there could be plumbing in some of the soffits, or duct work, or electrical. i'm afraid you'll need to do an exploration of all the them before you know if you can order taller cabinets.

i think you are ready for taller cabinets.

: )

Have you moved in already? What is the current budget range for changes?

We've been in it for 3 years now. These are the pics I took when we were moving in. It's probably going to be a work in progress with little projects here and there as the whole house is slowly being updated, so I don't have a set budget per say. The lower the cost, the better. I want it modern, but not overly high end. The whole neighborhood is 70's - mid 80's and I really don't want to spend more than my return.

Ikea is much-maligned but I actually really like their kitchens for value-for-price. On a small budget they are a good way to go and some of the customizations (drawer-in-a-drawer, drawer dividers, in-drawer storage systems) are really brilliant. Especially if you're conscious about not out-improving your neighbourhood I would recommend them all the way.

You can price out an Ikea kitchen using their online planner. It's easy. See what's in the soffits first.

Hi Cindy,

Knocking out cabinets and moving walls is a pretty big undertaking, just the rubbish removal itself along with the dust, dirt is a big deal.

You mentioned concern on your return, when do you see yourself moving? You're very smart to think of these things now before the first sledgehammer appears.

Janie,

I'm thinking we will spend 5-8 more years in this house. As of now, the other homes in the neighborhood aren't updated. I want something that is going to appeal to buyers while not becoming outdated again by then. I live in Florida and this is a $100,000 house.

Good afternoon Cindy,

I agree with who said that you should go to Ikea and get new cabinets, It will chance all the look of your kitchen, and maybe you will be satisfied with it and not even will have to change or spend money with anything else.

Do one "big change" over than a lot of small things that will drive you crazy and end up being way more expensive.

Ask a contractor with a scope to see if there is anything in those soffits. If not, get a quote to remove.

It will make the ceiling feel higher & gain a extra shelf per cabinet.

If you take measures & photos to a local cabinet store, you can get a quote.

Get cabinets that can be repainted in future in case you want to when time to sell. Avoid foil & particle board.

Those cabinets are not worth painting professionally. Maybe diy, if got free time.

Formica countertop saves a lot.

Ikea may be ok, just avoid the cheaper lines.

I would be careful of spending too much on updates. You might take a look at Barker Cabinets. You can order just doors and paint them, along with the cabinet frames. This will save you pulling out old and installing new cabinets. Then simply replace the old laminate counter tops with new. You can even add an undermount sink to laminate countertops if you like. Then add hardware and an inexpensive backsplash.