Episode 6: Lipstick on a Pig — How to Spot a Bad House Flip Before You Buy

A freshly renovated home can be hard to resist. New floors, fresh paint, beautiful countertops, and updated finishes can make a house look like the perfect find.

But as Michael and April Bryan discuss in Episode 6, a beautiful home isn't always a home with good bones.

🎥 Watch Episode 6: Lipstick on a Pig: How to Spot a Bad House Flip Before You Buy

🏡 Look Beyond the Pretty

Michael and April discuss seeing homes that look great cosmetically but have older systems, questionable workmanship, or other concerns underneath the surface.

One example they share involved a home with new flooring and fresh paint, while the roof and other major systems had not been updated. The kitchen looked nice, but the workmanship raised concerns.

That's what they mean by “lipstick on a pig”—making a home look attractive without addressing the issues that really matter.

Before falling in love with the finishes, ask:

• What condition is the foundation in?
  
  
• How old is the roof?
  
  
• Are there drainage or flooding concerns?
  
  
• Have the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems been properly maintained?
  
  
• Was the renovation done correctly and, where applicable, permitted?
  
  

⚠️ DIY and Flipping Can Hide Problems

Michael and April also talk about the increase in DIY renovations and the influence of home renovation and flipping shows.

DIY work isn't automatically a problem, but poor workmanship can become an expensive problem for the next homeowner.

They also share a real example of a first-time buyer who purchased a flipped older home. What initially looked beautiful eventually revealed foundation concerns and electrical work that had not been properly completed.

The lesson: don't judge a home solely by its appearance.

🔍 One Inspection May Not Tell the Whole Story

A general home inspection is an important starting point, but some properties may require additional inspections.

Depending on the home, buyers may need specialists to evaluate:

• Roofing
  
  
• HVAC
  
  
• Electrical
  
  
• Plumbing
  
  
• Sewer lines
  
  
• Pools
  
  
• Irrigation
  
  
• Septic systems or wells
  
  

Older homes may also require additional attention. Michael and April specifically discuss older Midtown and East Memphis homes and the importance of considering things such as older sewer lines and mature trees.

⏰ Pay Attention to Inspection Timelines

Different inspections can require different scheduling and timelines. When writing an offer, make sure there is enough time to complete the appropriate inspections and investigate anything that raises concerns.

💚 Bryan Realty Group's Advice

Don't let a pretty house make the decision for you.

When viewing a renovated or flipped home, look beyond the countertops and fresh paint. Consider the home's structure, major systems, workmanship, location, and future resale potential.

Work with a real estate professional who understands the area and knows what questions to ask. Start with a general home inspection, and when concerns come up, bring in the appropriate licensed specialists for a closer look.

A flipped home isn't automatically a bad home—but understanding what you're buying is essential.

🎥 Watch the Full Episode

Want to hear Michael and April discuss these real-world examples?

Watch Episode 6 on YouTube

Have a real estate topic you'd like Michael and April to discuss? Leave a comment and let the Bryan Realty Group team know!

Bryan Realty Group — helping you look beyond the pretty and make informed decisions about your next home. 🏡💚