Budgeting for your Delaware kitchen remodel can be a daunting endeavor, especially if you aren't sure where to start or what you can expect. As in many areas of life, there are some aspects of your kitchen remodeling budget that you can control, and some that you cannot. Your ultimate cost for remodeling your kitchen will depend on your material selections and the scope of the work you have done. Where can your choices impact your bottom line and what do we recommend to align your expectations with your budget? Bromwell Construction Company has got you covered.
Major Vs. Minor Renovation
When you begin your kitchen remodeling journey, it's important to understand the significant differences between a minor and a major remodel, both in terms of scope of work and return on investment (ROI). A minor kitchen remodel typically involves cosmetic changes and updates that can breathe new life into the space without significant structural alterations. It may include tasks such as repainting cabinets, replacing outdated appliances with more energy-efficient models, updating fixtures, and installing new countertops or backsplash.
On the other hand, a larger kitchen remodel entails a more extensive transformation. It often involves altering the layout, replacing cabinets and countertops, upgrading appliances, installing new flooring, rewiring electrical systems, and sometimes even relocating plumbing lines. This type of remodel requires a larger investment of time, money, and resources.
Planning Your Kitchen Remodel Budget
Start your kitchen remodel budget planning by asking a few key questions.
What’s not working in your current kitchen?
Is it too small? Lacking storage? Poorly lit? Identifying the main frustrations helps determine whether you need a full layout change or just better design solutions.
What upgrades would truly improve your day-to-day life?
Think about how you use your kitchen. If you cook often, durable countertops and a smart work triangle matter more than high-end appliances. If you entertain, seating and lighting should take priority.
What level of finishes are right for your home?
If you live in a classic Colonial, you may want to blend modern functionality with timeless materials, like inset cabinetry or soapstone countertops. Your home’s value and character should guide finish selections.
Are you planning to stay long-term or sell within a few years?
If you’re remodeling your forever home, lean into features that fit your lifestyle. If resale is on the horizon, focus on updates that appeal to buyers, neutral finishes, smart storage, and energy-efficient appliances.
How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Kitchen in Wilmington, DE?
Kitchen remodeling costs in our area can vary widely depending on the scope of your project, the age of your home, and the finishes you choose. Whether you’re refreshing surfaces or tearing down walls, having a clear sense of your budget early on helps you make smarter decisions and avoid costly surprises down the line. Here are some general cost breakdowns and corresponding project scope so you can get a rough idea of what your project might cost.
Minor Kitchen Remodel
Estimated cost: $50,000–$75,000
This level of remodel is ideal for homeowners who want a fresh, updated look without changing the footprint of the space. A minor kitchen remodel focuses on upgrading finishes while keeping the original layout intact. That means your plumbing and electrical stay in place, but you’ll enjoy brand-new:
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Cabinets (often semi-custom)
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Quartz or stone countertops
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Lighting fixtures and under-cabinet lighting
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Updated flooring
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Fresh paint and trim
Mid-Scope Kitchen Renovation
Estimated cost: $85,000–$110,000
A mid-range kitchen remodel typically includes some layout changes to improve flow and functionality. You may relocate appliances, adjust cabinetry for better storage, or open a wall into another room. This is the most common level of remodeling we see in Delaware and Pennsylvania homes. These projects usually include:
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Custom or semi-custom cabinetry
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High-end quartz or natural stone countertops
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New flooring, lighting, backsplash, and fixtures
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Partial rework of plumbing or electrical
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Some structural work (e.g., modifying a wall or moving a window)
Full-Scale Kitchen Remodel
Estimated cost: $150,000 and up
A full-scale kitchen remodel involves reimagining the entire space. These projects often start with homes that have cramped, outdated layouts or kitchens that don’t match the rest of the home’s style. You can expect:
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Full gut demolition and rebuild
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Major structural changes (e.g., removing walls or relocating the kitchen entirely)
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All-new mechanicals (plumbing, electrical, HVAC if needed)
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Custom cabinetry, luxury finishes, and top-tier appliances
What’s Included in Bromwell’s Kitchen Remodel Pricing?
