Is Flipping Houses Profitable? Statistics, Trends & Forecasts

In a real estate market marred by obstacles like insufficient inventory levels and rising interest rates, house flipping retains its title as one of the best investment strategies across any industry. Despite macroeconomic headwinds, in fact, house flipping remains incredibly profitable, and there's absolutely nothing to suggest it won't stay a great strategy in the future.

As we delve into house flipping, we'll explore the statistics, trends, and forecasts that collectively paint a picture of profitability. So, let's examine the data, decipher the trends, and forecast the future, all in the context of answering a simple question: Is flipping houses profitable in today's real estate landscape? Better yet, is house flipping profitable for future beginners? In answering these questions, we'll go over the following:

• Is Flipping Houses Profitable?
• House Flipping Profit Statistics & Trends
• The Best Markets To Flip Houses For Profit
• What Investors Should Consider Before House Flipping
• Final Thoughts On House-Flipping Profitability

*Before we begin our guide, we invite you to view our video on DO YOU NEED A Real Estate License To FLIP HOUSES? Host and CEO of Real Estate Skills, Alex Martinez, & Stan Gendlin get right to answering one of the real estate industry's top questions!

Is Flipping Houses Profitable?

The housing market has seen every end of the spectrum in just a few years, subjecting everyone in the economy to many emotions, which begs the question: Is flipping houses profitable?

Admittedly, the real estate market has been riddled with uncertainty and volatility since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Yet, despite everything that has happened, house flipping remains profitable and stands its ground as one of today's best wealth-building vehicles. To be clear, house flipping has been profitable in the past; it is thriving now, and there's nothing to suggest it won't remain profitable in the future.

According to ATTOM Data Solutions' latest Home Flipping Report, “the gross profit on typical transactions (the difference between the median purchase price paid by investors and the median resale price) increased to $66,500 in the second quarter of 2023.” At that level of gross profit, the average flipper made a 27.5% return on investment, suggesting that house flipping is profitable and very lucrative.

Source: Attomdata.com

To put things into perspective, the S&P 500, the stock market index synonymous with historically great returns, hasn't kept pace with house flipping—even in a “down” year. According to SoFi, “the average stock market return of the S&P 500 is about 10% annually — and 6% to 7% when adjusted for inflation.”

The future appears exceptionally promising for home flippers, as the current profitability of house flipping is poised to grow even more when macroeconomic conditions improve and housing market activity picks up. As the economy stabilizes and interest rates become more favorable, the demand for homes is expected to surge, further driving up home values; this, coupled with a potential increase in inventory, will create a ripe environment for savvy investors to capitalize on undervalued properties and renovations, making house flipping an increasingly lucrative endeavor with even brighter prospects on the horizon.

Read Also: Flipping Houses Salary: How Much Do House Flippers Make?

House Flipping Profit Statistics & Trends Investors Should Know

Understanding the current statistics and trends that shape the house-flipping landscape is crucial for investors looking to maximize their profits. This section will dive into the latest statistics and trends that every house-flipping enthusiast should know. From profit margins to forecasts, we'll explore the indicators most likely to help you make the best decisions and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of house flipping.

Percentage Of Home Sales

In the second quarter of 2023, 84,350 single-family homes and condominiums were successfully flipped across the United States, According to ATTOM Data Solutions' Home Flipping Report; this marked a significant segment of the real estate market, constituting 8% of all home sales from April to June.

It's essential to highlight that this recent quarter's flipping activity has experienced a slight decline compared to the first quarter of 2023, where it stood at 9.9%. This decrease is also notable when juxtaposed with the 8.9% flipping rate recorded in the previous year's second quarter. Despite this dip, it's crucial to underline that the flipping rate has retained a historically high position, although it's been edging closer to the levels observed in 2021.

Gross Profit & ROI

Investors flipping homes saw positive profit trends despite decreased flipping activity. Investor profits and profit margins have displayed significant signs of recovery after a downturn that had cut them by more than half in just two years. These positive trends continued, marking the second consecutive quarter of growth, with investment returns experiencing the swiftest surge since 2020.

Although the typical profit margin has yet to reach the peaks observed in 2021, it climbed by nearly five percentage points from the first quarter to the second quarter of this year.

This resurgence in home-flipping profits coincided with a broader rebound in the U.S. housing market. During the Spring buying season, the median home price for single-family homes increased by 10%. This growth followed a prior decline that stretched from the middle of the previous year to the early part of 2023.

House-Flipping Forecast

If mortgage interest rates gradually decrease over the next few years, it will likely further stimulate the home flipping market. Lower interest rates can make financing more affordable for investors, allowing them to take on more projects and potentially increase their profit margins. With cheaper real estate financing options, more individuals may be inclined to enter the house-flipping arena, contributing to increased competition.

