An open house is one of the best opportunities a potential homeowner will have to take stock of a home and determine if it will work for them. However, it can also be a good opportunity to discover some glaring red flags that might make it a less worthwhile investment. If you’re currently perusing the open houses in your neighborhood, here’s some things you should make sure to watch out for.
A Selling Hot-Spot
It’s well and good if you love the home you visit, but ‘location, location, location’ is a popular phrase for a reason. If you’ve noticed a lot of homes for sale in the area, this could be a sign of neighborhood issues that are less than pleasing.
An Odd Smell
Baked goods or room spray are quite common when it comes to an open house, but it’s possible that they’re masking a less-than pleasant odor. Since this can point to a hard home fix-up, it’s worth checking out the closets or the basement where a strange smell can indicate mildew or mold.
A Bad Paint Job
Paint that’s peeling may mean that a few fresh coats are long overdue, but it can also indicate moisture issues in the home that have gone untreated. As this kind of repair can cost a pretty penny, it’s worth determining if there are sealing issues with windows or doors.
A Few Obvious Fix-Ups
A sticky door or a damaged wall may not seem so bad on their own, but if you notice a few things that need to be fixed around the home, it can be a sign that there’s more afoot. If a homeowner has cared for the property during their ownership, it will likely show in small details like this.
Incomplete Construction
It may seem like a good sign to see a house that’s undergoing a renovation, but it can actually be a risk to invest in a home that’s not complete. Instead of leaving this to chance, you may want to check with the construction contractor to determine the scope of the work and when it will be finished.
An open house may be a good time to decide if you’re interested in a home, but it can also be the perfect opportunity to search for deficiencies that may end up costing you.
If you’re currently in the market for a new home, give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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5567 E Mcdonald Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,895,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
3,148
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738950
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Your Dream Retreat in Paradise Valley! Access to the amenities of The Sanctuary including security, gym, maid service, pools, food service & more. This exquisite home was torn down to the foundation in 2012, and 3m was spent on the re-build. Enjoy Stunning views of Camelback Mountain and city light views. The main house boasts elegant living areas and a gourmet kitchen perfect for entertaining. Step outside to enjoy the sparkling pool, or engage in friendly competition on the private tennis and basketball courts. 3 separate guest casitas are perfect for friends and family. Experience extraordinary living with luxurious amenities, stunning views, and unrivaled tranquility in this exceptional Paradise Valley estate. Your perfect oasis awaits
25763 N 116th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$4,875,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,785
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6683896
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience the pinnacle of luxury living on this elevated lot in Troon North, offering unforgettable views and an unmatched lifestyle. This property boasts one of the finest lots in North Scottsdale, situated in a private cul-de-sac. Your arrival is marked by a private entry gate, leading you up a long, secluded driveway to your own three-plus-acre estate. Every inch of this property is a destination in itself, with spectacular views in every direction. Designed by a visionary woman in collaboration with Graffin Design, this estate is a testament to meticulous planning and love for every square foot. The result is a sophisticated custom home that exudes warmth and functionality. The unique design blends timeless appeal with resort-style living, elevating your lifestyle to new heights. At this elevation, you can enjoy the outdoors all year round. Choose from warm winter days, cool summer evenings, or relax under expansive covered patios. Whether you're sunbathing in complete privacy or enjoying the dramatic entry behind the massive custom iron door, every outdoor space invites you to linger and take in the breathtaking mountain views. The main living areas redefine open-concept living, featuring large sliding doors that open to a zero-edge pool, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, equipped with high-end appliances, a huge center island, granite slab countertops, and a spacious walk-in pantry equipped with a build in Popcorn machine. The kitchen's sleek design is complemented by sweeping views and abundant natural light, making it perfect for entertaining. The romantic owner's suite offers unobstructed mountain views, sliding doors to the patio, a fireplace, and a spacious walk-in closet. The spa-like owner's bath features a luxurious soaking tub, a large walk-in shower with a bench, dual vanities, and a makeup vanity. Just outside, a private hot tub and tranquil outdoor shower await your relaxation. Two generously sized secondary bedrooms come with en suite bathrooms, walk-in closets, and stunning mountain