Thinking about buying a home but not sure whether to go for a fixer upper or pay more for a move-in ready property? In this episode of Closing the Deal, Sam Enright and Zach Dickson break down the pros, cons, and buyer profiles for both options.

We cover everything from building sweat equity and personalization, to the risks, hidden costs, and lifestyle trade-offs of each choice. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, investor, or just exploring your options, this conversation will help you decide what makes the most sense for your goals, budget, and timeline.

If you’re planning to buy your first home — or just want to understand today’s housing market better — this episode is for you.

👉 Subscribe for more real estate insights, homebuying tips, and strategies to help you close the deal.

00:00 – Intro: Dream home, fixer upper or move-in ready?

02:13 – What defines a fixer upper vs. move-in ready home

05:16 – The case for fixer uppers: lower price, sweat equity, personalization

10:56 – Hidden risks & retail costs of fixer uppers

12:42 – Stress, time, and real-life renovation challenges

17:03 – Do you want a project or a home?

17:38 – Real-life example: equity gains from a fixer upper

19:00 – The case for move-in ready homes: convenience & peace of mind

21:05 – Competition and predictable costs of move-in ready homes

23:36 – Cookie-cutter rehabs & customization limits

24:14 – Avoiding unfinished projects & getting your time back

27:38 – Who should buy a fixer upper? Handy buyers & investors

29:34 – Why upfront cash reserves matter for fixer uppers

31:33 – Financing options for renovations (teaser for future episode)

31:58 – Who should buy move-in ready: busy people & short-term owners

32:48 – Lifestyle fit: time, stress, and priorities

34:11 – Final takeaway: It’s not just about the house, it’s about you

36:25 – Closing thoughts and advice