Buying and selling real estate is a tried-and-true business tactic. For centuries, property investment has been a reliable way to both build substantial wealth, but also just make some steady cash on the side.

These days, the “fix and flip” process has become extremely popular. For newcomers, this essentially refers to fixing up houses or other buildings in varying states of poor repair, and selling them, relatively quickly, for a profit.

Choosing to fix and flip isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme. It takes hard work, and initiative, and seriously benefits from some real experience. But if done carefully, it can be an effective way to turn a profit. Read on to learn about some benefits of fixing and flipping property.

1. Put Skills to Use

If you have carpentry, building, tiling, plumbing, or other relevant home repair skills, fixing and flipping can be a satisfying way to put these skills into action while building something long-term. Many people find that they’ve picked up these sorts of skills over time, but don’t necessarily have a lucrative outlet for them. Finding cheap property — if you know how to renovate it — can be that outlet, allowing you to do good interior and exterior work on a building, while substantially boosting that property’s values.

2. A Temporary Place to Live

Sometimes a fix-and-flip property can be great by providing a place to live, even if temporarily. For instance, purchasing a single-family home in poor repair, and living there while you fix it up and sell it for a hefty profit, can be both cost-saving and ultimately money-making. With a two-family home, these options are even more realistic.

3. Potentially Affordable

Property can often be expensive — but it’s important to remember that many qualifications go into determining a home or building price. A structure in poor repair can still, in many cases, be purchased quite affordably. While this might not be ideal for the average homeowner, if you can fix a place up, it can afford a real opportunity. Even if you’re starting with a relatively low amount of cash, you may still be able to have real success if you are fixing and flipping houses.

These are only some of the myriad benefits of fixing up and re-selling houses. With some background and deep interest, you can certainly find a way to turn this sort of real estate endeavor into a thriving business.