{"id":19052,"date":"2020-10-01T06:33:56","date_gmt":"2020-10-01T13:33:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/?p=19052"},"modified":"2020-09-30T17:34:41","modified_gmt":"2020-10-01T00:34:41","slug":"buyer-how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/buyer-how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper\/","title":{"rendered":"Hold That Sledgehammer! 9 Tips for Before and After You Buy That Fixer-Upper"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Trendy home improvement shows broadcast homebuyer after homebuyer looking at fixer-uppers \u2014 properties with more \u201crough\u201d than \u201cdiamond,\u201d so to speak. Those who contain the willingness and drive to tackle home improvement projects \u2014 and who know how to buy a fixer-upper \u2014 believe that this can be a great opportunity to build sweat equity and make a house feel like home.<\/p>\n<p>But buying a fixer-upper requires extra planning, too, both before and after the home purchase. From the mortgage to design, aspiring fixer-upper buyers should study each stage of the process. Otherwise, your fixer-upper dreams could turn into an upside-down nightmare.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_19057\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19057\" style=\"width: 700px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-bank.png\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"666\" height=\"381\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-bank-666x381.png\" class=\"attachment-content size-content\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-bank-666x381.png 666w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-bank-64x37.png 64w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-bank-128x73.png 128w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-bank-192x110.png 192w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-bank-432x247.png 432w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-bank-500x286.png 500w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-bank.png 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-19057\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><\/a> Source: (Etienne Martin \/ Unsplash)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>Before you buy<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/agents\/nathaniel-ellison-ny-10311202851\">Nate Ellison<\/a>, a real estate agent ranked in the top 4% throughout <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/rochester-ny\/top-real-estate-agents\">Rochester, New York<\/a>, has helped many homebuyers navigate the fixer-upper market. He offers his clients several tips specifically geared toward finding a great project home.<\/p>\n<h3>Explore renovation loan options<\/h3>\n<p>Some buyers have cash set aside for both a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/buyer-how-much-down-payment-for-a-house\/\">down payment<\/a> and a remodeling budget. For those who don\u2019t have that kind of bank statement, buying a fixer-upper could still be within reach, thanks to renovation loans.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe main thing is finding a bank,\u201d Ellison says.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>\u201cFind a bank that will allow you to rehab a house and put the rehab money into the mortgage.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>Ideally, you want to look for a program that will loan you money for the purchase of the house as well as cash for the renovation \u2014 all at once. Some options to consider include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hud.gov\/program_offices\/housing\/sfh\/203k\">An FHA 203(k) rehabilitation loan<\/a>: Allows for up to $35,000 for rehabilitation<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/militarybenefits.info\/va-renovation-rehab-loans\/\">A VA renovation loan<\/a>: Available from select lenders for current and former military personnel and their spouses<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/singlefamily.fanniemae.com\/originating-underwriting\/mortgage-products\/homestyle-renovation\">Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan<\/a>: Lets homebuyers work off of an \u201cas-completed\u201d appraisal to obtain funds for the sale<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/sf.freddiemac.com\/working-with-us\/origination-underwriting\/mortgage-products\/choicerenovation?gclsrc=aw.ds&amp;&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMI5_znueDr6wIVsY1bCh3hrgYIEAAYAiAAEgIlrfD_BwE\">Freddie Mac CHOICE Renovation loan<\/a>: This is the Freddie Mac program for single-close (one-stop, in other words) mortgage and renovation loans<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Know your limits<\/h3>\n<p>Renovation shows on TV lead people to believe that home projects are easy. Just swing a sledgehammer a few times, and a wall disappears \u2026 right?<\/p>\n<p>In reality, most remodeling jobs aren\u2019t that simple, and often one project will only uncover the need for another.<\/p>\n<p>Be realistic with your capabilities. What can you reasonably do on your own, based on your personal time and experience? And what will you need to contract out?<\/p>\n<p>Ellison says that for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/surprises-buying-home\/\">first-time homebuyers<\/a>, he generally shows them fixer-uppers that need cosmetic enhancements rather than those that require major overhauls. Big issues, such as problems with the foundation, roof, furnace, or windows, will usually require the involvement of professionals.<\/p>\n<p>When there\u2019s a need for professional help in the renovation, get at least one quote from a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/what-to-look-for-in-a-contractor\/\">contractor<\/a> before heading to negotiations with the seller. That way, you can adjust your offer accordingly. And don\u2019t forget about permit costs!