A Beginner’s Guide to Flipping a House

The Canadian government has set its sights on the house-flipping industry to cool housing prices. Ottawa held that slapping an anti-flipping tax would help bring down home valuations, allowing a greater number of prospective homebuyers to purchase a property. Indeed, flipping a house in the Canadian real estate market can be wealth-generator for individuals and corporations, under the right market conditions. But how can you take advantage of such opportunities?

We have compiled a guide of the best tips to keep in mind.

A Beginner’s Guide to Flipping a House

#1 Do the Math

When flipping a house, some people think it’s merely about the market value. However, several other financial factors are critical to remember.

So, for example, a common concern that homebuyers have is if the property requires extensive renovations. If so, how much will it cost you? Moreover, do the project costs fit your budgetary needs?

And that is not all.

What will be your closing costs? What will be your selling costs? What will be the carrying costs? Are there tax implications involved with flipping the property?

In addition, it is important to remember that when you flip a property, you do it as an investor, not an end-user. You need to do the math properly and account for the down payment, the legal fees, the land transfer tax, repairs and renovations, and insurance.

#2 Evaluate the location

Location. Location. Location. This had been a common mantra before the pandemic-era housing boom. However, nowadays, it appears that every location is considered “prime” real estate!

With that being said, make sure the property you plan to flip is in a popular neighbourhood with high demand among buyers. The location should also have a low supply of newly renovated homes, with easy access to parking, transportation, grocery stores, schools and restaurants. Ultimately, flippers should refrain from settling for a poor location simply because you can get the property at a low price. You may end up stuck with it for a long time and lose out on the profits you could generate in a better location.

#3 Manage Your Time

When evaluating a property for flipping, ensure the time it would take to renovate will not eat away at your profit margin. You will still have to pay the mortgage, insurance and property taxes. As a result, being prepared to measure the time frame within which you can complete the project is logical and worth investing in when partaking in flipping. If there is too much work to be done and you know it would be too time-consuming, perhaps it would be prudent to look for another property.

One more thing: Try to attain services from industry professionals since it is better not to make such a decision on your own, particularly if you are inexperienced. In other words, show the property to a contractor, talk to an electrician, engage with roofers and plumbers, and speak with experts to determine how much work is involved and how much time it would take to be completed.

#4 Work with a Trustworthy Contractor

If you do hire a contractor, always ensure you work with a professional who is trustworthy. This can make a big difference when meeting deadlines and managing your budget. You may think you are saving money if you hire a little-known or inexperienced contractor, but if their work is lacking in any way, you will eventually have to bear the losses.

#5 Remember Your Building Permits

If you have been in the business of flipping houses, be aware of the required permits. But if you are new at this, you need to understand that in order to renovate a house properly and legally, you need to get the required permits. Plan ahead for this because obtaining permits can be time-consuming. Resist the impulse to build without the necessary permits, as you could be forced to tear down your new project as a penalty if caught.

Plan everything properly, so you do not lose time or money.

#6 Know Your Buyer

You have figured out the location and budget, but you also need to know your target buyer.

Who is likely to buy this house when the project is complete?

The answer to this question will help you determine how you want to renovate the home. Determine what features your target buyer will be attracted to in a property, and what budget you can afford based on what your target buyer could potentially pay for the property. If it’s a family home and your ideal buyer would be a couple with kids, you would know the kind of house they would prefer: a safe neighbourhood, good schools, a big backyard, and a spacious layout.

Ultimately, knowing your buyer can help you create a house that will cater to their needs, thus making the process of finalizing the sale much easier and quicker.

#7 Become Familiar with Tax Requirements

It is essential to understand the tax laws in Canada and how they apply when flipping a house.

It is important to remember that capital gains are treated differently from business income. You must report this money to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) whenever you flip a house and make a sale. This includes all houses you flip. The profits you would make from flipping houses are taxable as business income.

Also, you must note that the principal residence exemption does not apply when flipping a house. You may also have to pay GST/HST. Any non-compliance with your tax obligations related to real estate profits can result in unnecessary complications and trouble with the CRA.