Fixer upper homes for sale in the Triangle can be a fantastic way to get into your dream neighborhood on a budget. Learn what makes a home a fixer upper, and discover the upsides (and downsides) before you buy. Is a fixer upper home your ideal real estate investment? Let's dig in.
To see listings of fixer upper homes for sale in the area, click here to jump down to the bottom of this page!
A fixer upper home in the Triangle real estate market refers to a property that requires some level of repair or renovation before reaching its full potential. Unlike move-in ready homes, new construction homes, or a "rehab property," fixer uppers won't be in perfect move-in condition. Still, they offer a chance to personalize your space and build sweat equity.
The degree of work a fixer upper requires can vary greatly. On one end of the spectrum, you might encounter cosmetic issues like outdated flooring or tired cabinetry. These renovations can be DIY-friendly and present a chance to add your personal touch.
Here are some examples of the kinds of "fixing" you might find in a fixer upper.
On the other hand, some fixer-uppers may have more substantial problems, such as electrical wiring issues, leaky roofs, or structural concerns like a cracked foundation or sagging roofline. Most rehab situations typically require professional help and can significantly impact the budget and timeline for your project.
While fixer uppers require work, they're generally still habitable. Rehab properties, however, may be vacant or even uninhabitable due to extensive damage. These properties are ideal for investors ("flippers") who plan to renovate and resell for a profit but may not be suitable for someone looking for a place to live immediately.
So, how do you identify a fixer upper in real estate listings? Realtor descriptions may use terms like "handyman special," "investor special," "sold as-is," "estate sale," "bank owned," or "needs TLC." The listing price will also be a giveaway, as fixer uppers are typically priced lower than move-in-ready homes to account for the anticipated renovation costs.
The following section will explore the pros and cons of considering a fixer upper home for your next move in the Triangle area.
Fixer uppers offer exciting opportunities, but it's essential to be realistic before taking the plunge. Their potential benefits come hand-in-hand with certain drawbacks. Let's explore the pros and cons of buying a fixer upper in the Triangle. Weighing the financial investment against the emotional and time demands is crucial to deciding if this path fits you.
Pro: Fixer uppers offer a tempting advantage: a lower initial price point than similar move-in-ready homes in the Triangle. This can be the key to breaking into your dream neighborhood on a tighter budget.
Con: Be prepared for the financial wildcard of fixer uppers: hidden expenses. Renovations inevitably reveal issues like outdated wiring, unexpected structural needs, or mold – all of which can derail your budget if you're not prepared.
Financing a fixer upper can pose unique challenges. Here are some practical tips to maximize your budget, navigate specialized loan options, and protect yourself from costly surprises.
PRO TIP: It typically makes the most sense to finance improvements with cash—just put less money down on the loan and use what you would have used for the down payment on the upgrades. Rehabilitation loans are expensive and can be difficult to obtain.
Pro: Unlike move-in-ready homes, fixer uppers put you in the driver's seat. You control the design choices, the timeline, and the end result of your renovation project.
Con: Stress and frustration are normal in any major renovation, especially with fixer uppers. Expect these emotions and plan strategies for managing them.
Fixer uppers offer the exhilarating chance to create your dream home, but the process isn't without its challenges. Here's how to keep yourself (relatively) sane!
Fixer-uppers demand experience, resources, and a high tolerance for stress. They may not be ideal for first-time homebuyers unless you have experience with renovations and repairs. If you’re without experience, consider a move-in-ready home as a less stressful path to homeownership.
Fixer-upper homes for sale in the Triangle can be a gateway to affordable homeownership. They offer the opportunity to build equity and create a customized dream home. Weigh the potential rewards against the challenges and decide if a fixer upper aligns with your resources, goals, and renovation readiness.
Check our listings below or contact us today and let's get your search started for that diamond in the rough!
Other resources: Additional listings that count as "fixer uppers" may be found on our pages for distressed properties, foreclosed homes, and estate sales.
