With the housing market remaining flat, many homeowners are considering ways to invest in their existing properties to make them more marketable and increase resale values. With construction costs down, now may be an excellent time to renovate — but only if you’ve got a longer term approach. The right remodeling project can more than recoup its costs over a period of years, but as you will see, the immediate return on investment of most projects is typically in the 50%-80% range in the current market.

Below are the five home improvement projects with the best return on investment. The numbers are based on Remodeling Magazine’s 2010-11 Cost vs. Value report, but we focused on projects with an initial cost of over $10,000.

Siding Replacement Average cost: $12,904; Return on Investment: 75.0%

Siding replacement is perhaps the most immediate way to boost a home’s curb appeal. Not only can new siding provide a good return, but it is also one of the least invasive renovation projects you can employ as all the work is done outside your home.

Costs were based on replacing 1,250 square feet of siding and installing new trim around windows. Highest returns were gained using a fiber-cement siding, like HardiPlank, at an 80% ROI. Vinyl and foam-backed vinyl both checked in with a ROI of 72.4%.

Minor Kitchen Renovation Average cost: $21,695; Return on Investment: 72.8%

The kitchen is often the first place homeowners turn when looking to upgrade their homes, however all kitchen renovations are not equal. Best returns were found in minor remodeling jobs — which may include replacing cabinet doors with raised-panel wood doors, installing new countertops, replacing the old sink and facet and installing an energy-efficient oven and cooktop.

Major kitchen renovations produced returns ranging from 59.7% in high-end jobs to 68.7% in mid-range projects. Generally speaking, the more you spend on your kitchen the lower the initial returns tend to be.

Wood Deck Addition Average cost: $10,973; Return on Investment: 72.8%

Adding a deck to your home is one of the easiest and cheapest ways of increasing your living area. Construction costs for a new wood deck average around $35 per square foot, making it possible to add a decent-sized deck, perfect for barbecues and outdoor recreation, for around $10,000.

In terms of return on investment, wood beats the more expensive composite decking material. Decks made from composites like Trex and TimberTech fall between 57.7% and 66.2% ROI, compared with 72.8% for wood.

Attic Bedroom Average cost: $51,428; Return on Investment: 72.2%

If you’re looking to increase your indoor living space, converting an unfinished attic into a bedroom may provide the best bang for your buck. Few factors correlate with high property values like the total number of bedrooms in your home, and renovating an attic helps get around many of the zoning restrictions associated with a home addition.

Our average cost of $51,428 is based on converting an unfinished attic to a 225 square foot bedroom and a 35 square foot bathroom with shower.

Window Replacement Average cost: $13,901; Return on Investment: 70.7%

Newer insulated windows can save homeowners as much as 20 percent in heating and cooling costs, making them especially attractive to prospective homebuyers. The average cost is based on replacing 10 3×5 foot windows and adding matching exterior trim. ROI for vinyl windows (72.1%) edges out that of wood windows (69.4%).

In these days of rising energy costs, it’s easy to see why so many homeowners have developed an interest in improving the efficiency and environmental friendliness of their homes. Whether the focus is on lowering monthly utility bills or reducing the family’s carbon footprint, many people are embracing new methods and technologies that are making their houses healthier, safer and more fuel efficient. Here are some simple steps you can take to turn your house into a green home in a matter of months.

The Place to Start: A Whole House Audit

The first step in establishing a green improvement priority list is to contact an energy auditor in your area. These trained professionals determine the overall performance of the home from an energy consumption standpoint and identify specific areas where your energy efficiency could be improved. Many auditors also have the capability to test for indoor air quality contaminants and can help locate the source of indoor pollutants and other VOCs.

Once the home’s deficiencies have been identified, the auditor will outline specific solutions that the homeowner can implement to eliminate the problems. Many local utilities promote energy audits with rebates, while some offer it as a free service to their customers. If your utility company does not offer this service you can contact an Energy Star-certified Home Energy Rater in your local area.

Greening Your Heating and Air Conditioning System

There is no component in a home that has a larger effect on both the environment and energy consumption than the HVAC system. According to the Department of Energy, 44 percent of a typical monthly utility bill goes toward heating and cooling a home. Many inexpensive new products and services have been introduced that will raise efficiencies, lower utility costs, and remove substantial contaminants from the environment. There are three things that all homeowners concerned about saving energy need to consider:

• Duct Sealing: Most homes that were constructed prior to 2005 have ductwork systems that are poorly insulated and have multiple leaks. Conditioned air that is blown into an attic or crawl space can waste up to 40 percent of the consumed energy. Inexpensive duct sealing can be completed by a licensed HVAC contractor and will result in immediate savings and better comfort.

