fixer-upper — English Dictionary

Noun

1. A house, property, car, or other object that needs to be fixed up or repaired, often purchased as an investment.

   Usage

   • US usage
   • Informal

   Examples

   More examples (1)

   2003, Jay P. DeCima, Investing in Fixer-Uppers: A Complete Guide to Buying Low, Fixing Smart, Adding Value, and Selling (or Renting) High, McGraw-Hill Professional, →ISBN.

2. A potential romantic partner who may need some motivation to improve their personality or habits.

   Usage

   • broadly
   • Informal

   Examples

   Don't be seduced into a relationship with someone who seems to be a "fixer-upper." Attempts at renovating people usually fail.

3. A person who tinkers or fixes things up; in particular, someone who fixes up houses, properties, etc. as an investment.

   Usage

   • Informal

Noun

1. a house or other dwelling in need of repair (usually offered for sale at a low price)

   Broader terms

   dwellinghomedomicileabodehabitationdwelling house