<\/p>\n<h3>Additional inspections can save the day<\/h3>\n<p>But what if you don\u2019t know what kind of help you\u2019ll need with your fixer-upper? That\u2019s where specialized inspections come in.<\/p>\n<p>A regular <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/buyer-what-does-a-home-inspection-include\/\">home inspection<\/a> is absolutely necessary, but whole-home inspectors are only trained to go so far. If they suspect a problem beyond their expertise, they may suggest a specialized inspection. The cost of additional inspections are minor when compared to the potential cost of unexpected issues later.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Engineering inspection:<\/b> For <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homeadvisor.com\/cost\/architects-and-engineers\/hire-an-engineer\/\">around $500<\/a>, a structural engineer will determine the soundness of the foundation and support systems.<\/li>\n<li><b>Roof inspection<\/b>: A roof inspection runs around <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homeadvisor.com\/cost\/inspectors-and-appraisers\/hire-a-roof-inspector\/\">$210 on average<\/a> and will uncover any leaks, rust, rot, or cracks in the roofing material.<\/li>\n<li><b>Pest inspection:<\/b> A pest specialist will examine the house for pest damage. Their services are usually <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homeadvisor.com\/cost\/inspectors-and-appraisers\/termite-pest-inspection\/\">around $100<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><b>Sewer inspection:<\/b> Sewer and\/or plumbing inspections vary widely, but on average the cost to run a scope camera through the lines runs <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homeadvisor.com\/cost\/plumbing\/sewer-inspection\/\">around $600<\/a>. This process will uncover leaks and cracks in the plumbing.<\/li>\n<li><b>Electrical inspection:<\/b> Electricians usually charge an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homeadvisor.com\/cost\/electrical\/hire-an-electrician\/\">hourly rate of $50 to $100<\/a> for diagnosing a system and prescribing a solution.<\/li>\n<li><b>Pool inspection:<\/b> Pool plumbing systems and surfaces should be assessed prior to purchase; this service runs <a href=\"https:\/\/wini.com\/articles\/pool-inspection-what-inspectors-check-for-and-cost\/\">between $125 to $250<\/a>, depending on the size and complexity of the pool.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Appraisals could be tricky<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/how-much-is-a-house-appraisal\/\">Appraisals<\/a> for fixer-uppers may be unusual, especially if you get a renovation loan. Some lenders may require an \u201cas-is\u201d <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/how-often-do-home-appraisals-come-in-low\/\">appraisal<\/a> both at the beginning of the process and at the end of the renovation.<\/p>\n<p>Other lenders may require an \u201cas-completed\u201d appraisal prior to obtaining the renovation loan. This type of appraisal is basically an estimate of what the home\u2019s worth could be after all remodeling projects are finished. Usually, an \u201cas-completed\u201d appraisal will require plans and estimates from a contractor.<\/p>\n<p>If an \u201cas-completed\u201d appraisal is necessary, there\u2019s a good chance that you may also need an \u201cas-is\u201d appraisal after changes are made. Check with your lender about appraisal requirements, then budget accordingly.<\/p>\n<h3>Make sure the location is on point<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/location-location-location-what-matters\/\">Location is key<\/a> in any real estate translation, and it definitely plays a major role when buying a fixer-upper. The neighborhood surrounding the house must be able to support the type of renovation you want to undertake. Otherwise, you won\u2019t be able to realize the full value of the improvements, and you could end up upside-down on your loan.<\/p>\n<p>For example, a house listed for $175,000 in a neighborhood where houses are typically selling for $200,000 may seem like a good deal. But if you plan to spend $35,000 on the renovation, you may not be able to recover the full value of your investment when it\u2019s time to sell.<\/p>\n<p>Work with your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/buying\">real estate agent<\/a> to find <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/house-comps\/\">good comps<\/a> in the area \u2014 comparable nearby homes with similar renovations that sold recently. If you can, ask neighbors about fluctuations in home values and any planned neighborhood improvements. Information about the local market can help you make the best offer for the area and plan sustainable renovations accordingly.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_19058\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19058\" style=\"width: 700px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-cabinet.png\" target=\"_blank\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"666\" height=\"381\" src=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-cabinet-666x381.png\" class=\"attachment-content size-content\" alt=\"A cabinet in a fixer upper you can buy.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-cabinet-666x381.png 666w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-cabinet-64x37.png 64w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-cabinet-128x73.png 128w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-cabinet-192x110.png 192w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-cabinet-432x247.png 432w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-cabinet-500x286.png 500w, https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper-cabinet.png 700w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 666px) 100vw, 666px\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-19058\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><\/a> Source: (Eduard Militaru \/ Unsplash)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>After you buy<\/h2>\n<p>Buying a fixer-upper is really only half the battle. After closing, the real work begins \u2014 the fixing-up part!