• Programmable Thermostat: If you are not already using a programmable thermostat you may be missing out on considerable energy savings. These thermostats reduce the amount of heating and cooling during times of the day when no one is likely to be home. Total savings can be as much as $200 per year when properly set up.

• A/C Compressor Controller: Compressor controllers are wired between the thermostat and compressor on an air conditioning system. They use smart technology to determine when the air is saturated with cooling energy and will then turn off the compressor to save electricity. Annual savings can be as high as 30% of the cooling portion of a utility bill.

Efficient Household Devices

Inexpensive and easily accessible energy saving devices are constantly evolving and improving. Many green innovations are simple to install and actually have no little to associated cost.

• ShowerStart Technology: Rather than saving water through restriction, advanced showerheads slow the flow to a trickle after the water heats up. When the bather enters the shower and pulls a cord, the normal flow immediately resumes with hot water. Annual savings can be as much as $75 per showerhead and over 2700 gallons of water per year.

• Smart Power Strips: Some homeowners may not realize this but an idle current is consumed 24/7 by devices that use external transformers or remain in “standby mode.” This can account for as much as 12 percent of an annual utility bill. Smart power strips operate on a master/slave principle where a controlling device (such as a TV or computer) determines whether peripheral devices remain on or off. These power strips are much more convenient than constantly unplugging your unused appliances and can be found at electronics retailers for $50 or less.

• Toilet Tank Water Reduction: Here is a simple technique to save a half gallon of water on every flush. Fill a half gallon plastic jug with sand or pebbles and seal it well. Place the bottle inside the toilet tank (the top section of the toilet). Doing this will displace 1/2 gallon of water on each flush. With this method a family of five can save about 400 gallons of water over the course of a year. For an even easier solution, have your plumber install a new low-flush toilet. Low-flush toilets have gotten a bit of a bad rap, but today’s toilets work much better than those installed a decade ago and use just 1.6 gallons of water per flush.

Future Green Alternatives

The introduction of new products and services is advancing at an extraordinary pace. While there are many available upgrades that promote healthy living, the most effective investments will result in an improvement in energy efficiency as well.

A well-planned home renovation project can be an excellent way to increase the value of your house while providing enhanced comfort and convenience for as long as you stay in your home. Probably the single most important part of the planning process is in choosing the right contractor for the job. Among those who have had a negative experience with a building-related project, the vast majority sighted repeated and ongoing problems with the contractor as the main source of their aggravation.

To avoid misunderstandings, poor workmanship and possible litigation, it is important to conduct the appropriate due diligence prior to entering into any contractual obligations. While some precautionary measures, such as a well-written contract and verifiable referrals are self evident, taking other less obvious measures can help ensure the construction experience will lead to a positive outcome. Here are six common mistakes to avoid when hiring a contractor.

Mistake #1: Taking Impulse Discounts

Contractors recognize that their chances of securing the job are diminished the second they leave the home. While many contractors respect the homeowners’ rights to make a well-informed decision, a good salesperson knows that it is important to try and close the deal as soon as possible. This motivation leads many contractors to offer “instant discounts” of 20% or more if the contract is signed immediately. It is important to avoid the temptation to enter into a contract under these circumstances. Most often the discount will still be available at a later date, and the risks associated with these subtle pressure tactics usually outweigh the rewards.

Mistake #2: Not Checking Into Contractor Complaints

Nearly every contractor will present a list of referrals from past customers who were satisfied with the quality and timeliness of their work. While checking these references can be helpful, there is no substitute for consulting unbiased sources to verify the contractor’s value. This can be accomplished by contacting the Department of Consumer Affairs for the state in which you reside. The Consumer Affairs office should maintain a complete list of complaints filed against each licensed contractor in their jurisdiction. They may also be able to provide assurance that the contractor is properly licensed and bonded. You should also check for any complaints with the Better Business Bureau.

Mistake #3: Paying Too Much Upfront

Contractors often say they require a 50% payment upfront and the remaining 50% to be paid upon completion. Unfortunately, some contractors are far less motivated to adhere to the construction schedule once they have 50% of the total amount. It is preferable to negotiate a 25% down payment, with two additional 25% draws, and the final 25% payment upon completion. This will ensure that the contractor is investing his own money in the project and will provide a greater incentive to meet or exceed deadlines.

