"Chuck" wrote
We are planning to redo our kitchen in a year or two. We'll be doing
most of it ourselves, including building the cabinets. I have been
building my skills and my tool collection and think I am just about
ready for this task. We have remodeled another kitchen in the past
using ready made cabinets.

I have one big question though. I'm not sure if it's cost effective to
build my own cabinets or to go out and buy some decent quality ready
made ones.

Thanks in advance,
Chuck

I built our cabinets and saved quite bit, even after the purchase of some
tools (mostly bits and blades).
Since I didn't have a lot of work room, I did the upper cabinets first and
installed them, then the base cabinets.
The finish I used (and continue to use on most projects) is: a coat of Watco
Danish oil, two coats of poly (I prefer satin finish)
That finish is easy to maintain and repair (IMO) It's also easy to apply.
There were several reasons for my decision to do my own.
1. I don't like the finish on ready mades (too thin, and usually lacquer)
2. Most aren't sturdy enough for me. (material too thin, drawers slides not
strong enough, etc)
3. Save money (on the quality I wanted)
4. I enjoy wood working

Go for it and good luck.

Max