Granite remains the No. 1 choice for kitchen remodels, but the standard cost of granite runs from $50 to $110 a square foot (including installation). While there's nothing functionally wrong with laminate, Corian and Formica, they’re not always what homeowners are looking for. So if your countertops need an uplift without a hefty price tag attached, try granite paint.

Giani Granite Paint kits allow you to give outdated countertops a granite look for $69.95 per kitchen. Each kit comes with the primer, mineral paints, applicators and a demo DVD to help you update your Formica, laminate, wood, tile and Corian countertops. One granite kit can transform an average L-shaped kitchen countertop (or about 16 running feet) in one weekend and the process is easy enough for a first-time painter. The included specialized sponge replicates popular styles of granite, and the high-gloss finish adds durability and shine. Further granite countertop paint information and availability can be found at gianigranite.com.

Modern cabinets are what everyone needs to bring their kitchen from “old-fashioned” to “in fashion.” However, throwing the old cabinets out may seem drastic. If your cabinets work just fine but the color is keeping your kitchen in the ‘90s, try Nuvo Cabinet paint. Nuvo Cabinet paint is a one-day process that does not require any cabinet removal or a separate primer. Just apply two coats of your desired Nuvo shade and within hours your cabinets will be ready for use. Each kit covers 100 square feet, which is the standard cabinet coverage for the average-sized kitchen. One kit costs $69.95 and can be purchased from nuvocabinetpaint.com.

Appliances are a big investment and many times are purchased all at once to achieve a harmonious, matching look. This holds many homeowners back from making the jump toward the most desired appliance look, stainless. New Liquid Stainless Steel paint is made with 100 percent stainless steel; and kits are available for refrigerators as well as a ranges and dishwashers. The stainless “Range and Dishwasher” kit, gives a brushed stainless look for $24.95 and the Liquid Stainless “Fridge” kit costs $69.95. Each kit comes with a specialized application tool that creates the brushed metal appearance over your existing appliances. These kits can be found at Liquidstainlesssteel.com.

Before you throw out the old, try revamping your countertops, cabinets, and appliances, helping what you have look like a million bucks for less than $200.