How To Flip Houses In Utah: Step By Step (2024)

With its vibrant real estate market and ample investment opportunities, Utah has become a popular destination for seasoned investors and those new to the industry. In particular, Utah has had one of the country’s fastest-growing populations for the better part of a decade, which continues to promote a very healthy and active housing market. As a result, we’ve developed a step-by-step guide to provide invaluable insights and strategies to help you navigate the Utah real estate market.

Learning how to flip houses in Utah can be a thrilling and rewarding venture, but it's crucial to approach it with a well-defined plan and a thorough understanding of the local market. Throughout this guide, we'll walk you through each stage of the house-flipping journey, from identifying potential properties to selling the renovated home for a profit.

Whether you're a first-time investor or an experienced real estate entrepreneur, this comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to flip houses in Utah effectively, including:

• What Is Flipping Houses?
• Utah House Flipping Statistics
• How To Flip Houses In Utah (7 Steps)
• How To Find Houses To Flip In Utah
• Do You Need A License To Flip Houses In Utah?
• How To Flip A House In Utah With No Money
• Best Cities To Flip Houses In Utah
• Final Thoughts On Flipping Homes In Utah

*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 in Utah as a beginner! 

Together, Alex & Stan have completed over 1,000+ house flips. What you learn in this video will give you the confidence and guidance to successfully complete your fix-and-flip project!

What Is Flipping Houses?

At its core, flipping houses is an uncontested wealth-building vehicle. In contrast to the average annual return of around 10% provided by the S&P 500 for stock portfolios, data from ATTOM Data Solutions reveals that the first quarter of this year witnessed a "typical gross flipping profit of $56,000," resulting in an impressive 22.5% return on investment.

Flipping houses has proven to belong in a diversified investment portfolio, which begs the question: What is flipping houses? Flipping houses is a real estate investment strategy that involves buying, rehabbing, fixing, and reselling real estate assets.

Flippers, otherwise known as rehabbers, will attempt to find and acquire real property below its true market value. In doing so, investors will prioritize distressed homeowners with increased motivation to sell. Doing so typically results in quicker transactions and larger profit margins.

Once the home is purchased, investors will proceed to invest in rehabbing the property and restoring it to its desired condition. The idea is that the renovations will increase the home's value—enough to make a generous profit when it comes time to resell the property.

To be clear, house flipping is more involved than this brief description lets on. However, it should be a friendly introduction to one of today’s best wealth-building strategies. For those looking for a more in-depth analysis of the process, continue resting to learn how to flip houses in Utah.

Utah House Flipping Statistics

Before investors can even think about learning how to flip houses in Utah, they need to understand the local market and its most fundamental indicators. Here’s a quick introduction to some of the most critical data investors need to familiarize themselves with before they invest a single dollar:

• Average Home Value: $518,806
• Median Sale Price: $529,600
• 1-Year Appreciation Rate: -5.2%
• Median Days On Market: 31
• Median Days To Pending: 15
• Homes For Sale: 12,442
• Homes Sold Above List Price:5%
• New Listings: 4,638
• Months Of Supply: 3
• Foreclosure Rate: One in every 5,106 households
• Population: 3,380,800
• Median Household Income: $79,133
• Unemployment Rate: 3%

*All Utah housing market statistics are as of the third quarter of 2023.

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How To Flip Houses In Utah (7 Steps)

Learning how to flip houses in Utah doesn’t need to be complicated. If for nothing else, investors have been flipping properties in Utah successfully for years, and there’s no reason to reinvent the wheel. Instead, follow the seven steps outlined below:

1. Find A House-Flipping Mentor
2. Research The Local Housing Market
3. Find & Analyze Distressed Properties
4. Raise Capital To Fund The Deal
5. Close On The House
6. Renovate The Property
7. Resell The House

1. Find A House-Flipping Mentor

New investors entering the world of house flipping in Utah may be tempted to take on the challenge alone, but there are compelling reasons to seek the guidance of a mentor. Collaborating with an experienced mentor can provide a wealth of real-world insights, invaluable strategies, and access to a supportive network that can accelerate growth. A mentor shares their expertise and instills confidence in new investors, helping them transform obstacles into opportunities for untapped potential.

