Buying a fixer-upper can be a shrewd move in a tough market, especially for first-time buyers. Here are some reasons why: 

• They cost less, and bring less competition, than move-in ready homes in the same neighborhood 

• They help you build equity faster, as renovations quickly increase their value 

• They allow you to design and renovate exactly to your specifications 

But there are potential pitfalls: 

• You will need a larger down payment and additional cash on hand to cover renovation costs – and unexpected issues can lead to additional costs.  

• It’s easy to get carried away once you start renovating, and spend more than you intended 

• You may be living in a ‘construction zone’ for longer than you anticipated 

So, how can you cash in on the pros of buying a fixer-upper while doing your best to avoid the cons? 

• Get a thorough inspection – It will give you a good understanding of what needs to be done and how much it will cost 

• Make a realistic budget – Be sure you will have enough cash to cover the necessary renovations, including materials, labor, and permits 

• Consider your DYI skills – How much, if any of the necessary work are you able to do yourself? The answer will impact the final cost 

• Check out financing options – Consider renovation loans like FHA 203(k), VA renovation loans, or conventional rehab loans that allow you to include renovation costs in your mortgage 

• Explore the neighborhood – Be sure the neighborhood you’re buying into has good potential for value appreciation 

In short, buying a fixer-upper can be a good option if you are comfortable with taking on renovation projects, have a realistic budget for repairs, and are willing to live in disarray while improvements are being made. 

But before you commit, you should carefully assess the neighborhood, calculate the needed repairs, their potential costs, and the possibility of unexpected issues that could significantly impact your budget. 

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This material is not intended to be relied upon as a statement of the law, and is not to be construed as legal, tax or investment advice. You are encouraged to consult your legal, tax or investment professional for specific advice. The material is meant for general illustration and/or informational purposes only. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, no representation is made as to its accuracy. Intended for distribution to only one per individual for marketing purposes only on behalf of our company. Not for reproduction.

About Bobbi Pronin

Bobbi Pronin is an award-winning writer based in Orange County, Calif. A former news editor with more than 30 years of experience in journalism and corporate communications, she has specialized in real estate topics for over a decade.

Bobbi is not an employee of Anywhere Integrated Services or affiliated with its title companies.