When a client comes to you in hopes of finding the perfect home, you’ll likely go through these standard questions:
- What type of home are you looking for?
- What does your ideal home look like?
- Do you have any indoor or outdoor space requirements?
- Do you have any deal-breakers?
- What are your must-haves?
While your clients may give you straight answers to those questions, there are certain signs that indicate a preference for fixer-uppers over move-in ready homes. Look out for the following five hints — they may mean your clients are ready to fix up their next dwelling.
If they want to make a home their own
Although move-in ready homes may be a more convenient option, many buyers enjoy having free rein to choose how to make a home their very own.
Whether it’s tearing down a few non-loadbearing walls to create a larger bedroom or ripping out old cabinetry for a modern look, buyers who can see beyond what’s in front of them tend to be more drawn to fixer-uppers.
If they’re not in a hurry to move
Some buyers have a tight deadline, but if your clients don’t mind waiting a few months for renovations to be completed, then a fixer-upper could be the perfect home for them.
Ask questions about their timelines to see which types of homes would interest them.
If they have an eye for design
Many clients have a difficult time visualizing a home’s potential. That’s a big reason agents should convince sellers to depersonalize their spaces as much as possible.
However, if your clients have a keen eye for detail or can see beyond the paint and wallpaper into future possibilities, then move-in ready homes might not be a top priority.
If they have some money to set aside for renovations
Although fixer-uppers tend to cost less than move-in ready homes, renovations can vary in cost. Buyers interested in purchasing a home in need of some TLC should have some money set aside for construction.
If this sounds like your clients, then they may be happier with a fixer-upper in the long run.
If they are patient
Fixer-uppers aren’t for everyone. Not all buyers will have the patience to deal with unexpected delays in construction, let alone live among the chaos.
If your buyers seem to be patient, laid-back and flexible, then they may find their dream home in a fixer-upper.
A few frank conversations with your clients can help you discover what type of home would best suit their needs. Don’t be afraid to show them a variety of homes at first, including both fixer-uppers and move-in ready homes.
As you look at more homes together with your clients, you’ll discover which features speak to them. Just remember, communication is key in helping your clients find the home they really want.
Mike Pulley is a renovation aficionado at Home Buy Design. You can follow him on Facebook or Instagram.
