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Aug 23, 2025
Why Working with a Dispo Team Saves Time and Increases ROI
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Flipping houses can be a great way to earn money—but only if you choose the right property from the beginning. Many people think that making a profit comes from selling at a high price, but smart investors know the real secret: you make money when you buy, not when you sell.
To succeed, you need to buy homes that are undervalued but have clear potential to increase in value through renovations. That means no major hidden problems, no legal issues, and preferably, only cosmetic damage like old paint, outdated flooring, or an old kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll break down the 9 most important things to look for when buying a house to flip. These tips will help you find homes that are easier to renovate, faster to sell, and more likely to bring in a strong return.
Many beginner investors make the mistake of buying a house with serious damage, thinking they can handle it. But problems with the foundation, roof, or walls often cost a lot more to fix than expected and can delay your entire project.
Avoid homes with these major issues:
These problems usually require expert help and can take a lot of time and money to fix.
Instead, look for homes with surface-level problems, like:
These are cheaper and faster to fix and can make a big difference in how the home looks and sells.
When we say a house has “good bones,” we mean the structure is strong and the layout makes sense.
Good homes to flip often have:
Avoid homes that have:
If the home is too hard to fix, it may not be worth your time or money.
Older homes (especially before 1978) may have dangerous materials like lead paint or asbestos, and they often require expensive upgrades to meet today’s building codes.
Some common issues in older homes include:
Houses built in the 1980s and after usually have modern materials and systems already in place. This means fewer surprises and smoother renovations.
It might sound strange, but buying the smallest house on a nice street is a smart move. That’s because you can improve it without spending too much and still increase its value based on the larger, more expensive homes around it.
Benefits:
Avoid:
You don’t need to completely change the house. Instead, focus on smart changes that improve the home’s look and make it more attractive to buyers.
High-value upgrades include:
These changes don’t cost as much as full remodels, but they help the home sell faster and at a higher price.
Before buying any property, make sure the title is clean. That means:
If you skip this step, you could end up with delays, extra costs, or a property that you can’t sell later.
Work with a reliable title company or real estate attorney to check the title. It may cost a little upfront, but it protects you from big legal problems later.
A good renovation doesn’t guarantee a good sale. The neighborhood is just as important.
Choose areas with:
Avoid:
Even the best flip won’t sell if the area doesn’t attract buyers.
The best flips start with buying the house at a good price. The more you save on the purchase, the more room you have for repairs—and profit.
Look for motivated sellers, such as:
Use the 70% Rule:
That’s the maximum price you should pay for a flip.
Not every flip is right for you. Choose a property that fits your budget, timeline, and skill level.
Ask yourself:
If you're new to house flipping, start with smaller, faster projects. They’re easier to manage and less risky.
The house you buy sets the stage for your entire flipping project. Choosing the wrong property can cost you time, money, and energy. But if you do your homework and pick the right one, you can enjoy a smooth renovation and a strong profit.
Remember:
With the right approach and preparation, you can build a successful house flipping business—one smart investment at a time.
We make it easy for you to find the perfect property that meets your needs. With thousands of listings across diverse property types, & dream home is just a few clicks away.
