🛠️ How to Estimate Rehab Without Stepping Foot Inside
You don’t need a contractor to get ballpark rehab numbers. Use this cheat code: Light Rehab: $20–$30/sq ft Medium Rehab: $30–$50/sq ft Full Gut: $60–$80+/sq ft 🔍 Use Google Maps, Zillow pics, and seller info to guess the condition. Then confirm with boots on the ground or buyers who’ve flipped nearby. 🔧 EXAMPLE: Estimating Rehab Like a Pro — Remotely 📍 Property: 123 Maple Ave, Oakland, CA 🏠 Sq Ft: 1,200 sq ft 📸 Photos: Zillow shows outdated kitchen, stained carpet, old roof, but no visible structural issues 📞 Seller says: “It just needs some cosmetic work and maybe a roof.” 🔹 Step 1: Determine Rehab Scope From photos + seller comments, it sounds like a medium rehab: Kitchen and bath updates Flooring and paint Possibly roofing No major layout changes or full gut 🔹 Step 2: Use Cost Per Sq Ft Formula Medium rehab range = $30–$50 per sq ft So: 1,200 sq ft × $40/sq ft = $48,000 rehab estimate 🔹 Step 3: Pad for Safety Add a 10–15% buffer for surprises: $48,000 + 15% = ~$55,200 📊 Final Remote Rehab Estimate: ~$55K This is a ballpark to evaluate the deal. Always confirm later with a contractor or buyer walkthrough. Use this system to screen deals FAST — especially when JV’ing in out-of-state markets or with virtual teams.