When finding a house-flipping mentor, there are several avenues for new investors to explore. Networking within the real estate industry, attending local events, or joining investor groups can present opportunities to connect with experienced flippers willing to share their knowledge. Paid mentorship services are also available, offering structured guidance tailored to individual needs and goals. Additionally, seeking recommendations from trusted sources, such as real estate professionals or fellow investors, can lead to fruitful mentorship relationships.

Regardless of how a mentor is found, actively seeking guidance and mentorship can pave the way for a highly successful career in the flipping industry. By leveraging the experience and insights of a mentor, new investors can navigate the Utah real estate market with greater confidence, minimize risks, and optimize their chances of success.

Ready to start house-flipping in Utah? Join Alex Martinez at his FREE training to learn how to get started with house-flipping and wholesaling!

2. Research The Local Housing Market

To further their understanding of the Utah real estate market—even beyond the experience they gain from a mentor—investors must set aside some time to do a little research. To fast-track the task, here’s a list of some of today’s most trusted sources for researching the Utah housing market:

• Zillow Housing Data Research
• Zillow’s Utah Market Overview
• Redfin’s Utah Housing Market Overview
• Realtor.com’s Utah Market Overview
• ATTOM Data Solutions’ Utah Real Estate & Property Data
• Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis’ Utah Data
• SoFi’s State Foreclosure Data
• U.S. Census Bureau’s Utah Data
• Bureau Of Labor Statistics’ Utah Economic Data

3. Find & Analyze Distressed Properties

Investors have various approaches available to identify and analyze distressed properties. Among these methods, the 70% rule has proven to be a valuable starting point, particularly for new investors.

According to the 70% rule, investors must determine the property's after-repair value (ARV); this involves evaluating recent sales data of comparable properties in the area, which provides insights into how much the subject property can be worth once renovations are made.

Once the ARV is established, investors can apply the 70% rule. Multiply the ARV by 70% (or 0.70) and then subtract the estimated rehab costs. The resulting figure represents the maximum allowable offer (MAO). This MAO is a guideline for investors, ensuring they don’t spend too much to acquire a deal and ruin profit margins.

Here is the formula:

ARV - Fixed Cost - Rehab Costs - Desired Profit = Maximum Allowable Offer (MAO)

While it's important to note that the 70% rule alone should not be relied upon for a comprehensive analysis, it offers a quick snapshot of the deal's viability. As investors gain experience and a deeper understanding of the market dynamics, they can refine their analysis and incorporate additional strategies into their evaluation process.

The 70% rule, however, provides a valuable starting point for investors venturing into the world of house flipping in Utah.

Read Also: Estimating Rehab Costs: A 5-Step Guide For Real Estate Investors

4. Raise Capital To Fund The Deal

Securing the necessary capital to fund deals is crucial for investors, especially for flipping houses in Utah. While some may consider using personal funds, however, exploring borrowing options often proves more advantageous.

Utilizing external funding brings several benefits to the table. Firstly, it helps investors avoid depleting their savings, preserving financial flexibility and mitigating potential risks. Secondly, leveraging borrowed capital allows for scalability, empowering investors to pursue multiple deals simultaneously and expand their business.

There are two preferred lending sources for today’s investors: private money lenders and hard money lenders. Despite their higher interest rates, the advantages they offer outweigh the costs. By accepting higher rates, investors gain quick access to funds, which can be a game-changer in Utah's competitive real estate market.

