Kitchen Remodeling in Brandon and Riverview: What to Expect, Step by Step
A kitchen remodel is one of the best investments you can make in your home, and one of the most disruptive if it isn't planned well. Most of the stress homeowners tell us about comes from not knowing what happens next: when the cabinets get ordered, how long the kitchen will be out of service, and who handles the permit.
Here is how a full kitchen remodel typically runs for homes in Brandon, Valrico, Riverview and Lithia, from the first visit to the final walkthrough.
Ready to talk about your kitchen? Call A&M Remodeling at (813) 358-7455 or request a free in-home estimate.
Step 1: The in-home consultation
Everything starts with a visit. We look at the layout, measure the space, check the plumbing and electrical, and ask how your family actually uses the kitchen. Do you cook every night? Entertain? Need a homework spot or a coffee station?
Bring photos of kitchens you like and a list of what bothers you about the current one. Both help more than you'd think.
Step 2: Design and selections
This is where the big decisions get made:
Layout: keep the footprint, or move walls, the sink or the range?
Cabinets: style, color, and storage features like pull-outs and deep drawers.
Countertops: quartz, granite or quartzite.
Backsplash, flooring, lighting, sink and faucet.
Appliances: sizes need to be locked in before cabinets are ordered.
Moving plumbing or removing a wall adds time and cost, so this is the moment to decide what is worth it. For ideas, see what homeowners are choosing right now.
Step 3: The written proposal
You should get a written, itemized scope: what's included, what isn't, which items are allowances, and a payment schedule tied to progress. A&M also offers financing through multiple lenders. For a sense of budget ranges, read our kitchen remodel cost guide.
Step 4: Permits and ordering
Most kitchen remodels that touch plumbing, electrical or walls need a permit in Hillsborough County. Our office pulls the permit and schedules the inspections for you.
At the same time, cabinets and special-order materials are ordered. Lead times vary, so ordering early is what keeps the construction phase short. We don't start demolition until the key materials are on the way, so your kitchen isn't torn out and waiting.
Step 5: Demolition and rough-in
Once construction starts, the old kitchen comes out. We protect floors and the rest of the house and keep dust contained. Then plumbing and electrical are moved or updated, new outlets and lighting go in, and the rough-in work is inspected before the walls are closed.
Opening walls in older homes sometimes reveals surprises, like water damage or outdated wiring. Nothing changes without your written approval and a price first.
Step 6: Cabinets, countertops and finishes
Cabinets are installed and leveled, then countertops are templated, fabricated and installed. After that come the backsplash, sink and faucet, lighting, hardware and appliances. This is the stage where the kitchen starts to look finished, and it goes quickly once countertops are in.
Step 7: Final inspection and walkthrough
After the final inspection, we walk through the kitchen with you, make a punch list of any small items, and finish them. Every A&M Remodeling project comes with a 1-year workmanship warranty.
How long will I be without a kitchen?
It depends on the scope. A kitchen that keeps its layout moves faster than one where walls and plumbing move. The design, selections and ordering phase often takes longer than construction itself. At the estimate we'll give you a timeline with phases, so you can plan around holidays, guests or travel.
Living through a kitchen remodel
Set up a temporary kitchen with the fridge, microwave, coffee maker and an air fryer or slow cooker.
Use paper plates, or plan to wash dishes in a bathroom or laundry sink.
Pack the kitchen before demolition day, and keep pets away from the work area.
Ask who your daily contact is and how you'll get updates.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit for a kitchen remodel in Brandon?
Usually, if plumbing, electrical or walls change. A&M's office handles the permit and inspections.
Can I stay in my home during the remodel?
Yes, most families do. We contain dust and keep the rest of the house usable.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We work with multiple lenders, and we also offer a weekly payment plan for cash projects.
What areas do you serve?
Our office is in Valrico. We serve Brandon, Valrico, Riverview, Lithia, Plant City and Apollo Beach, plus Bradenton, Palmetto and the beaches.
Start with a free in-home estimate
A&M Remodeling is a licensed, bonded and insured general contractor based in Valrico. We handle design, permits, trades and finishes, with one point of contact from start to finish.
Call (813) 358-7455 or request your free estimate.
See our kitchen remodeling services or learn about our work in Brandon, Valrico and Riverview.