Know anyone  currently looking for a home ?  Working with the right real estate agent can make the difference between getting a “great deal” and purchasing a “money pit”.  Recently, I was working with a client that was interested in an established neighborhood in  Centennial .  It was an area that many “fix & flips” are taking place.  Granted, most “flippers” have a good understanding of how to update an older home with the common luxuries most Buyers seek today. 

In this particular instance, the listing agent “talked a good talk” about his “flipper”, but after a 4 hour home inspection and a 3 day follow-up with electricians, plumbers & roofers; we found that there was approximately $22,000 worth of repairs that needed to be done before this property would be fit to close.  Although upon initially viewing the property it appeared to be a good renovation; it was determined that all of the “assets” expressed in the remarks about this home fell far short of accurate. 

As with many renovations, Sellers will choose to install Central Heat & Air, New Hot Water Tanks and New Windows etc.  But Buyers have to remember that with new “underwriting” guidelines lenders are often demanding “permits” be issued for these type changes made to a home.  In this case, not only did the Seller choose not to have a trained professional such as a Master Electrician out to the house, but they also chose not to have it inspected by the city or county.  The result, our Master Electrician found over 30 illegal or electrical violations (not to code) present in the “basement” alone.  In addition, the new Hot Water Tank had such a gas leak that the day of inspection everyone present got ill from exposure.

As a real estate agent with experience in finding homes for investors; I knew what to look for and what to expect when it came time for the home inspection.  At  5280 Homes Enterprises llc , we have recruited a “team” of professionals to provide us with the detailed information we need to do what is best for our clients.  Educating our Buyers & Sellers is a priority in our company…and we don’t take our responsibility as a real estate agent lightly.  So, the next time someone asks you “do you know a good Realtor®?” I hope you will remember me… Kim Olson .