Why more buyers and sellers are embracing fixer-uppers ...Saudi Arabia

Related Articles

Homes that need a little love – commonly known as fixer-uppers – are getting a lot more attention lately. A new report from Realtor.com® shows searches for “fixer-upper” have more than tripled over four years, as buyers look for ways to afford a home in today’s competitive market.

In fact, listing page views on Realtor.com are 52% higher for fixer-uppers than for similar homes not marketed that way. In July 2021, that number was only 18.7%.

The trend is clear: as more home shoppers consider homes that need work, it creates opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Buyers can address affordability challenges, while sellers may choose to skip costly renovations and sell “as is.”

Characteristics of a fixer-upper

Realtor.com examined single-family homes that are at least 20 years old and listed below the median price per square foot in their respective ZIP codes. Nationwide fixer-uppers offer a 54.2% price discount.

Fixer-uppers also tend to be smaller – a median size of about 1,628 square feet, compared with 2,000 square feet for typical single-family homes – and were built around 1958. Most have three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Why buyers are saying “yes” to projects

For many, purchasing an older home is often the most affordable route to homeownership. If the house requires improvements that the buyer is willing to make themselves, buying a fixer-upper can be even more attractive.

“Fixer-uppers give buyers a way to break into the housing market at a time when affordability is still stretched thin,” says Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com. “For those with the vision and a toolbox, fixer-uppers provide both a starting point in the market and the chance to create a home that’s truly their own.”

That “sweat equity” approach – doing the work yourself – can boost a home’s value while keeping the cost down. With sweat equity, buyers can purchase a less expensive home and make improvements over time, making this approach increasingly attractive.

Tips for buyers

If you’re searching online, look for older homes priced below the median in the ZIP code. You can also search using common keywords to find listings with phrases like fixer-upper, needs work, good bones, could use some TLC, renovation-ready, handyman special, bring your imagination, needs your personal touches, needs some love, or priced accordingly.

It’s also essential to evaluate the extent of repairs needed and consider the possible value once the work is completed. Your Realtor can identify homes that meet these criteria and help assess the potential return on investment. 

Attractive path for sellers

Fixer-uppers aren’t just for buyers. They can also be a smart way for sellers to list a home that needs updates – without taking on the cost or inconvenience of remodeling.

And some sellers are choosing this route. Realtor.com recently reported that 39% of listings nationwide needed updates, most often in kitchens, bathrooms, and general interior maintenance. One of the top reasons cited for these conditions was a lack of funds to make repairs. Additionally, some building material costs have increased due to tariffs, leaving sellers hesitant to invest in renovations that they may not recoup.

In today’s market, sellers can consider several options:

While fixer-uppers can take slightly longer to sell than comparable older homes, the gap is narrowing. The median days on market for a fixer-upper in July 2025 was 53, compared with 50.5 days for other below-median-priced homes more than 20 years old, reports Realtor.com. That’s only a 2.5-day difference, down from six days in July 2021 – evidence that buyers are more open to taking on projects. 

Bottom line

The dream of owning a home remains alive, despite the affordability challenges. Buyers are finding creative ways to make ownership possible, while sellers who list their home “as is” may attract more buyers eager to make changes and happy to take advantage of the discounted price.

Whether you are buying or selling, consult with a Realtor to determine the best path forward and find a home that meets your needs.

Read the complete report at: realtor.com/research/fixer-uppers-2025.Jay Kalinski is the broker/owner of RE/MAX Elevate and owner of RE/MAX of Boulder. He is also an experienced Realtor, lawyer and veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He focuses on both residential and commercial real estate, with experience in real estate development and investment. Jay lives in Boulder and is a zealous advocate for his clients as well as an avid triathlete, runner, reader and supporter of Veterans’ causes.

Stay up to date with area Real Estate and Home & Garden news information with the latest e-edition version of atHome Colorado online

This article is brought to you by atHome Colorado, your weekly insight into real estate, design, and community trends, published weekly by the advertising and marketing department in the Boulder Daily Camera, Loveland Reporter-Herald, Greeley Tribune, and Longmont Times-Call

Hence then, the article about why more buyers and sellers are embracing fixer uppers was published today ( Friday 14/11/2025 - 10:21 PM ) and is available on GreeleyTribune ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.

Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Why more buyers and sellers are embracing fixer-uppers )

Also on site :

• Breaking: Nikola Jokic exits game in Miami with left knee injury
• U.S. 85 closed after Monday afternoon crash in Greeley
• Pre-Gamin’: Bulls vs Timberwolves (7:00 PM CT) – Projected Lineups, How to Watch, More