How to Be Successful Flipping Houses: Tips from Experienced Flippers

Tip #1: Be Hungry to Learn

In house flipping, there’s always something new to discover—construction materials, design trends, or market shifts. A successful flipper embraces learning as a constant part of the journey. Brian Boll in Nashville, TN, puts it perfectly:

“There is so much to learn. I think being a successful flipper means that you’re hungry to learn. If you have a natural curiosity about life, business, houses, different paint compounds that make up your primer and finishing coat, or even the different types of locking mechanisms on luxury vinyl flooring, then you’d be excellent at flipping houses. I think being teachable is a very important attribute to this business.”

Being curious allows you to spot opportunities others might miss. For example, understanding the nuances of materials can lead to better long-term value in your projects.

A teachable attitude also makes you receptive to feedback from contractors and inspectors, which helps you grow faster and avoid repeating mistakes. Over time, this mindset can mean the difference between average flips and consistently profitable ones.

Tip #2: Build a Reliable Team

Flipping houses is a team sport. No matter how skilled you are, you’ll need trustworthy partners to bring your vision to life. Oliver Cahueque in Tampa Bay, FL, explains:

“Build a reliable team. We have cultivated relationships with contractors, inspectors, and suppliers who understand our standards and timelines. Your team is your competitive advantage.”

Think of your team as the backbone of your operation. A contractor who knows your preferences can save you hours of explanation and countless headaches. A dependable supplier can ensure materials arrive on schedule, keeping your project on track.

Building those relationships takes time and effort, but the payoff is immense—reduced delays, fewer errors, and a support system that grows with you.

Tip #3: Pay Attention to Details

Details might seem small, but they can make or break your project’s timeline and budget. Bradley Nicholson in Northwest Ohio/Michigan learned this firsthand:

“Pay attention to the details! I was working on getting my first materials order placed, and my contractor sent over pictures of what he needed. I saw that it was a 60-pound bag of Quikrete so added it to the order. When the delivery arrived, he said, “Why did you order concrete mix? I asked for mortar.” I checked the picture, and sure enough, his picture was of mortar mix! Even the little details matter.”

One overlooked item or incorrect order can lead to costly delays. To avoid this, double-check specifications, confirm orders, and maintain clear communication with your team. Treat every detail as an important piece of the puzzle, because it is.

In a competitive market, precision is what sets top flippers apart.

Tip #4: Practice Discipline in Every Step

Discipline is essential in every stage of flipping. From deal analysis to budget management, it keeps your projects profitable and on schedule. Brian Boll in Nashville, TN, emphasizes:

“One of the most important traits needed to have as a house flipper is discipline. You will need it across all facets of the business. It starts when analyzing a potential deal, using proper comps, creating the budget, negotiations, and being able to walk away if things don’t line up.”

Successful flippers resist the urge to chase every opportunity. They know that walking away from a bad deal protects their capital and allows them to focus on the right ones. Discipline also helps you stick to your budget and timeline, even when tempted to add upgrades that won’t increase your return.

Tip #5: Focus on Function First

Imagine buying a house with gorgeous new floors, only to discover a failing HVAC system.

While cosmetic upgrades catch a buyer’s eye, functional issues can kill a deal. Oliver Cahueque in Tampa Bay, FL, explains:

“Focus on function first. We tackle major systems before cosmetics—roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical. You can’t sell a house with broken AC in Florida. That said, you can’t forget about aesthetics. It’s what makes buyers fall in love with the home.”

Prioritizing functionality builds buyer confidence and prevents last-minute negotiations or cancellations. Once the core systems are solid, invest in the finishes that spark emotional connections.

Tip #6: Plan & Execute Carefully

Careful planning turns good flips into great ones. Erik Spersrud in Northwest Indy, IN, advises:

“House flipping can be a lucrative venture, but it requires careful planning and execution. You have to research the market, set a realistic budget, assemble a strong team, and understand the 70% rule. Thoroughly assessing repair needs, creating a detailed timeline, and effectively marketing the property are also crucial for maximizing profits.”

A solid plan minimizes surprises. For example, researching local trends might reveal which neighborhoods are heating up. Additionally, building a detailed budget and timeline keeps you on track and helps you manage resources efficiently.

When you’re prepared, you can navigate setbacks with confidence.

