When your looking for properties to buy in order to flip, your probably looking at ones where the “curb appeal” is not so good.  I know that when I drive by a property that looks run down but it is in a great neighborhood, the first thing I think is how much can I get that for, because it looks like it may be a distress sale.  So when your fixing up a property to flip just how important is curb appeal?  I think it’s VERY important.  I know when I buy a property before I even settle I am going to the property planning on what I am going to do outside before I even start on the inside.  I want to get the outside done so I can get the “for sale” sign up faster.  And sometimes as buyers start to walk thru the property I’ll let them pick colors and carpets, but it’s the outside that got them inside.  Landscape alone is all you might have to do, you look at the siding and or paint, if it’s in good shape all you may need is some powerwashing.  I powerwash everything, siding, windows, sidewalks, it’s amazing how just doing that sometimes makes a property look totally different.  Driveways and sidewalks are important, if there in good shape leave them alone, if not replace them, people love new concrete.  Always remember to get three estimates.  I think landscaping is key.  And most of this or all of it you can do yourself, get the lawn looking good and green, turf builder works great and it’s quick.  Keep it cut and edged weekly, dress all the beds with new mulch and schrubs with flowers.  This is inexpensive compared to thr return you will get for it.  The landscaping will totally make the property look new again.  If your not sure what to do drive by a couple homes in a new development, that where I sometimes get my ideas.  Once your satisified with the results of your labor, proudly put out that “for sale” sign and let the buyers in.

Buying a property without a certified home inspection could be a very costly mistake.  I have never purchased a property without one, and I never would.  I recommend you get three estimates and compare.  Ask your Realtor or Attorney if they can refer you to one they have used.  I always get three estimates and always pick the middle one.

When I look at a property to buy for the purpose of flipping, I look for properties that require little to no major repair.  These types of properties are easy to find.  Look at the exterior of the property as well as the landscape for example.  In most cases some paint, new shrubs and mulching the beds are all you need to make a property look new again.