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$70K or Under: Cabinets(1 of 4)

Best for: Someone who plans to spend more than seven years in their house. Forget what potential buyers might want in a kitchen and think more about what your dream kitchen should include. "Most people put off what they want to do with their kitchen for too long," says Janice Anne Costa. At this price point, you can invest in what your ideal kitchen would have. Nevertheless even at this cost, Janice Anne reminds us, "Everyone cares about value, even at the high end."

While custom-ordering cabinets is de rigueur when you can spend this type of money, this is also where you can personalize the detailing. Want ornate French country or Queen Anne-style moldings? Here's where you can take the chance on more luxurious woods, like mahogany and decorative styles. In fact, highly decorative or period styles, advises Janice Anne, should only be chosen at this price point because, at the lower budget ends, the risk of authenticity is too high.