A light to moderate fixer-upper can be great for adding value, but if you go too heavy on repairs, it can quickly turn into a full-time job and delay your ability to house hack and start generating rental income.The ideal scenario would be finding a property that was last renovated between 2005 and 2019—something that is livable but could be updated to 2025 standards for maximum rent and resale value.

FHA loans are really only best in lower credit and lower down payment situation. if you have the ability to do 5-10% I would do it. if you don't need money for repairs , you could do on the higher end 10%+ but if you do need money for repairs 5% could be good. some lenders will do recasts on loans and you cannot do recasts with FHA.

@David Robert - Based on what you're saying it sounds like certain sections of drywall/wall are better off coming out and replacing then trying to repair.

for the dishwasher, if running it doesn't clean it up, you can only charge her for cleaning (or if it is broken, repairs or replacement cost). 

You'll want to focus on securing a favorable financing deal at the refinance stage—ideally, you want to pull out as much of your initial investment as possible while keeping monthly payments manageable.A big consideration is understanding your after-repair value (ARV) and ensuring the rehab costs add value in proportion to that.

If the property contains a residential structure and you make repairs, the redemption price tag includes the amount by which you increased the value of the property. 

If you provide them, you’re on the hook for repairs or replacements.

You're trying to limit calls and costly repairs. 

.✅ Keep an emergency fund for unexpected repairs and vacancies.2.

Like repairs?