A fixer-upper can be a great way to get into the housing market, but you need to be careful not to get in over your head. How do you know if a property is a cheap flip? In this blog post, we will explore some signs that you’re looking at a cheap flip. From foundation cracks to water damage and more, be sure to read on to learn more about what to look for before making an offer on a fixer-upper.
Signs of a Cheap Flip: No Building Permits
One of the most telling signs is that no building permits are on file. This likely means that the work done on the property was not up to code, which can pose serious safety hazards. Another sign of a cheap flip is if the finishes and fixtures are low quality or mismatched. This can indicate that the home was not well-planned or that corners were cut to save money. If you see these signs, moving on to another property is best.
Signs of a Cheap Flip: Fresh Paint in Certain Areas
When looking at a potential flip, it’s important to be aware of the signs that the property may have been cheaply done. One sign to look for is fresh paint in certain areas. This could signify that the flipper was trying to cover up damage or issues with the property. If you see this, investigate further to see if there are any hidden problems.
Signs of a Cheap Flip: Mismatched Plumbing, Faulty Wiring
If you’re considering buying a fixer-upper, it’s important to be aware of the signs that the property may have been poorly renovated. One sign of a cheap flip is mismatched plumbing fixtures. If the faucets and handles in the kitchen and bathroom don’t match, they were likely chosen for their low cost rather than aesthetics. Another sign of a cheap flip is faulty wiring. If you see exposed wires or outlets that look like they’ve been patched up, it’s best to move on to another property.
Signs of a Cheap Flip: Shoddy Job on Cabinets and Drawers
If the cabinets and drawers in a home are not well made, the home is likely a cheap flip. Shoddy workmanship on cabinets and drawers indicates that the home was not given a high level of care during its renovation. This can be a significant problem for potential buyers, as poorly made cabinets and drawers can fall apart easily and cause significant damage to a home. If you’re considering purchasing a home that has been recently renovated, be sure to scrutinize the cabinets and drawers to ensure they’ve been properly constructed.
Signs of a Cheap Flip: Flooring Inconsistency
When touring a home that’s been recently renovated, it’s important to look for signs that the quality of the workmanship is less than stellar. One area where this is often evident is in the flooring. If the flooring throughout the home is inconsistent, it’s likely that corners were cut during the renovation to save money.
For example, if you see the tile in the kitchen and bathroom but hardwood in the living room and bedrooms, it’s possible that the homeowner or flipper chose to install cheaper flooring in areas where it wouldn’t be as noticeable. Or, they may have only replaced the flooring in high-traffic areas and left the rest of the house with its original (and possibly outdated) floors.
In either case, uneven or inconsistent flooring can signify that you’re looking at a cheap flip – one where quality wasn’t a top priority for those responsible for the renovation.