Updated home in secluded community. New flooring, new windows and fresh paint. Open main living area, large master bedroom with walk in closet. 45 minutes from Raleigh...
Spacious 2 bed 1.5 bath house for sale. Located conveniently in the heart of downtown Selma. This house is move in ready that offers tons of privacy with a fenced backyar...
Don't miss this chance to purchase a well -maintained pre-foreclosure home, ready for immediate move-in. The property features a three bedrooms, two full bathroom and a ...
Wonderful Opportunity to repair and restore this spacious 2-story home on a well maintained open lot! Features include a large welcoming covered front porch, large side d...
Country Charm! Reasonable offers are encouraged! This ''neat as a pin'' ranch has 3 bedrooms, 1 full and 1 half bath with room to grow. Not to mention a kitchen wi...
Investment Opportunity! This 3 bedroom 2 bath brick ranch is conveniently located between Sanford and Pittsboro. Situated on a half acre lot and features a 1 car carport....
Beautiful well maintained home in the quiet Rollingwood subdivision. This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home features a covered front porch with pull down sunshades, a screened i...
Charming Mid-Century Ranch on 1.28 Acres! This beautiful brick home, with classic mid-century design, sits on a spacious corner lot adorned with mature trees. Enjoy the s...
SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE! Move-in ready! Are you ready to find your perfect home? We have spacious townhomes ready for you. Each townhome will feature upgraded floorin...
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled home with a long list of upgrades, some include a new roof, updated electrical and pluming throughout, and updated bathrooms to name...
Location! Location! Don't miss this one... Great 3 BR/2 BA home on a Beautiful country-feeling Lot just outside city limits in an established neighborhood! Updated Ki...
Living Estate Auction of Mary J Mooneyham. Incredible opportunity to own a 1700+ sqft Ranch with full basement on 1.4 acres minutes from downtown Sanford. Move In ready o...
This lovely 3 bedroom ranch is situated on a x-large lot in a cul-de-sac! Boasting a popular floor plan; features include vaulted ceilings, fresh paint, great room with ...
A RARE FIND for under $250k! 1-Story End Unit townhome facing beautiful trees w/ screened porch backing to a large grassy courtyard. Floorplan naturally flows from Foyer ...
Welcome to your country oasis at 3250 Boykin Bridge Road! This solidly built ranch is a dream for those craving space and potential. With 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms spr...
NICE UPDATED RANCH,3 BEDROOMS,2 FULL BATH,STAINLESS APPLIANCES, GRANITE COUNTER TOP,HARDWOOD FLOOR,TILE BATHROOMS AND KITCHEN, 2016 HVAC, METAL ROOF,FENCED BACKYARD.MUST ...
This is a great opportunity to purchase a country home on a large 4+ acre tract with barns, etc. This property will be offered at public auction along with multiple othe...
1909 Rustic Farmhouse Fixer, 2.86 acres, 2,300 sq ft, including three bedrooms upstairs without heat & air, first floor incl primary bedroom, kitchen w/ upgraded plumbing...
Major PRICE REDUCTION. Over $17,000 reduced. Location, location, location!!! Fresh paint and new LVP Flooring, well maintained town home today. Just minutes from I-540, ...
MASSIVE PRICE REDUCTION! Discover this charming and spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home, perfectly designed for a growing family. With just under 1,900 square feet of ...
Adorable 2 bedroom, 2 bath plus bonus office space and walk-in attic! This low maintenance home, in the quaint 55+ community of Henton at Elon, features large primary bed...
Attention Investors! This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath split-level home, situated over a half-acre lot, is a prime opportunity just minutes from downtown Raleigh. The layout inclu...
This 3 bed 2 bath single story home is full of opportunity. The seller is offering a $5000 allowance for carpet and paint. Spacious backyard with a privacy fence and shed...
This End Unit Maywood is a 2-story/3 Bedroom/2.5 Bath/ 1 Car garage townhome in 1,429 square feet. This floorplan provides an elegant foyer leading to open Family Room & ...
