Buying a Fixer-Upper

For some home buyers, a fixer-upper is their idea of a dream home. However, the process of buying a fixer-upper comes with additional responsibilities compared to properties in better condition or new construction homes. Preparing for the process comes down to creating a remodeling plan, knowing what to look for when searching for listings, and understanding what financing options are available.

Planning for a Fixer-Upper

Fixer-uppers require a future-oriented mindset. Knowing the magnitude of the projects you and your household are willing to take on will help to form your budget and your expectations as time goes on. With some basic cost analysis for any given project, you’ll have to decide whether it’s worth it to buy the materials yourself and do it DIY or hire a professional. When testing the waters for professional remodeling, get specific quotes so you can compare costs between contractors. Understand that in addition to the down payment and closing fees, the costs involved in a fixer-upper purchase have the potential to go over-budget easily. Familiarize yourself with permitting in your area to understand how to navigate any legal roadblocks in the renovation process and to better assess your timeline for your home improvement projects. 

Searching For a Fixer-Upper

  • Location: Whether you are purchasing a fixer-upper with plans to sell it, rent it out, or live in it, consider its location before purchasing. If you’re planning on selling or renting, location is one of the most important factors in making a return on your investment. And if you’re planning to live in your fixer-upper, keep in mind that location will be a large part of your experience in the home. If you’re looking to sell eventually, talk to your agent to identify high ROI remodeling projects that will pique buyer interest in your area.

  • Scope of Renovation: If you are looking for a smaller scale renovation, look for listings that require cosmetic projects like new interior and exterior paint, fresh carpeting and flooring, appliance upgrades, and basic landscaping maintenance. More expensive and involved projects include re-roofing, replacing plumbing and sewer lines, replacing HVAC systems, and full-scale room remodels.

  • Inspections: Beyond a standard home inspection, which covers components of the home like its plumbing and foundation, consider specialized inspections for pests, roof certifications, and engineering reports. This will help differentiate between the property’s minor flaws and critical problems, further informing your decision when it comes time to prepare an offer.

    Financing Options

    You’ll be looking at different types of mortgages when buying a fixer-upper, but keep in mind that renovation loans specifically allow buyers to finance the home and the improvements to the property together. Extra consultations, inspections, and appraisals are often required in the loan process, but they help guide the work and resulting home value. Talk with your lender about which option is best for you.

    • FHA 203(k): The Federal Housing Administration’s (FHA) 203(k) loans can be used for most projects in the process of fixing up a home. In comparison to conventional mortgages, they may accept lower incomes and credit scores for qualified borrowers. 

    • VA renovation loan: With this loan, the home improvement costs are combined into the loan amount for the home purchase. Contractors employed in any renovations must be VA-approved and appraisers involved in the appraisal process must be VA-certified.

    • HomeStyle Loan – Fannie Mae: The HomeStyle Renovation Loan can be used by buyers purchasing a fixer-upper, or by homeowners refinancing their homes to cover the improvements. This loan also allows for luxury projects, such as pools and landscaping.

    • CHOICERenovation Loan – Freddie Mac: This renovation mortgage is guaranteed through Freddie Mac, allowing projects that bolster a home’s ability to withstand natural disasters or repair damage caused by a past disaster. 

    If you’re interested in buying a fixer-upper, connect with me anytime to help you understand the process and to discuss what makes the most sense for you.

Gina Madeya

Whether you're thinking of buying or selling your home, being successful in this market takes an experienced, trusted advisor with proven results. Gina has enabled over 200 clients to achieve their real estate goals and looks forward to helping you navigate the current market with clarity and confidence. As a 25 year veteran of corporate America (JPMorgan Chase and Microsoft), Gina puts her vast experience in both people and program management positions to work for you, nimbly balancing both the human and process side of real estate transactions to ensure your success in either buying or selling your home.

Lauded by clients and other agents alike for her impeccable work ethic and integrity, client advocacy, and proactive communication, you can count on Gina to guide you through every step of this complex and very active market with hands on support to deliver an experience and results you deserve. Backed by the most trusted brokerage in the Pacific Northwest, Windermere, Gina considers it a privilege to represent you and pledges her focus, responsiveness, honesty, patience, and never-ending support - she won't be satisfied until you are!

https://www.ginamadeya.com
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