We are working on completely pulling out a whole kitchen and replacing all cabinets, countertop, sink, appliances, etc.  Once before, we bought unfinished cabinets from Home Depot and sanded and stained them ourselves (a lot of work).  We're talking $40-100 per piece.  I don't know how much that is per linear foot on average, but it's not cheap still. 

This time we are doing a higher end kitchen and don't trust ourselves with the finish/installation, etc.   At a local REI group here in Kansas City, there was a vendor there who sold building supplies to contractors.  They had an annual membership fee ($100), but they were offering free signups that night.  I signed up because they gave generous discounts off of retail price.  For example, on flooring, they give you 30% off.  Basically they want you to be able to go into their showroom with a client and tell your client that you can get them 15% off of the prices, while you pocket the other 15%.  For me though, it's a full 30% discount.

Recently, we got a rough quote on cabinets and found out that the base price is approximately $106 per linear foot.  Then we found out that this was retail and with 40% off, it would only be about $63 (Not bad!!!).  After choosing a finish and door style, it boosted that to $75, but still easily doable. 

Basically what I'm trying to say, is that it is worthwhile finding these places in our area.  They can definitely pay off when purchasing materials, over using a big box store.

Question:  Does anyone know what a standard rate would be for a contractor to come in and install cabinets?  I have a feeling I won't want to pay what the store would charge, but I haven't gotten a quote on that yet.  Anyone have experience with this?