Ideas for Fixing & Flipping Houses

Start by cleaning the exterior of the property. Does it need light sweeping or a heavier job done with a pressure washer?

Check for peeling paint. Can it be touched up, or does the exterior need a full paint job?

Is the trim wood in good shape? Any rotted wood will need replacing. Any unpainted or unstained wood will need to be covered.

How does the front of the property look from across the street? If plants cover windows or need trimming for other reasons, cutting them back can make a big impact.

If there are no pretty plants in the yard, consider planting long-lasting flowers to add color and charm.

Any leaning or broken fences or gates should be repaired or replaced.

If the lawn is dead or full of weeds, watering and weeding is in order.

Replace dated fixtures, house numbers, and other accents.

Be sure the front door opens smoothly and looks nice.

Cleaning the whole house may make the biggest impact of all. If the house is in otherwise good shape, cleaning kitchen counters, bathrooms, windows, etc. will make a shocking difference and good first impression.

Washing windows brings in more light and sparkle.

Be sure to vacuum window sills and runners, where dead bugs seem to gather.

Where possible, add higher wattage lights for brightness.

Walls may need cleaning (especially if the house was owned by a smoker).

If the condition of walls is beyond simple cleaning, perhaps a full paint job is in order.

Walls in good condition, but with odd or dark colors, will be improved greatly by covering with white or very lightly off-white paint. This will make the room seem larger, as well.

Look over window coverings. Are they an asset or a liability to the property? If in poor shape or outdated, remove them.

Any décor item that is not attached to the real estate will still be the seller’s property to take home once the house is sold.

Therefore, investing in a few décor items, such as mirrors, art, new bath and kitchen towels (that may be used in the next house or one’s own home), etc. can give the house a homey feeling and direct buyers’ eyes to specific areas.

If window coverings need to be added, choose light, neutral colors. Windows with a great view may be best left uncovered.

Some homes need cute decorations, some more expensive houses need elegant decor. Access the home and choose decor that enhances the particular home.

To save money, decor can sometimes be borrowed from friends or even one's own home.