Would love a kitchen Makeover

We got a quote about four mos ago for over $6,000 just to replace the cabinets, and didn't include the countertop, backsplash, plumbing and electrical.

We had a contrator over to do a bit of work today (some of our siding had come loose and the boards underneath had a bit of moisture damage and he caulked our tub and shower). He didnt charge much- $400 so we invited him to give us some other quotes.

Now he trying to talk us into new cabinets in the kitchen. No quote yet but led us to believe maybe only 2k for it all..

I just dont see it.

I also asked him for a quote of just sanding and painting the cupboards instead of replacing them and replacing the countertop, backsplash (with tile of course) etc.

We have to do something, the backsplash is fake red brick (Facade), and the countertop is fake butcherblock formica.

I am so sick of my kitchen, if we sell someday we will need to renovate, so why not enjoy it now while we are living here...We have lived here 10 years and hated the kitchen from the get go.

The first more costly option would involve us tearing everything out. We are just not wanting to do that really...it just sounds like such a hassle. And how do you know to trust a contractor?

Well the price quotes haven't come in, and that will either help us to make a decision or put it off again.

What to do what to do...Any experience out there?