Kitchen Remodel for the Clueless

I recently bought a house that needs some work. This last week we have been painting, ripping up  carpet and doing the normal maintenance needed on a house. We are planning on remodeling the kitchen. Only problem is we are doing it on a budget. I need some help finding some items at a low price. Can you help?

The kitchen is going to need all new cupboards and counter tops. We recently went to Lowe's to get a quote on how much it would cost. For brand new cupboards its going to cost us about $5,000 which is way out of our price range. That's a great deal, all brand new cupboards, specifically designed for our kitchen; but there is no waywe can afford $5,000 in cupboards when I still need counter tops and new appliances.

I know how much our listeners love to help out other people. I also know we have a lot of listeners who have done some remodels or who work construction or remodeling jobs. Does anyone know where I can find a decent set of cupboards that aren't going to cost be $5,000?

We also got a quote on granite counter tops. The price seems reasonable but I want to make sure I am getting a great deal. Is there somewhere else, besides Lowe's, where I can find granite counter tops for a low price?

If you can help it would be much appreciated and if you have any other tips on remodeling kitchens that would help. We are also removing a load barring wall, and I am trying to figure out the easiest and most efficient way to add a beam up in the attic. If you have any suggestions let me know.