At The Paul Kaplan Group, we work with a lot of investors who want to flip properties in and around Palm Springs—and over the years, we’ve learned something important:

There is a right way to flip a home, and there is a wrong way.

The difference between the two is usually the difference between a profitable project and a disappointing one.

Our role isn’t just to help you buy a property. We’re here to help you determine whether a property is truly a good investment, how to avoid costly mistakes, and how to protect your profit margin from the very beginning.

Profitable Flips Start with Buying Right

Every successful flip we’ve been involved with starts at the same place:  the purchase price.

You don’t make money when you sell a flip—you make money when you buy it.

That’s why we help our investor clients work backwards before they ever write an offer:

• What are comparable homes actually selling for?

• What level of finish does this neighborhood demand?

• Where is the realistic price point that leaves room for profit and protection?

We rely on recently sold comps, not optimistic asking prices, so your numbers are grounded in reality—not hope.

Evaluating the Numbers Before You Commit

Flipping is a business, and we treat it that way.

Before you move forward, we help you factor in:

• Renovation costs using updated 2026 pricing

• Carrying costs while the project is underway

• Selling and closing expenses

• A conservative contingency buffer (we recommend at least 25%) for unforeseen issues

We’ve seen too many investors get surprised by costs that have increased dramatically since pre-pandemic days—sometimes three to four times higher. Using current numbers protects your margins and prevents painful surprises.

If the math doesn’t work on paper, we’ll tell you—because walking away from a bad deal is often the smartest investment decision you can make.

Designing for What Buyers Want Today

Today’s buyers are informed, observant, and detail-driven. That’s not a bad thing—if you plan correctly.

The flips that perform best are the ones where buyers can immediately tell:

• The renovation was thoughtful and complete

• Major systems weren’t ignored

• Design choices are consistent and intentional
  

We help guide our investor clients toward improvements buyers truly value:

• Updated HVAC, electrical panels, and major systems

• Consistent flooring throughout the home

• Cohesive finishes and materials

• Quality design that feels polished—not rushed

When buyers sense quality and care, confidence follows—and confident buyers pay more.

Details Matter—and They Protect Your Profit

One thing we’ve learned from working with countless flips:
buyers judge quality through details.

Things that make a difference:

• New door hardware throughout the home

• Replacing basic six-panel interior doors with higher-quality options

• Kitchens that feel custom and well-fitted

• Cabinets that align properly without awkward filler gaps

These details signal craftsmanship and attention. They help buyers feel comfortable paying a premium—and reduce negotiation pressure later.

Outdoor Living and Landscaping Are Essential

Especially in lifestyle markets like Palm Springs, the exterior of the home is just as important as the interior.

We always encourage investors to plan for:

• Landscaping upgrades

• Defined outdoor living areas

• Lighting and curb appeal improvements

Buyers often fall in love before they even step inside. When outdoor spaces are done right, homes sell faster and with stronger offers.  Investors often don't take landscaping into consideration and treat it more as an afterthought (or don't provide enough in the budget).  Ignoring the exterior could ruin the appeal for some buyers. 

Inspections Don’t Have to Derail a Deal

One of the biggest threats to profit happens during inspections.

That’s why we often recommend a pre-listing inspection:

• It allows you to address issues proactively

• Subcontractors can complete punch-list items before going to market

• Buyers feel reassured they’re purchasing something turnkey

We see many buyers willing to pay a premium when they know they won’t be dealing with repairs after closing. A clean inspection builds confidence—and confidence drives smoother escrows.

Staging: Turning a Renovation Into a Lifestyle

Even the best renovation needs presentation.

While buyers may appreciate upgraded systems, what truly sells is how the home feels:

• A staged living room shows comfort and scale

• A staged dining area shows how the home lives

• Bedrooms feel restful and complete

We strongly recommend professional staging unless you have the experience to do it yourself. It’s a necessary part of the marketing budget and one of the highest-ROI investments in a flip.

How The Paul Kaplan Group Helps Investors Succeed

At The Paul Kaplan Group, we have extensive experience working with investors who flip properties. We’ve seen what works, what doesn’t, and where profits are often lost.

Our goal is to help you:

• Identify strong investment opportunities

• Avoid costly mistakes

• Make informed renovation decisions

• Protect your profit margin

• Position your property to stand out and sell confidently

Flipping in today’s market requires strategy, discipline, and experience. When done the right way, it can still be very profitable—and we’re here to help you do it right.

If you’re considering a flip or want a second opinion on a potential investment, we’re always happy to walk through the numbers, comps, and strategy with you. The smartest flips begin with smart guidance.