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Buying Kitchen Cabinets
Cabinets and countertops are central to kitchen makeovers—and usually account for the biggest chunk of budgets. Here's advice on how to get the kitchen you crave for the least amount of hassle and money.
Trends in Cabinets & Countertops
You’ll probably redo your kitchen only every 10 to 20 years, so select cabinets and countertops that you love—with an eye toward finishes that stand the test of time. Here’s how to get a space you’ll enjoy for years.
Countertop Suppliers & Installers
When shopping for new countertops, shop for the best price to save. Consumers’ Checkbook's undercover shoppers found huge cost differences when they collected quotes from companies to supply and install countertops using the exact same design.
Where to Buy Appliances
Finding the right appliance, buying it, and getting it delivered and installed without hassles can be an aggravating experience. But we found that many stores serve their customers well, and you don’t have to pay more to get this kind of treatment.
How to Get the Best Deal on Appliances
When buying appliances you want sound buying advice, careful and prompt delivery, and a trouble-free install—but you don’t want to pay a steep price for them. Fortunately, you don’t have to.
Kitchen Appliance Trends
Kitchen appliances continue to evolve due to new tech (including AI) and changing styles and because manufacturers and retailers need reasons to convince you to buy their new models. Here’s some of what’s new and notable.
Thinking About a Home Remodel? Here’s Where to Start
Begin by carefully considering what you think you want and how you can get it. Weigh your wish list against what you’ll probably pay to fulfill it.
Planning a Home Remodel
If you’re adding new rooms, making substantial changes to the existing floor plan, or dealing with complex structural or functional questions, you’ll need to hire professional design help. There are several design options and combinations of options.
How to Check Out Contractors
Some homeowners leave contractor vetting and selection to their architects or house designers, but most make the call themselves, and rightly so: It’s the most important step.
How to Find a Good Plumber
Plumbing is seldom exciting. It works fine for years, faithfully filling, flowing, and flushing. But when a pipe leaks water through your kitchen ceiling, the excitement may become more than you can stand.
How to Deal with Your Plumber
With any company you choose, dealing wisely with the plumber nets better work and saves you money. Whether you need a remodeling job or repairs, if possible, get a written price quote before work begins.
Plumbing Dos and Don’ts
Following these rules will help reduce the seriousness and frequency of plumbing problems.
