Fix and Flip Budget Template: The Complete Guide for 2026

Why You Need a Detailed Rehab Budget

The #1 reason flips fail is budget overruns. A detailed budget isn't just good practice — it's the difference between a profitable flip and a money pit.

The 15 Essential Budget Categories

Every fix-and-flip budget should include these categories:

1. Demolition & Cleanup ($1,500 - $5,000)

Removing old materials, debris hauling, dumpster rental.

2. Foundation & Structural ($0 - $25,000+)

Foundation repairs, structural reinforcement, load-bearing wall modifications. Get a structural engineer's assessment first.

3. Roofing ($3,000 - $15,000)

Full replacement vs. repair. Include gutters and fascia.

4. Exterior ($2,000 - $15,000)

Siding, paint, windows, doors, landscaping, driveway, fencing.

5. Plumbing ($1,500 - $10,000)

Fixture replacement, pipe repair/replacement, water heater, sewer line.

6. Electrical ($1,000 - $8,000)

Panel upgrade, rewiring, outlets, lighting fixtures, ceiling fans.

7. HVAC ($2,000 - $12,000)

AC/heating replacement, ductwork, thermostat, insulation.

8. Kitchen ($5,000 - $35,000)

Cabinets, countertops, appliances, backsplash, plumbing fixtures, flooring.

9. Bathrooms ($3,000 - $15,000 each)

Vanity, toilet, tub/shower, tile, fixtures, mirrors.

10. Flooring ($3,000 - $12,000)

Hardwood, LVP, tile, carpet. Include removal of existing flooring.

11. Interior Paint ($2,000 - $6,000)

Walls, ceilings, trim, doors. Neutral colors sell best.

12. Drywall & Insulation ($1,000 - $5,000)

Patching, replacement, texture matching, insulation upgrades.

13. Permits & Inspections ($500 - $3,000)

Building permits, inspections, engineering reports.

14. Holding Costs (Monthly)

Mortgage/hard money interest, insurance, utilities, taxes, HOA.

15. Contingency (10-15% of total budget)

Always add 10-15% for unexpected issues. You will find surprises.

Sample Budget for a Typical Flip

Tips for Accurate Budgeting

Get 3 contractor bids for every major category

Walk the property with your contractor before making an offer

Always include contingency — 15% for beginners, 10% for experienced flippers

Track every expense — Use project management software to stay on budget

Compare estimated vs. actual after each flip to improve future estimates

Manage Your Flip Budget with PropertyARV

PropertyARV's Project Manager lets you create detailed budgets with all 15 categories, track estimated vs. actual costs in real-time, manage contractor bids, and generate professional reports for lenders.

Start Managing Your Budget →