Just remember, You own the house-never let the house own you. Also being experienced in this subject (4 homes in 7 years), estimate the cost of the renovations to the fixer-upper and budget them right in to the cost to make sure you do them within six months of moving in...otherwise the renovations will probably not get done. You cant predict the future, and I got caught doing that, and lost my job, and was stuck in a fixer upper with no cash....it was stressful to say the least. I would also take into account the area and yard too. We just bought in Concord NC, wasnt crazy about the house or yard but excellent schools so in 5-7 years we will move again. Hope this helps