views. Each room is designed to maximize the views from every window. The huge office is beautifully presented with custom built-in cabinetry and desk, French doors opening to the courtyard, and a fireplace, making it a serene workplace sanctuary. This creative space includes a craft/painter's sink, a built-in sewing machine, and ample storage. A fourth room, currently used as an executive office/library, can easily convert to a fourth bedroom. It features custom built-in cabinetry and French doors leading to the expansive courtyard. The seamless flow of indoor and outdoor spaces creates a living sanctuary. The lush, park-like backyard features a built-in BBQ with a prep sink, poolside firepots, pool deck jets, a water feature, outdoor showers, a large observation deck, and a raised dog wash with hot and cold water. The huge upper deck is perfect for watching monsoon lightning shows, meteor showers, and full harvest moons, while enjoying the fresh desert air after a rainstorm. The sparkling infinity pool, framed by mountains, offers spectacular night skies, sunrises, and sunsets, along with twinkling town lights. This estate is more than a house; it's a lifestyle. The romance of the property, the sounds of birds and wildlife, the wind rustling through hundreds of mature trees, midnight swims, and courtyard conversations all contribute to a unique living experience. The 4.5-car garage, with lofty ceilings, a lift for additional parking, custom cabinets, a workbench with a sink, and over 200 square feet of enclosed storage, provides ample space for vehicles and hobbies. Minutes from two world-famous golf courses in the Troon North portfolio, Monument and Pinnacle, consistently ranking among the top must-play courses. You're also minutes from the renowned Four Seasons Resort & Spa, and perfectly situated near amazing shopping and dining at Kierland Commons, The Quarter, and the charming events in Downtown Carefree. Come take a look at your new lifestyle and experience the splendor, new memories, and joy this property offers. This home is a private and tranquil Arizona resort, with no detail left out, blending architectural design and indoor-outdoor spaces to create a timeless splendor. Your private oasis is ready for you to move in and enjoy.
9957 E Larkspur Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$4,850,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
4,014
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754138
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The unexpected home of your dreams ... with the cool of steel combined with the warmth of wood, walls of glass and lush grass- This is Estate 48. Just like Arizona, the 48th State , Kent Architects and Argue Custom Homes built a strong , unique and warm home that rebels against the expected architecture. Brilliant floor plan featuring wide open entertaining spaces, temperature controlled garages with lounge area with sauna. Oversized storage room with hvac easily can be another bedroom or workout room! Serene pool and sun deck , monster spa , bocce ball and deep covered patios. For a couple or a family, this is PARADISE.
39494 N 105th Street Unit 74
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,850,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,620
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757276
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the epitome of luxury living in this stunning 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom new custom home by Black Stone Custom Homes and Graffin Design. This exceptional new build offers a perfect blend of modern design, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Spanning an open and airy floor plan, the home features a spacious great room with vaulted ceilings, large windows for natural light, and a sleek fireplace as the centerpiece. The gourmet kitchen will include top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, a large island, and a walk-in pantry—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Each bedroom is designed as a private retreat, with its own en-suite bathroom. The primary suite will serve as a luxurious haven, complete with a spa-like bath featuring a freestanding tub, walk-in shower, double vanities, and an expansive walk-in closet. The additional bedrooms are equally spacious, offering comfort and privacy for family members or guests. With a second story, The second story of this custom home offers a versatile space that can easily be adapted to meet your needs. Currently designed as a large bonus room, it provides endless possibilitiesa perfect setting for a home office, media room, or game room. For those seeking additional guest accommodations, this space can be seamlessly converted into a spacious guest bedroom offering comfort and privacy for overnight visitors. Outside, the home is set to feature a covered patio ideal for outdoor dining and relaxing. With high-end finishes and customizable options still available, this home by Black Stone Custom Homes and Graffin Design offers a unique opportunity to create your dream living space. A golf membership is available with approval from the membership committee, allowing you to enjoy exclusive access to the community's world-class golf course and amenities. Additionally, a rental home is available for up to two years during the construction of your new custom home, providing a comfortable and convenient living arrangement while your dream home is being built.
