5 Major Red Flags to Watch for When You’re Touring an Open House

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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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

9143 E La Junta Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,000,000

5 Beds

6 Baths

5,569 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6778028

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A New Construction contemporary masterpiece nestled within prestigious Solitude, North Scottsdale awaits the discerning buyer. Built in 2024 and spanning over 5500 square feet with a separate casita, this architectural beauty designed by Swaback Architects and built by Sonora West Development, blends seamlessly with the desert landscape offering clean lines and a sophisticated façade that captures your attention, promising a home that is as stunning inside as it is out. The modern minimalist, open concept interior welcomes you with soaring ceilings, oak wood floors, custom chandeliers and high-end finishes throughout with over $895k in upgrades. Smart Home technology ensures every detail of modern living is at your fingertips, with an integrated audio visual system. More... A custom 490-bottle wine wall adds a touch of elegance in the entry and dining space of the home. The retractable doors leading to the exterior living space with a South facing backyard, mountain views. Enjoy the chilly Arizona evening with the in ceiling heaters and entertain with al fresco dining with a custom built in bar b que.

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9215 E Red Lawrence Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,000,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,343 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777014

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This charming Lash McDaniels design home is nestled within the community of Carefree Ranch yet within close proximity of the gate. You are welcomed with a mix of warm earthy tones, a weathered brick accents and inviting wood courtyard gates. As you enter the home, you're greeted by a spacious foyer adorned with vintage decor and soft lighting. The living room boasts large windows flooding the space with natural light all while highlighting the warm wood details and cozy fireplace. Entertain family and friends in the intimate elevated formal dining room. The kitchen combines modern appliances with rustic cabinetry, creating yet another warm and inviting space which flows seamlessly into the breakfast area and family room. A cozy office with custom wood doors is a quiet oasis and just steps away from primary suite which features another inviting fireplace, sitting area and stunning views. On the opposite wing you will find two comfortable bedrooms, each with its own unique character and ample storage space. The private separate guest castia is sure to please all your guest with kitchenette and forever views. The patio spaces are a serene oasis with private pool and spa, multiple sitting areas, large fireplace and built in BBQ; relax and enjoy the amazing Arizona sunsets and stunning city iight views.

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202 Calle Diamante -- Sedona, AZ 86336

$4,000,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

4,601 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753553

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning custom home built in 2022 in the gated community of Casa Contenta. If you're looking for views, this is the home! From the moment you open the front door you will understand why this home is special. Light, bright, and open floor plan on the main level. Sliders lead you to an expansive patio that runs the width of the house with a covered BBQ area and overhead heater for those chilly Sedona evenings. Master shares a similar view with Jacuzzi tub, walk in shower, dual sinks, makeup area, and lastly a large closet with extensive build-outs. The downstairs area offers you a multitude of functionality. These 2 rooms can be bedrooms or a game room, media room, and/or office. Once you step into the backyard you will be blown away by the finishes. Beautiful red rock streaming fountain, built in gas fire pit, pavers, artificial turf, and a putting green. Plenty of covered patio with surround sound and a hot tub with miles of unobstructed views. Owner Agent. Some personal property available with separate bill of sale.

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10537 E Mariola Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,000,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

6,012 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6775444

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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12183 E Sand Hills Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,000,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

5,022 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764790

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fabulous home on 2 plus acres showcased by a stunning backdrop of natural landscape and large boulders. This home has 5 en-suite bedrooms and a bookcase lined office.The Casita has everything needed for an in-law setup, rental or just family and guests. The pool has a lagoon like setting with a breathtaking waterfall and hot tub spillway. Solar was installed in 2022. Don't be surprised to receive a check from APS at the end of the year. There is a 5 car garage, workshop and fully paved driveway. One has a sense of serenity just pulling up to this special home.

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5101 N Casa Blanca Drive Unit 301 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

Open House

$4,000,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751923

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Situated on a detached corner parcel for maximum privacy inside coveted Historic Casa Blanca Phase 3 lies this stunning Spanish/Moroccan contemporary with soaring views of Camelback and beautiful sunsets. Low care manicured landscaping complete with stone fountain and outdoor fireplace, 2 car garage, prime location for safety and tranquility. High ceilings with brand new Lutron lighting system, automated shades, everything new to the studs. Custom Thermador appliances. Marble and quartz counters, lots of natural light, soft oak floors and generous primary. Truly turnkey complete with an added custom built bar. Rich, timeless & elegant, enjoy tennis, pickleball, and 3 heated pools in the convenience of a manned guard gate. Minutes from Fashion Square Mall on most desirable street in PV. Paradise Valley's best shopping and restaurants.