<\/p>\n<h3>Decide what makes sense for the home and neighborhood<\/h3>\n<p>As you\u2019re <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/buyer-what-upgrades-increase-home-value\/\">planning the specifics of your renovation<\/a>, take the design of your home and the character of your neighborhood into account. You don\u2019t want to redo the place to the point where it doesn\u2019t fit with the area anymore. Instead of standing out for the right reasons, your house could end up sticking out like a sore thumb!<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll also want to be aware of dependencies, meaning design changes that will affect something else.<\/p>\n<p>For example, changing the layout of the kitchen cabinetry could require also changing the flooring, unless the flooring runs continuously to the wall. If the flooring butts up against the cabinets, the layout will depend on whether or not you\u2019re willing to put in new flooring.<\/p>\n<h3>Cultivate patience<\/h3>\n<p>Again, home improvement shows make the renovation process look seamless and <i>fast<\/i>, but each step of the project takes time. Hardly any renovation project proceeds exactly as planned.<\/p>\n<p>Though frustrating, scheduling hiccups are almost to be expected. That said, here are some average <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homeadvisor.com\/r\/home-construction-timeline\/\">timelines for remodeling jobs<\/a>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Bathroom remodels: 4.5 weeks<\/li>\n<li>Kitchen remodels: 6 weeks<\/li>\n<li>Home additions: 3 to 4 months<\/li>\n<li>Flooring: 1 week<\/li>\n<li>New roof: 1 week<\/li>\n<li>Interior painting: 1 week<\/li>\n<li>New siding: 2 weeks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Keep in mind that these numbers assume that work can be done full-time, often <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/home-renovation-team\/\">with a crew<\/a>. Do-it-yourself remodeling will take much longer.<\/p>\n<h3>Don\u2019t skimp on materials and workmanship<\/h3>\n<p>Ellison mentions the need to focus on the quality of the work in order to truly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/room-remodeling\/\">increase the value of the home<\/a>. Not only is the quality of the remodeling important for the appraisal, it\u2019s also important for resale value.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cPeople know good quality work from bad,\u201d he says. \u201cIn fact, they notice bad quality work even more!\u201d<\/p>\n<p>When choosing materials, finishes, and contractors, be sure to opt for affordable quality that fits in your budget rather than simply choosing the least expensive options.<\/p>\n<p>Similarly, don\u2019t skimp on quantity. If you\u2019re purchasing supplies for your own DIY projects, give yourself a buffer for overage and breakage. You don\u2019t want to end up three tiles short on your backsplash! Not only would that be a hassle, but you could also end up with a mismatched lot color \u2014 or worse, the tile could be discontinued.<\/p>\n<p>When in doubt, overbuy, especially if your supplier has a good return policy.<\/p>\n<h3>Work within your lifestyle<\/h3>\n<p>Ideally, all the rooms in your fixer-upper could be gutted and remodeled at the same time. For homeowners who have another place to live, working simultaneously in multiple areas could be the key to a fast turnaround. Imagine how quickly the work would be accomplished if all the projects could happen at once!<\/p>\n<p>But for many homebuyers, that\u2019s simply not feasible. Those who are living in their fixer-upper while also remodeling will probably have to do the work in stages.<\/p>\n<p>In that case, prioritize your list according to your necessities and the practicalities of your life, if possible. Redo the kids\u2019 bedrooms while they\u2019re in school, tackle the kitchen during grilling season, and never leave yourself without at least one usable bathroom (obviously!).<\/p>\n<p>Buying a fixer-upper can be a great way to get a good deal as well as a chance to personalize a home to your tastes. The work may seem endless, and the projects daunting, but with a little guidance and a lot of pre-planning, you may just end up uncovering that diamond in the rough!<\/p>\n<p><em>Header Image Source: (K.M.Williamson \/ Shutterstock)<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Buying a fixer-upper comes with unique challenges at every stage. We\u2019ll break down the before-and-after process to help you learn how to buy a fixer upper.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":145,"featured_media":19055,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[192,638,641],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-19052","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-for-buyers","category-house-hunting","category-find-home"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.0 (Yoast SEO v27.0) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Buy a Fixer-Upper: 9 Tips for Finding and Remodeling a Home<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Buying a fixer-upper comes with unique challenges at every stage. We\u2019ll break down the before-and-after process to help you learn how to buy a fixer upper.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.homelight.com\/blog\/buyer-how-to-buy-a-fixer-upper\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Hold That Sledgehammer! 9 Tips for Before and After You Buy That Fixer-Upper\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Buying a fixer-upper comes with unique challenges at every stage. 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