appearance | Realistic designs, many options | Natural stone patterns | Polished, uniform appearance | Warm, natural look |
Lifespan | 10–20 years | 20+ years | 20+ years |
Laminate countertops are ideal for homeowners who prioritize affordability, easy maintenance, and a wide selection of designs. However, they may not be as heat-resistant or long-lasting as granite or quartz, so careful use is recommended.
ALTERNATIVES TO FORMICA
In addition to Formica, there are other laminate countertop brands and alternatives that offer similar benefits:
Each brand has its unique strengths, and we are happy to explore your options to find the perfect match for your home.
TIPS FOR CHOOSING AND CARING FOR LAMINATE
Choose a Quality Product: Invest in high-pressure laminate (HPL) for maximum durability and performance.
Use Cutting Boards and Trivets: To prevent scratches and heat damage, always use cutting boards and trivets, even with durable laminate surfaces.
Clean Regularly: Wipe down your countertops daily with a gentle cleanser to keep them looking new. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers.
Work with a Professional: A skilled contractor can help you choose the best laminate countertop for your needs and ensure proper installation for a polished look.
THE CASE FOR TILE
Another common material for mid century counter tops that also got kind of a bad rap is tile. Tile countertops were a staple in kitchens and bathrooms throughout the mid-20th century, beloved for their versatility, affordability, and timeless charm. Though they fell out of favor with the rise of solid-surface materials like granite and quartz, tile countertops are making a strong comeback in the design world. Advancements in materials, an emphasis on personal expression, and a growing desire for sustainable, handcrafted design elements are making this the comeback kid for the 21st century. (That was a little dramatic, but you get the point.)

A Move Toward Unique, Customizable Designs
In an era where cookie-cutter designs are fading out, homeowners are looking for ways to infuse their spaces with personality and charm. Tile countertops offer endless design possibilities:
Unlimited Variety: From colorful ceramics to sleek porcelain or intricate mosaic patterns, tile comes in a wide range of styles, colors, textures, and sizes.
Customization: With tile, you can mix and match patterns, experiment with layouts, or create a one-of-a-kind look tailored to your personal style.
A Nod to Vintage and Handcrafted Aesthetics
Nostalgia for retro and vintage design trends has played a role in the resurgence of tile countertops. Their handcrafted appeal aligns perfectly with the current love for artisanal, old-world touches. Homeowners appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into tilework, whether it’s hand-painted designs or rustic subway tiles with irregular edges.
Budget-Friendly Remodeling
Tile countertops offer a more affordable alternative to natural stone or quartz, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking to save money during a remodel without sacrificing style. The ability to choose from a wide range of materials means you can find tiles to fit virtually any budget.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Appeal
As sustainability continues to influence design trends, tile countertops are gaining favor for their eco-friendly potential. Many tiles are made from recycled materials, and their durability ensures they stand the test of time, reducing waste.
Durability
Tile is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, making it an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Glazed tiles, in particular, are non-porous and easy to clean, helping them withstand everyday wear and tear.
Easy Repairs
One major advantage of tile countertops is that if a tile gets chipped or damaged, you can replace it without having to redo the entire countertop. This is a more cost-effective repair process compared to materials like quartz or granite.
Heat Resistance
Unlike some countertop materials that can be damaged by hot pans or appliances, tiles are naturally heat-resistant. Ceramic and porcelain tiles, in particular, can withstand high temperatures, making them a practical choice for busy kitchens.
Versatility in Design
The versatility of tile cannot be overstated. Whether you’re going for a sleek, modern look with large-format tiles or a charming, rustic feel with hand-painted designs, tile countertops can be tailored to suit any aesthetic. Popular options include:
Subway Tile Patterns for clean, modern kitchens.
Hand-Painted Tiles for a boho or Mediterranean vibe.
Mosaic Tiles for intricate and artistic patterns.
Large-Format Porcelain Tiles for a seamless, contemporary look with minimal grout lines.
COMMON COMPLAINTS ABOUT TILE
Grout Stains
In the past, grout lines were prone to staining and required frequent cleaning. Today’s grouts are far more durable and stain-resistant, and epoxy grout options provide a non-porous, easy-to-clean alternative to traditional grout.
Uneven Surfaces
Older tile countertops were sometimes criticized for their uneven surfaces, which made food prep and cleaning challenging. However, this issue can be minimized by using large-format tiles or tiles with straight edges rather than beveled or rounded (“pillowy”) edges for a smoother, more uniform finish. Additionally, setting the tiles to the minimum grout width combined with “floating” the mortar can create a much smoother surface.
Maintenance
Tile countertops require occasional maintenance to keep grout looking fresh. Sealing grout periodically can go a long way in preserving its appearance and preventing stains. Fortunately, with the use of epoxy or pre-sealed grout, maintenance needs have significantly decreased.
BONUS “OUTSIDE OF THE BOX” IDEA
Suppliers and installers often have “scraps” left over from a project. These are typically sold at unheard of discounts. This includes marble, butcher block, granite, and quartz/quartzite.
Obviously a mix and match countertop isn’t for everyone, but the application does have some historical legs to it and if designed correctly, can actually be quite charming and sophisticated.
A little background here. Long before Door Dash, fast food, and processed food people used to cook in their kitchen. And prepare large cuts of meat. Bunches of vegetables. They would even bake! So these kitchens had to werk. The countertops and other surfaces took a beating. Additionally, different materials faired better for different tasks. Example, cutting meat and vegetables on a hard surface like marble or granite is as bad as it sounds. Besides dulling knives and scratching the surface….it gave nails on a chalkboard. This is where butcher block came in. Alternatively, rolling dough and mixing pasta on a wood countertop could transfer flavors and smells to the dough. Here comes marble or stone. Not only does it provide a clean mixing/kneading surface, it keeps dough cool and prevents it from warming up during the rolling process.
This resulted in some pretty gorgeous combinations of material. The practice has come back en vogue as we lean more towards natural eating and home life. There are beautiful examples of islands that blend butcher block and marble. Even concrete and wood. It can be quite stunning if not just practical.
STAY TUNED FOR PART TWO: THE NITTY GRITTY
(As in the not so fun but definitely practical and VERY necessary steps to control the budget of your remodel.)
And as always we are here to chat about your project and listen to your wants and needs in a remodel. We welcome you to drop us a line and start the conversation about your project!
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