Fabulous Ranch home. with Price Improvement. Lots of space. Renovated Kitchen has new flooring, lighting, back splash, countertops, light fixtures and appliances. The ...
Wow! Hard to find ALL BRICK RANCH in Huntington Park features 4 Bedrooms, 2 baths, Foyer, formal Living Room, formal Dining Room, and the Family Room with Fireplace is op...
This 3-bedroom, 2.5 athroom home features a well-designed layout with all bedrooms upstairs for privacy. Downstairs boasts an open floor plan encompassing the living, din...
REO Occupied - NO ACCESS OR VIEWINGS of this property - no interior photos. Please DO NOT DISTURB the occupant. Built in 2005, this modular home offers approximately 1613...
Charming 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath home featuring downstairs: a cozy family room with a stone fireplace and a dining room with tile flooring. The dining room opens to a spacio...
Discover the allure of country living with this classic farmhouse nestled on a sprawling 27+ acres in Warren County. This is an ideal property for creative renovators, ho...
This home features an open floor plan, You will love the spacious living room and kitchen. Removable bar for extra storage can convey or put your own eating table there...
Experience country living just minutes away from Flowers Plantation, Highways 42, 70, 96, and 39! This 1500 sq ft home feels much larger and includes a 12 x 14 unheated s...
All Brick Ranch Home on .44 acres 3 Bed , 2 Bath. Large sunroom/w tongue and groove, heated. (not included in sq ft) Exposed beams in family rm. New water heater & electr...
Join the solar energy saving revolution! Home INCLUDES newly installed solar panels ($19K Install Value - see property documents). Open floor townhouse design in extreme...
No Subdivision-Nice ALL Brick RANCH home on country lot-2019 updates include New laminate floors, granite counter tops, HVAC, STAINLESS STEEL appliances-2020 updates inc...
Can you say convenient to everything?? This lovely 3 BR/2.5 BA home located on a quiet cul de sac can be yours. Fridge and microwave convey, large deck and rear yard back...
1878 Bessie Lane is located in the desirable Bunn Farm neighborhood of Rocky Mount, NC. The neighborhood is conveniently located near major roads and highways, making it ...
Come check out this beauty! The Smith plan offers an open concept that is great for entertaining guests and friends. You will not miss a thing with the main floor living ...
This charming brick ranch home at 2400 Carbonton Rd in Sanford, NC, offers comfortable living with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. Nestled on just over half an acre in the desira...
Charming Tri-Level Home with Endless Potential! Owned by the original family, this property is a blank canvas, ready for your creative vision. The home features vintage t...
Welcome to your private country retreat! Beautifully updated home on 2 separate parcels of land totaling over 3 acres this manufactured home offers the perfect blend of m...
Welcome to this beautiful 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom townhouse located on the WATER with stunning views of Holt Lake. This townhouse features an owner's suite on the main le...
Welcome to 31 Bellini Drive! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch is designed for comfortable living, with thoughtful accessibility features that make it a perfect fit f...
This lovely home features a nice lot with a majestic oak tree in the back yard, brick exterior and recently upgraded kitchen. The home has 2 bedrooms and 1 and half bat...
$5,000 in Seller Paid Closing Costs if you Act Soon! You will love the peaceful setting of this charming brick ranch home on over 1.5 acres, located in the popular Midwa...
VERY NICE UPDATED RANCH, 3 BED ROOMS 2 FULL BATHS, TILE BATHS AND KITCHEN, GRANITE COUNTER TOPS, NEW CABINETS AND STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, NEW HVAC, NEW WATER HEATER,N...
Home has been updated. Open one story floor plan. Arched doorways, built-in shelves in family room. Large (20x30) detached workshop is a great bonus with many possible us...
Check out this awesome Manufactured home located on a little piece of paradise. This home is located on 1.83 acres only 5 minutes from Flowers Plantation. It has a 20x40 ...
Imagine small-town living in 1953 in a mid-century, sprawling brick ranch on a large lot with ivy crawling up mature trees. Add in incredible outside brick work in the fo...