10671 E Hedgehog Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,850,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
6,422
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6660987
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the epitome of luxury living with this shovel-ready, permitted masterpiece—an unparalleled custom home nestled atop a mesmerizing south-facing 2+ acre view lot in Pinnacle Canyon at Troon North. Boasting an expansive 6400 sqft of living space and an additional 1300 sqft of covered patio, this unique residence encompasses 4 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and a generously sized 3-car garage—all poised and ready for your enjoyment. Seize the opportunity to personalize your haven by selecting finishes and incorporating bespoke customizations. Designed by the esteemed Urban Design Group, this residence not only exemplifies sophistication but also expedites the construction timeline, saving you over a year in build time compared to starting from scratch. Don't miss the chance to call this extraordinary dwelling your own. It's more than a home; it's a lifestyle waiting to unfold. Act now and make this exclusive dream home yours.
5156 N 45th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$4,850,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,496
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753530
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this exquisite 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom estate, boasting 4,496 square feet of luxurious living space on a sprawling 0.56-acre lot. This architectural masterpiece, completely rebuilt in 2024, with interiors by Joel Contreras Design, offers unparalleled elegance and comfort. The expansive great room, over 2,000 square feet with 16-foot ceilings, seamlessly blends the living, dining, and family areas and features stunning views of Camelback Mountain, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for entertaining and relaxation. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring Thermador appliances, Vadara Quartz countertops, Shinnoki cabinetry, a 15.5-foot island, and a convenient pot filler. A versatile bedroom suite on the south side serves as an excellent second primary suite or guest retreat. The primary bedroom includes an en-suite bath, custom closet, and direct access to the stunning heated pool. The front yard features a large pool, outdoor kitchen, and dual gas fireplaces, while the backyard offers a more intimate setting with a private patio and a glimpse of Piestewa Peak. Additional features include a temperature-controlled 4-car garage with epoxy flooring, a well-appointed laundry room with dual washers and dryers, and custom Arcadia commercial-grade sliders throughout. The exterior and interior T&G details showcase durable, medium-textured Red Grandis wood, enhancing the home's timeless appeal.
4414 E Vermont Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$4,839,999
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,299
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6745148
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover Modern Desert living in this luxurious home located in the heart of Phoenix's Camelback Corridor. Built in 2021. This contemporary home has 4 bedrooms 4.5 baths, and 2 dedicated offices within its split floor plan. The great room and hallways feature impressive 13.5'-0'' ceilings, creating an expansive and open atmosphere. The chef's Kitchen is perfect for entertaining with top-of-the-line appliances and ample counter space. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the convenience of the four-car garage, while great room and rooftop deck offers breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain. The exposed block work adds architectural charm to the design blending seamlessly with the natural desert landscape. This home offers quick and easy access to explore all that the vibrant city of Phoenix.
9504 N Desert Wash Trail
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$4,800,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,607
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774104
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gurczak Luxury Development is proud to present this New Construction Formal Mediterranean Spec Home in the Exclusive Guard Gated Community of Firerock Country Club. This 5,607 Sq. Ft. Home Features 4 Bedrooms w/ ensuite bathrooms, a separate powder room which includes an infrared sauna + a separate Den/Game Room. Each room contains a custom ceiling design - Coffered Ceilings, Floating Ceilings & Ceiling Bands. Oversized 4 Car Garage has ample space for all your toys and includes a bonus storage & workshop area. Estimated completion of January/February 2025.
10023 E Filaree Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,800,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,411
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785079
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Golf Membership Available- We are thrilled to announce the commencement of construction on this extraordinary custom home. Receive your full golf membership immediately and enjoy the opportunity to make your selections on finishes —move-in ready in just nine months. Crafted by esteemed builders, Black Stone Development, in collaboration with Graffin Design, this residence promises to be a contemporary masterpiece within the prestigious Desert Mountain community. Highlighted features of the main home include a spacious great room seamlessly connected to a formal dining area, an opulent chef's kitchen, 4 bedrooms, and 4 ½ baths. Ascending to the second level, you'll find a versatile study/lounge, a flex exercise room (with closet space, doubling as a potential 5th bedroom), and an expansive roof deck off. Additionally, a separate casita with a full bath ensures privacy for both homeowners and guests alike. Step into the ultimate outdoor retreat, complete with a magnificent pool and spa, multiple fire pits, serene water features, an outdoor kitchen, and charming patios that perfectly encapsulate the quintessential Arizona lifestyle. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the four-car garage, supplemented with ample storage space. Every detail of this home has been meticulously planned to enhance your living experience. Early buyers will have the unique opportunity to provide input on customization and select interior finishes to tailor the home to their preferences. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to own a piece of Desert Mountain luxury living. Golf membership available at increased price.