Mistake #4: Not Insisting on Multiple Brand Choices

Most contractors buy their supplies and equipment through a local distributor. Product manufacturers will offer incentives to the distributor that are often passed on to the contractor to help increase sales. These incentives are provided in many forms, including cash rebates and merchandise. While the contractor may appreciate these rewards, the products being sold may not be the best value for the end user. Regardless of the products the contractor is promoting it is important to do your own research to explore competitive alternatives. Ultimately, it is your home, so you should have final say over the materials and products that are used in your home renovation.

Mistake #5: Glossing Over Technical Contract Language

Many people have a tendency to avoid asking questions relating to legal contract language for fear of appearing foolish or less educated. Contracts provided by contractors are often written for their benefit and are designed to give them an advantage in the event of a dispute or subsequent litigation. Legal language that is unclear or confusing should be explained to the homeowner’s satisfaction before a contract is signed. Any lingering doubts or ambiguities should be discussed with an attorney before signing.

Mistake #6: Making Decisions Based on Price Alone

While no one likes to pay more than they have to for their home renovation, going with the lowest estimate does not always give you the best value. Smart shoppers will meet with and get estimates from at least three or four different contractors before making a decision. But don’t just choose the one who offers you the lowest price or the makes the biggest promises. Experience, reliability, accessibility and the trust factor are important things to take into consideration before signing any contract. If you feel uneasy about a contractor for any reason you will want to keep shopping around, regardless of how good an offer he seems to be making.

Investing Time will Pay Dividends

Locating and hiring a qualified contractor with a solid reputation will substantially increase the likelihood that the finished construction project will exceed your expectations. Most importantly, have a clear understanding of all prices, products, time schedules and the inconvenience that will occur during construction. This will allow you to make the best decision for your home.

The front of the home is the first thing that visitors or potential buyers will use to gauge the worth and value of your house and property. Many homeowners do not take enough advantage of this fact and neglect to present an interesting and eye-catching entranceway into their homes. There are many front yard landscaping ideas that do not have to break the bank while still improving the curb appeal of your home. In fact, recent studies have shown that appropriate and cared for landscaping can increase the value of a home by up to 20 percent.

Where to Start?

A good way to begin assessing the landscaping needs of your front yard is to take a few pictures of your home from the street and from a variety of angles. This will enable the homeowner to see the home with ‘new eyes’ and allow them to make a list of areas that they view as either problems or areas that could stand some beautifying and improvement. One thing to keep in mind is that the front yard view should be equally as interesting and pleasing to the eye from inside the home as it is as seen from the street view.

As the front door is the focal point of many homes, painting the door a contrasting or interesting color can be a simple and effective way to guide the eye of the viewer in the way you see fit. A container garden surrounding the door filled with plants and flowers of complimentary colors works well in adding a splash of color to even the most drab entranceways. Plants can be low maintenance annuals or plants that you change with the seasons.

More Landscaping Ideas for Front Yard

Another set of clever front yard gardening ideas is to make use of vertical space by adding garden trellises or an arbor to the yard. This space is often an unused dimension that can add depth and a sense of abundance while avoiding crowding. If your driveway or walkway is very straight, you can employ pocket gardens in order to add curved lines. These lines will give an illusion of increased space and help the eye to flow across the yard.

An unused corner of the front yard can become an island garden very quickly with the addition of a few mounds of topsoil poured over cloth or plastic to inhibit weed growth. This garden can be created without much labor over the existing surface of your yard. In addition, a few well placed trees and shrubs can provide shade and privacy providing that they are not overdone. With minimal work and expense any yard can be transformed into an inviting and welcoming space that can significantly improve the exterior appearance of your home.

image by kd5ytx.

The garage just might be the most versatile part of the home. Designed for storing our cars, they are also expected to house an incredible range of other items. From kids’ toys to riding mowers to seasonal decorations, most garages are overflowing with stuff. It’s a wonder we can even fit our car inside any more.

Once you’re ready to start tackling that garage clutter once and for all it’s time to think creatively. Here are some garage storage ideas that will help you get things organized.

Garage Wall Shelving

Take advantage of the entire wall with custom shelving and cabinets. Most garages have higher ceilings than the rest of the house. A typical home with eight foot ceilings inside the house will feature ten foot ceilings in the garage. That wall space along the ceiling is usually neglected, but now it can be put to work!

There are many shelves available that sit on the floor. The problem is that these units still require floor space while ignoring the wall space that’s available higher up. Try mounting your shelves or cabinets into the wall starting at about four feet high, and then taking them right to the ceiling. There are many benefits to this method.

