You've likely seen the TV shows where house flippers strike it rich, buying old homes on the cheap, doing minimal repairs, and then turning around and selling the home at a profit. While these shows are entertaining, imagine if those renovations have been completed with cheap materials? If you're considering a flipped home from Klamath Falls homes for sale, you want to exercise caution.

To be sure, not all flipped houses are a bad deal. Quite often, buyers can find a newly renovated home that meets all their needs for style and appliances. Further, flipped homes may be competitively priced. They may also be in an area with a lively real estate market where homes sell quickly and are deemed to be good investments. Plus, flipped houses are ready to move in. These can be real inducements to take the plunge.

But before you do, here's some advice on what to look for if you're considering buying a home that has been flipped.

1. Research the renovation of the home.
   There are usually two types of developers: those who assume that name, and those who go through the trouble of becoming licensed, bonded, and insured contractors. You can check project history to see if the developer had the right permits. Was the property inspected by a professional and was the work up to code?
   
   
2. Where do you research a home's history? 
   If you're using a real estate agent, that agent can help you discover the history of the house. You can also go through the county assessor's office to find transaction records. One clue to look for is if the seller bought the house within the last year. That could mean the house has been flipped.
   
   
3. Are you buying from a homeowner or a renovator?
   The renovations a homeowner makes are generally considered more trustworthy than those of a renovator, who's performing them to make money. A homeowner usually has more of an emotional investment in the property, so is more likely to have overseen quality renovations. 
   
   
4. Know what to look for in a walk-through.
   It's a good idea to visit a home you want to buy at least three times. Each time, more details will become apparent to you. Are there flaws in the flooring? Can you spot poor workmanship in the kitchen? Can you see sloppy electrical wiring, with too many lights or outlets on a single circuit? Also, check the water heater, the HVAC system, and the windows.
   
   
5. Use a third-party home inspector.
   Ask your real estate agent to recommend a home inspector. You'll want the home inspector to conduct an in-depth look at the HVAC system, electrical wiring, plumbing, drywall, and foundation. An experienced home inspector can find signs that developers have taken shortcuts or tried to hide serious flaws in the home's construction.

Our real estate agents can help you determine if the flipped house you're looking at is a good deal. Contact us today.