4949 E Lincoln Drive Unit 34
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,800,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,540
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770188
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into MONTELUCIA RESORT VILLA 34, a breathtaking masterpiece designed by the visionary TADDEY KARLIN OF BEVERLY HILLS, where every detail has been meticulously curated to deliver a living experience like no other. Nestled on the LARGEST ULTRA- PREMIUM LOT in the exclusive Montelucia Resort, this villa is a one-of-a-kind sanctuary that blends TIMELESS ELEGANCE with CONTEMPORARY LUXURY. From the moment you walk through the doors, you are greeted by UNRIVALED VIEWS of the majestic Camelback Mountain. The villa's design harmonizes beauty and functionality, with a focus on delivering both EXTREME PRIVACY and IMMERSIVE COMFORT. The CUSTOM CURATED FURNISHINGS can offer a truly TURNKEY EXPERIENCE where luxury and sophistication come together effortlessly. Indulge in world-class amenities from GOURMET ROOM SERVICE to THREE EXQUISITE POOLS, and the RENOWNED REJUVINATING SPA, all at your fingertips. Whether entertaining or unwinding, this villa elevates every moment, making it more than just a home it's a retreat where your lifestyle reaches new heights. Perfect for discerning buyers who seek a harmonious blend of resort-style living and privacy, Montelucia Resort Villa 34 is the ultimate expression of REFINED LIVING in the heart of PARADISE VALLEY.
44030 N Cottonwood Canyon Road
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$4,800,000
5
Beds
6
Baths
5,079
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6656613
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
FANTASTIC NEW PRICE 9/24 NEW MOUNTAINSIDE LUXURY HOME IN THE HILLS OF CAVE CREEK - 10+ ACRES - MESMERIZING CITY LIGHT VIEWS - PRISTINE AND UNOBSTRUCTED DESERT / SAGUARO CACTI / CANYON / MOUNTAIN VIEWS! Nestled near Elephant Mountain and minutes to the incredible Spur Cross Recreation / Conservation Area, this newly constructed 5,079 sq ft luxury custom home has some of the best views in the Valley of the Sun. Rare to find almost 11 acres of pristine natural desert so close to the city! Situated behind both community and private custom driveway gates, this home features 5 ensuite bedrooms, a 5 car garage and is the privacy and quiet that you have been searching for. Careful attention was given to home placement for the jaw-dropping views, sunsets and sun / light exposure. (Continued. . . ) Entering the home through a beautiful 10 ft. iron and glass door, you are immediately hit with views of the hundreds of saguaro cacti, the surrounding desert mountains and downtown Phoenix in the distance. Continue past the enclosed outdoor courtyard to find yourself in the 28 foot tall cathedral ceiling of the barn style great room with giant wood beams and an oversized 60 fireplace with a 100 year old barn wood floor accent wall, creating a gorgeous everyday living and entertaining area. The chef's entertaining kitchen boasts two oversized islands with custom cabinets, beautiful quartz waterfall countertops, Wolf 60 professional double oven range with custom designed hood, SubZero side by side 72 refrigerator / freezer, SubZero wine refrigerator, 2 Cove dishwashers, a Wolf built-in microwave, and oversized farmhouse sink. An impressive butler's pantry with custom shelving, sink, additional refrigerator and Scotsman ice maker, a separate walk-in storage pantry make this kitchen and great room space perfect for gatherings of any size. Open the expansive 35+ feet of sliding glass pocket doors in the great room and kitchen area creating an amazing indoor / outdoor living and entertaining space like no other. The 2,000 sq ft of covered patio wraps around the back and eastern side of the home, giving you endless views and seating areas. From the built-in barbeque that feels like an extension of the kitchen to the two sided, resort style fireplace, pizza oven, and built-in bar area, outdoor entertaining couldn't be easier. The owner's suite is split from the other bedrooms and includes fantastic city light, desert, and mountain views. The suite boasts five large windows, a fireplace with warm floor-to-ceiling wood surround, and an ensuite bathroom with emphasis on a beautiful oversized, glass framed stand alone shower and deep, soaking tub. Passing through to the large, walk-in closet, there is custom built-in cabinetry and a pocket door leading to the laundry room. The laundry room offers plenty of storage and countertop space with two LG front load washers, two LG dryers, built-in collapsible stainless steel drying racks, a dog wash shower, and deep