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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16546 W Blue Sky Drive Peeples Valley, AZ 86332

$1,399,000

2 Beds

1 Bath

1,302 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786168

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 1930's stone ranch house situated on 40.16 acres of wide-open space in serene Peeples Valley. This charming 1,302 sq ft home boasts 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, offering a cozy, yet spacious living environment. The beamed ceilings throughout the interior create a rustic and warm ambiance, while modern updates make it a comfortable and stylish retreat. Having both a front and a back covered porch, you can take your pick on the best place to relax and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The property includes a fully fenced yard, perfect for pets or gardening. Additionally, the large metal barn is ready for horses with a sizable corral and plenty of hay storage. Sweeping pastures would make a great place for an arena or could be fenced for rotating cattle pastures. This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of tranquility with historic charm and modern amenities in one of the most beautiful and peaceful parcels in all of Yavapai County with endless possibilities.

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4621 E Walter Way Phoenix, AZ 85050

$1,399,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,999 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763363

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move-in ready home located in the highly sought-after gated community of Sanctuary at Desert Ridge. Boasting 5 Beds, 4 Baths, and a two-car garage with built-in racks. Endless features include dual AC units w/ 5 zones, a private travertine courtyard, prime North/South exposed lot, water filtration system & a spacious den. The gourmet eat-in kitchen offers extended shaker-style cabinets, a mosaic tile backsplash, high-end granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a gas cooktop, and a reverse osmosis system. The master bath features quartz countertops, a spacious walk-in closet, dual vanities, and a dual-entry shower. The backyard is perfect for entertaining, complete with a jacuzzi, built-in stainless steel BBQ area, glass fireplace, an entertainment wall with a TV and fridge... a misting system, and faux grass for easy upkeep. The private community of Sanctuary at Desert Ridge has it all. Enjoy exclusive access to the community pool, spa, clubhouse, playground, and wellness center.

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11288 N San Clemente Street Surprise, AZ 85388

$1,399,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,743 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783425

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rare, one-of-a-kind golf course/mountain/sunset view lot in Sterling Grove! One of the best lots the neighborhood has to offer, with stunning views of the White Tanks, overlooking hole 11. Enjoy resort style living in your outdoor space with pool, travertine patio, heavily landscaped with 15 ft privacy trees, tiled firepit with gas line for grill. Enclosed patio with tiled entertainment wall, including 2 TV niches & bar with beverage fridge, storage and trash. Front porch includes gorgeous custom porch swing with Sunbrella cushions designed to withstand weather. Open floor plan with custom real wood beams, and gourmet kitchen equipped with upgraded 42'' cabinets, tile backsplash to ceiling, and gas cooktop stove. Custom chevron shiplapped island with marble countertops... and more... ... Wainscoting & custom wallpaper in dining, along with built in bar for entertaining, equipped with floating shelves, tiled wall & cabinets with beverage fridge. Glass double french doors to den, wall niches for décor in entry. Designer lighting throughout. Woven wood cordless shades & designer curtains throughout. Tile all through main floor except in master. Charming Master Bath with standalone tub, herringbone tile floor, seamless shower enclosure & custom mirrors. Permanent Jellyfish holiday lights. Don't miss this one!

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2415 N 87th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$1,399,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,012 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785466

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your ultimate oasis of luxury and sophistication, perfectly nestled in quiet neighborhood minutes to Old Town. This stunning residence on an almost 18,000 sq ft lot has been meticulously designed with high-end finishes and state-of-the-art features to create an entertainer's paradise. Over $400k in renovations up the wow factor in this well laid out 4 bedroom home. New plumbing, electrical, designer lighting, new roof, new front and back yard with huge projector screen for outdoor movie time, and covered patio. Love your pristine pool, hot tub, 42 yard par 2 golf hole, fire pit and RV gate plus side parking allows for more than enough toys/cars. Kitchen with large quartz island & SS appliances and also features a coffee and wine bar area. Bathrooms with gold and black fixtures, rain shower heads, freestanding deep soaker tub and tons of storage and double vanities. Set on a spacious lot, this home is more than a residenceit's a sanctuary type lifestyle. Whether hosting a grand soirée or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, this entertainer's dream home is your perfect match.