Tip #7: Design for the Market, Not Yourself

It’s tempting to design a house according to your own tastes, but buyers may not share them. Brian Boll in Nashville, TN, shares:

“Once you have purchased the house, discipline is important when making decisions through the construction process to keep the project within the budget and finishing in a timely manner. It also comes into play when choosing designs and finishes. Designing a house that you really like might not be appealing to the broader market, which can hurt you upon listing. You need your home to appeal to the masses.”

To maximize appeal, choose neutral colors and popular finishes that work for a variety of buyers. Think of your property as a product. Your goal is to make it attractive to as many potential buyers as possible, not just those who share your style.

Tip #8: See Potential Where Others See Problems

Sometimes, a property’s potential isn’t obvious. Oliver Cahueque recalls a transformational project:

“My wife and business partner, Doris, and I stepped out of my truck in front of a weathered split level that looked like something out of a scary movie. What others saw as a liability, we saw as potential. I remember the agent that showed us the house mentioned every house has a story, and Doris and I knew that our job was to give them a new chapter. A few months later, our transformed home had multiple offers above asking price. Our secret? We’re not just flipping houses. We’re solving problems for sellers and creating homes for families. When you approach flipping as service, profits follow naturally. This philosophy has driven our success.”

This mindset is a powerful differentiator. Instead of being deterred by challenges, look for ways to create value. A house that others overlook could become your biggest success story.

Tip #9: Purchase Carefully & Avoid Overpaying

Buying wisely is the first step to making money in flipping. Joshua Stigers in Northwest St. Louis, MO, warns:

“My advice would be to not overpay for properties on the purchase side. Everyone thinks that house flipping is easy, and you make lots of money. My advice is to purchase the property carefully. Make sure your renovation budget accounts for everything. Don’t overpay for a property because you are excited, become emotionally attached to it, or need a house to keep your crew busy. Once you have purchased, what is your exit strategy? Be able to pivot and pivot quickly.”

A careful purchase protects your margins. Analyze deals with a clear head, and always have an exit strategy. If market conditions change, being able to pivot quickly can save you from losses.

Tip #10: Master the Numbers

Understanding the math behind each project is non-negotiable. Oliver Cahueque puts it succinctly:

“Master the numbers first. Success starts with math, not emotion. If the numbers don’t work, walk away.”

A property might look like a great opportunity, but if the numbers don’t align with your goals, it’s best to move on. Calculate every expense—from purchase price to holding costs—to ensure a profitable outcome.

Tip #11: Select the Right Properties

Choosing the right property is key to a smooth flip. Sajeena in Palatine/Northwest Chicago, IL, explains:

“Achieving success in house flipping requires thorough market research, a strong understanding of property values, and selecting the right properties—often those that need primarily non-structural improvements in desirable areas. Build a reliable team, focus on high-ROI upgrades like the kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms, and complete projects efficiently to minimize holding costs. Market the finished home professionally and take time to evaluate each flip to continuously improve. Avoid common mistakes such as underestimating expenses or skipping necessary permits.”

Look for properties with cosmetic issues rather than structural ones. Focus your efforts where they have the most impact, like kitchens and bathrooms, to maximize your return on investment.

Tip #12: Keep Emotions in Check

Emotions can cloud judgment and hurt your profits. Brian Boll in Nashville, TN, explains:

“Leave emotions at the door! There are many reasons that may cause people to list their house over the market. Maybe it’s sheer economics because they are over budget and want to recoup the money they thought they were making prior to the budget overage. Obviously, you’re in the business to make money, but if you are way over the market for the area, the house could sit so long trying to recoup losses at a higher price that holding costs, like interest, utilities, and insurance, could eat up even more money. Maybe you just think your house is so much nicer than the comps and competition that you believe you should be able to ask for more money. This may actually be true, and there might be a premium for your finishes, but if you go too far over and miss the mark, you could be back to waiting for the one right buyer willing to overpay for your house. This could prove costly.”

By keeping emotions out of your pricing strategy, you make decisions based on market data rather than personal attachment. This approach minimizes holding costs and maximizes your return.

Tip #13: Know Your Buyers

Tailoring your property to your target buyers can speed up the sale. Oliver Cahueque shares:

“Know your buyers. Understanding your market and buyer pool is key. You should know whether you’re renovating for families, young professionals, or retirees.”

When you understand who you’re renovating for, you can make design choices that resonate with them. A family might appreciate a fenced backyard, while a young professional might prioritize modern finishes and proximity to amenities.