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.

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

16450 E Ave Of The Fountains -- Unit 23 Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$539,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,635 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748905

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Very charming furnished residential property offering a warm & welcoming atmosphere with its great room featuring a wood-burning fireplace, creating a cozy focal point for all gatherings. Kitchen has been tastefully remodeled with newer cabinets, granite counters, breakfast bar adding a convenient dining space. The loft has a functional office space, proving a dedicated workspace within the home. Two bedrooms and a full bath upstairs. Master bedroom is situated on the main floor. Shower & double sinks in master bath. Everyone in the subdivision can enjoy the convenience & relaxation of a heated community pool & spa. Unfurnished, listed price is $529k.

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13234 W Hummingbird Terrace Peoria, AZ 85383

$539,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,443 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756875

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new home! This two bedroom, two bathroom open-concept home is a former model home of the builder! This coveted neighborhood of Trilogy at Vistancia home boasts plank tiled floors, oak cabinets, granite countertops, gas range, stainless steel appliances, and pull-out drawers. The primary bedroom suite showcases granite countertops and a tiled backsplash, a double vanity, an enormous tiled shower with included bench seat. Enjoy the covered patio and low-maintenance landscaping with connected outdoor gas bbq that conveys. Washer, dryer, fridge all convey as well. This C43 section of only a few homes includes HOA-maintained front yard for beautiful curb appeal with zero effort! Minutes from shopping, restaurants and all the amenities that Trilogy offers: the Mita Clubhouse, Trilogy Dog Park, Golf Club, and more, this house won't stay on the market for long!

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864 E Riviera Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$539,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,032 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760329

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Lagos Vistoso, Chandler's exclusive gated Lake community!! This home features a 3 bedroom and 2 bath with a huge Great room. Kitchen with ample cabinets, Granite countertops and a gas stove for the chef in your home. Spacious formal dining area to enjoy family meals. Say goodbye to carpet as this home has 20'' tile in all rooms. Spacious Master bath has double sinks, King sized shower and a Garden style soaking tub to relax. The Master suite also offers a massive closet space. Large pool size backyard with brand new low maintenance artificial turf and large covered patio to relax.

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3308 E Saint John Road Phoenix, AZ 85032

$539,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,704 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762966

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful, well-maintained home situated on a spacious lot in a highly desirable neighborhood! This charming property boasts an inviting backyard oasis featuring a sparkling pool, and putting green—perfect for entertaining or relaxing in your private retreat. Recent updates include NEW Driveway, NEW Carpet, Custom Master Closet, Custom Laundry shelving, NEW Ceiling Fans in all rooms, NEMA 14-50 Outlet, NEW W/D, and energy-efficient windows, all offering peace of mind and ensuring comfort year-round. Conveniently located near the 101 and 51 freeways, with easy access to everything the area has to offer, including shopping, dining, and top-rated schools. This home is a rare find, blending modern upgrades with a prime location—don't miss your chance to make it yours

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42521 W Abbey Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

$539,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,243 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766987

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover lakeside living at this stunning Abbey Lake home! This extraordinary home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and nearly 2,300 square feet of living space. Step into a beautifully renovated interior featuring new flooring, a remodeled kitchen island, ample kitchen counter space and a brand-new stainless steel refrigerator purchased in 2024. Entertain in the chic living area, complete with a cozy fireplace. Relax in the spacious master suite, with a tiled shower and bay window views. Enjoy resort-style comfort with ceiling fans throughout the home. Additionally, the home offers abundant storage space to meet all your needs. Community is perfect for active adults, offering a variety of amenities. This is great opportunity to own this lakeside home! Upgraded bathrooms filled with tile and fun touches throughout. Large second and third bedrooms are on the opposite corner of the house from the MBR so plenty of privacy. Backyard has 12 palm trees, a built-in BBQ and a fire pit. Covered patio with chandelier light fixture. Mature flowering shrubbery and so many kinds of wildlife! Laundry room has cupboards throughout and a large utility sink, as well as Maytag washer and dryer. Garage has storage cabinets on both sides and a work bench with built in drawers. This one is a MUST see!

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25350 W Riverside Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

$539,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,704 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780928

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Original owner. Large (.95 acre) irrigated horse property. RVs and Toys allowed. Corner lot. Custom home. Split floor plan. Covered patio. Three vehicle garage. Horse shelter. City water and sewer. 'A' rated public schools. New AC and water heater in September 2024. Buckeye is one of the fastest growing cities in the country. Fry's Marketplace under construction at Miller/Broadway.