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6333 E Desert Forest Trail Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,399,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,580 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6774167

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into this stunning home and attached guest retreat, set on over 1/3 acre with 3,580 sq ft of luxury living. Enjoy a private pool, 3-car garage, and panoramic views of Black Mountain, with natural open space enhancing the tranquility. Two homes under one roof make it perfect for multi-generational living. The Next Gen suite offers a private bedroom, bath, living area, laundry, kitchen and its own garage and outdoor space. The main home features a 2-car garage, 3 bathrooms, a spacious primary suite, 2 guest bedroom, and a large open kitchen with GE Monogram appliances, granite countertops, and upgraded cabinetry. The primary suite includes an oversized walk-in shower, large walk-in closet and private access to the backyard . The backyard includes travertine decking, pebble tec pool, pool water feature, desert view fencing, large double gate and low maintenance landscaping. The extensive list of upgrades can be found under the documents tab This list of high quality upgrades include solid wood flooring, custom lighting, remote controlled custom window shades, upgraded cabintry, granite counter tops, and more.

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8401 E Vista Del Lago -- Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,399,000

4 Beds

5 Baths

3,315 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780699

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the prestigious guard gated golf community of Pinnacle Peak Country Club Estates, this classic home is perfectly situated on a desirable south-facing corner lot surrounded by lush, mature landscaping with a tranquil courtyard inviting you in. Inside, the single-level floor plan boasts abundant natural light with a seamless flow throughout its four bedrooms and five bathrooms. Whether you're looking for a move-in-ready property or a canvas to customize, this home presents an incredible opportunity, priced below appraisal value. Walking distance to nearby upscale shopping and dining in North Scottsdale.

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5028 N Scottsdale Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,399,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,388 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6696525

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Prime Paradise Valley Location in Camelback Park Estates minutes from Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall. NEW TRANE AC! NO HOA! Enter through the front courtyard. Single level 3 bed 2 bath home w/ an office, a pool & a 2 car garage. Remodeled in 2019. Wood laminate flooring throughout. Chef's Kitchen is modern & includes white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, farm sink, gas range & walk-in pantry. Bar stool seating & a second dining area. Primary suite is over-sized w/ an exit to the backyard, walk-in closet & a marble bathroom w/ a shower, free standing tub & dual sinks. All bedrooms have an exit to the low maintenance resort style backyard that features pool w/ rock water feature, paver patio, outdoor kitchen/BBQ & an observation deck that overlooks Scottsdal NEWER Roof, New water heater & soft water system

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5216 E Barwick Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,399,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

4,354 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743171

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning semi-custom 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, plus a casita Toll Brother's home. Located on .35 acres in the highly sought-after gated community Montevista. This beautiful property features 2 primary suites, one on the main floor. It's nestled on a spacious cul-de-sac lot that backs to a wash, with a sparkling pool, and large green space. This home provides plenty of room for outdoor entertaining and the mountain views and desert sunsets are gorgeous. Step inside to discover a meticulously maintained interior with high-end finishes throughout. The open concept floor plan offers a seamless flow from the living room to the gourmet kitchen, complete with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large island with additional seating; ideal for entertaining. Both primary suites luxurious ensuite bathrooms with dual vanities, a soaking tub, walk-in showers and more. The two additional bedrooms on the main floor open to a beautifully upgraded full bathroom. The casita opens to a partial kitchen, built in shelves and hardwood floors, perfect for guests or a home office. Upstairs is the second spacious primary bedroom that has a separate sitting area, walk-in closet, vanities and two walk out balconies ideal for both sunrises and sunsets. This home sides to a green space which provides the utmost privacy. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and breathtaking sunsets from the comfort of your own backyard. This home is located close to all the local schools, minutes from Cave Creek, Desert Ridge, Kierland, Scottsdale Quarter, parks and so much more!