Welcome to this charming home offering a serene retreat. Country felling with city amenities. As soon as you step inside this beautiful and totally remodeled home you w...
Welcome to this charming 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick ranch-style home, where comfort meets functionality. Nestled on one of the largest spacious lot with large front and ...
End Unit Townhouse! Open floor plan with lots of light! Freshly painted, new carpet, new dishwasher. Appliances included with purchase! Kitchen has plenty of cabinets and...
Very Nice Ranch in a Cul De Sac! 3 bedrms, 2 baths, Dining rm & a Breakfast room. Large Living rm w/ a Masonry Fireplace. Deck & Fenced Yard in rear. This Home needs Noth...
Smith Douglas presents the Pearson at Brantley Place community! This lovely ranch home includes 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. 1700 sq ft of living space. Open floor plan with...
This charming one-story home is a hidden gem with a secluded backyard. The location provides easy access to I-440 making your commute a breeze. It's also a short drive to...
Rare Find! A true 4 bedroom ranch with 2 primary suites in the perfect spot with accessibility to everything you need. Located comfortably in between Fuquay Varina & Hol...
**Stunning 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath Home on Nearly Half-Acre Lot!** Discover your dream home with this beautiful property built in 2019, offering modern amenities and spacious li...
Stunning 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath Home on Nearly Half-Acre Lot!**Discover your dream home with this beautiful property built in 2019, offering modern amenities and spacious living...
Welcome to the ‘Prelude’ by Dream Finders Homes in Kirwin Village. This two-story floor plan features a spacious and open main living area with a convenient study or gues...
Built in 2022, this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom house features a spacious open floor plan with a tremendous amount of natural lighting. The kitchen boasts a spaciou...
A charmer in the heart of Wake Forest! A beautifully landscaped front yard and a large front porch to enjoy it. Large family room with fireplace and access to back deck. ...
Discover the charm of this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch nestled on a spacious .85 ac cul-de-sac lot! With 1,380 sq. ft. of comfortable living space, this home is per...
Welcome home! This four bedroom home has first floor primary suite, 3 additional rooms up to use as you choose! The great room is open to kitchen and features vaulted ce...
What a beautiful home near the Seminary and the charms of downtown Wake Forest! New Tile in the kitchen! 2 bedroom 2 full bath 1.5 story home with ~ 1385 sqft on main l...
Discover this charming single-story modular home at 7850 NC 42, Holly Springs. This 3-bed, 2-bath gem features an open layout with high ceilings and a cozy gas log firepl...
Make your appointment today to view this beautiful home on an amazing cul de sac lot! Home sits back off the road with a long driveway and has a huge back yard! Hard to f...
Discover your peaceful place in this expansive brick ranch, complete with a backyard gazebo, tucked away in a private, western Cumberland County neighborhood amid mature ...
This move in ready cottage style end unit home sits on a cul de sac with easy entry garage and front door. The living room has built- in cabinetry as well as vaulted ce...
This charming brick two-story home is located in a quiet, established neighborhood, offering both tranquility and convenience. The property features a fenced backyard, pe...
Great floor plan in this 3Bedroom/3bath unit with Primary & Bedroom 2 on Main Floor. Living spaces all open together. Family room features a vaulted ceiling corner gas lo...
Charming brick house on .61 acres, well kept and maintained house, with original hardwood floors, large rooms, corner lot, enter from main street not Pinedale, storage ou...
A 4 bedroom townhome with a 1st floor primary bedroom doesn't come on the market often! Updated wood flooring on the main level, an updated kitchen with newer cabinets, t...
Barely lived in, single owner, 3 bedroom / 2.5-bath END UNIT townhome near downtown Apex, NC. This home boasts extra windows, a finished single-car garage, and a patio ou...
Great custom built brick home with master with main floor living! Spacious living area with custom built in cabinetry, and sunroom with bar. Open floor plan with breakfa...
come check out this gem in the heart of Zebulon. Looking for a home with a big yard with pecans, grapes, garden beds and a small storage shed all completely fence in and ...
