Thinking About Buying a ‘Fixer Upper’? Here’s What You Need to Know

With all of the home renovation and fixer-upper shows on television, the idea of completely renovating and re-doing an old home can seem like an enticing premise. Unfortunately, investing in the wrong fixer-upper can mean an awful lot of expenditure without the added financial rewards. Whether you’re considering investing down the road or are ready to dive in, here are a few things to consider first.

How Much Do You Want To Spend?

It’s easy to be swept away by possibility, but before making an offer you’ll need to sit down and determine exactly what you’re willing to invest into upgrades for your fixer-upper. By deciding what you would want to renovate, what the cost of materials and labor would be and how this figures into the market price of the home, you’ll be able to determine if the price you’re offering will be worth it.

Are Major Repairs Required?

It’s one thing to consider a nice paint job and new tiling in the kitchen, but if there are serious issues with the home, it can create huge financial issues to put money into it. Because foundational issues or water damage throughout the home can be expensive items to repair and will take time and resources, fixing these issues may cost more than the money you’ll make. If you’re uncertain about what you’re getting into, it may be a wise decision to bypass the investment all together.

Are You Willing To Work?

Most home fixer-uppers that people buy can be financially lucrative because the buyer is interested in doing a lot of the work themselves. However, if you’re thinking of hiring people to do the work for you, this can end up costing a lot more money and eating any profits the renovations might have created. It’s also important to realize that renovations can go over budget. Instead of being idealistic about a fixer-upper, ensure you’re certain it’s what you really want so that you’re not stuck with a home you don’t want to invest your efforts into.

The idea of digging in and getting your hands dirty with purchasing a fixer-upper may be endearing, but if you’re not truly prepared for the responsibilities it can be a drain on your time and your finances. If you’re currently considering purchasing a home, investment, fixer-upper or your dream home, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

What’s Your Home Worth?

Search for Your New Home

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

View As: Thumbnails List

Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

1817 E Hearn Road Phoenix, AZ 85022

$555,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,222 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6698367

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MORE INTERIOR PHOTOS COMING SOON! Don't miss your chance at a large 5 bedroom / 3 bathroom home in a prime central Phoenix location with mountain views and nearby mountain preserves and NO HOA. Lookout Mountain for hiking and Lookout Mountain Park are right down the street. You are literally 15 - 20 minutes from major shopping venues like Desert Ridge and the Scottsdale Quarter, downtown Phoenix sports venues, Sky Harbor International Airport, etc. This family friendly neighborhood has something to offer everyone. A recent remodel includes interior and exterior paint, wood look plank style tile in the high traffic areas and new carpet everywhere else. A perfect family home in a prime central location. Don't miss this one.

View Property

4236 N 27th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

New

$555,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

1,575 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6706536

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This immaculate townhome will not disappoint. As you walk through the home, the living space is light and bright, clean and has tasteful finishes throughout. This contemporary townhome feels like a model home, where the owners have meticulously maintained and cared for the home. This is a perfect place to have guests, as the first of three bedrooms is on the first floor, with plenty of privacy. On the second floor you will have the stunning kitchen with light finishes, granite countertops, high quality Frigidaire Professional appliances and a large pantry. There is a spacious dining area and family room, creating an open and inviting space for all your guests. The half bathroom is off the dining room. On the third floor, you will find the spacious primary bedroom with it's very own private balcony (one of four balconies), a gorgeous bathroom with double sinks and fine finishes, a large shower and an oversized walk-in closet. Very conveniently located, the laundry room is right next to the primary bedroom featuring high-quality Electrolux washer and dryer that will come with the home. Across the hallway is the third spacious bedroom with its very own private bathroom. This home is complete with a large 2-car garage and plenty of storage as well, which is very hard to find in this part of town. The community features a relaxing swimming pool, spa and BBQ area, the perfect place to enjoy the hot summers of Arizona. Safety is key in this friendly community of Biltmore Living, where the community is fully gated. One of the best parts about this home is that it has prime location to the Biltmore and all the best restaurants and shopping in the valley. Minutes from the 51, I-10, 202, Paradise Valley, and Scottsdale. Come see this stunning home today and make your dreams a reality of owning this home!

