What Buyers Should Look for in a Flipped House

Buying a recently flipped home can be exciting — everything looks fresh, clean, and move-in ready. But not all flips are created equal. Some are done with care and quality; others are rushed for quick profit. Before falling in love with that “brand new” look, it’s important to dig deeper.

1. Check the Quality of Renovations

Don’t let shiny finishes fool you. Look beyond the paint and fixtures

• Inspect craftsmanship closely — uneven flooring, sloppy paint edges, or misaligned tiles can be red flags.

• Test fixtures — open cabinets, flush toilets, run taps, and check doors and windows.

• Ask for receipts and contractor details — quality flippers will have documentation and licensed trades.

Good flips look good up close, not just from afar.

2. Ask About Permits and Inspections

• Major work such as electrical, plumbing, structural changes, or basement finishing requires permits.

• Ask your REALTOR® to obtain copies of permits and final inspection approvals from the seller.

• If the seller can’t provide them, have your home inspector look for unpermitted work — which could cause issues later with insurance or resale.

3. Hire an Independent Home Inspector

Even if everything looks brand new, never skip the inspection.

Your inspector should

• Look behind finished walls for possible moisture or mold issues.

• Check the age and condition of major systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical).

• Identify any shortcuts or cover-ups — like painting over old damage.

A good inspection can uncover problems that cosmetic updates hide.

4. Look for Substance Over Style

Some flippers focus on trendy aesthetics but skip structural essentials.

Ask about,

• Roof age and condition

• Foundation cracks or repairs

• Insulation and energy efficiency upgrades

• Windows and doors — are they new or just painted over?

It’s better to buy a solid home with modest finishes than one that looks luxurious but hides costly issues.

5. Research the Seller and Their Reputation

If possible, learn who did the flip.

• Reputable investors or builders often have a track record of high-quality projects.

• You can check past sales in the area or ask your REALTOR® if they’ve handled other properties by the same seller.

• Be cautious of quick flips (purchased and resold within a few months), as these can indicate minimal or rushed repairs.

6. Review Disclosure Statements Carefully

In Manitoba, sellers must disclose certain known issues.

Make sure to review,

• Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement (PDS)

• Any documents showing recent work, warranties, or repairs

• Utility bills or maintenance history (when available)

If there’s missing information or vague answers, dig deeper before signing.

7. Ask About Warranties and Workmanship Guarantees

Some flippers or contractors offer limited warranties on major components (roof, foundation, electrical).

Ask for,

• Any transferable warranties on new appliances or systems.

• Builder’s warranty, if applicable (especially if the renovation was extensive).

Even small guarantees show confidence in the quality of work.

8. Compare to Other Homes in the Area

Before making an offer, compare,

• Recent sales of similar properties nearby. Your REALTOR® can provide you with a Comparitive Market Analysis (CMA) that will give you this information.

• The price difference between the flipped home and unrenovated ones.
  If the flip is significantly higher, make sure the quality and upgrades justify the premium.

9. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels “off” — rushed finishes, evasive answers, or missing paperwork — take a step back.
It’s okay to walk away. The right home will hold up to scrutiny.

A flipped home can be a fantastic buy if done right — combining modern updates with an older home’s character. But due diligence is key.
Inspect thoroughly, ask questions, and focus on quality, not just looks.

Tara Zacharias, REALTOR®