Thinking About Buying a Flipped House in Tampa? Read This First!

Published On: May 6, 2016|Categories: Blog, Buyers, How-To|

buying a flipped house in tampa read this first

If you’re like many buyers who are looking for the best deals, you may be looking at homes that investors have bought, fixed, and put on the market.

In many cases, that’s a great way to find deals—but you also need to make sure you’re getting an actual deal rather than the real estate version of a lemon.

Doing Your Detective Work in Real Estate

Whether you’re buying a home that’s been flipped or you’re purchasing any home, it’s important that you do some detective work while you’re looking at the home.

Experts suggest that you try not to let the new, improved and modern look of a home distract you from what’s really important: the quality of the materials and workmanship.

What to Watch For

It’s always a good idea to check minor details that could signify a “rush job.” Some of those details might include:

  • Sloppy, misaligned light switch or outlet plates
  • Molding that doesn’t quite match at the corners
  • Gaps between countertops and walls
  • Gaps in bathroom tile
  • Doors and cabinets that don’t close tightly or don’t line up well (this could be a sign of a sagging or cracked foundation)

Cosmetic fixes can cover up big issues that you can’t see, so make sure you check everything if you notice some of these small problems.

Do Your Due Diligence Like Your Investment Depends On It (Because it Does)

Make sure you carefully comb through seller disclosures, and make sure that any contractors who worked on the home got the appropriate permits and work approvals. It’s always okay to ask for them, as well.

You’ll also need to make sure you get an inspection—just as you would purchasing any home—because a skilled inspector will pick up on issues (minor and major) that you might miss.

Your Realtor® will guide you through the entire process, though, so as long as you’re working with a talented and knowledgeable agent, you can rest assured that you’ll be getting all the right guidance.

Are You Looking for a New Home in Tampa Bay?

When you’re ready to start looking at homes for sale in Hillsborough CountyPasco County or Pinellas County, we’re here to help.

Call us at 727-584-8480 or 813-961-6000. If it’s easier, get in touch with us online. We’ll begin searching for your new home right away.