It's decision time and we cannot come to a common ground

[Reynald Jean]

Hi, guys!

It's decision time and we cannot come to a common ground on what to do. one thing that we agree on is to buy something with equity. we are reaching out to you guys for advice. It's gonna be a starter home. Our plan is to live in the house for 5 to 7 years max and resale it. We have 2 houses that we like. by the way, we only have a 7m old child.

The first one is in a Levittown 223k, 0.16 acre ( Pennsbury school district) good school district. no major work needed, but we still have to spend money on a few things. our major concern is that it is the most expensive house in the block. vinyl floor. doesn't look durable but it's new.

the second one is in the Bensalem 270k, 0.18 acre( Bensalem school district) it needs a little work like new hardwood floor, new appliances, and the master bath need a little work plus it's small but functional.

taxes are reasonable on both.

which one sounds like a better investment base on the description above? how low should we go with the offer?

Thank you!

[Brian Adzadi]

@Reynald Jean

Its safe to suspect that this will be your primary residence, right?

If that is so then my questions for you is:

1. Do you have any experience in construction or handy where you can place floors, sheetrock etc.?

A. If the answer is yes, then go for the second one, because once you are finished with it,

it should have a significant After Repair Value (Resulting in higher equity)

B. If the answer is no, then go for the first one, does not need much work and could easily pay flooring company to fix  the floor.

2. Do you have substantial amount of money to spend on doing rehab work?

A. If yes, then the second house, If no then the first house. (New appliances are costly, especially if its going to be in your primary residence, you will want to get the most top of the line and up to date series of appliances for your own house)

3. How comfortable are you in having your 7 month old in a construction zone?

A. If comfortable, the second house. B. If not at all then the first house.