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7745 N Tatum Boulevard Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

Open House

$4,000,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,322 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760938

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Home was just finished and now job transfer forces owners to sell there newly built dream home in Arizona's most prestigious area. Sitting In the heart of Paradise Valley you will find this Old Tucson Style Slump Block Home but inside is modern contemporary with lots of glass and high ceilings. Folding glass doors open to bring the natural stunning views from the backyard patio of Mummy Mountain to the east and Phoenix mountain preserves from the front patio. The split master bedroom floorplan provides privacy for the entire family and guests The floor to ceiling chilled glass wine cellar adds to the elegancy displaying over 250 bottles of your private collection. Huge covered rear patio has built-in heaters. Private guest quarters upstairs with viewing deck. Convenient N/S garages DRASTIC reduction 1.5 million from original list price of 5.5M

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7360 E Sweetwater Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$3,999,999

6 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,454 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754191

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience the epitome of luxury in this brand-new construction located in gorgeous Scottsdale Arizona, with the added benefit of NO HOA. This exceptional property boasts an array of unique features, including two kitchens, two mudrooms, two laundry rooms (one with a pet shower), and a 6th bedroom with a private entrance. The thoughtfully designed split floor plan places the primary suite in the west wing, offering a spacious walk-in closet, an oversized shower, and a private patio. The east wing houses the second kitchen and an additional family room, perfect for extended family or guests. The custom kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring quartzite countertops, birch cabinets, top-of-the-line Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, and a walk-in pantry with a separate sink and dishwasher. The home is adorned with European oak hardwood plank flooring throughout, providing warmth and elegance. Beautifully designed by Kevin Robert Interiors, the home is architecturally stunning with a glass-encased wine rack, multiple ensuite bathrooms, and several covered outdoor spaces. The new outdoor kitchen is perfect for entertaining, and the oversized north-facing backyard includes a brand-new pebble-tec pool and a Pickleball/Basketball court for recreation. This property is a rare find, combining luxury, functionality, and style in one of Scottsdale's most desirable locations.

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8436 E Sahuaro Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Open House

$3,999,999

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,721 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778929

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover ultimate luxury in this fully rebuilt 4,721 sq ft home in Scottsdale's Cactus Corridor. Reimagined under the architectural expertise of NewWest Design Studio, with interior design by Weaver Interiors, every inch of this property has been transformed with sophistication and style. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and high-end designer finishes throughout, this home exudes elegance. The gourmet kitchen includes a full suite of Thermador appliances, including a 36-inch fridge and freezer. Massive Western sliding glass doors open to a new pool and expansive backyard on nearly an acre, with room to build an oversized garage and a 2-bedroom casita. Architectural drawings for the garage and casita are complete, and the builder is ready to start construction immediately.

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11108 E Mariola Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,999,977

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

7,277 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6662532

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A rare, immediate golf membership is available with purchase. Ask for details! This is a hillside gem capturing awe-inspiring panoramic mountain views from every corner! This home was made to entertain the largest of gatherings, yet cozy enough for the smallest. Top of the line when built in 2004. Built into the mountain. Hardly lived in. CMU build. Great bones. Needs some updating and you've just added to the equity. Multi generational for those who don't mind the shallow steps. 4 separate guest suites, including the 950 sf upper deck casita. 3 car garage, 7+ additional parking spots. Well designed motor court. Purchase the lot in front and build another home or tie it to this lot for an acre of expanded yard. For undisturbed views, pets, kids, parties or whatever your heart desires.

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10728 E Cottontail Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,999,800

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,511 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6704872

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This timeless styled Spanish Colonial home rests in guard gated Windy Walk Estates of Troon. It's North - South exposure captures views of Pinnacle Peak, Troon Mountain and city lights. The luxurious home is all on one level except for a large 875/sf 2nd level game/office/bedroom with its own fireplace, full bath and balcony overlooking city light views. You enter the main home through a hand forged iron gate into a charming front courtyard with bubbly fountain. The iron front door opens to the formal living and dining areas with rough sawn beams, stone floors, Venetian plastered walls and a cantera stone fireplace. Just down the hall is an intimate home theater. The large family room includes a corner fireplace, walk-up wet bar with ice maker, dishwasher, Sub-Zero wine and beverage ..... cooler plus room for a pool table. It opens to a center island kitchen with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances and breakfast room. The Arcadia doors from the breakfast room lead to an outdoor patio with fireplace, BBQ and pizza oven all overlooking views of the boulder filled Troon Mountain. The kitchen conveniently opens to the 4 car garage and includes a key drop and very large walk-in pantry. The charming Primary suite includes a fireplace and a marble floored bath and a large closet that opens to the laundry room. The living room, family room and Primary suite are lined with Arcadia doors opening to arched covered patio that overlook the sparkling pool, paver hardscape, lush landscaping and views of Pinnacle Peak. The home has been updated with Venetian plastered walls, white oak flooring, new garage doors and a Bull Frog spa. Two of the three HVAC systems have been replaced and the exterior has been newly painted. The home includes 4 interior and 1 exterior fireplaces.

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W Kayenta Trail Laveen, AZ 85339

$3,999,000

5 Beds

7 Baths

5,486 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779097

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Sunset Coves Estates Luxury Living! Your opportunity to own a piece of Paradise in one of the most luxurious, private, soon-to-be-gated neighborhoods in the west valley. The property has incredible views of South Mountain and Carver Mountain. Quick I10/202 freeway access. Sunset Cove Estates lives up to its name by providing the Phoenix Valley's most stunning sunrises as well as sunsets. Homes in this Luxury Community have at least 1 acre. South Mountain Park hiking/biking trails are a two-minute walk from your front door. The main house consists of approximately 4,814 sqft with 4 car garage. 672 sqft Casita with its own garage. Main house has 4 bedrooms, each with their own bathroom. Outdoor patio will consist of over 1,300 sqft. This custom home will be complete in 2025 Home can be built in 2 ways. Either traditional or contemporary.

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