soaking sink. Also in the laundry is an iron Dutch door. Located near the front door and courtyard is an office with a custom, wall length, built-in bookcase. Across the foyer from the office are the four additional bedrooms. They are situated surrounding a common game / bonus room, also featuring an iron Dutch door with access to the back covered patio. Each of the four oversized bedrooms offer beautiful desert, saguaro cacti or mountain views. Walk-in closets with custom shelving, and en suite bathrooms with custom tiled showers with glass enclosures make each bedroom a private suite. The garage can easily accommodate 5 vehicles and currently offers three high speed Tesla charging stations, a water purification system, two tankless smart gas water heaters, a salt system, built-in storage cabinets, and workshop area. The garage floor has custom epoxy coating throughout. The home features a new, private well with a 2,500 gallon underground storage tank and brand new septic system. The well equipment is protected from the elements in its own well house, designed to blend in with the surrounding desert. There is a large, professionally graded lower pad that is perfect for anything you can dream of - a horse barn and arena / turn out, a future casita or in-law suite, sports courts, a resort style pool, extended playground, or car collector and RV garage. Pre-wried for all of the surround sound and smart home features you could want. And not to be missed is the attention to detail in this beautiful home - from the chandeliers and copper lighting fixtures, to the custom barn doors throughout the home and to the highest quality fixtures. It will be hard for you to not get lost in the beauty and tranquility that this home has to offer.
4796 E Charles Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,800,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,904
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6622192
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Designed by award-winning FAIA architect Eddie Jones of Jones Studio and fabricated by premier builder The Construction Zone, the artful fusion of modern materials, integrated into the pristine Sonoran desert is an inspired vision brought to life. Unwind with expanded mountain views and city lights to rejuvenate your soul every day throughout the years! The unmistakable inspiration of Frank Lloyd Wright and the Modernism of Jones Studio are perfectly expressed in this fine residence positioned hillside above Tatum Blvd. Facing sweeping vistas on the eastern horizon, floor to ceiling glass captures superlative views of the McDowell Mountains! The many details of the home are reminiscent of the fit and finish of a luxury yacht and yearn to be experienced for full appreciation. Surrounded by views, the home is set on 1.76 acres for privacy and has been substantially upgraded since 2019. Superbly crafted with a unique blend of masonry, steel, wood and glass: the quality of the build is evident throughout. Your epicurean kitchen is equipped with a full array of the finest Miele appliances and caters to the foodie and connoisseur alike. Top-of-the-line major systems of the home include: recently upgraded and customizable Crestron security system for complete convenience, automated window shades, variable-speed HVAC, highly upgraded EV charging over-sized 3 car air-conditioned garage, recently installed premium whole house water system, recirculating tank-less gas fired water heaters, added floor level heated vents in primary bath, lighted vanity mirrors, organizational electric plug drawers, luxurious towel warmer, elegant control systems, built in shower trays for flow and continuity. LED lighting through-out, pre-wired for sound, recent new pool system equipment installed, conversation area warming fire and so much more. A list of designer furniture will be sold with the home. The primary bedroom has been transformed with deluxe closet cabinetry, dressers, side tables, designer pulls and low-profile ambience lighting and a customized complete king bed system beyond compare. Luxury extras you expect in a fine property have also been added to the primary bath. There is a music/reading room also on the main floor. Completely redesigned, the laundry/pantry area is now an upscale, highly-functional favorite workspace. The lower level has 3 en-suite bedrooms with beautiful views, a fitness/yoga room and a media lounge space with patio access. The largest en-suite bedroom also has a separate patio entrance and could be a second primary. Panoramic mountain vistas with hanging clouds, picturesque skies and the most gorgeous sunrises, this is truly an inspirational property to be experienced.