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16317 N 108th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,399,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,896 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6737702

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wonderful views! Update a fabulous executive home to your tastes. Unbeatable square foot price in both McDowell Mountain Ranch and Scottsdale for a 5BR/3BA. Newer Trane A/C units (2022), solar panels and incredible views add value to this light filled, private home with pool/spa. Easy walk to community center. This model sold for $350000 more in June.

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17938 E Vista Desierto -- Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,399,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,946 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6678773

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Exceptional Golf Course and mountain views offered with the unique Alora model. This 3 bedroom 3 1/2 bath also features an attached casita with a private entrance is a must see. 2 additional ensuites offer full baths with separate entries, no expenses spared in any of the 2 rooms. Casita offers a living/TV room with separate bedroom and full bath. The Open-air concept architecture is ideal for entertaining and dining. Gourmet kitchen with custom cabinets, Monogram appliances, dual ovens, gas cook top, oversized granite kitchen island, featuring ceiling height glass front cabinets. The large laundry and home office has custom cabinets and granite counter tops. Custom window shutters with window shades. Upgraded wood flooring and tile throughout. Central vacuum system, dual HVAC System

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34813 N 73rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,399,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,588 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769529

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled within the gated community of North Scottsdale's Enclave on the Eighth, this immaculately maintained home offers 2,588sf of easy, luxurious living featuring a resort level backyard oasis. Built in 2016, this modern home features 3 bedrooms plus a versatile den, 3 baths, and a split floorplan perfectly suited for today's lifestyle. With no interior steps and soaring 12-foot ceilings, the open-concept design seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living spaces, creating a true sense of expansive comfort and elegance. At the heart of the home, the great room's full wall of windows opens to a stunning outdoor oasis through two sets of expansive bi-folding patio doors, allowing you to transition between indoor and outdoor living with ease. Step into a backyard that rivals a high-end resort, where the dynamic water feature cascades beside a custom stone fire pit with seating designed for gatherings under the stars. A built-in stone BBQ and spacious artificial turf area offer a perfect setup for outdoor entertaining, while the covered patio provides a comfortable retreat for quiet moments of relaxation, all framed by a combination of mountain views and easy-care landscaping. Inside, the open kitchen impresses with a grand center island, offering seating for sixideal for both casual dining and socializing. Top-tier appliances, including a Wolf 5-burner gas cooktop, double Wolf ovens, a Subzero refrigerator, and a Bosch dishwasher, make gourmet meals a breeze. The owner's suite is a true retreat, complete with an oversized walk-in closet and an indulgent dual-head shower, providing a perfect space to unwind after a long day. Beyond the home's luxurious features, the property offers quick golf cart access to the renowned Boulders Golf Course and is just moments away from upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment. This exceptional home is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and location, offering a unique opportunity to experience the best of North Scottsdale living.

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7740 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 24 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,398,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,922 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780323

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

READY TO MOVE IN SINGLE LEVEL ON GOLF COURSE -THIS 2BD PLUS DEN W VIEWS FACING SW-WALK UP PRIVATE WALKWAY TO NEW GLASS FRONT DOOR-WALK INTO SPACIOUS OPEN FLOOR PLAN -HARDWOOD FLOORS THRU-OUT-LIVING ROOM HAS FIREPLACE & ACCESS OUT TO PVT BACK YARD-PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING -REMODELED KITCHEN W GRANITE COUNTERS-STAINLESS APPLIANCES,UPDATED CABINETS,BREAKFAST BAR-LOVELY DINING AREA -ANTIQUE CHANDELIER-LARGE MASTER SUITE W PVT SIDE PATIO -MASTER BATH W SEP TUB/WALK IN SHOWER-DOUBLE SINKS W GRANITE COUNTER-LARGE WALK IN CLOSET-OVERSIZED GUEST BEDROOM HAS DOUBLE CLOSETS-UPDATED GUEST BATH W TUB/SHOWER-DEN/OFFICE AREA CAN BE ALSO USED AS BEDROOM-DIRECT ACCESS INTO HOUSE FROM 2CGARAGE-GREAT LOCATION -WALK TO ESTATE CLUB-ENJOY GAINEY AMENITIES-TENNIS,PICKLE BALL,FITNESS CENTER-24 HR GUARD GATEDCOMM

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