What To Learn From Fixer Upper's Unhappy Clients

When "Fixer Upper" homebuyers Ken and Kelly Downs married in 2013, they weren't all that familiar with Waco, Texas. The couple featured in the Season 3 episode "Three Little Pigs" picked a property with a long list of foundation, electrical, and plumbing problems, so Chip and Joanna Gaines extensively remodeled the Craftsman-style home, getting it in working order and giving the exterior a facelift. Although it was dramatically improved by a new front door and antique brick skirt, the front porch still overlooks the Alexander Express Mart. In sharp contrast to the couple's new linen shades, its shop windows are covered by large posters advertising discount cigarettes and frozen shrimp.

"There's been a lot of commotion coming from the bars and the store across the street. It's been a problem from the beginning," Kelly complained to the Waco Tribune-Herald after a suspected drunk driver famously crashed into the house while she and Ken were sleeping. "We've lived here a year and a half and we feel deceived by the city of Waco and Magnolia Realty." The unhappy clients no longer live in the home, which is now a highly-rated Airbnb.

If you're looking to buy a fixer-upper, you'll need to do more than fall in love with a property's potential. As Joanna Gaines herself has urged fans, you must ensure a house is structurally sound by scheduling a home inspection. Your dream house can quickly become a nightmare if you uncover major roofing, HVAC, or other issues after moving in. Make your offer contingent on passing an inspection, and be sure to hire a home inspector who knows exactly where to look for problems. Your mortgage company or agent should be able to recommend one.

Clever Real Estate's 2023 Home Buyer and Seller Survey Report indicated that 93% of new homeowners experience buyer's remorse. From overpaying to compromising on top priorities, more than half say their happiness has not increased since moving. Although many realtors, including those at Magnolia Realty, want to be trusted guides during the home-buying process, there are a number of questions they simply can't answer because of fair housing laws. This includes offering advice on whether a neighborhood is safe, family-friendly, or near good schools.

No one really knows who came up with the first rule of real estate, but it's undeniable that location is one of the most important factors to consider before buying a home. Walkability, adequate public infrastructure, entertainment options, and close proximity to employment opportunities often equate to a higher quality of life that drives up property prices. Regardless of whether a home is located in the suburbs or a small town, size, condition, updates, and even interest rates, also play a part in determining what homebuyers are willing to pay. 

Along with looking at a variety of recently sold and listed homes with your agent, spend time walking and driving around potential neighborhoods to better understand the surrounding area. Pay attention to the amount of traffic and noise levels at various times of day. Will evenings on your new front porch be enjoyable or ear-splitting? Consider the state of nearby houses and businesses. Are yards well-maintained or overgrown? Don't be afraid to talk with the neighbors. Did the basement flood after heavy storms last year? They may know more about the house than you or your agent.

And, although they can't help you predict a car suddenly crashing into the front of your house, most municipalities, including the city of Waco, share up-to-date information about local schools, property taxes, crime rates, and available public services on their websites. Online neighborhood forums like Nextdoor are another excellent resource.