Question:
“We can’t find anything we like in our price range. I’m trying to convince my wife to go for a fixer-upper so we can buy in the neighborhood we like. What do you think?”
Answer:
Great idea! Many people have bought fixer-upper homes and proudly shown me the before and after photos once their work is complete.
They say real estate is location, location, location. You can always remodel a bathroom, but moving your house to a new location is all but impossible.
Here are my random thoughts:
- Be sure to have the home thoroughly inspected.
- Distinguish between different levels of work: cosmetics (paint/carpet/landscape), remodeling, and major problems (foundation, etc.).
- Get estimates and have a plan and budget to bring the house up to par. Don’t make her live in a fixer-upper forever!
- If a home is in seriously bad condition (e.g. no functioning bathroom, clearly leaking roof), you may not be able to get a mortgage. Discuss this with your lender.
Good luck…
…But before we part, remember that my team and I may be able to find you the perfect home. Give us a call or text and let’s talk!