5. Close On The House

Closing on a house in Utah involves a series of important steps that ensure a smooth and successful transaction. By following these steps, investors can navigate the process effectively and close on a house in Utah with confidence:

• Purchase Agreement: The buyer and seller agree and document the terms of the sale in a legally binding contract; this includes the purchase price, contingencies, closing date, and other milestones that define the transaction.
• Escrow Arrangement: Utah operates as an escrow state, which means a neutral escrow agent facilitates the transaction. The buyer or agent establishes an escrow arrangement to transfer funds and necessary documents.
• Due Diligence: The buyer conducts due diligence to protect their interests; this includes a thorough property inspection, title search, appraisals, and addressing any contingencies outlined in the purchase agreement. This step ensures the buyer knows the property's condition and potential risks.
• Document Handling: The escrow agent or title company manages all the necessary documents and ensures their accuracy. They work diligently to ensure that all required paperwork is executed correctly.
• Document Review & Signing: All parties involved in the transaction, including the buyer, seller, and their respective agents, meet to review and sign the required documents; this includes finalizing any financing arrangements and ensuring that all parties agree.
• Funds in Escrow: The buyer places the funds in escrow once the documents are signed. The funds remain in escrow until all agreed-upon prerequisites are met, such as repairs or inspections. Once the escrow terms are fulfilled, the funds are disbursed to the seller, and the buyer receives the keys to the house.
• Title Transfer: Following the closing, the local Recorder's Office documents the transfer of title to reflect the completion of the transaction officially. This step solidifies the buyer's ownership rights and completes the process.

Investors can successfully navigate the closing process in Utah by following the steps outlined above. Nonetheless, it's essential to work closely with an experienced escrow agent or title company to ensure a seamless transfer of ownership.

6. Renovate The Property

When flipping homes, it is vital to master effective time management and make strategic decisions. Prioritize renovations that improve the property's visual attractiveness, align with the neighborhood's standards, and cater to the market's needs.

To maximize the potential gains on investment, investors should concentrate on cost-efficient renovations that yield a substantial return on investment (ROI). Improving the property's appeal can significantly impact its market value and allure potential buyers. By prioritizing projects that generate a favorable ROI, investors can optimize their profits and enhance their prospects of success.

According to Remodeling Magazine, the renovations that return the most money to investors at the time of a sale in Utah (and the rest of the Mountain region) are:

• Electric HVAC Conversion: Recoups 114.5% of the original cost
• Fiber-Cement Siding Replacement: Recoups 107.4% of the original cost
• Garage Door Replacement: Recoups 99.7% of the original cost
• Manufactured Stone Veneer: Recoups 96.7% of the original cost
• Vinyl Siding Replacement: Recoups 92.9% of the original cost

7. Resell The House

Once the final renovation of the property is complete, investors in Utah must move quickly to sell the house. In doing so, investors should consider partnering with a Realtor or real estate agent who can provide valuable expertise and guidance throughout the selling process.

While working with an agent may require high fees, their experience and market knowledge often lead to a higher net gain for investors. The increased sales price real estate professionals have developed a reputation for can more than compensate for the fees. Collaborating with an experienced agent increases the likelihood of a swift sale at a favorable purchase price, surpassing what investors may achieve through independent selling efforts.

It's important to note that investors will receive a portion of the sale price after fulfilling financial obligations. Repayment to the lender, including any accrued interest, takes priority. Only after satisfying these obligations can investors consider the final step of the process complete, and the remaining proceeds from the sale become the investor's profit.

In the competitive Utah real estate market, collaborating with a knowledgeable agent can be a strategic decision that pays off in speed and profitability. Their experience in marketing, negotiating, and closing deals can make a significant difference in the outcome of the resale phase.

