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Lisa does not hate flips.
Some are beautifully done.
Some give buyers an updated home without having to live through six months of construction.
Others are essentially:
- New paint
- New flooring
- New counters
- Old problems
The challenge is figuring out which one you're standing in.
FLIPS ARE BUILT TO CREATE AN EMOTIONAL REACTION
You walk in.
Everything looks new.
The listing photographs beautifully.
The house smells fresh.
That is exactly when Lisa wants you to slow down.
Pretty is not bad.
Pretty just isn't enough.
WHAT DID THEY ACTUALLY RENOVATE?
“Fully remodeled” can mean a thousand different things.
Ask questions.
Were major systems updated?
Or only visible finishes?
Did the work require permits?
Is there documentation?
CHECK THE HVAC
A remodeled Las Vegas house can still have a very old air-conditioning system.
A beautiful backsplash does not cool your house in August.
See what to know about HVAC before buying.
CHECK THE ROOF
Same principle.
Cosmetic renovation does not reset the roof's age or condition.
Research roof inspection when the condition matters.
LOOK AT CRAFTSMANSHIP
Lisa looks at the visible work because it can tell you something about attention to detail.
- Cabinet doors
- Tile alignment
- Floor transitions
- Caulking
- Trim
- Paint
- Hardware
If everything visible was done carelessly, ask harder questions.
PERMITS
If there was major electrical work, structural alteration, added rooms or conversions, research permits where relevant.
Unpermitted work can change what you are actually buying.
GET AN INSPECTION
This should not be controversial.
Freshly renovated does not mean:
“Inspected by God.”
Have the property professionally inspected.
GET PROPERTY DNA
Lisa can also request Property DNA so you have another informational look at available property data and history.
WHAT IS THE BUYER REALLY PAYING FOR?
Part of the purchase price may reflect:
- Convenience
- Updated finishes
- Move-in readiness
That can be completely reasonable.
Just make sure you're paying for real value. Not only cosmetic excitement.
