Its a TV show. (HGTV). I seriously doubt the"Homeowner" is allowed to really help with demolition. (Insrance liability). Everything is done for drama. I love the before. & after but some of the things the homeowners complain about is silly.
Yes, Kitchens are expensive to remodel. I have gone thru two. First was a 70's ranch with nasty builder cabinets. My current house is an old farmhouse. The old cabinets were broken, the drawer runners were damaged (wood split), multiple coats of paint slapped on, etc. DH removed the cabinets and they have a found new life in his workshop. My "big box" cabinets are just fine. DH did all of the remodel except for the new flooring, the countertop and the plumbing. So happy.
sandy