New kitchen cabinets would devour most of a $5,000 budget, so consider cutting remodeling costs and painting your existing cabinets if they're sound. (You can hire a pro to do the job for $750-$2,500.)
Update the hardware and add a few glass door insets, or remove doors on selected upper kitchen cabinets for an open look.
Replace tired countertops with new laminate; there are a lot of attractive and affordable choices.
Choose nice-but-not-fancy appliances in basic white or black as needed.
Splurge on a stunning new sink and faucet (without relocating plumbing).
Finish it all off with fresh wall paint and pretty accessories.
