Anyone considering investing the time and money to remodel a kitchen should consider many factors. There are many things to consider when determining the kitchen remodel cost.

1. A plan containing detailed steps is critical to ensuring a successful kitchen remodel project. Taking the time to create sketches, research prices and coordinate activities is time well spent. Planning helps minimize misunderstandings and potential costly surprises during the project.

2. Budgeting is essential. Completion of the job depends on funds to cover costs of all parts and labor.

3. Models in kitchen stores, showrooms, and trade publications give good examples, as do the kitchens of friends, neighbors and relatives with similar-sized kitchen areas.

4. Creating several designs, which can be mixed and matched, helps visualize the end result.

5. Measurements of appliances, cabinets, and other items are essential before investigating pricing.

6. Lighting preferences are important. Current lighting versus desired lighting is a factor. Ceiling, counter and inside-cabinet lighting combinations need to be examined, along with brightness and dimmer combinations.

7. Orders for cabinets, molding, appliances and other essentials can take time: from four to six weeks in most cases, or even longer. Scheduling labor to coincide with deliveries saves money and hassle.

8. Clear communication with suppliers and contractors at every step is critical.

9. Use of molding, side panels and cabinet woods is part of the master plan, and these items are just as important as the major appliances.

10. Knowledge is power. Understanding the problems others have had with similar projects helps to avoid them. While popular television shows make it look easy, all projects are prone to error. Knowing about the common mishaps most people run into minimizes risks.

11. Experts in specific trades can help with this knowledge. Hiring a general contractor, carpenter, tile expert, electrician, plumber, cabinetmaker/installer, heating expert, interior remodeling designer, demolition crew, or others as needed is well worth the money. A custom remodeling company can handle all of this for the homeowner.

12. Thorough research of anyone hired is wise. There are many ways to do this: the Internet, friends, trade associations, the Better Business Bureau, and inquiring at local hardware and supply stores. As with all trades, good people and "not so good" people are out there. Choose carefully. Ask questions.

13. Finally, having an alternate kitchen available during the project is important. Coordinating this with a neighbor, friend or family member up front helps.

These basics are a good start. All projects benefit from careful planning and advice. Kitchen remodeling is no exception.