Interior design class??? Your kidding right???

Question

Initially, my masculinity/bravado balked at the idea of taking an interior design class; but then, I said huh? SHE, went on..."If we are going to flip properties, don't you think you should know what your talking about? ""I mean, really know how to...travertine this and, backsplash that, glazed so and so, inlay design, mosaic...blah blah.""Davon, you know, you never stop learning, you know that better than I do."

I slowly realized, this woman is brilliant (glad she's mine). Maybe I don't have to go as far as enrolling in a class; but, why not endeavor to really educate myself in my craft, beyond what is on clearance at one of the big box stores for the quick flip.

Any of your gals/guys have done so? I don't have an extensive background in flip, have primarily been a buy and hold investor.

Charlie DiLisio · Answer

If you get into flipping, the interior sells the house along with the curb appeal.  Spend a little more on the materials for the kitchen and bathrooms and it makes a huge difference in your bottom line.  All the best for  a prosperous new year.

Pat L. · Answer

I remember years ago mine wanted us to take French Cooking classes & I absolutely balked.

But the class was full of attractive women, a couple of interesting 'males' & a lot of good wine, so we had a blast. Make her happy, enjoy the experience & you won't lose your 'man card'.

Valerie Hiscoe · Answer

Hi Davin

One thing you'll learn by studying interior design is that you can make a big impact with a lot less money.  It's the creativity with which you use your materials, not the cost of the materials that matter.  Even if you leave the design choices to someone else, you'll benefit from a common understanding and vocabulary.

Jeff B. · Answer

Here in SoCal, we have a TV program "Flip this ..." and it tries to show progress from purchase to final sales and I giggle frequently at the pricing they quote.  What I don't get is their motivation for the show and who's benefiting from this (imo) blatant promotion!

It sends the message, "this is so easy and you too can to do it" - - humbug, unless you've done home remodeling for 20yr.

Jeff B. · Answer

If you've gotten an ARV property of 800k-1,000k in a resort area, then OH YEAH it matters, but on the whole, make it nice but don't blow your rehab budget to just make it pretty - - it will not pay off imy

Bill Hinshaw · Answer

Had a similar experience with my wife. She's really good at interiors. I thought I was. How hard can it be, right? I've finally given over 90% of our finishes to her. I do spend a lot of time on houzz trying to educate myself, and I look thru all the flips in my farm to make mental notes of finishes I like and dislike. But mostly, I let her drive that piece.

The finish is one thing that A) has a huge impact on the success of the flip and B) is totally within the flipper's control (unlike curb appeal).

I do often see houses where the flipper, probably a male who was good at rehab, did not put much thought into the interior finish. You can tell. And I'll add that spending more on a higher quality finish does not necessarily equate to a good look.

Sarah Masteller · Answer

Sounds like you've got a keeper!  I haven't taken any actual classes myself in that area but it couldn't hurt to try it out if you have the opportunity to do so.  I wouldn't spend a ton of time or money on it if it isn't something you actually enjoy- but it never hurts to improve your knowledge base about these things I'm sure.  I've picked up quite a few things just from having a subscription to and flipping through issues of This Old House - or watching the show itself :)  A lot you can learn online for free too of course!

Davon Lowery · Answer

So, true J., perspective is priceless.

Davon Lowery · Answer

@J BeardThey make it look so easy. Especially in CA, where we rarely have weather to hinder a viable work day.

@Valerie HiscoeYou are right the creativity is the rim shot.

@Manolo D.Interesting point. I can see myself getting swept up in a design, you are right I have to stay within reason.

@Aaron MazzrilloTaking a slow day, sifting through ideas may mean the difference between that sale or another 30days on market.

Interior design class??? Your kidding right???

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