5 Common Flip and Fix Mistakes to Avoid

The key to flipping houses is to buy low, renovate smart, and sell high. It's a tempting prospect, but like any investment, success hinges on avoiding common pitfalls. Many people don’t consider the risks and put themselves in a very difficult situation. Before investing time and money into your next fix and flip, ensure you understand the requirements, as they can help you yield a profitable return on investment. We can learn from others' mistakes to ensure we don’t make the same ones. Here's a look at 5 mistakes to avoid when diving into your fix and flip venture:

Bad Budgeting

Those good renovation shows we all love have set unrealistic standards on fix and flip budgets. In reality, unexpected costs are a constant threat. When estimating your renovation budget, factor in a buffer of 10-20% for those unforeseen issues. Sticking to a realistic budget is crucial to turning a profit, so don't let your dream kitchen turn into a financial nightmare. Make a strategic financial plan before investing in a fix and flip to ensure financial safety throughout the process.

Poor Time Management

In the world of house flipping, time is money. Delays are unpredictable and can make things stressful and time sensitive. Create a realistic timeline and stick to it. Factor in permitting delays, contractor availability, and potential material shortages. The more organized you are, the smoother your project will run, saving you time and money.

Not Knowing your Limits

DIY, or do it yourself, comes off as a great, affordable option especially when renovating a fix and flip. It is great to do something yourself and to feel that sense of accomplishment. However, you have to remember to be honest about your skillset and only take on DIY projects you can do successfully. For major renovations, hire some help to guarantee a successful fix. Hiring qualified contractors for tasks like electrical work, plumbing, or structural repairs ensures the job is done right the first time, avoiding costly mistakes and potential safety hazards. Don’t do it all by yourself!

Thinking all Fixer Uppers are Fixable

A fixer-upper with potential can be a goldmine, but a money pit in disguise is all too common. Be wary of houses with extensive structural damage, hidden mold problems, or anything that would require an unreasonable amount of time to renovate. Hire professionals to inspect the property thoroughly before your purchase to make sure there are no major concerns or issues that will be bad later down the road. Remember, your goal is to maximize profits, so choose a property with good bones and renovations that will add value without breaking the bank.

Having an Exit Strategy Before You Enter

Before you buy that fixer-upper, know how you'll be selling it. Research the target market in the area you buy. What kind of finishes and features are buyers looking for? What's the typical price point? Look for trends that can assist you in creating an admirable home with the buyer in mind. Having a clear understanding of who will buy your renovated home will help you make smart choices during the renovation phase, ensuring a smooth exit and a maximized profit.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of flipping success. Remember, careful planning, realistic budgeting, and a solid team can help turn your flip-flop dreams into a financial reality.

RCN Capital

Do you have a real estate project you would like to obtain financing for? RCN Capital lends to real estate professionals, commercial contractors, developers & small business owners across the nation. We provide short-term fix & flip financing, long-term rental financing, and new construction financing for real estate investors. If you are looking to finance a home flip, RCN Capital has competitive loan options available.