OLD IS NEW AGAIN!!! THIS 1901 TOTALLY UPDATED 2110 sq ft 3 bedroom 2 bath FARMHOUSE on 1.41 acres awaits you here in Fremont!! Enjoy your evenings on the rocking chair wr...
Gorgeous Brick Home, beautifully and lovingly maintained on approx. 1.34 acres, located just outside of City Limits; Nature Lover's Delight! Backs up to Pine Lakes featur...
Well maintained END-UNIT Townhome in Southerby Bluffs! REcently Painted and New Carpet upstairs.3 BRs, 3 Baths and 1 Car Garage. What you have been looking for: Good Si...
Mid-century modern ranch home w/ brick and stone exterior. Tons of space in this 4 bedroom/4 bath home that includes kitchen, family room w/ fireplace and separate living...
There's No Place Like Home We didn't create that saying, but you will see why it sticks when you visit this cozy 3 bedroom 2 bath home in the Hope Valley North community ...
EXCITING OPPORTUNITY!! Excelente Oportunidad en Carrboro. Fixer-upper, AS IS, brick home, 3 bed/2 bath, Chapel Hill/Carrboro schools, 0.36 acre lot, NO HOA, that's an abs...
Gorgeous Brick Cottage located in Oxford's Historic District and only a 10 minute walk to downtown! Enjoy all the festivals, events, live music and phenomenal restaurant...
This beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home, built in 2012, is a true gem. It boasts a host of modern amenities, including solar panels that will save you on energy costs, ne...
The Oakley floorplan is a favorite! Beautiful Quartz counter tops & island in kitchen with premium cabinets, tiled backsplash & walk-in pantry. Plank flooring throughout ...
Welcome to 2211 Dorety Place, an exquisite residence nestled in the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina. This charming main level home sits on an expansive lot of over half ...
The Oakley floorplan is a favorite! Beautiful Quartz counter tops & island in kitchen with premium cabinets, tiled backsplash & walk-in pantry. Plank flooring throughout ...
Location, Location, Location. Beautiful brick home with some updates. Lots of space for a growing family, or beautiful one story home if downsizing. Large family room for...
Beautiful home with an amazing Cary location. Neighborhood directly off Cary Parkway, offering easy access to US1, I40 and a variety of amenities. Conveniently located ne...
The Oakley floorplan is a favorite! Beautiful Quartz counter tops & island in kitchen with premium cabinets, tiled backsplash & walk-in pantry. Plank flooring throughout ...
Hard to find ranch situated on a private lot with 2.2 acres. Great location with no HOA dues or city taxes. The best-of-both-worlds, property has a rural with a private ...
Come see this New Construction home in beautiful Clayton. NO HOA, to direct you on the use of YOUR property! This beautiful new construction home features 4 Bedrooms, 3.5...
Amazing location just minutes from Union Pines High School, minutes from both Pinehurst and Sanford, where you can experience the perfect blend of community living and pr...
Located just minutes from major highways, shopping and so much more, you'll discover this spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home situated on a quiet cul-de-sac in Clayton, NC....
Beautiful sought after ranch plan, the Caldwell. This home offers over 2,000 sq. ft on one level living. A few of the must see upgrades are a luxury primary shower, scr...
Price improvement with special financing too. DESIRED LOCATION-NEUSE CROSSING! Move-in ready, 4BR/2.5BA brick front home on a cul-de-sac. Oak hardwood floors. Open kitche...
Newer Construction without the Wait! MOVE-IN Ready Home with upgrades included can close as soon as lender can close. $10,000 in paid closing costs with preferred lender ...
Prime Location - Prime Opportunity! They always say, ''LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION.'' Well here it is... Welcome to 1218 Waterford Green Drive, Apex, NC, where convenien...
A charming Williamsburg-style brick-end-unit townhouse located in a quiet and convenient neighborhood. This spacious townhouse offers a bright and open floor plan with a ...
