We just got the keys to our 8th flip, and today I’m sharing a Flip House Before Tour of this new project. This one is truly special—a real time capsule. We’re buying it from the second owners, who purchased the home back in the early 1970s. Since then, the house hasn’t been touched much at all. In fact, it hasn’t changed since the original owners built it in the 1960s.
This means we’re stepping into a home full of original charm and great bones—but also one that needs mostly cosmetic updates. It’s a rare opportunity to bring a piece of history back to life.
Along with the before photos and our renovation plans, I’m also sharing tips I’ve learned after flipping 10 homes. Whether you’re here to be inspired or are looking for real flipping advice, this Flip House Before Tour is packed with value.
Entryway: First Impressions Matter
Walking through the front door feels like stepping back in time. The original flooring, light fixture, iron railing, and ivory switches are still in place, untouched since the 60s. It’s got great bones but needs some freshening up to make a welcoming first impression.
Flip Tip: For a small entry, focus on adding impact with a fresh coat of paint, updated lighting, and a statement mirror or wall art to make the space feel welcoming and larger without costly renovations.
Living Room – Flip House Before Tour Insight
We will be pulling up the carpet in this room and exposing the real hardwood floors underneath. The windows will be replaced and the ceilings and walls will get some much-needed paint. We will update the curtains as well. We will be keeping the amazing fireplace.
💡 Flip Tip: If you don’t have hardwood floors to work with, instead of replacing carpet, consider professional cleaning or installing budget-friendly laminate flooring like we did in our last flip house HERE. Painting walls in light, neutral colors instantly brightens and modernizes the space.
Kitchen – A Key Area in Any Flip House Before Tour
I love the original parquet flooring in the kitchen and dining area. The cabinet fronts are in good condition. We will add a dishwasher next to the fridge. We will get a new fridge, oven, and oven vent. The countertops are the original countertops, and to be honest, I don’t hate them. We will put a new sink in for sure. The brick backlash is from the 60s. It is a thin plastic material. That is all coming down.
💡 Flip Tip: Don’t overdo trends.
In every flip house, I look for ways to create a kitchen that feels current and classic—something that will sell well, stay neutral and not trendy, and stand the test of time.
Bedrooms – Simple Changes, Big Results
The house has three bedrooms. They are a great example of how small updates go a long way. Fresh paint, ceiling fans/lights, and exposing the hardwood floors will totally refresh the space.
💡 Flip Tip: Keep it clean and neutral.
Update bedrooms affordably by focusing on lighting and window treatments. Bright, layered lighting and simple curtains or blinds can completely change the feel without a major renovation.
Bathrooms – ROI in Small Spaces
This bathroom is dated but functional. We’ll keep the existing layout but replace the toilet, vanity, light fixture, mirror, and the tile around the tub. New flooring will also be installed. I haven’t decided about the tub yet—I may keep the blue tub to help keep costs down. And of course, every wall and ceiling throughout the entire house will be getting a fresh coat of paint.
💡 Flip Tip: Refresh, don’t always remodel.
In bathrooms, prioritize updating fixtures, lighting, and hardware. Sometimes, just replacing the vanity or refreshing grout can make a huge difference—without the expense of a full remodel.
Basement/Bonus Areas: Hidden Value
The basement is partially finished and already usable, but it needs new flooring, fresh paint, and updated windows to really shine. In the photos, you’ll see the ping-pong table buried under a pile of stuff — a fun reminder of what this space could be! Our family loves ping-pong—Matt and I got our first table as a wedding gift and played it constantly at our first home and parties. Once we clear everything out, that table will definitely get plenty of use during breaks.
This space has great potential as a functional living area or entertainment room. In the unfinished storage area, we plan to get a quote to add at least a toilet and sink to create a convenient lower-level bathroom. Paint will also be a big deal in this area.
💡 Flip Tip: Start with cleaning, floors, and fresh paint. Adding inexpensive lighting and basic drywall can turn spaces like this into a welcoming bonus space without breaking the bank.
Bonus Spaces – Extra Value Potential
Insert basement/bonus area photos.
This home has an unfinished basement that could become a game-changer. Finishing this space adds usable square footage, which helps resale value.
💡 Flip Tip: Know what buyers want.
In a Flip House Before Tour, I’m always thinking about how to add livable space where it makes sense—and when it doesn’t, we keep it clean and safe.
Exterior – Curb Appeal Counts in Every Flip House Before Tour
From overgrown shrubs to a tired paint job, this home lacks curb appeal right now. But with some elbow grease and new paint and windows, it’ll completely transform.
💡 Flip Tip: The outside matters.
No flip house is complete without curb appeal. A new front door, fresh mulch, and simple landscaping go a long way.
Top Lessons from Our 8th Flip House Before Tour
Reaching our 8th flip has been a milestone. With each project, especially this Flip House Before Tour, I’m reminded of a few key lessons:
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Expect surprises (budget for them!)
- Design for your buyer, not yourself
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Keep good records of time and spending
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Simple improvements = big payoff
If you’re new here, welcome to the adventure! And if you’ve been flipping or dreaming of it yourself, I hope this post helps you feel more confident and inspired.
Watch the Full Flip House Before Tour
Want to see the full walkthrough of the day we got the keys? I’m sharing everything in the video—what’s working, what’s not, and the big plans I’ve got for each space. Watch it HERE.
You’ll get the full look before anything is touched, and I’ll be sharing new updates, videos, and project progress every week on YouTube, so make sure to SUBSCRIBE when you are there. It is free to SUBSCRIBE! Ring the bell as well, and you will be notified when a new video launches!
Don’t Miss the Rest of the Transformation
This is just the beginning! If you love real flip content, before-and-afters, and the real side of flipping houses, you’ll want to follow along:
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This Flip House Before Tour is just the first step—can’t wait to show you what’s coming next.
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