Lower interest rates can also encourage homebuyers, which may lead to a more robust demand for flipped properties. This increased demand can translate into quicker sales and higher selling prices for flippers.

Overall, a gradual decrease in interest rates over the next few years could create a favorable environment for house flippers, potentially boosting their profitability. However, as with any market, investors must stay informed about local trends and adapt their strategies to remain successful in a changing landscape.

Read Also: Fix & Flip Loans: A Beginner's Guide To Funding A House Flip

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

The Best Markets To Flip Houses For Profit

Identifying the right markets to flip houses for a profit is vital to a successful house-flipping venture. Not all markets offer the same potential, and choosing wisely can significantly impact your bottom line.

In this section, we'll unveil some of the top markets across the United States where house flipping has been particularly lucrative. These regions have shown consistent growth, high demand, and favorable conditions for house flippers. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting, these markets present exciting opportunities to maximize your returns and succeed in house flipping.

Here's a list detailing the notable increases in return on investment (ROI) for cities in the second quarter of 2023, according to ATTOM Data:

• Akron, OH: Akron showcased an outstanding ROI, recording a remarkable 116.7% return on typical home flips.
• Pittsburgh, PA: Pittsburgh delivered a strong ROI, registering an impressive 112.9% return for house flippers.
• Scranton, PA: Scranton exhibited a competitive ROI, boasting a solid 93.7% return on investment.
• Hagerstown, MD: Hagerstown displayed robust ROI growth, achieving an impressive 86.6% return on typical home flips.
• Trenton, NJ: Trenton experienced notable ROI success because of its proximity to New York, securing an attractive 85% return on investment for house flippers.

Read Also: How To Find Off-Market Properties: The 10 Best Ways

What Investors Should Consider Before House Flipping

Before embarking on a house-flipping venture, investors should carefully consider several crucial factors to ensure a successful and profitable experience:

• Market Research: In-depth market research is essential to identify regions with high demand and potential for profit through foreclosed properties. Analyze local housing trends, neighborhood development, and market values to make informed decisions.
• Budget Planning: Create a comprehensive budget that covers acquisition costs, renovation expenses, holding costs (such as property taxes and insurance), and selling expenses to transform a fixer-upper. Ensure you have access to adequate financing.
• Risk Assessment: Assess potential risks and challenges, including market volatility, unforeseen repair costs, or delays in selling the property. Be prepared to adapt to unexpected circumstances.
• Realistic Profit Projections: Set realistic profit expectations. Calculate potential profit margins based on the sale price, renovation costs, and the anticipated selling price. Keep in mind that unforeseen expenses can affect your bottom line.
• Legal Compliance: Understand local regulations, permits, and zoning laws that apply to house flipping. Failure to abide by the law can lead to delays and financial penalties.
• Property Inspection: Conduct a thorough inspection to identify any hidden issues or structural problems that are common with a foreclosure. Accurate assessments are crucial for budgeting renovation costs accurately.
• Renovation Strategy: Develop a renovation plan that balances cost-effective upgrades with market appeal. Focus on high-impact improvements that enhance the after-repair value (ARV).
• Exit Strategy: Decide whether you plan to sell the investment property quickly or hold it for rental income. Your exit strategy will influence renovation decisions and the timeline for selling.
• Professional Network: Build a network of reliable contractors, real estate agents, and other professionals. Having a team of experts ensures a smoother house-flipping process.
• Financing Options: Explore financing options, such as loans, lenders, partnerships, or private real estate investors. Evaluate interest rates, terms, and repayment schedules to find the most suitable financing solution.
• Market Timing: Timing is crucial in short-term house flipping. Consider the current real estate market conditions, interest rates, and economic trends when deciding when to buy and sell.
• Contingency Plans: Always have contingency plans for unexpected challenges, such as extended renovation timelines or difficulties in selling the property.

Final Thoughts On House-Flipping Profitability

House flipping has proven to be profitable in various market cycles, whether in times of growth or economic downturns. However, it's essential to recognize that success is never guaranteed in the world of real estate investment. To increase the odds of turning a profit, investors must approach house flipping with careful planning, market knowledge, and strategic execution. While the allure of quick returns can be enticing, it is the investors who take the time to learn the ins and outs of the industry, evolve with the market, and make informed decisions that ultimately stand the best chance of achieving profitability. So, is flipping houses profitable? It can be, but success depends on your dedication, expertise, and ability to seize opportunities in the ever-evolving real estate market.

Ready to explore if real estate investing is worth it for you? Contact Real Estate Skills today and embark on your journey to financial prosperity through informed and strategic investments. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting, our experts are here to guide you through the real estate industry and help you make informed decisions.