If you have recently purchased a new-to-you home, this is an exciting time. Depending on your budget, your home may be brand new, or in great shape and require no upgrades. This is fantastic. However, most people do not buy brand new homes and their homes will require some renovations. One way to up the value of a new home is by renovating the kitchen. This is often expensive. A good way to save money here is by keeping the used kitchen cabinets.

Kitchens and bathrooms are the two rooms in the house that will add value if renovated properly. This is because these are some of the most expensive rooms to finish. Often in a kitchen you will need to replace flooring, countertops, lighting, re-do paint and buy newer up-to-date appliances. Most homeowners chose to replace the kitchen cabinets when they are doing full kitchen renovations, however, this is often the priciest, most timing consuming job – often cabinets have to be specially made or ordered to fit the kitchen space. Depending on the size of your kitchen and the amount of cabinet space you have, this will cost up to tens of thousands of dollars.

To save money and time, try salvaging the used kitchen cabinets. There are many options here. Painting kitchen cabinets will immediately give them a fresh, clean, new look. You can choose a wild, vibrant paint color, such as red or blue, to make cabinetry really pop, or choose a neutral color such as beige, white or black. Staining your wood cabinets a different shade is also an option.

Another good way to update cabinets is to replace only the cabinet door, rather than the whole box. This will be pricier than painting existing cabinets, but can add a new look to your kitchen. Try new cabinet doors made of etched glass or stainless steel – both are modern options. Replacing a few doors in key areas may also freshen up the look.

Kitchen shelving is a modern option. Try taking out a few of the used cabinets and replacing them with modern kitchen shelves. These free standing selves can act as spice racks, places to hang pots and pans, or a great place to show off fancy wine glasses.

For an instant update, try replacing the hardware on your used kitchen cabinets. There are many hardware choices and you can choose a hardware that matches the rest of your kitchen décor. Hardware comes in stainless steel, nickel, brass, and copper. You can get glass hardware or plastic hardware in a variety of color. Check out a number of stores as hardware selection will vary wherever you go. Look online for interesting and original hardware. Most online hardware shops will ship right to your door.

You do not have to spend a small fortune to upgrade your kitchen cabinets. Used kitchen cabinets can look stunning with the right upgrades. Depending on the look of your kitchen and the design you choose, painting, staining, buying new cabinet doors, or simply replacing the hardware may be good options for you.