Scott McGillivray Gives a 1950s Outdated Bungalow a Head-to-Toe Makeover

“I decided to invest with Steve and Josh,” says Scott about his decision to pick this property. “The father-son dynamic is cool, and I can’t wait to help kick start [son] Josh’s career in real-estate investing.”

For Scott to put his own money into such a risky investment, he needs to see two things – a property with serious potential and partners that bring something to the table.

Having just graduated from college, Josh approached his dad Steve, a military vet with experience as a landlord, to try house flipping with him.

“They’re looking for someone like me,” says Scott. “To help guide them through their first property.”

Josh and Steve managed to negotiated the property list price of US$260K down to $232K, making the profit margins so attractive that Scott couldn’t say no.

This simple, 1950s bungalow is located in a great neighoburhood and has plenty of space with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and multiple living areas.

The completely refinished sunroom still maintains its original 1950s vibe, with retro lighting and fun furnishing, but is now clean, functional and works with the flow of the house.

Having to move a number structural walls did dig into their US$63K reno budget but having an open-concept living room and kitchen was worth the initial investment.

Both bathrooms hadn’t been updated since the bungalow was built in the 1950s and featured baby-blue tile in one and baby-pink tile in the other.

“Now, although we spent a little more on this kitchen to eliminate the structural walls,” says Scott. “The new open concept should pay off in the end.”

The remastered master bedroom features enough square footage for a king-sized bed, tons of natural light and a completely renovated ensuite.

The geometric wallpaper adds visual interest without overwhelming the soft blue and sand tones of the room’s calming, seaside colour palette.

“This had that weird trim with the bright blue walls,” says Scott of bedroom number three, remembering it in its pre-reno state. “This has a much more relaxing theme.”

After three weeks on the market, this sweet Floridian bungalow sold for US$360K, giving Josh and Steve a profit of $32,500 (and Scott, the same), which isn’t bad for their first flip.

“I really enjoyed working with Josh and Steve,” says Scott, reflecting back on this project. “Even just admired the father-son bond and the fact that Steve just wants Josh to do well.”