Thinking about a ‘Fixer Upper’? Understanding the Balance Between Purchase and Reno Costs

Fixer uppers can come with huge price benefits and opportunity, as well as problems. Make sure you understand what you’re getting yourself into before you purchase a home that needs significant restoration.

Carefully Calculate

Do the math very carefully before jumping in. Add up the expected renovation costs based on a thorough evaluation of the property. As some of the expected costs will lie within a grey area, it is important that you base your estimation on the higher end of the price range. Be sure to account for all materials and labor.

Once you have calculated your expected renovation costs, subtract this number from the home’s projected post-renovation market value. It is important that you base this projection on comparable listings in the same neighborhood. Consulting a real estate professional can offer very valuable assistance with this step.

To be conservative, deduct at least another 10 percent for any unforeseen costs, mistakes, or issues that arise. That final number should be the highest offer you make on the property.

Work With The Right Team

When looking for a fixer upper that is a sound investment, make sure that you have a solid team of professionals to work with. Choose a real estate agent who is familiar with the area and type of property that you are interested in, and make sure that all laborers you hire are not only competent to deal with the problems that you’ll face during renos, but who won’t cut corners. Aesthetically appealing housing don’t always pass inspections – it’s important to make sure that the property is fit for sale or it may never close at your asking price.

Aesthetic Problems Are The Best Problems

If you’ve managed to find a home that’s in great condition but is visually unappealing, you may have found yourself an excellent fixer upper. Ugly carpet, old appliances, and tacky wallpaper are easy fixes that won’t eat up much of your budget or your time.

Asbestos, leaky water lines, a cracked foundation, or a rotted frame are examples of more significant issues that will require the help of a professional. Be wary when investing in a property that has one or several of these problems, as they are the kind of issues that snowball into larger costs and a longer timeline for repairs.

Ready to find a great fixer upper and tackle it as your next investment? Give me a call!  J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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437 E Germann Road San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$70,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

960 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6605524

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

MOTIVATED SELLER--BRING US AN OFFER!! Well kept 2 bed/2 bath manufactured home in the beautiful community of Cimarron Trails. FRESHLY PAINTED inside 2024, new roof 2023, fruit trees, mountain views, lots of storage in attached shed, plenty of closet space in both masters and 2 covered patios.The home features 2 spacious master bedrooms, a large living room, dining room and kitchen area and extra storage. AC re-wired and tuned up in 2023 and landscape was just spruced up so you're all set to move right in. Cimarron Trails offers lot rent for $698.50 per month which includes community septic,garbage,common area maintenance,clubhouse,heated pool,spa,bocce,billiards and many other community events.

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11411 N 91st Avenue Peoria, AZ 85345

$70,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,248 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6641463

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Great remodeled manufacture home that feels like new! one of the best options you will find out there at this price!! its currently 2 bedrooms plus an area that could be a Den or maybe a 3rd bedroom with some walls, new Flooring, new Kitchen and new bathroom Quartz counter tops, new Faucets and some light fixtures, Serviced HVAC and air handler, New range/oven, upgraded fridge, dishwasher, used washer and dryer included, freshly painted inside and out and new Pex plumbing lines, new water heater, roof recently coated and maintenance done!. Beautiful 55+ Community with lots of amenities included pool and putting green, easy access to shopping and services, few minutes to Sun City. Land Lease plus Water, Sewer and trash added to bill. Internet, Electric is Owner's expense, owner/agent

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10955 N 79 Avenue Peoria, AZ 85345

$70,000

2 Beds

1.5 Baths

956 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6649017

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Charming 2-bed, 1.5-bath mobile home on leased land. Enjoy the modern touch of updated laminate wood flooring throughout. The kitchen boasts sleek stainless steel appliances, making meal prep a breeze. Convenient inside laundry adds to the ease of living. Step outside to a fenced yard, perfect for pets, complete with a screened porch for year-round enjoyment.

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11411 N 91st Avenue Peoria, AZ 85345

$70,000

2 Beds

1.5 Baths

868 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6662872

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

This is a 1978 Cavco home. Wow this home has all the upgrades and looks like a model home. Front kitchen with eating area and storage everywhere. Living room and bedrooms are nice sized. HVAC system is less than 6 months old, Hot water heater and plumbing are all new as well. Interior updates are about 2 years old. This home is move in ready and it is neat and clean. This home is being sold unfurnished. Seller is highly motivated. Bring us your offer and let's all get a great deal and make this a Win Win for everyone.

