With all the HGTV shows turning a run down old house into a beautiful model home looks very exciting and appealing.  For example, Fixer Upper and other shows like that are great shows, but is a full renovation right for you?  When purchasing a home there are a few things that you need to keep in mind:

• Are you wanting to do only carpet & paint?
• Are there structural issues or are they just cosmetic?
• What are real costs for the repairs you want done?
• Are you prepared for additional costs & completion timelines to adjust?
• Will you hire out the project or will you do it yourself?
• Will permits be required for the work you want to have done?
• If you use a contractor, are they a licensed & bonded contractor?

Those are just a few questions to ask yourself when thinking to "Flip" a home or buy one to remodel.  We have had many clients that get into a home because they were so excited to remodel the home that they tear everything out and then don't have the money to replace what they tore out.  Remember, a trip to the hardware store paying $100 doesn't seem like a lot, but having to go back 10 times turns that small $100 into $1,000 spent.  The numbers in a remodel add up quick, so don't let your home become a money pit.  

With that said, there are opportunities for you to get a house that another person didn't want to put in the effort and work to remodel, giving you less competition.