13 Outrageous Chip Gaines Real Estate Tips You Secretly Agree With

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Real estate isn’t for the light hearted. If you’re shopping for dream homes online or getting ready to renovate a property, you’ve likely learned that it’s not all glitz and glamour. The truth? It’s messy, it’s hard, and, let’s face it, it’s not always predictable. Still, Chip Gaines, the affable TV star who’s made his name renovating homes the old fashioned way, knows a thing or two about getting it done amid the chaos. Chip’s fun, no nonsense, real estate ideas are refreshingly honest, sometimes unconventional, and surprisingly easy to relate to.

Chip has found a way to stay grounded in the often high stakes world of property investment from recognizing the hidden value in fixer uppers to knowing when to take a leap of faith. If you’re a first time buyer, seasoned investor or just a fan of ‘Fixer Upper’, here are some of his best tips of navigating the real estate world with a little grit and a lot of heart.

Be Open to the Unexpected

Home Repairs That Are Illegal for DIYers — Image Credit: djfc/123rf

Chip isn’t new to surprise twists during renovations, and he always tells people to be flexible. A structural issue may force the design plan to change, or a new idea may come up during the project. Being open to adjustments can help the process be smoother, and even get to a better outcome than you first imagined. Chip’s mantra is simple: Embrace the unexpected, because sometimes, some of the best parts of a home are spontaneous decisions.

What about the Neighborhood Vibe?

White Houses in estate — Photo Credit: Eziz Charyyev/Pexels

Chip is always reminding buyers to look beyond the property line, because it’s so easy to get caught up in the house itself. He says it’s important to know the area, talk to neighbors, and get a vibe for the community. It’s not just the structure of a home, it’s where you live and who you live around. He thinks that finding a place you feel comfortable in can be as important as finding the perfect house.

Invest in the Right Tools

Chip is about having the right tools— from sturdy ladders to powerful drills. He doesn’t encourage buying every gadget, but he does advocate for quality basics. Tools can make a huge difference in your renovation experience, and will save time and make projects easier and more enjoyable. Because let’s face it, a good tool kit is a real lifesaver for any DIY venture.

Don’t Skimp on the Kitchen

For Chip, the kitchen is the one room in a house he’d insist on investing in. It’s a place for families to gather, for conversation to happen, and memories are made. Chip is in favor of making a warm, inviting space that buyers won’t want to leave. Studies have shown that a well designed kitchen can not only increase the property value, but also sway buyers. If you’re going to splurge, Chip knows a good kitchen is worth every penny and this is the spot.

Go Big on Curb Appeal

"22 Common Gripes Homeowners Have with HOAs" — Photo Credit: iriana88w/123rf

They say you can’t judge a book by its cover, but let’s be real: First impressions are important, and Chip is about making an impression at the curb. Before people even walk in the door, for him, adding charm begins. This could be anything from a little TLC to your front yard or a bold paint color that reflects the home’s personality. Almost 92% of realtors suggest that improving curb appeal is the best way to attract potential buyers, according to a report by the National Association of Realtors. This is no suggestion; this is a game changer for Chip. When you amp up the exterior appeal, you are telling buyers that this home is worth a second look.

Imperfect Is the New Perfect

Old building facade near walkway between plants — Photo Credit: Maria Orlova/Pexels

Old, worn down properties are a very unique thing for Chip, he thinks they’re ‘beautifully flawed’. The Gaines magic is in being able to overlook cracks in the wall or outdated flooring and imagining what the space could be. He believes imperfections tell a story, and bring character to a home, rather than feeling staged. So don’t be afraid to look beyond the scuffs and quirks, sometimes the ‘flaws’ are what make a house a truly memorable home.

Find Value in the Unusual

Chip’s favorite thing is spotting potential where others don’t see any. Perhaps it’s a basement with so much potential or a hidden attic space. Chip thinks these little nooks and crannies are often gems in waiting. They bring an extra value to a home, and can stand out from cookie cutter properties. Stop thinking about square footage or neighborhood comps and think about what makes a space unique.

Renovations: Quality Over Quantity

Chip’s about making smart investments — and he’s a believer in renovating quality, not quantity. He recommends you allocate your budget across a few transformational updates instead of spreading thin across multiple smaller projects. Guaranteed to last, high quality finishes, sturdy materials and thoughtful details leave a lasting impression and are often worth more than a long list of quick fixes.

Give Every Room a Purpose

Stylish interior of modern room — Photo Credit: Max Vakhtbovycn/Pexels

Chip doesn’t believe in “wasted space.” He urges homeowners to give every room a reason to be, even if it means thinking outside the box. That extra bedroom can change into a home office or the garage as a snug den. Purposeful spaces not only make a home feel more functional, but they also increase the appeal of the home itself (especially for buyers looking for flexible layouts).

Learn to Let Go

13 Secrets Realtors Don’t Want You to Know — Photo Credit: Pexels

Chip knows that sometimes the game means letting go. Walking away from a beloved property or a dream project that didn’t come to fruition is never easy. He encourages people to just trust the process and know when to move on. In real estate, letting go is just as important as holding on — it’s how you open doors to new, exciting opportunities.

Never Forget the Human Touch

Real estate is about people, at the end of the day, believes Chip. He’s known for bringing a warmth and personality to everything he touches, and encourages others to do the same. If you are selling a house, buying a house, or it’s just your house, a little personality and care goes a long way. That’s what makes a house a home, and it’s typically the thing people remember the most.

Don’t Just Trust the Market; Trust Your Gut

Overlooked Struggles About Getting Older That No One Ever Talks About — Photo Credit: Pikwizard

Real estate markets are always changing and following trends can sometimes feel like chasing a wild goose. Chip’s advice? Trust your instincts. If a property feels right to you, whether quirky fixer-upper or historic home with charm, it’s worth a closer look. Of course, it’s smart to stay informed, but he wants people to make decisions based on how it feels, not what’s trending. Real estate is as much an emotional investment as a financial one at the end of the day.

Get Hands-On… If You Can

If you’ve ever watched an episode of “Fixer Upper” you know that Chip isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. He is a huge proponent of learning the basics of home improvement, from fixing a broken fence to putting a fresh coat of paint on the walls. He says it’s not about doing everything yourself, but about appreciating the process and knowing your home inside out. And it doesn’t hurt to save a few bucks on small repairs along the way.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.