How Long Does It Take to Flip a House? (Real Timelines)

How long does it take to flip a house? For most investors, the house flipping timeline typically spans five to six months from purchase to resale, although projects can move faster or take much longer, depending on the scope and experience. Flipping is the buy-renovate-resell play, and timelines matter because every extra week adds carrying costs and market risk.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll map the flipping process step-by-step, explain the average time to flip a house at each stage, and show how to avoid delays. You’ll learn the biggest timeline drivers, how carrying costs compound, and practical strategies to keep your fix and flip real estate investing on schedule—and profitable.

In This Guide:

• Average Timeline to Flip a House (National & Ranges)
• Step-by-Step House Flip Timeline
• Factors That Speed Up or Slow Down Flips
• Costs Tied to Holding Longer (Carrying Costs)
• Strategies for Flipping Faster and Avoiding Delays
• Real-World Examples & Case Studies
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Final Thoughts on How Long It Takes To Flip A House

*Before we begin our guide, we also invite you to view our video on How To FLIP A HOUSE For Beginners (Step-by-Step). Host and CEO of Real Estate Skills, Alex Martinez, & Stan Gendlin share how to flip a house from start to finish as a beginner! 

Average Timeline to Flip a House (National & Ranges)

If you’re new to flipping houses, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is: how long does it take to flip a house? The answer isn’t the same for everyone because flipping is a process made up of several steps—finding the right property, securing financing, making repairs, and then selling the finished home. Each of these steps takes time, and the more experience you have, the faster you can usually move through them.

National data helps set a baseline. According to the ATTOM Year-End Home Flipping Report, the average time to flip a house last year was about 162 days, which works out to roughly five and a half months. That’s the national average house flipping timeline—but it’s just the middle ground. Some flippers can finish in as little as three months, while others may take a year or more, depending on the project and their level of experience.

To make this easier to understand, let’s compare how long it typically takes across different types of investors and markets. The table below shows the national average alongside common timelines for beginners, intermediate investors, experienced pros, and different market conditions. This way, you can see where you might fall on the spectrum and start setting realistic expectations for your first or next flip.

New to Real Estate? Start Here First

If you haven’t closed your first deal yet, wondering about how long it takes to flip a house can be a little intimidating. Before you take a single step, lock in a simple plan you can execute this week.

That’s what the Ultimate Investor Program is built for—we show you everything you need to know to start investing. Once you're comfortable, you'll know all the steps to close a rehab in the fastest way possible.

Start for free: Grab our FREE Ultimate Guide to Start Real Estate Investing and take the first step—no license required.

Why Estimates Vary by Experience

One of the biggest reasons the house flipping timeline looks different from person to person is simply experience. An investor who has flipped dozens of homes usually completes a project in as little as 3–6 months. They already know how to line up financing, manage contractors, and solve problems quickly. On the other hand, a beginner might need 12–18 months for the exact same type of property. That’s because every step—from getting a loan approved to scheduling inspections—takes longer when you’re doing it for the first time.

If you’re wondering how long does it take to flip a house in your own situation, think about the skills you already have and where you’ll face a learning curve. Here are some of the most important abilities that help experienced flippers move faster:

• Project management: Keeping renovations on schedule and making quick decisions to avoid delays.
• Financing know-how: Using hard money loans or pre-approved funding to close deals quickly.
• Reliable contractor network: Having trusted crews ready to start work right away instead of hunting for bids.
• Market knowledge: Knowing what upgrades add value in a specific neighborhood so time and money aren’t wasted.
• Problem-solving: Handling unexpected issues like permit delays or repairs without losing weeks of progress.

For beginners, building these skills takes time—but once you gain them, your flips can move closer to the shorter 3–6 month range that experienced investors enjoy.

Regional Differences and Market Conditions

While the national average gives us a good benchmark, your actual flip timeline will depend heavily on your region. These market conditions—such as local demand, permitting speed, regulatory environment, and contractor availability—can shorten or extend the house flipping timeline. For example, the average time to flip a house nationally was about 162 days, but ATTOM also notes that timelines vary when you drill down into state and county data through their Home Flipping Report. Pair that with resale data—like Redfin’s Days on Market by region—and you’ll see how quickly a finished flip can sell in some markets compared to others.