• Items you use regularly can be placed on those shelves that are at waist and eye level.

• Items rarely used, but still needed, can be placed on the higher shelves. You won’t mind having to get a ladder to reach them if they are only used occasionally.

• The four feet of space on the floor just becomes storage for your lawnmower, seeder, and all other equipment that is too heavy to be placed on a shelf.

Shelves can be bought ready made, as long as they are designed to be mounted to a wall. Be forewarned that any shelving system mounted on L brackets will have a lower weight limit, so make sure it is designed to hold the proper amount of weight.

Wall-Mounted Garage Cabinets

Cabinets are an excellent option because it gives you the ability to close the door, completely hiding what’s inside. Lets face it, you probably don’t want to have to look at your Christmas decorations when you pull into your garage in the middle of summer. Garage cabinets can be mounted on the wall to a convenient height, and like open shelves they leave ample space on the floor to store your larger items. Many cabinets even come with locking doors so you can protect your power tools or other valuables.

While you can purchase specially-made garage cabinets at most hardware stores, one popular trick is to troll the local classifieds for people selling their old kitchen cabinets. These cabinets are usually still quite sturdy and should be perfect for your garage.

Hang them up around the garage on the upper walls, or install one corner with cabinets and open shelving on the rest of the walls. This way you will be able to secure valuable tools and keep dangerous chemicals out of harm’s way. No matter what you do with them you will love the clean, finished look they give the garage.

Whatever storage options you choose, remember to get them up off the floor. Taking advantage of that upper space will help you to finally get that garage organized!

Stainless steel countertops have long been used in commercial kitchens. However, they are increasingly growing in popularity with residential homeowners due to their unique look and professional vibe. You may love the way these countertops look, but before taking the plunge there are a few important things to take into consideration.

Stainless Steel Countertops: Pros and Cons

First, let’s discuss the positive aspects of stainless steel kitchen countertops. If you’ve used these counters for any length of time you know that virtually nothing is more indestructible than this material. Because it provides amazing heat resistance, any hot baking dish, soup pot or frying pan can be placed directly onto the surface without fear of damage or burn marks. In addition, this material will not stain from spilled red wine or pasta sauce. The mess simply vanishes with the wipe of a towel. Since its non-porous surface is anti-bacterial, deep-cleaning is simple. Just use some warm soapy water or ammonia and a soft cloth.

As for the aesthetic aspects of stainless steel countertops, they provide an elegant, reflective quality that can help make a small space feel larger. The neutral silver shade blends well with all types of wood and can actually bring out the grains and beauty of the cabinetry, whether it is a pale pine or a rich cherry. You can also transform an outdated space into a modern showplace by incorporating matching stainless steel appliances.

Now for the potential issues associated with these countertops. While steel is a heavy-duty material, over time the surface of these countertops may acquire minor scratches or dents from knife blades, objects sliding across the surface, excessive rubbing or dropping something heavy or sharp. Minor blemishes may be able to be blended out with abrasive pads and hard scrubbing, but it is not easy work. Strong cleaning products, like bleach or acids, may corrode or stain the surface unless they are completely rinsed off. If it is necessary to use a scouring pad it is important to rub in the same direction as the grain, otherwise scratching may occur.

Many people are of the opinion that stainless steel looks cold and sterile, like a restaurant kitchen. While this is a turn off for some, other people actually seek out the commercial look. Keep in mind that surfaces easily show fingerprints and smudges, making them less than ideal for families with children. Also, the industrial qualities of stainless steel often translates into a noisy kitchen environment.

As for the cost, stainless steel can be a bit more expensive than other high-end countertop materials like granite and marble at about $120-$160 per square foot.

With summertime just around the corner, many of us are ready to start migrating outdoors to enjoy the warmer weather. Backyards and patios tend to become an extension of the home during this time of year. And as we all know, entertaining family and friends with comfortable patio furniture and accessories is important. This includes everything from tables and chairs to your patio lighting setup.

A few years ago a friend turned me on to patio umbrella lights (those flying saucer-shaped lighting units that attach to the top of the umbrella pole). My initial reaction was that they were kind of neat looking, though far from a necessity for most people. We already had a couple of lanterns installed on the wall on opposite sides of the sliding door that provided us with more than enough light. At dinnertime we’d switch those off and just light a couple of candles on the table to dine by candlelight. Surprisingly enough we’ve gotten more mileage out of these outdoor umbrella lights than I’d ever imagined. Here are three ways I’ve found these lights useful.

