For Des Moines homeowners exploring a kitchen remodel, one of the biggest questions is: what will it cost — and what should it cost? While pricing varies based on size, scope, and material selections, here’s a breakdown of what local homeowners can expect — and how to plan smarter.

The Cost Spectrum of Kitchen Remodels in Central Iowa

Kitchen remodels typically fall into one of three pricing categories:

1. Minor Refresh ($25,000 – $50,000)

• New cabinet paint or refacing
• Updated lighting
• New countertops (laminate or entry-level quartz)
• New faucet, hardware, and appliances
• Minor layout adjustments

2. Mid-Range Remodel ($75,000 – $100,000)

• Full cabinet replacement (semi-custom)
• Quartz countertops
• Energy-efficient appliances
• Updated flooring
• Lighting upgrades
• Sink and plumbing relocation
• Layout optimization

3. Main Level Remodel ($150K+)

• Custom cabinetry with storage solutions
• Premium quartzite or granite countertops
• Integrated smart kitchen technology
• Luxury lighting and tile backsplash
• Appliance panels, double ovens, steam ovens
• Major layout transformation
• Additional scope outside of the kitchen

Real Pricing Examples from the Des Moines Metro

A kitchen remodel in West Des Moines involving wall removal, custom cabinetry, and professional-grade appliances cost $105,000 — but helped raise the home’s appraisal by nearly $90,000 post-completion.

A kitchen upgrade in Altoona, with mostly cosmetic updates and layout refinements, was completed for $42,000 and significantly improved resale potential within the year.

What’s Included in the Price?

Depending on your contractor, the pricing may or may not include:

• Design services
• Permitting
• Demolition and cleanup
• Structural changes (wall removal, beam installation)
• Project management and overhead
• Contingency for unforeseen issues

With Zenith Design + Build, pricing is locked in after the design phase and is based on real-time market rates, adjusted quarterly. This prevents price creep and gives homeowners peace of mind.

Transparent Pricing: Why It Matters

Far too many remodels in Central Iowa go over budget due to vague estimates or shifting costs. The Trusted Home Experts Alliance (THEA) exists to prevent this. We advocate for:

• Transparent, line-by-line pricing
• Planning sessions before design starts
• Realistic ranges based on local market data

Zenith, for example, uses a proprietary pricing analysis sheet updated four times annually — and clients are shown where every dollar goes.

Planning Tools to Help You Budget Wisely

THEA provides homeowners with tools to make cost clarity easier:

• Project Budget Calculator: Estimate remodel costs for kitchens of different sizes and styles
• Remodeling Cost Guide (PDF): Free downloadable resource with local benchmarks
• Planning Session Checklist: A list of what to bring and ask before meeting with a contractor

These tools are designed for busy homeowners who want to make informed decisions without getting overwhelmed.

Questions to Ask Before Starting

1. What’s included in the estimate?
2. Are there allowances or fixed-price selections?
3. How do you handle scope creep?
4. What happens if material prices shift?
5. Is cabinetry custom or semi-custom?
6. Are there financing or payment plan options?
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Smart Design Choices That Impact Cost

• Cabinetry: Custom increases cost but improves space efficiency
• Countertops: Quartz offers the best balance of price, design, and durability
• Layout Changes: Removing walls can drastically improve flow but increases structural costs
• Lighting and Fixtures: Upgrades here enhance functionality without inflating the budget too much

Kitchen Remodel ROI in Iowa

On average, Des Moines homeowners recoup 60–80% of their investment, especially if:

• The home is in a growing neighborhood
• The remodel resolves functional problems
• Materials are timeless rather than trendy

In a hot market, this ROI could be realized within 2–5 years.

Final Takeaway

A kitchen remodel is one of the most impactful upgrades a homeowner can make — both in quality of life and resale value. But cost clarity is key. THEA exists to give homeowners the tools, data, and expert guidance needed to plan smart, remodel confidently, and avoid budget surprises.

Start your remodel journey with a free planning session or download the full cost guide at HomeExpertsAlliance.org.