Real Estate Agent · CA · Member since 2025 · 15 posts · 11 votes
Hey guys! Just wanted to share a quick update — I recently closed escrow on my first flip in Bakersfield (May 7), and we’re getting ready to list next week!
This opportunity came together thanks to everything I learned from BiggerPockets forums and videos, so huge shoutout to the community 🙌
The house was a full gut job — new roof, complete interior renovation, and yes… there was literally a hole straight from the living room to the crawlspace 😅
We managed to move fast and keep things clean, mostly because I followed a lot of the advice from others here — especially around project management and keeping crews accountable. Definitely learned a ton.
Only thing I might’ve done differently? I think I could’ve locked in a better Hard Money loan structure. But hey — now I know what to look for next time.
Curious to hear:
What do you wish you knew on your first flip? Let's keep the community fed! haha
Anyone else working on something in Kern County/ LA County right now?
Hello Tanya! Congrats on closing your first flip! A hole in the living room to the crawlspace sounds wild:))
For my first flip, I wish I’d known how fast little costs add up, like, those “small” change orders can sneak up on you. Pro tip: build a buffer into your budget for surprises.
On the hard money loan, yeah, been there! Next time, shop around for lenders who compete on rates, it can save you a ton.
Hello Tanya! Congrats on closing your first flip! A hole in the living room to the crawlspace sounds wild:))
For my first flip, I wish I’d known how fast little costs add up, like, those “small” change orders can sneak up on you. Pro tip: build a buffer into your budget for surprises.
On the hard money loan, yeah, been there! Next time, shop around for lenders who compete on rates, it can save you a ton.
Hi Tanya! That's awesome. I'm in LA area, looking to make my first deal but having a hard time figuring out my best option. Would love to connect to understand what you looked at and how it's worked out for you.
Hello Tanya, Congratulations on your first flip!!! I'd say top things to keep in mind would be Setting a clear budget Including; purchase price, repairs, holding costs, closing costs, and your profit margin. Follow the 70% rule; Buy price = (after repair value *70%) minus repair cost (this gives yo a safe margin. Don't overestimate AVR (after repair value) Use comps (similar, recently sold homes in the same area) within 0.5–1 mile, same size & style. Get quotes for needed repairs before you make the purchase this will help you determine if it's even worth your time. I live in Los Angeles would love to connect with you!
Hey guys! Just wanted to share a quick update — I recently closed escrow on my first flip in Bakersfield (May 7), and we’re getting ready to list next week!
This opportunity came together thanks to everything I learned from BiggerPockets forums and videos, so huge shoutout to the community 🙌
The house was a full gut job — new roof, complete interior renovation, and yes… there was literally a hole straight from the living room to the crawlspace 😅
We managed to move fast and keep things clean, mostly because I followed a lot of the advice from others here — especially around project management and keeping crews accountable. Definitely learned a ton.
Only thing I might’ve done differently? I think I could’ve locked in a better Hard Money loan structure. But hey — now I know what to look for next time.
Curious to hear:
What do you wish you knew on your first flip? Let's keep the community fed! haha
Anyone else working on something in Kern County/ LA County right now?
Congrats on closing your first flip—that’s awesome! Sounds like a wild project, especially with that hole straight to the crawlspace 😅.
I totally hear you on the hard money loan part. Locking in the right terms can really make or break your rehab cash flow.
For me, I wish I knew how important a solid timeline and communication plan with contractors really was. Early on, I underestimated how quickly things can slip without tight project management.
No projects in Kern or LA right now, but I’m always down to hear what others are working on there. Keep crushing it!
Congrats on getting it to the finish line, sounds like a major transformation and a solid first win!
Quick question: in your case, did you need to bring a large chunk of capital upfront, or were there any creative structures you considered (like seller financing, gap funding, etc.) to reduce your initial out-of-pocket?
I am relatively new to the LA market and currently working on getting my real estate license and exploring ways to structure deals with little or no money down and trying to see what’s actually working on the ground.
Would love to stay in touch and share ideas, might be able to bring value on a future project depending on what you're working on.
Hey Tanya, huge congratulations on your completed project! Hard money lending can definitely be a bit tricky. I'd love to connect and talk real estate finances for your next project!