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4652 E Blue Spruce Lane Gilbert, AZ 85298

$539,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,805 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788483

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

GEM OF A HOME IN DESIREABLE GATED GOLF COMMUNITY OF TRILOGY AT POWER RANCH. 55+ Palo Verde model with 2 bed/2/bath, office/den/family room. OPEN LIVING CONCEPT with dining area and breakfast nook. Very private back yard with a courtyard in the front. Green space across the street, Solar with a Tesla charging station. Trilogy offers an abundance of amenities from golf to pickleball, tennis, to swimming. Great restaurant ont he property with scheduled entertainment. Starte of the art fitness center with various group classes. Clubhouse with activity rooms. Community is gated and landscaping is exceptional. THIS HOME IS A MUST SEE!

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4507 E Arapahoe Street Phoenix, AZ 85044

$539,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,427 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6766460

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This original Pueblo plan has been loved by one owner for nearly 40 years who made additions over time increasing it by nearly 500 square feet. The solid hardwood floors, two brick fireplaces and beautiful exterior stone will remind you of the Midwest. It sits on a large corner lot with mature trees and is a short walk or bike ride to plenty of restaurants and conveniences in the beautiful village of Ahwatukee. The home has been freshly painted throughout (including garage), and kitchen cabinets have been professionally refinished. There's newer recessed lighting and skylights in various spots that add natural light and all of the carpeting is brand new. Be sure to check out the ample storage throughout including pull-out shelving in the kitchen and spacious laundry room. One of the One of the additions is a safe room which has steel doors, it's own mini-split system, plenty of electrical outlets and water. At nearly 2,500 square feet this is one of the largest single level homes in the area. Plenty of parking with a two car garage as well as slab parking for an additional four vehicles. Some windows are newer. This is a one of a kind home with the additions that have been made and it's ready for you to come add your touches to make it your own.

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8246 E Sweet Acacia Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$539,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,582 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6774755

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WELCOME TO THIS BEAUTIFUL TOTALLY UPDATED HOME LOCATED ON A MOUNTAIN-VIEW LOT! This hillside retreat features lovely views and is an entertainer's delight ~ the backyard boasts a new outdoor kitchen built in 2024, a putting green, a lighted patio cover, water feature and special desert landscaping. The home has updated floors, new windows in 2018, granite counter-top and backsplash in the kitchen, along with updated appliances. The master bathroom has been remodeled including a designer walk-in shower and is gorgeous! The garage is air-conditioned with an insulated garage door. This home is move-in ready and has too many updates to list. Mountainbrook boasts two community pools, pickleball courts, exercise facilities & an 18-hole golf course with Superstition Views.

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4332 W Charleston Avenue Glendale, AZ 85306

$539,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,487 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6670439

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BACK ON MARKET AND WORTH THE WAIT! Brand new A/C, no popcorn ceilings, freshly painted inside and ready for its new owner. Create a gourmet meal in the open kitchen, complete with stainless appliances, granite counters and a huge island w/cabinet space. Or step out back for a dip in the crystal blue diving pool or a relaxing evening by the fire pit with bench seating. Easy care tile floors throughout, and fully upgraded bathroom counters and fixtures. Stash the toys in your 3-car garage, or take advantage of RV parking available for rent in the Bellair community. Around the corner from local schools and the Bellair Golf Course and close, but not too close, to the 101 and Arrowhead Towne Center.

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20007 N Siesta Rock Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$539,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,712 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6725881

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Recently refreshed 2 bed/2 bath, with den area & CASITA (additional 1 bed, 1 bath) is now available in the beautiful Desert Oasis community of Sun City Grand! 1712 square feet in the main house and 247 in the casita makes this property 1959 TOTAL square feet! Kitchen updates include granite counter-tops and crisp white painted cabinets with new hardware. Additional upgrades include ceiling fans, light fixtures, carpeting, built in wood desk in the den along with a built in bar and fresh new interior paint throughout! All appliances convey making this home truly turn key. With the extended covered patio and great back yard space, this home is an entertainers dream. The generously sized, completely detached casita, offers a tranquil place for your guests to stay!

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4610 E Valley View Drive Phoenix, AZ 85044

$539,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,596 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736998

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream ranch-style home nestled in a tranquil Pointe South Mountain neighborhood! This beautifully remodeled home boasts interior updates including new flooring throughout, renovated kitchen, and modernized bathrooms. Enjoy the spacious layout featuring tons of natural light. Outside, you'll discover your own private oasis - a large backyard featuring a flagstone patio, cozy fire pit, and mountain views, perfect for entertaining or simply unwinding after a long day. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to experience all the charm and modern conveniences this property has to offer!

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