Use our fix-and-flip calculator with Tampa Bay market data to estimate ARV, MAO (70% rule), profit, ROI, and cash needed for flips in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Brandon.
Tampa Bay Fix-and-Flip Market Overview
Tampa Bay is a red-hot fix-and-flip market in 2025, driven by retiree migration, remote workers, and strong tourism. Median home prices range from $320,000 in Brandon to $550,000+ in South Tampa and St. Pete Beach. Rehab budgets typically run $40,000-$75,000 for cosmetic updates and $95,000+ for major renovations (including hurricane-resistant upgrades).
Key Tampa Bay submarkets for flipping:
- South Tampa: Premium waterfront, median ARV ~$650,000, high finishes, competitive bidding.
- St. Petersburg: Urban core revival, median ARV ~$450,000, strong demand from young professionals.
- Clearwater: Beach proximity, median ARV ~$500,000, tourist and retiree appeal.
- Brandon/Riverview: Suburban growth, median ARV ~$380,000, family-friendly, lower entry costs.
How to Use the Calculator for Tampa Flips
- Enter Purchase Price: Tampa deals range from $260,000 (Brandon fixer) to $500,000+ (South Tampa waterfront). Use recent sold comps.
- Estimate Rehab Cost: Budget $40-65k for cosmetic updates, $80-120k for structural work. Add hurricane prep (impact windows, roof reinforcement) if needed,budget $10-20k extra.
- Set ARV: Pull 3+ sold comps within 0.5 miles and 6 months. Adjust for waterfront access, pool, and hurricane upgrades.
- Configure Financing: Tampa hard money lenders charge 10-13% APR, 2-3 points, 20-25% down. Set holding to 5-7 months.
- Add Holding Costs: Property tax ~$200-350/mo, insurance ~$180-300/mo (higher due to hurricane risk), utilities ~$120/mo (AC critical). Total holding: $500-770/mo.
- Calculate Selling Costs: Agent commission 5-6%, seller closing ~2%, buy-side closing ~1.5%.
Tampa Flip Example: Brandon Suburban Home
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $270,000 |
| Rehab Budget | $55,000 |
| ARV (Sold Comps) | $450,000 |
| Down Payment | 20% |
| APR / Points | 12% / 2.5% |
| Holding Period | 6 months |
| Monthly Holding | $600 |
| Projected Profit | $55,360 |
| ROI on Cash | 44.3% |
| MAO (Adjusted) | $212,500 |
Interpretation: At a $270,000 purchase price and $55,000 rehab, you'd net $55,360 profit in 6 months,a 44.3% ROI. Tampa's strong demand and appreciation support healthy margins.
Tampa-Specific Tips
- Hurricane Prep: Budget for impact windows, roof reinforcement, and flood zone compliance. Buyers expect hurricane-ready homes.
- Insurance Costs: Florida homeowners insurance is high ($180-300/mo). Factor this into holding costs and buyer expectations.
- Waterfront Premium: Properties near Tampa Bay, Clearwater Beach, or Hillsborough Bay command 20-40% premiums. Validate ARV with waterfront-specific comps.
- Seasonal Demand: Peak selling season is Jan-May (snowbird influx). List before summer heat and hurricane season (June-November).
- Growth Corridors: Riverview, Lutz, and Wesley Chapel offer strong appreciation with lower acquisition costs than urban core.
Related Tools & Sources
- Fix and Flip Calculator – compute ARV, MAO, profit, ROI instantly.
- How to Use Fix and Flip Calculator – step-by-step guide.
- Mortgage Calculator – model end-buyer or rental property financing.
- Long-Term Rental ROI – compare buy-and-hold vs flip strategies.
- Best Free Mortgage Calculators 2025 – compare top tools.
- BiggerPockets Forums – real estate investor community and Tampa market insights.
- CFPB Homeownership Resources – federal guidance on real estate investing.
FAQ
How do hurricane costs affect Tampa flips?
Budget $10-20k for hurricane prep (impact windows, roof reinforcement). Buyers expect hurricane-ready homes, and insurance is higher ($180-300/mo).
What's the best time to sell in Tampa?
Peak selling season is Jan-May (snowbird influx). List before summer heat and hurricane season (June-November) for maximum buyer interest.
Run Your Tampa Flip
Use the Fix and Flip Calculator with Tampa market data before making an offer.
Methodology & Disclaimers
This calculator is an educational tool only; it is not investment advice. Tampa market data is illustrative; actual prices, rehab costs, and holding periods vary by neighborhood and market timing. Always validate ARV with local comps, obtain contractor bids, and consult licensed professionals before purchasing investment property.