As you can see, regional flip times reflect the mix of supply, demand, and red tape. In the Midwest, lower costs and lighter regulation tend to keep projects closer to the 5-month national average. By contrast, in the West Coast or Northeast, strict building codes, permitting backlogs, and higher labor costs push timelines past six months or more. Always factor in local market conditions when estimating how long does it take to flip a house in your area.

Step-by-Step House Flip Timeline

Flipping a house is not one single task—it’s a sequence of smaller steps, each with its own timeline. If you’re new to the process, understanding this step-by-step flipping process will help you see where most of your time will go. From researching and acquiring a property, to securing financing, completing renovations, and finally selling, every stage plays a role in how long does it take to flip a house. Below is a simple timeline table showing how much time each step typically takes, followed by a deeper dive into each stage.

Research & Acquisition (1–3 Months)

The first step in the house flipping timeline is finding the right property. This phase can take one to three months because you need to research neighborhoods, run comparable sales (comps), and make sure the numbers make sense. Beginners often spend more time here because learning how to spot a deal and calculate after-repair value (ARV) takes practice.

• Search listed properties on the MLS with the help of an agent
• Look for off-market deals by driving for dollars
• Network with wholesalers who bring distressed property leads
• Check foreclosure auctions and county tax sales

Financing & Permits (2–4 Weeks)

Once you’ve found a deal, you’ll need to line up financing and permits. This part of the step-by-step flipping process can be quick if you’re using cash or a hard money loan, but slower if you’re relying on traditional bank financing. At the same time, you’ll apply for permits if structural work is needed. Some cities approve permits in days, while others can take weeks or months.

Demolition & Structural Repairs (1–2 Months)

This stage of the rehab timeline focuses on estimating rehab costs. Older homes often need new plumbing, updated electrical, or foundation work before you can move to the cosmetic stage. Expect one to two months here, depending on how extensive the damage is.

• Demolish old fixtures and damaged materials
• Repair or reinforce the foundation
• Replace outdated plumbing or electrical systems
• Fix roofing, framing, or structural issues

Finishing Work (1–2 Months)

After the heavy lifting, it’s time for cosmetic upgrades that buyers see first. This part of the house flipping timeline usually takes another month or two. Focus on high-ROI projects that make the home feel modern and move-in ready.

• Fresh interior and exterior paint
• Updated flooring (hardwood, vinyl plank, or carpet)
• New kitchen cabinets and countertops
• Modern bathroom vanities and fixtures

Inspections & Final Touches (2–4 Weeks)

Before you can list the home, it has to pass inspections and look its best for buyers. This phase may only take a few weeks, but it’s critical to the flipping process.

Listing & Selling (1–3 Months)

Once the home is ready, the selling stage begins. The resale process can be quick in a hot market, but in slower markets, homes may sit for months. On average, plan for one to three months to find the right buyer.

• Hire a real estate agent to list the property on the MLS
• Use professional photos and virtual tours
• Price the home competitively based on local comps
• Host open houses or investor walk-throughs

Contingency & Buffer Planning

*For in-depth training on real estate investing, Real Estate Skills offers extensive courses to get you ready to make your first investment! Attend our FREE Webinar Training and gain insider knowledge, expert strategies, and essential skills to make the most of every real estate opportunity that comes your way!

