House flipping, a thriving trend in the real estate market, is embraced by a diverse range of individuals, including everyday people like you and me. Whether you’re considering your own venture into flipping houses or simply interested in the process, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential hidden issues. In this blog post, we’ll explore signs that anyone, regardless of their background, should be cautious about when contemplating a flipped house. Remember, we’ve got your back as you navigate the exciting journey of considering these investments for yourself.

Inspection Failures

Choosing a house is like putting together the perfect recipe, and inspecting it is like a detective searching for clues. But not all inspections are thorough, and we need to be aware of signs that something might be wrong.

• Inadequate Inspection Reports. Imagine if a doctor quickly checks you and misses important details. That’s what happens when someone rushes through a house inspection. Inspections are like health check-ups for houses, and if not done properly, serious issues might be overlooked. Always ask for a detailed inspection report. To be extra sure, consider having another person check as well.
• Foundation Issues. Think of a house’s foundation like its base or support. If the floor is uneven or doors don’t close properly, it could mean there are problems with the foundation. Fixing this can be expensive. During an inspection, pay close attention to these things. If you have any doubts, consult an expert to look into the house’s base.
• Electrical and Plumbing Problems. Have you ever seen lights flickering or noticed strange plumbing? These can be signs of trouble. Poorly done electrical and plumbing work can be unsafe and costly. Make sure everything in the house follows the rules. If not, it might be worth fixing before moving in to keep your home safe. A thorough inspection can help catch these issues early on, just like a superhero saving you from unexpected troubles.

Megan Polom says in a Rocket Mortgage article that when certain conditions are met—like working with a good contractor, using good materials, and getting the right permits—flipped homes can turn into dream homes for buyers. But, some house flippers don’t put in the effort to make sure repairs are done well.

You may read more information here.

Old infrastructure

Houses are more than just pretty faces; it’s what’s inside that keeps everything working smoothly. Think of it like the heart and lungs of a house – they need to be healthy for the whole body to function well. A house with a strong heartbeat and sturdy foundation can withstand any storm. Let’s look at the key indicators that tell us about the house’s health from the inside out:

• Heating and Cooling Hassles. An old heating and cooling system can make your bills go up. Check how old it is and if it needs fixing or changing. It’s not just about feeling comfy; it also helps you save money.
• Roof Problems. A roof that’s not in good shape can lead to leaks and more problems. If you see missing parts or water stains on the ceiling, it’s a sign. Make sure to check the roof well and budget for repairs if needed. A strong roof keeps you dry and cozy inside.

Here are some of the most common problems in an old infrastructure.

Poor finishes

Finally, there are a couple of cheap fixes that desperate renovators always turn to when they don’t have the time or budget for a high-quality repair:

• Low-Quality Materials. Sometimes, what looks nice isn’t made to last. Things like easily damaged floors or cheap countertops might cause trouble later. Look closely at the materials used. It’s like making sure your new home not only looks good but stays good.
• Mismatched or Poorly Installed Finishes. If things don’t fit right or look poorly done, it might show rushed work. Take a good look at the details. A well-done house shows care and quality. It’s not just about what you see; it’s about how well it’s put together.
• Expanding foam. Expanding foam has its uses, but if you see it spilling out everywhere, be wary. Rushed flippers often use it to fill cracks in foundation walls or other places that require a more robust solution.
• Cheap landscaping. Another aspect of a house flip that’s often left to the end when budgets have worn thin is the landscaping. If it’s a fresh ocean of mulch with some fragile young plants that will probably die in a few weeks, do a little digging—literally—to see what’s underneath.
• Excess paint. Paint is cheap, and desperate flippers will use it to solve myriad problems. Painted wallpaper is a sure sign that someone was in a rush to get a house on the market, and seeing paint on anything that normally isn’t painted—like kitchen cabinets or floors—should make you question the rest of the work.

Check out this complete list of signs that someone didn’t do a good job flipping a house. Use this to avoid buying one of these properties.

Alright, wrapping things up here! So, buying a flipped house can be a bit like finding a treasure – shiny and exciting. But before you dive in, remember to keep your detective hat on. Look beyond the fancy paint and cool finishes.

Take your time, ask questions, and don’t be shy about inspecting every nook and cranny. Remember, your home is a big deal, and you want it to be not just pretty but solid too. So, be the boss of your house hunt, stay curious, and you’ll end up with a place that feels just right for you.