Create Outdoor Ambiance, Even on Windy Days

When dining outdoors on warm summer nights candles often are the perfect way to set the mood. The problem is, candles don’t work so well when there’s a strong summer breeze. We live at the top of a hill and I’ve lost track of how many times a strong gust of wind has come along and put us in the dark. We used to laugh about it when it would first happen, but there’s nothing funny about burn holes and wax drippings all over an expensive patio table, and that’s what we started seeing after awhile. Umbrella lighting creates the perfect soft, romantic glow of candlelight without the muss and fuss of candles. You can easily adjust the light levels to match your activity–whether you’re eating or playing cards.

Hot to Look at, but Not to Touch

Without having to use dangerous candles for lighting, parents can relax and let their kids play freely on the patio. I don’t have kids personally, but I know when my nieces and nephews came over we were always a bit on edge when they would play near the table with the open flame. This is no longer an issue as we just switch on our umbrella lights and we’re all set. The kids have plenty of light to play, and since the lights are cool to the touch we don’t have to worry about any mishaps.

A Beacon of Light in the Night

Patio umbrella lights create an ambiance that helps make your patio look like a fancy restaurant patio, even if it’s just a backyard in the suburbs. They are perfect for any semi-formal or formal event, like a graduation party or anniversary celebration. If you have a big backyard event coming up these lights are sure to be a big hit. And if the guests happen to drink a little too much champagne and wander away from the crowd they can easily find their way back by the light of the umbrella.

When expanding a home the first place a homeowner might begin is by remodeling the basement. Making the decision to update your cold, dark basement into a suitable living area can pose many questions. What kind of flooring should I consider, and for what purpose do I intend to use my remodeled basement? There are many options currently available today and homeowners have a comfortable level of breathing room to adjust the type of flooring to accommodate their particular needs. Exploring your options is very important because, well… you want to spend your money wisely and ultimately be happy with your finished basement. Here are some basement flooring ideas to help kick-start your renovation project.

Carpet Tiles

If you’re looking to turn your basement into a rec room or hang-out spot you might consider the addition of basement carpet tiles. These tiles typically come in 18-by-18 inch squares and provide an endless amount of choices as far as style, texture and color are concerned. They are also easier to install as compared with regular carpeting–which is especially useful if you’re installing your floor in an oddly-shaped room. The addition of basement carpeting helps add warmth and comfort to your newly finished space and is ideal if you are creating a rec room or a place for the kids to play.

There is a downside to installing carpeting in a basement and that is that carpets are prone to mold and mildew and can intensify a musty basement smell if you don’t keep it dry. If you have issues with moisture and occasional flooding in your basement then carpeting is probably not the way to go. If, however, you’re working with a basement that stays relatively dry year-round then carpet tiles can be an attractive option.

Ceramic Floor Tiles

Another popular choice for basement flooring is the use of ceramic floor tiles. Much like with carpeting, ceramic tiles give you nearly unlimited options for the look of your remodeled basement. These tiles are typically laid right on top of your concrete slab and can add an especially clean look to a finished basement. The big decision when considering basement floor tiles is whether you want to use standard ceramic or porcelain tiles. Porcelain is generally recommended for damp basements that are prone to flooding as the material is denser and absorbs less water. They are also less liable to crack over time. Regular ceramic is fine to use in dry, low-trafficked basements. Just be sure to seal the tiles after installation according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Stained Concrete Floors

If your existing concrete floor is in good condition you may not even want to cover it up. Sometimes a few coats of an acid-based stain is all you need to turn a boring, grey basement floor into an asset that friends and neighbors will envy. A decorative concrete contractor will be able to re-create the look of natural stone, marble and granite using earthy-toned stains and a special technique. These floors will not fade over time as long as they are re-sealed every two years. They are also easy to cover in the future in the event that you or a prospective home buyer wants to make some changes to the look of the basement. Stained concrete basement floors are perfect for home gyms, basement bars and lounges.

Sustainable Basement Flooring

Another available option for your basement is sustainable flooring. Sustainable flooring is made up of materials taken from organic compounds such as bamboo, cork, rubber, and flax seed. The emphasis on sustainable flooring is that the products do not deplete natural resources when they are manufactured. This option provides the homeowner with both an attractive basement floor as well as an eco-friendly peace of mind. One of the issues associated with sustainable flooring, however, is that some of these materials (i.e. bamboo) can stain easier than ceramic or concrete. However, with proper care sustainable flooring is a very long-lasting material and usually a worthwhile investment.

