If you’re diving into the world of real estate investing or flipping, you know it’s not just about buying low and selling high. It’s about creating a space that truly captivates buyers. You want your property to stand out in the market, and that means investing in improvements that truly pay off.
After flipping hundreds of homes, I’ve learned which upgrades can turn a good flip into a remarkable one. Here’s a rundown of the top six improvements that make my flips irresistible to buyers.
1. Flooring
When potential buyers walk into a home, they notice the flooring immediately. Along with fresh paint (more on that later), new flooring is vital and can often make up the majority of your scope of work, depending on the extent of the renovations needed.
Old, worn carpets, hardwoods, and vinyl can drag down a property’s appeal and significantly take away from the new, fresh look you’re going for. At a minimum, always rip out stained, dull carpet and replace old, worn vinyl with an updated quality LVP, or refinish hardwoods if it suits the style of the home and fits within your budget. Modern carpets with neutral tones in the bedrooms and a high-quality LVP in the main living areas can make a huge difference.
Remember, buyers love a clean, move-in-ready home, and flooring is a big part of that.
2. Hardware
Don’t underestimate the power of hardware, especially if you’re considering leaving the kitchens or bathrooms as-is. Knobs, handles, fixtures, and floor registers might seem like tiny details, but they can make a huge difference in the overall feel of a space.
If you don’t have the budget for all new cabinets, don’t worry! You don’t need to rip out your kitchen or bathrooms to give your flip a fresh, modern feel. If the existing cabinets are in good condition, consider upgrading the hardware to a sleek, contemporary style and adding a timeless neutral paint color.
These two things alone can instantly elevate your kitchen or bathroom. It’s a quick fix that doesn’t break the bank yet gives the space a refreshed, modern feel with minimal effort.
3. Kitchen
The kitchen is often the focal point of any home, and it’s where many buyers will focus their attention. An updated kitchen can set your flip apart from the competition.
Ideally, you ought to budget for stainless steel appliances, fresh quartz or granite countertops, and updated cabinetry. If the budget is tight, consider replacing only the cabinet faces, leaving the countertops, and adding small changes like a new backsplash or a modern faucet. These touches can make a huge difference in an outdated kitchen. You don’t have to remodel every room in your flip, but a stylish, functional kitchen can be a major selling point and justify a higher asking price.
4. Bathrooms
Bathrooms might not be the biggest rooms in the house, but they can be a deal-breaker if they’re outdated or worn. Invest in some key upgrades here, like new fixtures, updated tile, and fresh vanities. Creating a spa-like atmosphere with clean lines and modern finishes can turn a standard bathroom into a luxurious retreat.
If it’s in the budget, pay special attention to the shower. Consider a frameless glass shower door, rainfall shower head (this is where hardware can be so important!), and timeless tile accents to enhance the bathroom’s appeal. Remember, buyers want to feel like they’re stepping into a space that’s both functional and pampering. Also, if we’re being honest, used bathrooms are a turn-off. This space must feel new.
5. Landscaping
Never underestimate that first impression! Curb appeal starts with the outside of your home, literally from the curb!
Landscaping is your chance to “wow” potential buyers before they even step through the door. Simple improvements like fresh mulch, trimmed bushes, and colorful flowers will make a big difference. Too many investors overlook basic landscaping when it can be as equally important as exterior paint. A well-maintained lawn and thoughtfully placed greenery can make your property look inviting and well cared for, which is a huge draw for buyers.
Most importantly, don’t forget the continued lawn maintenance as your flip wraps up or is on the market! Dying grass and plants will turn off potential buyers and are a waste of money. There is no point in updating the landscaping if you aren’t going to ensure its upkeep.
6. Honorable Mention: Fresh Paint
Saving the best for last, you can never skip over crisp, new paint. Nothing transforms a space faster than a fresh coat of paint, both interior and exterior, and ultimately ties together so many of the other upgrades I’ve already listed.
When it comes to the exterior, painting is often overlooked. Curb appeal is everything, and you want to give off a refreshed, new, updated feel at first glance.
Regarding the interior, whether you’re aiming for modern neutrals or a splash of trendy color, it’s like giving your house a facelift. It brightens up dull spaces and transforms outdated cabinets and doors. Plus, it’s relatively inexpensive and can be completed fairly quickly. Just be sure to choose colors that appeal to a broad audience—grays, beiges, and soft whites never disappoint.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it— my top six upgrades that make my flips irresistible to buyers. Each of these upgrades is about creating a space that’s not only striking but also cohesive and functional. By focusing on these key areas, you’re setting your flip up for a quicker sale and a better return on investment. Your budget matters, so put it to work carefully!
If you’re interested in my EXACT Framework behind 3,500+ successful flips, you can order my new book, The House Flipping Framework, today!
Note By BiggerPockets: These are opinions written by the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions of BiggerPockets.
