Your Rehab To-Do List: Projects Every House Flip Needs
House flipping is a great way to use your construction talents and business skills. Strategically planning new projects is essential for house flippers. Make a timeline of all the tasks you need to complete. Luckily, most homes require the same type of renovation. Here is a list of things you should have on your to-do list.
Exterior
First impressions matter on a fix and flip. Your customer looks at the exterior of the home first. Make it fresh and welcoming. Paint the exterior of the building. Power wash any vinyl siding, and paint the mailbox and sheds.
Landscaping
The lawn must be fresh and green. Rake out dead grass and plant grass seed or sod. Spread a fast-acting fertilizer to give the lawn a boost of color. Trim trees to give buyers an unobstructed view of the home. Do a complete sweep of the property and remove any stinging insect nests. Look for evidence of nuisance critters, and hire a pest relocation service.
Fixtures and Hardware
Freshen up the faucets or fixtures in the kitchen and bathrooms. New hardware shows your commitment to a high-value fix and flips property. Don’t forget to replace cabinet handles and drawer pulls. Use traditional colors and designs to appeal to a wider audience. You may also be able to purchase many of these items at a bulk discount and save money when flipping multiple homes.
Walls
A fresh coat of paint makes the home feel clean. Be sure to patch nail holes and sand blemishes to smooth your walls before the painting begins. A good primer helps you cover dark colors. High-quality paints provide better coverage with usually just one coat. Less expensive paints require multiple coats. If you are replacing electrical systems, move outlets to meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards. This touch expands your potential customer base.
Cabinet Doors
Kitchen and bathroom cabinets rarely need to be replaced. You can usually keep the structure of the cabinet and replace just the doors. Take the extra step of replacing the toe kick. It shows your attention to detail.
Flooring
Plan on installing new flooring in your fix-and-flip home. Choose high-quality hardwood or laminate flooring. Clients don’t want to think about replacing flooring as soon as they move in.
Having this list can make your purchasing decision much easier. While each house flip has its own unique needs, you will find most require the same basic changes. Having a plan in place makes each property more profitable.