What to look for in a property that is need of full renovation?

[Ahmed Elias]

Hi BP community, 

I was wondering if anyone could advise me on how critical is it for a property to be inspected prior to closing that requires complete renovation regardless (the property is a complete shell and currently not even close to living condition). I plan to do a walk through with my GC to get an approximate quote on how much my renovation would cost however I was wondering if I needed to bring in a structural engineer to look for structural issues ? Would it be better hiring a structural engineer to inspect the property for structural issues before putting an offer? 

Type of property - Brick row home property in the Philadelphia area.

[Kevin M.]

@Ahmed Elias the structural component would be the only major concern. Investors that work with us have been burned buying a shell that is later determined to have structural defects and cannot be rehabbed. 

Also make sure to do your due diligence on zoning, L&I violations, title, etc.