Buying a flipped house can be a very lucrative option. These homes have been newly renovated so they can provide all of the latest features and amenities at an attractive cost. However, you should still exercise caution when you are considering purchasing a flipped home.

These homes can sometimes hide problems that will arise after you have moved in. Dealing with these hidden issues is the last thing that you want to do after moving into your new home. To avoid getting a bad deal, make sure that you pay attention to a few key things when touring a flipped house. The list below will help you get an idea of what you should look for in a flipped house.

1. Search For The Small Stuff

Many flipped houses will have the latest features and appliances installed. It can be very easy to be swayed by these attractive items because they truly do add value and a great appearance to a home. They are no substitute for quality workmanship, though, and you should always check the small details before making your decision on a flipped house.

Make sure to check for small signs of poor building quality. Do all of the doors in the house open a shut firmly? Are all the appliances working correctly? Are hinges, light switches and fixtures installed correctly and are they flush with the wall? Slight problems in these areas could point to much larger building problems. If you aren’t totally confident in your abilities to spot these issues, bring along a friend who knows a thing or two about construction or hire an independent contractor to look the building over. An extra bit of precaution can go a long way towards preventing a bad purchase.

2. Insist On An Inspection

After you have toured the home, you still need to have it professionally inspected. The building may be up to code but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is free of building issues and possible problems. Hiring an independent, professional inspector is not always cheap but the cost is well worth it. You need to be confident that the flipped home that you are buying is going to provide you with years of comfortable living.

Paying to fix problems after you move in can cost more than hiring an inspector in the first place. It’s also a huge hassle. Inspect early to prevent regret down the road.

3. Research The Contractors

House flippers are experienced contractors with years of successful work behind them. However, some people get into this market just to turn a quick profit. How do you know if your contractor is an experienced professional? You always need to check their background before making a purchase decision. Ask them for references or contact information for former clients. This will give you a much clearer picture of their work history.

You can also use social media to reach out to their former clients or check their business page for reviews. Sites like Angie’s List can help you find non-biased reviews as well. An experienced, responsible home flipper will be happy to provide you with honest reviews from satisfied customers.

You should always be diligent when checking out a new home. This goes double for flipped homes. Don’t be swayed by the flashy appearance of a recently renovated property. Check every detail and then check it again to make sure you are getting the best deal possible.