These are only two examples of a large variety of kitchen projects that really only require a basic level of skill, some common tools, and a little bit of planning.Anyone who has lived in a home a while – or who has acquired a fixer-upper – will need to tackle replacing a countertop sooner or later. It just takes some careful measuring, a lot of patience to remove the old countertop, and some basic instruction on how to install the new one.

With the range of choices available today, this project is not only within reach of any competent do-it-yourselfer, it’s also great fun! There are laminates galore. They run the gamut from simulated marble to faux wood that are practically indistinguishable from the real thing.

Contemporary built-in appliances are now offered in designs that would once have been considered science fiction. An induction stove, for example, can heat pans without producing any heat at all at the burner or stove top. They’re ultra-easy to install, since that basically only requires laying a 2-inch thick device on an island countertop and plugging it in.

Even mundane projects can be very fulfilling. A new dishwasher can do more than replace the old one that has started to leak. It can be an opportunity to really spruce up the kitchen. Contemporary styles offer such innovations as a dishwasher in a drawer that are worth looking into.

Repairing a stove may not provide a lot of creative outlet, but doing it yourself can save tons of money. Coils on electric stoves are super easy to replace. Gas burners sometimes stop working solely because they’re dirty. Re-wiring an infinite switch doesn’t require a professional electrician, once you’ve done a little reading.

Even venting can be replaced with only a modest amount of knowledge and a willingness to exert a little extra effort. Installing behind-the-wall vents, for example, requires only a masonry drill bit powered by a good power drill and a bit of care and patience.

Getting started requires a little self-confidence, the key to any successful project. That comes from doing some research, getting a little practice with common tools, and then just committing to a do-it-yourself project.

The rewards are big savings, a beautiful kitchen, and the pride of accomplishment. That’s a pretty good combination of values for such a small investment.

A second-generation Escalade ESV is now available. It’s about the same size as the first-generation model but features enhanced maneuverability, a larger, more powerful engine and a significantly upgraded interior. For either generation, this big SUV’s appeal lies mainly in its bold attitude and large and luxurious interior. As such, it’s a popular choice for many consumers, though shoppers interested in something a little less ostentatious might prefer one of the ESV’s import-brand competitors. No wonder celebs, athletes and moguls are enticed by the Cadillac Escalade air suspension. Available in a single trim level, the luxury SUV pampers like few vehicles can. It is vast and plush. As the upscale sibling to the Chevrolet Suburban, the identically sized ESV offers three rows of seating and can accommodate up to eight people. To facilitate access to the third row, Cadillac offers an optional power fold-and-flip function for the ESV’s second-row seats. With this kind of seating capability, the Cadillac Escalade ESV is understandably popular with family buyers as well.