Netter Real Estate Inc
Richard Bocchieri, Netter Real Estate IncPhone: (631) 848-0748
Email: [email protected]

Should You Buy a Fixer-Upper? 3 Major Considerations

by Richard Bocchieri 03/12/2025

A fixer-upper requires significant time and effort to renovate. While the DIY route might seem like the best way to save money, it isn't always the most affordable option. There are other issues like time and logistics to consider. If you're thinking about buying a fixer-upper, here are the biggest things to consider:

Hard Work

The major drawback to fixer-uppers is the time and effort they require. Even for DIY masters, an entire list of home improvements adds up to a significant undertaking. Some tasks might be simple and inexpensive, like painting or installing tile. Others, like plumbing overhauls or installing new HVAC systems will require more time and labor.

Unexpectedly High Costs

Unfortunately, fixer-uppers often come with unexpected costs beyond what you budget for. Even with the unpleasant surprises, you may end up spending more than you budgeted for on renovations. Every construction project inevitably runs into delays or issues with materials—these issues can add up quickly and add monetary stress to the situation. If you hire professionals to help you with the bigger projects, their labor will factor in as well.

Changing Timeline

As with all renovation projects, there are bound to be timeline issues. Delays in getting materials, poor weather and any other myriad obstacles can stretch out a quick project into a month-long process. If you're doing the work yourself, you'll also need to consider your own energy levels and life balance. After all, you need to make time to eat and sleep! Balancing DIY renovations with jobs, social or household obligations and your own peace of mind may factor in to your timeline. Unfortunately, these issues are some of the hardest to plan for.

Fixer-uppers can be a ton of work, but they can be very rewarding. Whether you plan to live in the improved home or flip it for profit, you can get even more out of it than the work you put in.

About the Author
Author

Richard Bocchieri

Welcome to Long Island Living at its best! The South Shore of Suffolk County is a suburban area that runs along the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean. Homes in this area consist of primarily residential properties. This area tends to be diverse in culture and income as it varies by hamlet, village or town. Residents along the South Shore have access to many beaches, parks and recreational activities. I pride myself on my honesty, integrity, hard work and personal service. My first career was in education, starting as a teacher then finishing as a guidance counselor and achieving my Master’s and two PD's. In 1986, I began my real estate career. In a sense, I am still an educator and offering guidance; this time I am outside of the classroom educating my clients on the selling and purchasing processes; which have become so complicated recently and guiding them safely through the confusing and ever-changing real estate market. It is very satisfying to me to help people with not only the greatest financial asset in their lives but their greatest emotional asset; where they celebrate holidays, raise their families and live their lives. I take the needs of my clients very seriously and as a result, I am proud to say, over 90% of my sales are the result of referrals and recommendations. Primarily, my areas of service are the Townships of Babylon and Islip on Long Island’s beautiful South Shore, near pristine beaches and wonderful boating, yet only 55 minutes from Manhattan; truly the best of both worlds. I'm a graduate of the Real Estate Institute and am certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist. I also hold a license as a Notary Public. Please feel free to call or visit so I can help you fulfill your real estate dreams. I am a Full Service Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker and provide the following: Free appraisal Rental Mortgages International relocation services Sales Home warranty new homes Free school report Waterfront specialist Notary public Please feel free to call or visit so I can help you fulfill your real estate dreams.

For every sales transaction, a a portion of my commission will be donated to Pronto of Long Island, a nonprofit community outreach center who feed the hungry, clothe the needy and provide hope for our neighbors.  

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