Whether you’re on the market for your first home, or looking for an investment property, one of the key things to consider is: how much work are you willing to put in once you’ve been handed the keys?

If you’re on the fence between buying a fixer-upper or a move-in ready home, here are some pros and cons for both:

Fixer-uppers
A ‘fixer-upper’ is a property which requires thorough renovation and repairs before it can become a comfortable living space. Because of this, fixer-upper homes are generally sold for a much lower market value than homes which are ready to live in.

This type of home may be an ideal purchase for a first-time buyer or an investor, as they may be able to make a substantial profit by renovating and reselling.

Pros

• Lower upfront costs: Fixer-uppers can command much lower asking prices than similar homes that are move-in ready. Those selling fixer-upper homes usually wish to achieve a fast sale, so you might be able to snag a good deal if you get your offer in quickly.
• Personalisation and customisation: For some, the allure of a fixer-upper comes from the ability to use the home like a blank canvas and customise it to their exact liking.
• Adding value: Transforming a fixer-upper is a great way to achieve a return on investment, as there is plenty of scope to add substantial value to the property. From replacing outdated features to improving the home’s aesthetics, you can potentially profit from a fixer-upper home when the time comes to sell.

Cons

• Time: Time is our most valuable commodity, and renovating a home requires a lot of it. If you’re hoping to move in and get settled down quickly, a fixer-upper might not be for you.
• Costs: While the initial savings can be enticing, remodelling a home might cost you more than you expected. Even if you have budgeted thoroughly, there may be some costs for repairs which you hadn’t planned for. It’s important to carefully consider your financial standing before investing in a home which needs serious restoration work.

Move-in ready homes
‘Move-in ready’ is a broad term as it can cover many degrees of readiness. But fundamentally, a move-in ready home requires little to no maintenance or repair before its next owners can move in. The homes have plenty of appeal, as they may have been recently renovated, and buyers may be able to unload their furniture and get settled in right away.

Pros

• Convenience: One of the key advantages of move-in ready homes is the convenience they offer. Buyers can save time and effort as they don't need to deal with extensive renovations or repairs before moving in. This is particularly appealing to those with busy schedules or those who want to start enjoying their new home immediately.
• Cost savings: While move-in ready homes may have a higher upfront cost, they can often save buyers money in the long run. The expenses associated with immediate repairs or renovations are avoided, preventing unexpected financial burdens.
• Faster occupancy: The name itself implies that these homes are ready for move-in day. This can be advantageous for those who need to move quickly, whether due to job relocation or other personal circumstances.

Cons

• Higher initial costs: Move-in ready homes often come with a higher price tag compared to fixer-upper properties. Buyers may pay a premium for the convenience of not having to invest time and money into renovations. This can limit the options available for those on a tight budget or looking for more affordable housing solutions.
• Limited customisation: While move-in ready homes may be aesthetically pleasing, they often lack the level of customisation that some buyers desire. Some may find these homes restrictive, as major renovations may not be necessary but are also not easily accommodated.
• Potential overlooked issues: Even though a home is labelled as move-in ready, there's still a risk of overlooked issues. Buyers should conduct thorough inspections, as cosmetic upgrades might mask underlying problems. When house-hunting, it's important to ensure that the home is not just visually appealing but structurally sound to avoid unexpected maintenance costs down the line.

Whether you’re looking for an investment property or your dream home, contact our expert team today