Walk step-by-step to the most you should pay for a property — and understand every number.
What it sells for fully fixed up, from comps — not Zillow. Pull 3–5 sold, renovated homes within a mile and the last 6 months.
Add a cushion; surprises are the rule. Estimate the line items in the tool, then pad it here.
A cash buyer/flipper needs this spread or they won't buy your deal. Together these two lines are the classic "30% off ARV" that becomes the 70% rule.
What you make for finding and tying up the deal. It comes out of the spread, so a bigger fee means a lower offer to the seller.
Never open at your max — leave room to negotiate up. Sellers expect back-and-forth; the max is your walk-away ceiling, not your first number.