I just bought a house in Santa Barbara, CA and plan to do a standard full kitchen remodel (L-shape w/ an island, 16.3 x 9 ft). A local contractor gave me an estimate of $50K to $70K while an out of town contractor (Ventura, CA) gave an estimate of only $20K to $30K. I heard that remodeling in Santa Barbara could expensive but can it be this much different? Or is one of the estimate way off?
Posts: 1 | Location: Santa Barbara, CA | Registered: Oct 13, 2012
I would get at least one more quote. Also, the quality of the materials can make a big difference in the cost. Are the cabinets both contractors plan to use standard, semi-custom or custom? Plywood box or particle board box? Are both footprints the same? Does the plumbing need moved in the new design?
If the higher priced contractor is using custom cabinets with a plywood box and the other is using standard cabinets with a particle board box that alone could account for half the price difference.
Also, check both of them out.
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Any advice given here is general in nature and is not necessarily valid for your given area. If in doubt check with your local codes enforcement department for what is required when doing electrical, plumbing or structural work on your house. Permits may or may not be required in your area and home owners may not be able to DIY some tasks. I have no way of knowing if you have the skills needed to complete the tasks you are asking about, when in doubt seek professional assistance.
My advice may be worth exactly what you pay me for it. :-) For the record I did not stay in a Holiday Inn Express last night.
$20-$30,000 seems very low. Materials, installers, etc make a very big difference. We have solid wood cherry custom and some non custom cabinets from a cabinet maker. They were actually less than those from companies such as Wood Mode--which aren't all wood. Appliances vary greatly in price. Flooring and counter materials also vary. Make certain that you are comparing the same renovation and materials. Are both contractors obtaining the necessary permits or is the cheaper one trying to get by without them?This message has been edited. Last edited by: 16paws,
Posts: 2574 | Location: Ohio | Registered: Feb 25, 2006