How To Find Houses To Flip In Utah

When finding houses to flip in Utah, employing effective strategies is crucial. Here are several proven methods to help investors discover potential properties and maximize their chances of success:

• Collaborate With Local Real Estate Professionals: Network with experienced real estate agents and Realtors with extensive local market knowledge. By tapping into their insights and connections, investors can gain valuable information about both on- and off-market properties.
• Utilize The Multiple Listing Service (MLS): Gain access to the MLS, the largest database of real estate listings in Utah. The MLS platform provides comprehensive information about properties for sale and allows investors to identify a large pool of motivated sellers.
• Attend Foreclosure Auctions: Participate in foreclosure auctions organized by banks and lending institutions. These auctions often present properties at discounted prices, allowing investors to secure deals below market value.
• Research Public Records: Visit the local Recorder's Office to access public records related to distressed properties and motivated sellers. By looking at public records, investors can identify homeowners who may be open to selling their properties under favorable terms.
• Implement Targeted Marketing Campaigns: Launch direct mail campaigns to reach distressed homeowners directly. By identifying a targeted audience and sending marketing materials, investors can engage with potential sellers who may be interested in selling their properties.
• Driving For Dollars: Investors can uncover potential opportunities by physically exploring neighborhoods and identifying neglected or rundown properties. While neglect doesn't always indicate a motivated seller, it can highlight homeowners who may be more motivated to sell.

By combining these strategies and approaches, investors can establish a reliable pipeline of potential house-flipping deals in Utah. Each method presents unique advantages, allowing investors to uncover properties that may not be readily available through traditional channels.

 Read Also: Finding Motivated Seller Leads: Free & Paid Tactics

Do You Need A License To Flip Houses In Utah?

In Utah, flipping houses does not require a real estate license. However, it's worth considering the potential advantages that a real estate license can offer. With a license, individuals gain access to a vast network of professionals in the industry, including real estate agents, brokers, and other industry experts. This network can offer valuable connections, insights, and resources to enhance the house-flipping process. Moreover, holding a real estate license grants investors direct access to the Multiple Listing Service. With access to the MLS, investors can conduct thorough market research and make more informed decisions when identifying potential investment opportunities.

It's important to note that licensing requirements and regulations can vary between states. While a real estate license is not mandatory for flipping houses in Utah, it's always advisable to stay informed about local laws and regulations to ensure compliance with any specific licensing requirements applicable in the state.

Read Also: How To Get MLS Access: The (Ultimate) Guide

How To Flip A House In Utah With No Money

Flipping a house in Utah without personal funds is attainable by utilizing alternative financing options. Private and hard money lenders, in particular, can provide the necessary capital to facilitate deals, bypass traditional banks, and circumvent credit checks and lengthy approval processes. These lenders specialize in short-term financing solutions, allowing investors to access cash quickly and expedite their house-flipping projects.

Another viable strategy for flipping houses in Utah with no money is wholesaling. While not technically a flip, wholesaling does allow investors to generate returns without using their money. In doing so, wholesalers secure a property under contract and then assign that contract to cash buyers for a fee. This approach allows investors to generate income without significant upfront capital investment.  

Best Cities To Flip Houses In Utah

The best cities to flip houses in Utah include, but are not limited to:

• Salt Lake City: One of the best places to invest in the state of Utah is Salt Lake City. As the largest city in the state, Salt Lake City offers investors the ability to invest in every type of investment property, from condos and single-family homes to multi-family commercial properties and everything in between.
• George: With its proximity to some of Utah’s best outdoor spaces, St. George is an excellent place to own a rental property or flip a house to a home buyer because of the area's heightened level of demand.
• Provo: Provo's biggest draw for house flippers is local home prices. With a median home value below the state average, beginners will have an easier time working within a budget. The property value remains attractive after years of appreciation and high demand.

Final Thoughts On Flipping Homes In Utah

Learning how to flip houses in Utah can reward real estate investors. Investors can confidently navigate the house-flipping process by following the step-by-step guide we just went over. As a result, there’s no reason investors can’t embark on a successful house-flipping journey, seizing opportunities, maximizing profits, and building a lucrative portfolio in the dynamic Utah real estate market.

At Real Estate Skills, our team of experts is ready to provide you with the tools you need for flipping houses in Utah. We're committed to providing the knowledge, resources, and support you need to navigate a Utah property flip successfully. So avoid common mistakes and maximize your returns by leveraging our expertise.