Fixing and flipping houses is both emotionally satisfying and lucrative labor. But if you choose the wrong house, it could be disastrous. There’s an art to finding the perfect houses to fix and flip. Let’s take a look.

Know Your Limits

As a flipper, you’re going to be doing the majority of the work. Don’t take on more than you think you can do; if there’s something you know nothing about (such as an old well on a property, a broken septic tank, major foundation issues, etc), you shouldn’t be buying. There are many things that can be easy to fix or extraordinarily expensive (such as electrical systems that may not be to code), and if you’re not well-versed in it, you may not be able to tell the difference.

Avoid Major Structural Issues

When it comes to foundation problems, framing issues, and other structural issues, it’s often less expensive to just knock down the house. When houses have major structural issues, they’re usually only repaired out of practicality or sentimentality. As a flipper, you don’t want to get into these major, expensive changes; you want to be able to concentrate on improving a house that’s already “almost there” rather than rebuilding one from scratch.

Keep the Neighborhood in Mind

It’s better to buy a cheap house in a great neighborhood than a great house in a bad neighborhood. While the property might be fantastic, a neighborhood is always going to pull a house in its direction. Focus on up-and-coming areas if you really want houses that are going to deliver in value. The only exception is for houses that are truly fantastical and eye-catching — and those usually aren’t going to need the services of a flipper.

Get Creative About Your Sourcing

If you’re in a hot market, it’s likely there are other flippers out there. So, you might want to get creative about the houses you source. Network with other agents, look at things like estate sales or garage sales, drive through neighborhoods, and otherwise find properties that might not yet be on the MLIS.

Your project begins with finding the right house. It’s important to take your time. It’s also important to find the right capital. Check out IMC Funding for the latest in financial news and resources, and feel free to contact us for more information!