Starting a renovation

Apologies if this is an overly simple question for the forums, but we appreciate feedback on starting a renovation. We live in a Brooklyn CoOp (self-managed with liberal renovation restrictions) that we purchased almost a decade ago, post a sponsor conversation renovation. The owner installed standard cabinets, which are now starting to show their age. We would like to redo the kitchen in the... [more]

Apologies if this is an overly simple question for the forums, but we appreciate feedback on starting a renovation. We live in a Brooklyn CoOp (self-managed with liberal renovation restrictions) that we purchased almost a decade ago, post a sponsor conversation renovation. The owner installed standard cabinets, which are now starting to show their age. We would like to redo the kitchen in the existing configuration, and install newer appliances and a light counter top. The kitchen is a small L shape, around 9 ft x 7 ft. We contacted several contractors online but never heard back. We follow a cabinet maker in Brooklyn who finally responded to our inquiries after four months and provided an estimate of $65K+ - not including any countertops, backsplash, fixtures or appliances. What is the best way to approach a project such as this? Is $65K+ really an average cost to replace this size space (cabinets and labor only)? Appreciate any feedback. [less]