Kitchens and bathrooms
If you ask any designer or contractor, the kitchen is the place where the family comes together. It's usually the place where most of the entertaining happens, so as you think about remodeling you need to consider how much space you will use and how you want to use the space. Don't skimp on countertops, sinks, and appliances. Here are some ways ideas on what you can "skimp" on, but still get the look you want:

• Cabinets. While brand new cabinets are always nice, if yours are still in good condition you can just refinish them for less money. If all the hinges are in working condition and the doors are still in tact, then take a sander, sand them down, and re-paint them to give your kitchen a new look. If you don't want to paint, then try sanding them down and just putting on a glaze.


• Fixtures. Dolling up fixtures can save you a ton of money and definitely make your remodel worth while.


• Recycle. Using recycled building materials for counter tops and backsplash is another way you can save money but still get a new countertop.

• Wall color. One of the easiest ways to liven up your home while remodeling is to add a new color or texture to your walls and ceilings. Color brings feeling to any room so think about going to the paint store to test out some sample colors. If you don't texture on your walls you can also find ideas on how to texture online or at home improvement stores. From Orange peel textures to knockdown textures your home will have a different feeling with each one. Doing the painting yourself will save you a ton of money in the long run.


• Floors. If you compare the price of having someone come in to do your floors, in comparison to doing them yourself you will see a significant difference in price. Tile and hard wood are probably the most expensive products to use, however you can generally find them at a home improvement store for less money than you would find them at a specialty store. Carpet is another story however. If have the skills you need to lay carpet then by all means. If you don't, then it's probably best to have someone else do it for you. The thing to remember when it comes to floors is that they take a lot of wear and tear so if whatever you put in, make sure it will take all the traffic. Even if it costs a little more now, it will save you money in the long run.

Cutting costs, not corners when remodeling your home isn't rocket science. Look for deals, sales, and try to do most of the work yourself. Talk with neighbors, look online, and do what you can to keep your costs down.