When considering buying a home that requires renovation, it’s important to differentiate between necessary renovations that should be deal-breakers if not addressed, and those that can be negotiated as part of the sale or undertaken after purchase. Here are some renovation tips for buyers:

Renovation Projects to Avoid Buying Without:

  1. Structural Integrity: Issues with the foundation or structural integrity of the home are significant and can be extremely costly to fix. If an inspection reveals major structural problems, it’s usually best to avoid purchasing unless the seller is willing to address these issues before the sale.
  2. Roof Condition: Replacing a roof can be a very expensive project. If the roof is in poor condition and needs immediate replacement, consider this carefully before proceeding with the purchase.
  3. Mould and Water Damage: Mould and water damage can indicate serious underlying issues and can pose health risks. Remediation can be expensive and sometimes extensive.
  4. Outdated or Unsafe Electrical Systems: Homes with outdated wiring or electrical systems that do not meet current safety standards can be dangerous and may require a complete overhaul.
  5. Plumbing Issues: Major plumbing problems, like old or corroded pipes, can lead to significant water damage and are worth addressing before finalising a purchase.

Renovation Projects That Can Be Negotiated:

  1. Cosmetic Updates: Things like outdated wallpaper, old carpeting, or a kitchen that needs modernising are all negotiable. These cosmetic issues can often be leveraged to reduce the sale price or can be updated inexpensively after purchase.
  2. Energy Efficiency Improvements: Upgrades such as double-glazing, insulation, or solar panels can be negotiated as part of the sale. You may be able to get the seller to contribute to these costs or use them as a bargaining chip for a lower sale price.
  3. Appliance Replacements: If the home comes with outdated appliances, you could request that the seller replace them or provide a credit at closing to cover the cost of new appliances.
  4. Heating and Cooling Systems: If the HVAC system is outdated but still functioning, you can either negotiate the price down to account for the future replacement cost or ask the seller to install a new system as part of the sale agreement.
  5. Minor Repairs: For minor issues, such as a broken fence or a leaky faucet, you can request that these be fixed by the seller before you take possession, or you can ask for a credit to handle the repairs yourself.

When negotiating renovation projects into the sale:

  • Get an Inspection: Always have a professional home inspection to uncover any potential issues. Use the findings as a negotiation tool.
  • Estimate Costs: Get estimates from contractors on the cost of repairs and renovations. This information will be crucial in negotiations.
  • Be Prepared to Walk Away: If the cost of necessary renovations is too high and the seller is unwilling to negotiate, be prepared to walk away from the deal.
  • Consider Your Financing: Some loans, like the FHA 203(k) loan in the U.S., allow buyers to finance both the purchase of a home and the cost of its rehabilitation through a single mortgage. Australia has similar options such as construction or renovation loans, check with local lenders for availability.
  • Legal and Contractual Advice: Consult with a real estate attorney or a conveyancer to ensure any agreements made regarding renovations are legally binding and included in the contract of sale.

Remember, every house and sale is unique, so what can be negotiated will vary greatly depending on the specific property, the seller’s circumstances, and the state of the housing market.