Whether you seek an attractive floor to modernize your basement project or just a comfortable surface for the kids to play on, many basement flooring options are available to meet the needs of any homeowner. A quick assessment of your needs and budget should guide you to the style that is right for your home.

Japanese soaking tubs are one of the newest ways for you to enjoy the pleasures of the east in the comfort of your own home. Also called furo, or ofuro soaking tubs, these baths are a great way for you to relieve yourself of the stresses of the day. The thing that sets these tubs apart from most bathtubs is that they are built deeper than the common tub and often have an accompanying seat inside so you have a place to rest as you unwind.

What Is a Soaking Tub Used For?

In Japan, a soaking tub is not used the same way we use a bathtub in the west. The Japanese often have a separate shower that they use to get themselves clean. They then move on to a warm soaking tub to sit and relax. These tubs are meant to immerse your body and help ease any tension or stress that you feel. In fact, before you enter one of these soaking tubs you should be completely clean. You can think of Asian soaking tubs as the predecessor to modern hot tubs. Since these tubs are smaller they are typically more affordable and take up less room in your home or bathroom. In Japan personal living space is often limited and many find a soaking tub to be more accessible than a hot tub or swimming pool. This style of tub allows anyone with some spare space to install one in their home.

The Benefits of These Tubs

There are many benefits to having a Japanese soaking tub put into your home. Perhaps the most important of these is that it gives you a place to relax after a hard day. Many people find it difficult to find time during the day to enjoy some personal time. Of course, in over-stressed people the bathroom tends to becomes the one place where you can be at peace and enjoy a physical barrier to the responsibilities of everyday life. In Asia these tubs are thought to provide many healing properties as well. Soaking in warm water is quite beneficial for those of us who suffer with back problems, arthritis or sore muscles. You can even find ofuro bathtubs with a jet system to massage the body and help remove tension.

Many users find it very convenient to be able to soak in your tub in the comfort of your own home and not have to go visit a spa. These tubs are smaller than most bathtubs and can be placed in a variety of locations. You can even find several two-person models on the market for those who enjoy soaking with a special someone. Modern Japanese-style soaking tubs are made out of acrylic, plastic and stainless steel, while traditional tubs are made from hinoki wood.

For those who want to enjoy the luxury of a hot tub, deep soaking bathtubs are an excellent and cost effective way to enjoy some of the finer things in life. Its compactness and relatively simple design are something that many homeowners find appealing. Not only do they help reduce stress, but they give your home a sophisticated, eastern look that so many folks really appreciate.

Not only is kitchen pantry furniture a practical way to store your food, it also serves as a decorative accent in any kitchen. This furniture helps save you time by keeping all your things organized and it is a great way to obtain storage without having costly construction work done. Including wood, contemporary and inexpensive pieces, there are many types of furnishings available to add space and complement the décor of any kitchen.

Free standing kitchen cabinets are popular and easy to install. These units typically resemble a bookcase that can be customized in a variety of ways. They are available with different space-saving storage tools such as pullout trays, basket organizers and complex door systems.

Wooden pantry cabinets add a touch of class to a kitchen as well as an element of durability. These cabinets may be tall or short and typically feature double doors and three or more shelves. The quality of the wood largely determines the price, and even though different types of wood are used, oak is a consumer favorite. Solid oak is one of the more expensive building materials but it is especially beautiful and can last for years. These cabinets are great for storing heavier items in the pantry.

Jelly cabinets are short or tall storage cupboards that are designed to store jars of jelly and china. The shorter version, which is sometimes called a jelly hutch, can be stacked on top of a matching cabinet to create extra space and an interesting look. They are usually constructed of solid wood with metal, wood or glass doors and are best suited for a kitchen with a country aesthetic.

For consumers who are searching for a low-cost option, veneer and laminate cabinets are often the best choice. These multi-purpose kitchen pantry cabinets usually feature an open design and may have wheels so that the entire unit can slide out. Their narrow design makes them great for storing cans and smaller bottles and they can easily fit between other cabinets or a fridge.

To locate the ideal kitchen pantry furniture, check local sales ads from hardware stores or furniture stores. Online merchants also have a wide selection of these items. Pantry furniture ranges in price from $50 for a basic item up to several thousand for a solid wood, handcrafted unit. Look for one that fits your storage needs and budget. A good storage solution is one that makes the most out of your existing space and enhances the overall design of your kitchen.