In this episode of CK Confidential: The Art of Délicieux Design, Michael Killian and Justin Ceeko take you inside the very first step of any home transformation journey: the purchase.

But this isn’t your typical “real estate 101.” As co-founders of CK Atelier de Rénovation—and licensed real estate professionals—Michael and Justin share how they help clients buy with strategy, creativity, and clarity. From walking through a showing to envisioning a full renovation, this episode demystifies what it really means to spot potential in a home… and turn it into something extraordinary.

With decades of combined experience in real estate, design, and luxury renovation, Michael and Justin break down the top qualities they look for in properties—and what they tell clients to avoid. Because not every fixer-upper is a smart investment. But the right one? It can become a sanctuary, a statement, and a serious return on investment.

🏡 What You’ll Learn:

✓ Why “move-in ready” can be a trap—and what to look for instead
✓ The 5 things CK looks for when scouting a home with renovation potential
✓ How ceiling height, lighting, and layout offer clues to transformation
✓ The power of buying in the right neighborhood—even if the home isn’t “there” yet
✓ How CK supports clients through the entire buying process—from search to close

🛠️ The CK Full-Service Advantage

Here’s what sets CK apart: Michael and Justin are not only award-worthy designers and renovation strategists—they are also licensed real estate agents in California.

That means their clients don’t need to juggle a separate agent, designer, and contractor. CK handles it all—from finding the property, to guiding the renovation, to styling the final reveal.

In this episode, they share how they walk clients through listings, identify which walls to knock down (mentally, and eventually physically), and evaluate what it would take to turn a tired space into a true design-forward home.

You’ll also hear:

• A real story about a forgotten listing that became a modern desert jewel
• What buyers often overlook when touring a home
• The questions you should ask when considering a renovation property
• Why CK always leads with both vision and valuation

💬 Favorite Quote from This Episode:

Who This Episode Is For:

• First-time homebuyers trying to make sense of the real estate market
• Design-curious listeners who want to renovate but don’t know where to begin
• Investors seeking design-smart guidance on how to add value
• Homeowners wondering if their current property has transformation potential
• Anyone tired of beige listings and craving something more… délicieux

Elevated Living, Beautifully Reimagined.