February 8, 2019 /

Kitchen Progress | Week Two | Appliances

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Hello lovelies! This week’s renovation update is less about physical progress and more about the exciting decisions that have been finalized. Today, I’ll take you through our appliance choices and share some tips to score the best deals on these big-ticket items.

Scaling Down a Kitchen Renovation Budget

As many of you know, we had to find a way to make this kitchen renovation work within a budget that accommodates our “two-kids-in-college” reality. Originally, our plans were estimated at a hefty $100-120K (thank you, Massachusetts!), but we’ve scaled down significantly. One of the best ways to cut costs in a kitchen remodel is by making strategic decisions about appliances and trust me, scaling back doesn’t mean sacrificing functionality.

Through the years, Mark and I have owned several homes and have had the opportunity to test both mid-range and high-end appliances. We’re passionate cooks, and whether it’s us whipping up a meal or hosting friends and family, we’ve learned a lot about what matters most. Reliability tops the list. While premium brands like Sub-Zero, Viking, Thermador, and Miele offer amazing features and stunning design, they come with a hefty price tag and aren’t always headache-free.

Key Considerations for Choosing Appliances

If you’re tackling a kitchen remodel or simply upgrading appliances, keep these factors in mind:

1. Price

Budget is king. Buy what you can afford and prioritize accordingly.

2. Resale Value

The importance of high-end appliances for resale depends on your neighborhood. In luxury communities, top-tier appliances may be expected and could help your home sell faster. But in most cases, the return on investment for these upgrades isn’t guaranteed.

3. Features

Identify the features that matter most to your lifestyle. For instance, do you need a water dispenser or an ice maker on your fridge door? Would you benefit from a warming drawer in your oven?

4. Repair Rates

Reliability is key. I’d take fewer features in exchange for fewer repairs any day. Look for blogs or consumer reports that provide sales and repair stats for different appliance tiers. Check out this appliance company’s blog.

5. Reviews

Read online reviews and seek recommendations from friends and family. Everyone’s experience is unique, but it’s helpful to know what others have liked or disliked.

6. Lifestyle

If you’re passionate about cooking, invest in quality. If cooking isn’t your thing, stick to practical, no-frills options.

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Our Appliance Choices

After weighing all these factors, we opted for mid-range appliances that balance quality, reliability, and cost.

Range: Samsung Flex-Duo Double Oven

We purchased this Samsung slide-in range during a Thanksgiving sale two years ago when our old stove gave out just days before hosting dinner. It’s a versatile alternative to a double wall oven, with a removable divider that converts it into two smaller ovens. We love its functionality during holidays—the lower oven can accommodate larger dishes, while the upper section is perfect for casseroles. The cooktop features a griddle-compatible dual-element and a warming center, which is a lifesaver when juggling multiple dishes.

So far, it’s been reliable and efficient. While it’s not a Viking or Wolf, it’s perfectly capable of delivering delicious results without breaking the bank.

Dishwasher: Bosch 500 Series

This is our third Bosch dishwasher, and we’ve never had issues with any of them. This model features a third rack for flat utensils or Tupperware lids, though we removed it to make room for taller wine glasses (priorities, right?). It’s incredibly quiet, with a sleek design and hidden controls. The stainless steel tub ensures durability and minimizes noise. While it’s pricier than other options, its reliability and longevity make it a worthy investment.

Refrigerator: KitchenAid Counter-Depth French Door

We chose this fridge for its slim profile and streamlined look without an external water/ice dispenser. Instead, it has an internal water dispenser and an ice maker in the freezer. This design minimizes leaks and maintenance issues while maintaining a clean aesthetic. Counter-depth was a must to avoid the bulky appearance of standard refrigerators. We’re holding off on purchasing it until Presidents Day sales, but this model checks all the boxes for functionality and style.

Microwave: Sharp Microwave Drawer

We’re relocating the microwave to free up space above the range for a venting hood. The Sharp Microwave Drawer is sleek, reliable, and perfect for the new layout. Its hidden controls and streamlined design add to the kitchen’s aesthetic.

Wine Fridge: Wine Enthusiast Under-Counter Refrigerator

This was a fun addition made possible by an unexpected refund we discovered through Massachusetts’ unclaimed property program. The 15-inch built-in model holds 30 bottles and operates at an optimal single temperature for both red and white wines. It’s a practical and stylish upgrade that doubles as a seltzer fridge for entertaining.

Tips for Scoring the Best Appliance Deals

  1. Plan Ahead Start your search early to identify models and track prices.
  2. Price Shop Use online tools to compare prices, check for free shipping or installation, and find stores that haul away old appliances.
  3. Take Advantage of Sales Holiday weekends like Presidents Day, Memorial Day, and Black Friday often feature significant discounts. Early fall is another good time, as retailers clear out older models.
  4. Rebates and Bundles Look for manufacturer rebates or discounts on bundled purchases. Energy-efficient appliances may also qualify for state rebates.
  5. Recycle and Save In Massachusetts, programs like Mass Save offer rebates for replacing old, inefficient appliances. For example, our 20-year-old fridge qualifies for a $75 rebate and free removal a win-win!

Next Steps

With our appliance choices finalized, I’m now diving into sink and faucet options, comparing countertop materials, and selecting backsplash tiles. This renovation journey has been a labor of love, and I’m thrilled to see it all come together. Thank you for following along and sharing your thoughts and encouragement. Stay tuned for more updates as the kitchen takes shape!

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