Insider Discussion – Fix and Flip a Hoarder Home?
Insider Discussion – Fix and Flip a Hoarder Home?
Should you fix up a hoarder house — or sell as-is?
If the house is in rough shape and you want fast cash, sell to an investor. But if you can clean it up even a little, you’ll net way more on the open market.
I hope this information was helpful! If you are considering buying or selling a home, I would love to talk to you. I am a seasoned agent with over 24 years of experience in the local real estate market. I would love to be able to get you the financial result you desire from your current home to get you in to that Dream Home! Don’t hesitate to call me anytime at 260-579-1516 or you can email me at mike@mikearchbold.com.
Should You Fix Up a Hoarder House — or Sell As-Is?
Inheriting or owning a hoarder house presents a tough decision: Should you clean it up before selling, sell as-is, or try something else? The answer depends on your goals, timeline, and resources. Let’s break down your main options.
Option 1: Sell As-Is for Fast Cash
If the property is in extreme disrepair or you simply want a quick exit, selling as-is to an investor may be your best bet. Investors specialize in distressed properties and can often close fast, with minimal hassle. This can be a relief if:
- The cleanup feels overwhelming
- You’re out of state or managing an estate
- You need funds quickly
Pros: Fast closing, no repairs, minimal effort
Cons: Often sells for well below market value
Option 2: Clean It Up (Even a Little) and List It
If you have time and a little help, even light cleanup and decluttering can dramatically increase what buyers are willing to pay. You don’t have to make it perfect. Removing trash, clearing walkways, and cleaning key areas like kitchens and bathrooms can go a long way.
Buyers can see the potential—but they also need to see the house.
Pros: Higher potential sale price, more buyer interest
Cons: Requires time, effort, or money for cleanup
Option 3: Auction the Property
Another route is to auction the home, especially if it’s unique, in demand, or difficult to value traditionally. Real estate auctions can generate competitive bidding, sometimes driving the price higher than expected—even for distressed properties.
Auctions can work well when:
- You want a defined sale date
- You’re unsure how to price the home
- You’re willing to accept whatever the market dictates
Pros: Fast sale timeline, potential bidding competition
Cons: No guarantee of final price, limited buyer pool
So, What’s Right for You?
Every situation is different. If you’re unsure which direction to take, I can help you explore your options—from investor offers to listing services to connecting with reputable auction houses.
Let’s talk strategy.
Check out more insights at HoosierHomeListings.com or reach out for a no-obligation consultation.
Michael J Archbold
Associate Broker, REALTOR, ePro
RE/MAX Results
8101 Coldwater Rd
Fort Wayne, IN 46825
c. 260-579-1516
e. Mike@MikeArchbold.com
w. www.MikeArchbold.com
Oh, by the way… if you know of someone who would appreciate the level of service I provide, please call me with their name and business number. I’ll be happy to follow up and take great care of them.
Why Does RE/MAX Results Stand Out Among the Competition?
Simply put: Relationships. We pride ourselves not only in our professional service but more importantly in the personal touch we bring to our business. Has an agent/lawyer/contractor/vendor ever treated you like you were just another paycheck? The reason our clients come back time and again and refer all their friends and family to us is because they know we are part of the family.
Genuinely caring about the people we serve enables us to do things other agencies can’t. Rest assured, we will ALWAYS have your best interest at heart and work vigorously to get you the best deal possible on your home or business. The relationships we build with our clients enable us to work 100% by referral.
The reason we are able to give top notch service to our clients is because our clients refer us a constant stream of quality family and friends to assist in their real estate needs. While other agents are out making cold calls and chasing “potential” leads, we are freed up by our referral base to service our clients like no other broker can. We are never too busy for your referrals!
Want to experience the difference for yourself? Call or text me today at 260-579-1516.
“Professional Service with a Personal Touch“
We’re Here To Help
Are you or someone you know considering a home purchase? Don’t hesitate to call or text me, Michael Archbold, at 260-579-1516 and I will connect you with the best mortgage professionals in the business who can get you your score, discuss ways to improve it if necessary, and put you on the path to home ownership. Click here to read more about our Buyer Services. Click here to browse listings NOW! Looking to sell your home? Call today to set up an appointment to begin developing your customized marketing plan. Click here to read more about our Seller Services.
Hoosier Home Listings by RE/MAX Results is a full service real estate Web site serving Northeast Indiana. We assist residential and commercial clients in locating, buying, and selling real property in the State of Indiana including but not limited to the counties of Allen, Huntington, Wells, Adams, Whitley, Wabash, Kosciusko, Noble, Dekalb, Lagrange, Steuben and cities including Fort Wayne, Decatur, Bluffton, Huntington, Warsaw, Columbia City, Butler, and Angola. RE/MAX Results is an Equal Housing Opportunity company.
Hoosier Home Listings – Insider Discussion – Fix and Flip a Hoarder Home? …
… brought to you by Michael Archbold, Hoosier Home Listings, and RE/MAX Results.
The consummate professional, Michael Archbold (Associate Broker, REALTOR, ePro) brings a diversified background to the world of real estate. Born and raised in Fort Wayne, Mike graduated Wayne High School in 1992. He received bachelors degrees in Accounting in 1997 from Indiana University and Information Technology in 2005 from Indiana Wesleyan University. Mike comes to Re/MAX with more than 20 years of experience in sales and accounting. He began his career in real estate in 2000 as an investor.