Factors That Speed Up or Slow Down Flips

Not every flip takes the same amount of time. Even if two investors buy similar houses, one project might finish in just a few months while the other drags on for a year. That’s because different factors directly affect the house flipping timeline. Here are the biggest ones to keep in mind when estimating how long does it take to flip a house:

• Property Condition: Homes that only need cosmetic updates (like paint and flooring) can be finished quickly. But if a property has major structural issues—such as foundation cracks or outdated plumbing—the timeline can easily double. For example, a simple cosmetic flip might take four months, while a full rehab could stretch past a year.
• Contractor Availability: Having a reliable crew ready to start work can speed up your project by weeks. On the flip side, if contractors are juggling too many jobs or you’re stuck waiting for bids, work may stall. Many experienced flippers keep trusted teams on call so they can begin renovations right after closing.
• Permitting & Regulations: Some cities issue permits within days, while others take months. In highly regulated areas, inspectors may require multiple rounds of approvals, slowing the process. A beginner should always budget extra time for permits because even small changes—like adding a deck—can require official approval.
• Financing Speed: Paying cash or using a hard money loan usually allows you to close and start work quickly. Conventional loans, however, often take 30–60 days to finalize. Faster financing means you can spend more time renovating and less time waiting to break ground.
• Local Market Conditions: In hot markets with strong buyer demand, finished flips can sell within weeks. In slower markets, properties may sit unsold for months, adding carrying costs. For example, a renovated home in a fast-moving metro might sell in under 30 days, while the same property could take 90+ days in a weaker market.

Every investor faces these challenges, but being aware of them helps you set a realistic house flipping timeline. When you plan for these factors, you’ll have a much clearer picture of how long your project might take and where delays are most likely to happen.

Costs Tied to Holding Longer (Carrying Costs)

Every month you own a flip, you’re paying expenses even if the house isn’t finished or sold. These ongoing costs are called carrying costs (sometimes called holding costs). They include things like loan interest, property taxes, insurance, and utilities. The longer your house flipping timeline stretches, the more these costs eat into your profit. That’s why understanding them—and planning for them—matters when figuring out how long does it take to flip a house.

Mortgage & Financing Costs

For most flippers, the biggest carrying cost is the mortgage or loan interest. If you used a hard money loan, interest can be high, so each extra month adds hundreds or even thousands to your total expense.

• Monthly hard money loan interest
• Bridge loan or line of credit payments
• Conventional mortgage interest (if used)

Taxes, Insurance & Utilities

Even if your project stalls, the bills don’t stop. Local property taxes, hazard insurance, and basic utilities add up quickly over several months.

• County and city property taxes
• Property insurance premiums
• Gas, water, electric, and internet during renovations

HOA & Maintenance Fees

If the property is in an HOA community, expect monthly fees. Even without an HOA, regular lawn care, snow removal, or pest control may be needed to keep the property in marketable shape.

• Monthly HOA dues
• Lawn mowing or landscaping
• Seasonal maintenance, like snow removal

Profit Impact

Carrying costs might not sound like much at first, but when your flip runs several months longer than expected, they can eat thousands out of your profit. That’s why when you ask yourself how long does it take to flip a house, the real answer isn’t just about renovation time—it’s about how long you can afford to hold the property before it erodes your return.

Strategies for Flipping Faster & Avoiding Delays

Once you understand the typical house flipping timeline, the next step is learning how to move through it more efficiently. The good news is that there are proven house flipping strategies you can use to avoid costly setbacks. Here are some of the most effective ways to flip faster while protecting your profits:

1. Plan every step before you buy: A detailed budget and timeline at the start can prevent surprises later. Know exactly what repairs you’ll make and what your exit strategy is before signing a contract.
2. Assemble a reliable team: Experienced contractors, inspectors, and real estate agents save time because they know the process. With a solid team in place, you won’t lose weeks chasing bids or waiting on missed deadlines.
3. Secure fast financing: Using cash or a hard money loan allows you to close quickly and start renovations right away. Conventional financing can slow the process, so fast access to funds is one of the best ways to flip faster.
4. Get permits early: Delays at city hall can stall a project for months. Submitting permit applications as soon as possible—and knowing which projects require them—keeps the job moving forward without interruptions.
5. Focus on a realistic scope: Cosmetic updates are faster than full structural overhauls. If your goal is to reduce the house flipping timeline, target properties that need mostly cosmetic work, like paint, flooring, or fixtures, instead of foundation or plumbing repairs.
6. Market the property before it’s done: Start generating interest while renovations are finishing. Professional photos, coming-soon listings, and social media posts can line up buyers so the house sells quickly once it hits the market.
7. Always have a backup exit plan: Even with the best planning, unexpected delays can happen. Having alternatives like renting the property short-term or refinancing gives you flexibility if the flip doesn’t sell right away.