View Property

25361 N 75th Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$554,990

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,567 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6680013

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is a to be built home that is ready for your personalization. This is a single story home that has 3 bedrooms, and 2 full baths with just the right amount of space. This home has great curb appeal and an open concept that is ideal for hosting and entertaining. The kitchen has an island with quartz counter tops, beautiful cabinets, and an undermount sink. This home features 9' ceilings offering an elegant touch. The dining area has an 8' tall sliding glass door that leads you to your outdoor patio that can provide an indoor/outdoor living space. The primary room has a spacious walk-in closet, double sinks, large walk-in shower, and an additional linen closet for extra storage and so much more.

View Property

3041 E Bellerive Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

New

$554,990

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,643 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6706125

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful home features an open concept floor plan with 9-ft. ceilings and a generous great room that offers access to a private covered back patio. The modern kitchen includes 42-in. upper cabinets, a large center island, Quartz countertops, and a stunning mosaic tile backsplash. You'll find gorgeous glazed ceramic tile flooring throughout the home, including in each bedroom. The primary suite features an oversized closet, and the primary bath boasts a walk-in shower, a dual sink vanity, and linen closet for added storage space. This home includes a tankless gas water heater, ceiling fans in each bedroom and energy efficient A/C unit with Wi-Fi-connected ecobee smart thermostat for added efficiency and convenience.

View Property

7767 W Mockingbird Way Florence, AZ 85132

New

$554,990

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,509 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6706507

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Up to 3% of Base Price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender.'' Lifestyle is around every corner of this community. Enjoy all the amenities that you have come to expect in 55+ living. This home is a must see with an estimated completion of late summer/fall.

View Property

22777 E Orion Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$554,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,243 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6399374

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

START PACKING! Crimson floor plan - 12x8 sliding glass door off the extended covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop and canopy hood. Maple Slate cabinets with 42'' upper cabinets with pull out trash drawer with two bins. Enhanced kitchen island with Vahalla granite c-tops and matching backsplash. Upgrade flooring includes 18x18 Castillian Gray ceramic tile in all areas except bedrooms/closets. Dual sinks in bath #2 and so much more. Seller to write contract. Please verify all information with onsite agents.

View Property

1841 W Brookwood Court Phoenix, AZ 85045

$554,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,180 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6666806

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wonderful 3 bed (plus den) / 3 bath two-story home w/ mountain views in the sought-after Foothills Club West. Same owner for over 10 years. Great floor plan w/ plantation shutters throughout. Open living room/dining room greets you. Delightful kitchen w/ plenty of cabinet & counter space, pantry, window over sink & island perfect for prep/serving. Kitchen opens to window-lined family room w/ fireplace & mantel. Upstairs you will find the primary bedroom w/ vaulted ceiling & bathroom w/ dual sinks, garden tub w/ jets, shower & private toilet, as well as large walk-in closet. Backyard has large covered patio w/ misting system, sparkling heated pool (updated in 2020), built-in- BBQ & perfectly placed desert landscaping. New hot water heater w/ catch basin installed in May 2022. Located in the award winning Kyrene & Tempe Union school districts w/ easy access to the 101 & endless shopping, dining & entertainment options at your fingertips. Major plus for those who love the outdoors, you'll be walking distance to South Mountain Park/Preserve, Area 620, Bursera & Pyramid Trailheads at 15441 s 19th Ave.

View Property

7508 S 20th Street Phoenix, AZ 85042

$554,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,634 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6668528

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spectacularly remodeled 4 bdrm/3 bath home w/ additional large upstairs suite that has its own private entrance, fireplace, bathroom, & large closet - perfect for older children, guests, or possibly even as a rental. New patio doors open to a HUGE lot w/ multiple covered patios, a pergola, a BBQ, a storage shed, & even an outdoor sink. New kitchen w/ beautiful cabinets & quartz counters. Multiple rooms incl. the master bedroom have high vaulted ceilings. Large wood-burning fireplace in living room w/ stone from floor to ceiling. Brand new SS appliances convey to buyer. New, luxury vinyl floors throughout. All 3 showers are newly tiled. All new fixtures + ceiling fans! Fresh paint in/out. OWNER/AGENT.

View Property

29758 N 114th Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$554,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,003 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6683370

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home, where comfort, style, and functionality meet in perfect harmony. Enter this pristine 3 bedroom, 3 BATHROOM sanctuary through the GATED FRONT PORCH into the 2003 sf. SINGLE LEVEL Jasmine model with neutral tile flooring throughout, ensuring both elegance and easy maintenance. So many upgrades have been added to this beautiful home! Custom WOOD PLANTATION SHUTTERS adorn every window, offering both elegance and privacy, while a custom roll-up sliding glass door window cover adds a touch of sophistication. Upgraded chef's kitchen and staggered cabinets with a gas stove, QUARTZ countertops, oversized utility sink in laundry room, LED ceiling lights and CEILING FANS, upgbaseboards and door casings for a polished aesthetic. The whole house benefits from a Waterman WATER CONDITIONER ensuring pristine water quality throughout. Custom FRONT SECURITY SCREEN DOOR addS to the sense of security and style.The garage itself is a haven of organization and functionality, boasting LED lights, an EPOXY FLOORS and custom cabinets with a workbench for DIY enthusiasts. Side yard offers gated DOG RUN and storage shed with deadbolted sidegate. Enjoy al fresco living on the extended pavered patio, sheltered alumawood PERGOLA, a charming PUTTING GREEN perfect for leisurely afternoons or entertaining guests. There are NO 2 STORIES nearby, and no neighbors across the street, so your privacy is protected. Welcome to your sanctuary!

View Property

8202 E Mackenzie Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$554,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,416 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6692006

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WONDERFUL nearly original, well-cared-for red brick 3 bed/ 2 bath single-story charmer in Old Town Scottsdale ~ Enter the OPEN living room w/ NATURAL LIGHT & newer French Doors leading to covered patio ~ Living Room features CROWN MOLDING ~ Eat-in kitchen w/ BUILT-in bookshelves ~ NO popcorn ceilings! ~ FLOOR-TO-CEILING closet doors w/ step-in shower in master ~ ENCHANTING Hallcraft home ''The Briarcliff'' model ~ North-South exposure ~ CORNER LOT ~ covered DOUBLE carport leading to WORKSHOP ~ COVERED PATIO ~ LARGE storage/workshop w/ so much potential! ~ This property is a complete GEM ~ UNBEATABLE location near Old Town Scottsdale ~ Access to Scottsdale Greenbelt pathways, Indian School Park Fashion Square Mall, Spring Training facilities, & golf courses w/ easy 101 freeway access to all areas of the Valley ~ Close to Navajo Elementary, Pima Elementary, Mohave Middle School & Saguaro High School.

View Property

7260 E Night Watch Way Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

$554,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,257 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6694001

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Motivated Seller! Immaculate Newly Completely Renovated 3 BDRM PLUS office/potential 4th BDRM Home! -New Interior Paint. -New High-end Whirlpool Appliances, including Refrigerator. - KitchenCabinets refinished, including new hardware and soft close hinges. - New Carpet, Tile Steam Sanitized and Grout Refreshed. - New Vanity Tops, Lighting, NewShower Heads & Trim. - New soft-close toilet seats/tank seals. - New all LED modern lighting throughout home.- ALEXA enabled Smart Ceiling Fans in Livingroom and Primary Bedroom. - Smart Wifi Front Door Deadbolt. - Smart Wifi MyQ Garage door opener. - Full OzoneSanitizing treatment throughout home. - Full Solar Power System with Backup Battery to Essential Home Services =100% electric up time! System feeds APS for Addl credi

View Property

3030 N 38th Street Phoenix, AZ 85018

Open House

$554,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,534 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6704315

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Modern & move-in ready! This gorgeous corner lot home is an entertainer's dream! Located in gated 38 North, in the coveted Arcadia Lite, just steps away from the best Phoenix has to offer. This 3 bed, 2.1 bath, 2 car garage home has loads of upgrades: a huge kitchen island , gas range, updated lighting fixtures, matching stainless steel appliances & plenty of cabinet space! High ceilings, open floor plan, upstairs laundry and lots of storage, are just some of the desirable features. This end unit has a huge patio & side yard complete with turf and pavers, firepit, a full size gate, charm & room to entertain outdoors. The primary suite has spacious walk-in closet, bathroom with dual vanities, separate Tub and Spa Shower. Built In Desk is Great For Home Office or Homework. A Must See!

View Property