4 Essential Renovations for Your Fix-and-Flip

by Ann Hayward 03/13/2022

When flipping property, every project is unique. However, there are some specific renovations and upgrades to include to add the most value to the home. To make the most of your fix-and-flip property sale, focus on renovation projects with the best ROI. Here is a list of some projects to prioritize in your flip:

Curb Appeal

A simple place to begin with your renovation is the outside of the house. Cleaning up any overgrown landscaping and planting new trees and shrubs will improve the curb appeal and boost home value. Other outside projects to consider include replacing or refreshing the front door and giving the front porch or patio a makeover. Also, don’t forget that power washing can go a long way in improving the look of the exterior of a home.

Kitchen Upgrades

It’s tempting to blow your budget on a complete kitchen renovation. However, if your focus is ROI, choose certain features or projects to prioritize. For example, add a new stain to old cabinets, replace the flooring and upgrade any appliances that need it. This will help you stay in budget while still adding value to the home.

Bathroom Refresh

Even minor bathroom remodels can yield huge ROI. Unless the plumbing needs major repairs or upgrades to be functional, you can deep clean and replace fixtures to give the bathroom a whole new look for less. Try updating the lighting and adding a fresh coat of paint to the walls.

Finish Unfinished Spaces

Does the home you’re working on have an unfinished basement or attic? These are perfect places to boost value and maximize your returns. If you can add more square footage, it will go towards a higher selling price. Finishing a basement may require a contractor for help with structural features and insulation. However, once these spaces are finished, they’ll be features worth showing off to potential buyers.

If you want to make a profit on your flip, sticking to your budget is important. However, it’s also important to choose the best renovations for increasing value. Consider these options as you plan your next project.

About the Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]