Real Estate Guide

Buying Your Home - Questions and Answers
'Fixer-Uppers'

• Are fixers a good idea in bad areas?
• Are there programs for fixer-uppers?
• Are there any special tax breaks for historic rehab?
• Where are fixer-uppers found?
• What are some guidelines to follow when trying to find a contractor?
• What kind of return is there on remodeling jobs?
• What are some resources for info on home improvements?

Are fixers a good idea in bad areas?

See >> Investing In Real Estate: Fixer-uppers - Are fixers a good idea in bad areas?

Are there programs for fixer-uppers?

See >> Real Estate Guide: Your Mortgage (Fixer-upper Loans) - Loans For Re-hab

Are there any special tax breaks for historic rehab?

See >> Buying Your Home - Historic Opportunities in Real Estate

Where are fixer-uppers found?

See >> Investing In Real Estate: Fixer-uppers - Where are fixer-uppers found?

What are some guidelines to follow when trying to find a contractor?

See >> Real Estate Guide: Homeownership (Hiring A Contractor) - What are some guidelines to hiring a contractor?

What kind of return is there on remodeling jobs?

See >> Investing In Real Estate: Fixer-uppers - What kind of return is there on remodeling jobs?

What are some resources for info on home improvements?

If you're getting ready to embark on a home improvement project involving contracting help, "Ready, Set, Build: A Consumer's Guide to Home Improvement Planning Contracts" lays out a road map for selecting the right contractor, obtaining competitive bids up to what to include in a contract.

There also is information on consumer rights, liens and financing.  The book is available for $9.95 through Consumer Press and Women's Publications, Inc., Dept. SR01, 13326 Southwest 28th St., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33330-1102; (954) 370-9153.

Resources:

• Remodeling magazine's annual "Cost vs. Value Report", available for a nominal fee from the magazine; call (202) 736-3447 to order a copy.
• How to Calculate Real Estate Rehab Profits
• http://remodeling.hw.net/, E-zine covering information, ideas, and instructions on how to remodel homes, including a product guide and kitchen and bathroom design.