WOW! All parcels are to be sold together. 117 and 123 Tyson road, one vancant lot which has a combined total of 313 feet of road frontage and 1.72 acres in the City. Thi...
Beautiful townhome so convenient to everything! New carpet, all new interior paint, hardwood floors throughout first floor. Huge kitchen for the home chef complete with a...
Fantastic Townhome in Gables at Townhall Commons! Feels like a home with only one small wall shared. Open, bright, great layout! Large kitchen w/ breakfast nook and islan...
PRICED UNDER APPRAISAL! GREAT BUY in popular STONEHAVEN community! Solid custom built BRICK/VINYL home with 3000+ SQ FT, 4 beds, 3.5 bths. Formal dining with spacious LIV...
Welcome to your dream home! This stunning property boasts elegance and functionality, featuring a beautiful entry foyer with vaulted ceilings. The true hardwood flooring,...
Charming all-brick home in the popular Graystone Community. The living room features vaulted ceilings and built-ins, and the home is filled with natural light throughout....
Auction | Builder Closeout. Price is suggested opening bid. Actual price to be determined at auction ending Sept 13th. Sale subject to motivated seller confirmation. Spa...
Spacious Contemporary home located in Kerr Lake Country Club, approximately one mile from Kerr Lake. Great location to provide all of your recreational needs & pleasure. ...
This 4-Bedroom home is in eastern Guilford County in the Brightwood Farm Community! This move-in ready home has an open floor plan with primary suite and office nook on m...
PRIME LOCATION! Minutes to downtown Raleigh, NC State Farmer's Market and Trophy Brewing. Be part of the revitalization happening in this area. New homes over 1M! Big pl...
Sierra Height Spectacular Home. Practically new and has been impeccably maintained, 5 Bedroom with First floor Master. 3254 sqft. Lots of room to live. Huge Open Concep...
Charming 3-Bedroom Home in Quiet Carrboro Neighborhood Discover this delightful three-bedroom, two-full-bath home in Carrboro, NC in a peaceful cul-de-sac. An ideal retre...
Brand-new construction adds a touch of modern luxury to this lakeside retreat, promising a seamless blend of contemporary design and natural beauty. This lake property...
Brick 3 bedroom 2 bath ranch home SOLD AS IS. 1483 sq ft and 638 sq ft in unfinished basement. View of Lake Wheeler during winter months. Does need some TLC. Does not h...
1 story living with bonus upstairs. New Faucet and Garbage disposal! New Paint in interior! No yard maintenance, charming 3 bedroom 3 bath, brick home in desirable Oaks o...
Rare Opportunity in Tradon Place: If you love a brick home with tons of natural light, come see this one-level three bedrooms, 2.5 baths gem. Experience cul de sac living...
Don't miss this opportunity to live in a tranquil neighborhood that is convenient to I40, 401S/NC55, 540, Wake Tech, and shopping. This meticulously maintained home boast...
Price reduced $25,000!!! WATERFRONT UNDER 500K !!!!Charming Blue & White Split Ranch! 3/2.5/1 CG WATERFRONT Home Nestled on Over 1/2 Acre Lot! Refreshed w/ BRAND NEW CARP...
Charming Home in Falconbridge! This home boasts an entry foyer, common area hardwoods, an open floor plan, a primary bedroom on the main floor, a wealth of natural lighti...
Convenient Location: Strategically positioned, this community provides easy access to Durham's key attractions. Short walks to Durham Bulls Stadium, Tobacco Road, Downto...
Bright, spacious, like new home can be yours. No HOA. Use as you want, 1.07 acre flat lot. 2607 sf Modern farmhouse Features 4 bedrooms; 3 full baths. Big screened in por...
Investors and developers! Own a lot in the heart of the Triangle! This rare opportunity is represented by a spacious 0.692 acres + 1631 sqft home in a mixed-use neighborh...
Listings provided courtesy of Triangle MLS, Inc. of NC, Internet Data Exchange Database. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. © 2024 Triangle MLS, Inc. of North Carolina. Data last updated .