An increasing number of Americans are remodeling, upgrading, and uplifting their kitchens. But if you're like many in the early phases, you have no clue how to get started. Experts say the most important thing you can do is give yourself plenty of time to plan and budget your project.

Many of us are remodeling this year. In fact, professional remodelers reported a busier beginning to 2003 than expected and significantly improved expectations for the rest of this year, according to recent results of the National Association of Home Builders' Remodeling Market Index.

"Driven by low interest rates, home equity conversions and the strong appeal of investing in the homestead, residential property owners stepped up the pace of contracting for improvements, repairs, additions and general maintenance on their homes and apartments in the first quarter of 2003," said NAHB Remodelors' Council Chairman Mike Weiss.

The top single feature requested by clients during the first three months of the year was the granite countertop, the report found.

But the granite countertop is just one of many features homeowners seek in their kitchen remodels.

Joan McCloskey, editorial marketing director of Better Homes and Gardens, told industry attendees at January's International Builders Show that today's ideal kitchen includes a large center island, a distinctive farmhouse sink, built-in appliances, simple cabinetry with unique hardware, and custom touches that reflect the family's personality, like a big decorative hood over the cooktop.

Kate Schwartz, editor of Kitchens.com, a consumer source for kitchen design and remodeling, says that if you're remodeling your kitchen, understanding your budget is vital.

"It's crucial to begin the process with a complete handle on your budget," she said. "It's important to understand the main reason that you're planning to invest in a new kitchen - does your new kitchen represent an investment in the home you plan to stay in for a while or are you just looking to spruce it up for resale?

Schwartz says you should always set aside some extra cash - unexpected costs often crop up at some point in the process.

Schwartz also points out that cabinetry is an important component.

"Don't underestimate the importance of cabinets, Schwartz said. "They typically account for half of the budget for a new kitchen. Your cabinets' door style and color will have the most impact on your new kitchen's palette by making the strongest visual statement."

And finally, Schwartz says patience is key. In fact, some materials and products require up to nine months of lead time. Custom cabinets usually arrive in 12 to 16 weeks; semi-custom in eight to ten weeks; and stock cabinets four weeks or less. Installation, she says can take two to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity and extent of the remodel.

The National Association of the Remodeling Industryalso offers the following tips:

Published: April 29, 2003

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