Detroit flipper turns fire-damaged house into profitable investment

A Detroit-based real estate investor, Hunter Chattler, has successfully flipped a fire-damaged home for a significant profit. The 24-year-old purchased the property in the Jefferson Chalmers neighborhood for $7,500 and invested $130,000 in renovations. He plans to list the remodeled house for $250,000.

Chattler's venture is part of a larger trend where investors are capitalizing on Detroit's low property prices. The city, which filed for bankruptcy in 2013 with $20 billion in debt, has seen a resurgence in its real estate market. "Investors come to Detroit from all corners of the country because the market is like no other," says local investor Chase C. Hunter.

The median sale price in Detroit has risen from $58,900 in 2009 to $260,000 as of November 2024. Despite this increase, prices remain lower than the national median list price of $416,880.

Chattler documented his renovation process on TikTok, showcasing the transformation from a gutted shell into what he describes as a "dream home." He highlights features such as light-laminate wood floors and modern appliances. "Bought this fire-damaged gem for just $7,500 and turned it into someone’s dream home," Chattler states in his video.

Although some viewers criticized aspects of the renovation, including potential insurance challenges and lingering smoke odors, others praised Chattler's efforts. One commenter remarked positively on his financial gain: “I think you did a fantastic move and with what you spent you profited nicely."

Chattler has flipped over ten properties since 2021 and intends to continue investing in Detroit's housing market. "My goal is to buy a house every one or two weeks," he shares.