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8600 E Broadway Road Mesa, AZ 85208

$69,999

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,056 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6697815

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Awesome opportunity to own this charming 2-bed, 2-bath mobile home in the 55+ gated Mountain Views Estates! Excellent location close to various dining, shopping, entertainment, & freeways. Enter to find a perfectly flowing living & dining room! A soothing palette gives a homey feel, enhanced by plush carpet & wood-look flooring in all the right places. The kitchen offers built-in appliances & ample white cabinetry. Main bedroom has a private bathroom & a wide closet w/mirror doors. PLUS! This gem comes with a workshop, ideal for any DIY enthusiast. Enjoy relaxing in your wrap-around deck with sun screening for both privacy & sun blockage! For added convenience, you also have a carport parking. Great Community amenities like a pool, spa, workout facility, & more await you. Don't miss it!

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400 W Baseline Road Tempe, AZ 85283

$69,900

3 Beds

1 Bath

1,100 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6643411

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

All Ages Park! Take advantage of this opportunity! This charming 3-bed, 1-bath mobile home in Chaparral Village is waiting for its new owners! New A/C, Water heater. The great room showcases a neutral palette and wood-look flooring. The kitchen features trendy white shaker cabinets and a classic subway tile backsplash. The main bedroom offers a walk-in closet and a private bathroom, ensuring comfort and convenience. Ideally situated near bus stops, parks, restaurants, and shopping centers. Don't miss out on this one!

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8103 E Southern Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$69,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,484 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6652140

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

A Must See!!! Beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath, with air-conditioned Arizona room, den & huge laundry room with full size washer & dryer, located in the Brentwood Southern 55+ Community. The square footage of this home has been expanded to 1,484 sf by built on additions. The gorgeous kitchen comes with a stove/oven, built in microwave, dishwasher & refrigerator, walk-in pantry as well as an island with seating. When purchasing this home, you will receive a one-year home warranty* covering the following systems & appliances: air conditioner/freon system, furnace, plumbing, water heater & electrical panel/wiring.

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2605 S Tomahawk Road Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$69,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,200 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6653605

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Welcome home to this quaint manufactured home nestled close to the Superstition Mountains! New central AC! All new flooring! New exterior paint! The inviting interior showcases wood-look flooring and a soothing color palette that creates a calm and serene ambiance throughout. The kitchen has ample storage, including a pantry! Room for a stackable washer and dryer inside! You'll also find 2 comfortable bedrooms with generously sized closets! Adult community amenities include BBQ, billiards, clubhouse, heated pool, sauna, shuffleboard, and more. Located just a few minutes away from coffee shops, bars, and markets! Breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains!

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8600 E Broadway Road Mesa, AZ 85208

$69,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,156 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6659519

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Presenting an exceptional opportunity to own a spacious corner lot home in the an amazing 55+ community! This residence is primed and ready for its next owner, with recent exterior paint and new windows enhancing its curb appeal. Step inside to discover an inviting open living area, perfect for hosting gatherings or simply enjoying everyday relaxation. The primary bathroom has been thoughtfully updated with a brand new walk-in tub installed in 2023, offering both comfort and convenience. For added functionality, a spacious storage shed/workshop provides ample space for hobbies or storage needs. Residents of this subdivision can enjoy a plethora of amenities! Additional updates include the installation of an ADT security system for peace of mind, as well as butcher block countertops and fresh indoor paint, adding both style and functionality to the home. Please note that a monthly lease fee and community application apply, ensuring the continued enjoyment of the community's amenities and services. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the best of 55+ living!

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920 W Edgar Street Cochise, AZ 85606

$69,000

1 Bed

1 Bath

1,125 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6601622

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

4 Parcels included in once sale. 3 parcels are adjacent. Parcel 204-05-022 stands alone, though nearly touch. Well registry shows a registered Well located on parcel 204-05-016 and another registered Well located on parcel 204-05-019. No Sellers disclosure for property or Wells. Property is sold as is. No known septic. CASH only. No Seller carry. Easy access to I10.

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9501 E Broadway Road Mesa, AZ 85208

$69,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,152 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6657884

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Relax and enjoy life in this cozy home in an active adult gated community! This two-bedroom home features an open living space with ceiling fans, an enclosed back patio, and a new oven. The home is partially furnished and has plenty of cabinet and closet space. The carport can accommodate two vehicles and has a shed for extra storage. The community amenities include a workout facility, a heated pool, and a spa, where you can unwind and socialize with your neighbors. This is a great opportunity to own a comfortable and affordable home in a peaceful and friendly environment!

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6727 W Polk St Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85043

$69,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,534 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6666610

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

This 2-bed, 2-bath manufactured home in the beautiful San Estrella Resort Community is now for sale! Well-cared multi-wide residence featuring 2 carport spaces, convenient storage, and a welcoming front covered patio. Enter to see a great open layout boasting high vaulted ceilings, neutral palette, and wood-look floors. The eat-in kitchen has built-in appliances, fluorescent lighting, tile counters, and honey oak cabinets. You will love the ample primary bedroom, including a mirrored door closet and an ensuite with a dual sink vanity. In the back patio, you will also have another storage shed for extra space. Amenities include a pool, community laundry, and more. This is the perfect retirement home! Come take a look!

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