Baton rouge burned house

[Shannon Dennis]

I have a little skin in the game as an investor. 

I've ran my numbers on a house that's being wholesaled in Baton Rouge, La. And I am very interested. I would like to buy and hold. 

I haven't went out to take a look in person just yet.  I am curious as to how complicated is it to renovate a burned home. Far as pulling permits and what not. I have experience with flood homes and permit pulling and remodeling. 

Should I call the city before purchasing, if so what would I need to inquire when I do reach out? 

Thanks.

[Jeremy VanDelinder]

I flip fire-damaged properties and own a restoration company which specializes in fire damage. It can be a big undertaking, although there can be profit in it IF the numbers are right and IF you have done your homework to know what you are getting into (both big “IFs”). Unless you are rather experienced with this type of damage, it may be hard for you to tell the extent of damage. The place to start is by asking the seller what the insurance company decision is—if they will share that info, that might tell you some of what you need to know.

The challenge with fire damaged properties is that there is more than meets the eye. For example, often fire damage is water damage--they put the red stuff out with wet stuff. Unmitigated water damage becomes mold damage and and there is the potential of extensive smoke damage in the same airspace. So even elements that don’t appear damaged can be contaminated. Also, ODOR is a huge issue. If the odor is not properly mitigated that will cause ongoing problems.

I would recommend you find a fire restoration company/contractor to walk the property with you and give you a good understanding as to what needs to be done. There are many things that could be overlooked as part of the renovation on fire-damaged properties.

Please let me know if I can be of any help.