At Bromwell, our design-build approach means you get a comprehensive, fixed-price proposal after your design is finalized. That proposal includes:
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Architectural drawings and design services
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Cabinetry and finish selections
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Demolition, construction, and installation
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Project management and scheduling
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Permits and inspections
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Use of our BuilderTrend portal for communication and updates
Important Elements of a Kitchen Remodel That Affect Price
Kitchen Cabinets
In many kitchen renovations, it’s not the work “behind the walls” that is the most expensive, it’s the finishes that homeowners choose! Kitchen cabinets are frequently the biggest expense.
There are several ways to ensure you don’t break the bank when you choose your cabinets and their features. Kitchen manufacturers will say that you need all the add-on items, but carefully look before you decide. In addition, mixing cabinetry colors is another way to save. Perhaps have some details or colored cabinets on the island while choosing a stocked color for other areas.
Cabinet Hardware
Cabinet hardware is not nearly as costly as the cabinets themselves, but it’s important to choose hardware that will match the character of your kitchen while also remaining functional.
Flooring
When it comes to flooring, there are many more choices than there were just a few years ago. Today’s homeowners have their choice of LVT, tile, hardwood, bamboo options, concrete and more.
This is another area where many home renovations can exceed their budget with their selections. A secret tip: get an idea of what you’re looking for and then explore variations that can give you the overall look but at price within your budget. For example, hardwood flooring is truly lovely, however, a luxury vinyl plank floor (LVT) that's a similar tone might create the same effect for a lot less!
Lighting Fixtures
Having the right lighting in the right places is critical for a productive and functional kitchen. Give yourself permission to splurge on a few lighting pieces that create a “WOW!” effect when you walk in. Consider installing lighting over the island, peninsula or kitchen table if there’s space.
Appliances
Appliances can range from budget model packages that cost around $3,000 to custom appliance packages that can cost $5,000+ based on certain brands, models and features. Choices for appliances should be functional per your preference while also considering the kitchen layout. Your appliances are often not included in the remodeling budget your contractor outlines.
Countertops
Like lighting, your countertops can make a statement for anyone that comes into your home. A little splurge here can have a big impact on the overall appearance of your kitchen. Consider an upgrade for your island and more affordable countertop option for your perimeter to respect your budget.
Like flooring, countertop options have widened significantly in the last few years. At the lower price points, there’s laminate and tile. Moving up, there's Corian or Silestone quartz countertop options as well as various granites. Granite pricing can vary from affordable to costly, depending on which granite you choose. Other newer options that have become popular are marble and concrete counters.
Trim and Finishes
Details like trim and finishes can make a tremendous impact on the overall look, feel and usability of your new kitchen. Going through each item carefully to determine those that you need versus those that are simply “nice to have” will help you keep an eye on your costs and budget.
Electrical and Plumbing
Your plumbing and electrical expenses will depend on all the other decisions that you make regarding your kitchen and the space available. If you're moving walls, you may be moving plumbing and electrical access with them. Finding quality contractors that can provide you with the features you need as well as the results that you want is critical.
How Much Should I Budget for Kitchen Remodel?
Budgeting for your new kitchen can be tough, especially considering how much variation there is between individual projects. Most homeowners need to seek quotes from contractors before they can make a firm budget. Your kitchen remodeling contractor will provide a much more detailed kitchen remodel cost breakdown for the scope of the work that you’re hoping to perform.
We recommend that you talk with your kitchen remodeling contractor to discuss your goals and kitchen budget breakdown. Know your “must haves” versus your “nice to haves.” Have an approximate total cost in mind when you’re talking to your contractor, but don’t feel a firm commitment to that cost.
For example, you may tell your contractor that you’d like to spend an amount around $75,000, but you could go as much as $10,000 higher. If you have a total not to exceed cost, tell your kitchen remodeling contractor that as well. Your contractor will be able to tell you if your expectations are realistic, and if not, may be able to suggest alternatives that can help you meet your goals.
Wilmington Kitchen Remodels Done Right
Our top kitchen remodeling advice? Understand what you can control and what you can't. There are places where your material selections can impact the pricing for your kitchen remodel, such as selecting your countertops and flooring. And then there are some places where the pricing is going to be based on your design and layout, such as plumbing and electrical, and there’s little that can be done about the price related to the required scope of work. Kitchen renovations in Wilmington, DE, like many places around the country, have a wide range in pricing.
Ready to make your kitchen dreams real? Bromwell proudly serves homeowners in the communities of Wilmington, North Wilmington, Greenville, Hockessin, Chadds Ford, PA and many other locations. Contact Bromwell Construction today to get started!
