When you buy a house at a bargain basement price, it usually requires some tender loving care to make it marketable. In some cases, a thorough cleaning, a fresh coat of paint (inside and out), and new carpeting do the trick. In a matter of days or a couple of weeks, and with a small investment, you can often boost the value of a home just by making it look and smell brand-new again.

Not all homes are created equal. Other houses require more extensive renovations. You may be able to convert unused attic or porch space into a bedroom; knock out a wall or two to combine the kitchen, dining room, and living room into a great room; install new windows; or even build a second story. In today’s technology-centric world, you can measure the house and build a 3D rendering of your property on a computer. Some companies, like landscapers or cabinet wholesalers, are also willing to help you maximize your home’s square footage by plugging measurements into a system that generates multiple floor plan options that make the best use of your space. In ssss1, I explain how to assemble and manage a rehab team to do everything from quick-flip cosmetic jobs to extensive renovations and provide plenty of tips to stay on budget.