Flipping a house with a disastrous floor plan is no easy feat, but this project proved to be one of the most rewarding yet for Elisa Covington. After tackling foundation-threatening trees, outdated interiors, and a challenging layout, the home was transformed into a modern, inviting space with significant upgrades inside and out. From refinishing hidden hardwood floors and redesigning cramped kitchens to creating luxurious bathrooms and enhancing curb appeal, every detail added value. The hard work paid off, as the home sold for $1.5 million—well above its projected ARV—yielding an impressive $250,000 profit. Here’s the story of how this puzzling house flip became a remarkable success.
From Disaster To Profit
This house flipping project started out as a puzzle for Elisa. The home had a disastrous original floor plan and she could see that it would require a complete transformation. In spite of this, the project still yielded a $250,000 profit, far exceeding her expectations! How did she do it? Let’s take a closer look.
Curb Appeal Makeover
The transformation began by removing two oversized trees that, while offering privacy, posed a serious threat to the home’s foundation. With the trees gone, the house’s stunning facade was revealed, instantly boosting its curb appeal. The landscaping was brought to life with vibrant new grass, decorative rocks, and thoughtfully chosen plants, while a sleek white and dark gray color scheme gave the exterior a fresh, modern look. These changes turned a tired exterior into a standout feature, setting the tone for the home’s complete renovation.
Living Room Transformation
The living room underwent a complete revival, shedding its dark, outdated vibe. Removing heavy curtains and introducing recessed lighting instantly flooded the space with natural light. A fresh coat of paint on the fireplace and refinished hardwood floors—hidden beneath old carpeting—gave the room a modern, polished finish, transforming it into a warm and inviting centerpiece of the home.
Kitchen Expansion and Upgrade
The cramped kitchen was completely reimagined, with walls opened up and the layout redesigned for both style and function. A combination of white upper cabinets and darker lower cabinets created a chic, two-tone aesthetic, while a framed hood insert replaced the typical microwave combo, adding a touch of elegance. These updates not only made the kitchen brighter and more spacious but also elevated the overall style.
Family Room Revamp
What was once a mismatched, awkward family room became a functional and stylish space. The ceiling height was adjusted, poorly constructed stairs were rebuilt, and the dated wood paneling was replaced with fresh drywall for a modern look. Adding a closet turned this space into a versatile room that could double as a bedroom, increasing its usability and appeal.
Guest Bathroom Redesign
The guest bathroom was transformed into a stylish and functional space with a reconfigured layout that allowed for a larger vanity. A neutral prefabricated vanity with gold pulls added a trendy yet timeless touch, while the updated design made better use of the available space, ensuring a seamless and inviting flow.
Backyard Overhaul
The backyard underwent a dramatic transformation, starting with an enlarged and repaired deck that doubled its functionality. A new concrete patio replaced damaged pathways, while overgrown bushes were cleared, and fresh sod was laid to create an expansive, open space. Thoughtful touches, including fruit trees for privacy, a vegetable garden, and elegant landscaping, made the backyard a serene and welcoming retreat.
Primary Suite Enhancements
The primary suite was elevated to a luxurious sanctuary with thoughtful updates. New lighting, fresh paint, and refinished hardwood floors brightened the bedroom, while the bathroom became a spa-like haven. A freestanding tub, a spacious glass-enclosed shower, and a large dual vanity with ample storage were paired with luxurious tiles, making this retreat feel like a personal getaway.
Sale Success: A $250,000 Payday from a Puzzling Flip
This challenging project turned into a massive win, with the property purchased for $900,000 and $200,000 invested in renovations. Initially projected to sell at $1.3 million, the home generated overwhelming buyer interest, with 400 visitors at open houses and multiple offers driving the sale price up to $1.5 million. The result? A remarkable $250,000 profit and a true testament to the power of smart renovations.
To work out the After-Repair Value of a renovation project for FREE, check out New Silver’s ARV calculator below.
3 Tips For Renovating Awkward Spaces
1. Redesign the Layout
Transform your home by rethinking its layout to create larger, multifunctional spaces. Start by removing unnecessary walls or supports to embrace an open floor plan—a design choice that encourages flow and connectivity. Tools like AI-powered home design generators can help you plan efficiently and visualize the outcome. For instance, merging a small kitchen, dining room, and sitting area into one cohesive space can make your home feel more expansive and modern. Additionally, consider installing pocket doors, which slide into the wall rather than swing open, creating the illusion of extra floor space and maximizing functionality in smaller living areas.
2. Upgrade Your Windows
If certain spaces in your home feel cramped or lack vibrancy, upgrading to larger windows could be the solution. Bigger windows allow more natural light and improved airflow, instantly brightening your home while fostering a sense of openness. Beyond aesthetic benefits, new windows improve energy efficiency by enhancing insulation, which can reduce utility bills. Plus, window replacements offer a strong return on investment—approximately 69%—making them one of the most valuable home upgrades for boosting property value.
3. Maximize Vertical Spaces
When dealing with homes that have limited floor space, think upward. Vertical storage solutions like built-in shelves, wall-mounted TV cabinets, and storage racks are perfect for keeping items organized while creating the illusion of taller, more open rooms. This approach not only reduces clutter but also ensures better use of available space—no more tripping over cords, toys, or other items. Vertical storage isn’t just for living rooms or kitchens; in bathrooms, consider wall-mounted shelves or in-built cabinets, and in bedrooms, invest in in-built closets to keep things tidy and functional.
About Elisa Covington
Elisa is a multifaceted real estate expert based in the San Francisco Bay Area, known for her success as an author, investor, developer, and influencer. Each year, she takes on up to ten house flips, consistently targeting six-figure profits per project. Leveraging her proven strategies to maximize returns while staying within budget, Elisa has established herself as a top-tier real estate investor and a sought-after educator in the fix-and-flip space. Her expertise and engaging approach have earned her a loyal following in the industry.