By using these strategies, you can avoid many of the common setbacks that slow down new investors. The more efficiently you handle each stage, the more predictable—and profitable—your flips will become.

Real-World Examples & Case Studies

One of the most common questions we hear from new investors is: “How long does it really take to flip a house?” Instead of just giving you averages and estimates, we want to show you real examples that prove not only how fast a flip can be done, but also how we help our students succeed in the exact same way.

Let’s start with my own journey. Here’s exactly how I flipped my very first house and made over $60,000 profit in less than 90 days. At the time, I had no idea how to flip houses. What I also didn’t realize was that this deal would be the first of dozens of house flips I’ve completed since. In the video below, I walk you step by step through the entire process so you can see exactly how I got started and how you can begin flipping homes yourself:

Since that first deal, I’ve gained years of experience and fine-tuned a system that makes flipping homes both faster and more predictable. That experience is exactly what we now teach inside Real Estate Skills — helping people just like you learn the process and take action with confidence.

One of the best examples of this is Stephanie, a student who joined our program with no background in real estate or construction. Stephanie was a successful food service entrepreneur looking to prepare for retirement, and within just under two years, she flipped four properties and made $150,000 in profit. She earned $40,000 on her very first flip alone. Stephanie’s story proves that you don’t need prior experience to succeed in real estate investing. What you do need is the right mindset, community, and training — which is exactly what she gained by investing in herself and leveraging the tools from Real Estate Skills.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We know that when you’re first learning how to flip a house, the timeline can feel uncertain. To help you set realistic expectations, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about the average time it takes, what stages are involved, and how to avoid costly delays. These quick answers will give you clarity and help you plan your first flip with confidence.

How long does it usually take to flip a house?

On average, a house flip takes about 4 to 6 months from purchase to resale. This includes acquisition, renovations, inspections, and the final sale.

What are the main stages in a house flipping timeline?

The typical stages include buying the property, completing rehab work, marketing the property, and closing with a buyer. Each step has its own timeline, but rehab usually takes the longest.

What delays can affect how long it takes to flip a house?

Common delays include contractor scheduling issues, permit approvals, unexpected repair problems, and slow buyer financing. Planning ahead and having backup options helps minimize these risks.

How do carrying costs impact the house flipping timeline?

Carrying costs like mortgage payments, utilities, insurance, and property taxes add up each month. The longer the flip takes, the more these expenses cut into your overall profit.

Is house flipping still profitable if the project takes longer than expected?

Yes, flips can remain profitable even with delays if the property has strong equity and is in a high-demand market. However, every extra month reduces your net return, so efficiency is key.

Can beginners realistically flip a house in under 90 days?

Yes, it’s possible, especially with light cosmetic rehabs and the right support team. Many first-time investors see success quickly when they follow proven systems and strategies.

Final Thoughts on How Long It Takes To Flip A House

So, how long does it take to flip a house? The answer depends on the property, the rehab scope, and your preparation — but with the right plan, most flips take just a few months from start to finish. The key is knowing what to expect, staying organized through each stage, and learning proven strategies that save you both time and money.

If you’re ready to stop guessing and start flipping with confidence, our Real Estate Skills training program will show you exactly how to do it. We’ll walk you step by step through finding deals, running numbers, managing renovations, and selling for maximum profit. Don’t wait — schedule your free strategy session today and learn how to flip houses the right way.

*Disclosure: Real Estate Skills is not a law firm, and the information contained here does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney before making any legal conclusions. The information presented here is educational in nature. All investments involve risks, and the past performance of an investment, industry, sector, and/or market does not guarantee future returns or results. Investors are responsible for any investment decision they make. Such decisions should be based on an evaluation of their financial situation, investment objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs.