Los Angeles,  2017: 'Flip or Flop' hosts pose for a portrait session in November 2017 in Los Angeles, California,  (Photo by Aaron Rapoport/Corbis/Getty Images)
Home - Garden
Bad Home Advice Dished
Out On
Flip Or Flop
By EMILY KAMMERLOHR
Buy Flawed House
Tarek El Moussa and Christina Hall, the professional house flippers of "Flip or Flop," have significant financial backing and a solid insurance policy to support their house-flipping business. However, newer home flippers should avoid buying houses with major foundation issues, as they can be expensive and risky investments.
Splurge On Real Wood
El Moussa often spent a lot of money on expensive materials such as real wood floors. However, homeowners can get the same look without breaking the bank by opting for laminate flooring, which is durable, can withstand high traffic, and offers the appearance of wood without a high price tag.
Risk Always Pays Off
On "Flip or Flop," there is hardly ever a flop, but in real life, a house that requires lots of repairs may not sell for a great profit. To increase your chances of success, be picky when selecting a place to flip, focusing on older homes needing minor updates or those near tourist attractions.
Pool Guarantee Buyers
The "Flip or Flop" team mainly operates in southern California, where a pool could add value to a house due to the temperate climate, but a $30,000 initial investment plus ongoing costs may not be worth it in areas with a shorter pool season. While a pool can increase your home's value by 7%, your home should be worth over $430,000 to justify the investment.
Yard With No Shelter
In one episode, El Moussa and Hall created a "perfect hangout space" in the backyard but failed to provide sufficient shade with their pergola that had large slats. When designing your outdoor space, it is essential to consider adding shade, such as a permanent roof with fabric or plastic, or using plants, umbrellas, or a retractable awning as a temporary solution.