There’s no denying affordability is tough right now. But that doesn’t mean you have to put your plans to buy a home on hold. If you’re willing to roll up your sleeves, or have family members with the know-how (or hire someone who will), buying a house that needs some work could open the door to homeownership. Here’s everything you need to know so you can decide if this is the right move for you.

What’s a fixer-upper? A fixer-upper is a home that’s livable but requires some renovations. Think cosmetic updates like wallpaper removal and new flooring or more extensive repairs like replacing a roof or updating plumbing. While fixer-uppers need a little TLC, here’s why they may be worth considering, especially right now: They Usually Have a Lower Price Point. Because of the repairs involved, these homes are usually less expensive up front than move-in-ready options. Statically, fixer-uppers come with price tags that are about 29 percent lower, making them a solid choice if you’re having trouble finding anything in your budget.

Less competition. When you’re ready to make an offer, you’re less likely to deal with competition from other buyers who are focused on move-in-ready homes.

Build equity faster. From choosing how to redo the floors to picking which cabinets you want in the kitchen, a fixer-upper allows you to design a space that fits your needs and style. Also with smart renovations, you can increase your home’s value faster and potentially see a big return on your investment. If you’re a house hunter who’s not afraid of sweat equity, buying a fixer-upper could be your opportunity to own a home. 

What to know about buying a fixer-upper. The possibilities that come with a fixer-upper are exciting, but there are a few things to think about first. Do you have a game plan? Consider if you have the time, skills, or budget to tackle renovations. Be honest about what you can handle yourself, what you’ll need to hire out, and if a fixer-upper is truly a good fit for you. Remember, you’ll likely be living in a construction zone at least for a little while.

Prioritize the repairs and upgrades. Don’t stress yourself out thinking you’ve got to do all the work up front. Space out renovations over time in a way that makes sense for your budget and what’s most important to tackle first.

Location matters too. You want the money you’re spending to fix up a house to be worth the investment. So, make sure the home is in an area with increasing home values and amenities locals love, like parks and restaurants.

Get a home inspection. Hiring an inspector to do a thorough inspection before you buy is a must. What they find will help you understand what needs to be updated, renovation costs, and if it’s a project you want to take on. And budget for surprises. Renovations rarely go as planned. So, be sure to set aside extra money to cover things like extended repair timelines, an increase in the cost of materials, or other unknowns that may come up.

Talk to a lender about financing options. There are some renovation mortgages designed for homes that need a little work. But they may have requirements like spending and timeline limits, so talk to a trusted lender to understand the fine print.

Fixer-uppers aren’t for everyone, but if you’re open to doing a bit of work, they can be a great way to overcome today’s affordability hurdles and find something in your budget. With the right mindset and careful planning, you could turn a less-than-perfect house into the perfect home for you. So, if you’re considering taking the plunge, talk to The Marzeotti Group another trusted real estate agent about finding a fixer-upper that fits your budget and goals.