Opportunity or trap? How to evaluate a flat for flipping?
Flipping can be a profitable investment strategy, but only if the numbers add up. Find out when it makes sense and what to watch out for so you don't fall into a costly trap.
Flipping, i.e. purchasing property with the intention of renovating it and selling it quickly at a profit, has been one of the most popular investment strategies for years. In theory, it seems simple: find an opportunity, improve the standard, sell at a higher price. In practice, however, flipping is a project in which numbers, time and cost control are important.
In 2026, flipping may still be profitable, but it requires cool-headed analysis. The market is becoming increasingly demanding, and buyers are paying attention not only to the visual effect, but also to the quality of workmanship, layout and location. It is becoming increasingly difficult to ‘make money just because it looks nice’.
When can flipping be profitable?
First and foremost, when the investor:
- buys a property at a real discount to the market,
- is familiar with local demand and knows who to sell to,
- is able to estimate renovation costs and plan a schedule,
- takes into account a financial buffer for unforeseen expenses,
- works efficiently, because time translates into costs and risk.
On the other hand, flipping ceases to be attractive when:
- the purchase price is ‘market value’ and the profit is to come solely from renovation,
- the technical or formal condition of the property generates unpredictable risk,
- renovation costs are rising and difficult to control,
- the sale may be prolonged due to low liquidity in a given location,
- the strategy is based on an ideal scenario, without a safety margin.
Well-calculated flipping is, in practice, an investment project, not a spontaneous decision. It is worth analysing not only the potential profit, but also the time, financing costs, the possibility of exiting the investment and the risks associated with renovation and sale.
During the INRE Investment Property Fair, visitors can discuss investment strategies, including flipping, compare approaches and gain knowledge that helps them make informed decisions. It is a good opportunity to look at flipping without emotion and see if this strategy really makes sense at this point in time and in your style of operation.