10 DIY Fix and Flip Tips You Can Use Today

April 15, 2010 | Posted by admin | 3 Comment(s)

It's basic Econ 101: buy low and sell high. Of course, property flipping transactions are somewhat more complicated than that; usually you have some repairs and renovations to deal with.

These can be expensive and eat into any profits you hope to make, but they don't have to be. Here are ten simple tricks you can use to make your investment more attractive to prospective buyers.

Number One: Cleanliness

Get rid of the junk in the yard and clean up any paths – then go inside and sweep, mop, wipe down and vacuum. A clean house is a happy house – and commands a higher price.

Number Two: Landscaping

Now, it's not necessary to get Susie Coelho and her crew to do a full-on makeover. Just trim the hedges, get rid of ragged branches, rake up the leaves, haul off the deadfall, etc. Not only will the property look better, you'll get in some good exercise as well.

Number Three: More Cleanliness

It's appalling how dirt can collect on the siding. A hose and a good nozzle can work wonders. If you are nervous about getting up on a ladder, it's worth your while to hire a professional, however.

Number Four: Paint

You may not have to do an entire paint job, but if there are spots that are peeling, touching those up is a very worthwhile investment.

Number Five:The Lawn

Nothing makes a new home more attractive than a lush, healthy lawn – and this can have some ecological benefits as well. If you have brown dry patches, this doesn't mean its dead – but it has gone dormant for the season. If you can't bring it back, rolls of sod are an excellent investment that can pay for itself when you're going for the quick flip.

Number Six: Dress it Up

A house with nothing more than a lawn may look boring. A few well-placed exotic shrubs, garden statues and even a water feature can provide some excellent "eye-candy" and draw attention.

Number Seven: Little Things Count

We don't usually think about details such as the mailbox, address numbers and such – but when it comes to attracting potential buyers, every little thing that can improve your home's value is a worthwhile investment. Get the best you can afford within your budget.

Number Eight: Let There Be Light

Check the light fixtures inside and out; make sure pathways are attractively and above all, safely lighted. And don't ignore the fixtures themselves; nothing is more irritating than a bare light bulb – and cheap-looking fixtures are not much better. Don't be afraid to spend a nickel here.

Number Nine: Fix Broken Stepping Stones and Paths

This is about more than appearance; like lighting, it's about safety and liability as well. Make sure there is nothing that a visitor can trip over or get hung up on.

Number Ten: It's Not a Parking Lot

Cars in the driveway or parked at the curb – unless they are classics in "cherry" condition – can really detract from the appearance of the house. Put it in the garage; that's what the garage is for.

If you are in need of materials or professional services, don't forget to check out some of the great discounts that merchant and professional contractor members of NFAFN.com are making available to members of the Fix and Flip community!