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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11142 N Viento Court
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$3,395,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
4,100
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762634
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This property is the perfect soft contemporary, empty nester, ONE LEVEL home you've been waiting for. Absolutely captivating and unobstructed airliner views from Four Peaks, to the Fountain to Camelback Mountain and city lights galore! This tastefully designed ridgetop 2022 build is a manageable and beautiful 3 bedroom, three bathroom open concept (great room) layout perfect for those seeking a fabulous entertaining space without superfluous square footage. Gorgeous kitchen and finishes, with a stunning 20-foot beamed ceiling and 20' retractable slider in the great room for views and indoor/outdoor living. See the 2-car garage and a massive 35' deep RV / boat garage perfect for the toys. The travertine pool deck, hot tub and negative edge pool maximize the sunset view experience.
6230 E Calle Del Norte --
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$3,395,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,962
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770883
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful sprawling ranch has a perfect open floor plan and loads of charm and character. The upscale island kitchen has double ovens, double dishwashers, warming drawer, custom cabinetry, and a breakfast bar, the great room is lined with french doors creating a bright sun filled space, the formal living and dining rooms are great for intimate family gatherings as well as large scale entertaining, there's a fantastic custom built home office, and the impressive primary suite has an extra large bath. Sitting in a highly sought after Arcadia neighborhood, the oversized lot houses a gorgeous pool, built-in barbecue, large covered patio, and super mature, lush grounds. This home is wonderful as is, yet it has endless potential to go to the next level!
19947 N 94th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$3,395,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,702
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6758877
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
LOCATION & VIEWS. Enjoy luxury living in the highly desired gated community of La Strada : one of Scottsdale's best-kept secrets adjacent to DC Ranch. Next to Market Street and minutes from all of North Scottsdale's best dining and hot spots, golf, hiking or biking trails. EXQUISITELY REMODELED. Most recently, a full-remodel of the primary bathroom & closets. All new Wolf appliances and a large, workable kitchen is great for the chef or novice cook. Remarkable home design with impressive resort style outdoor living spaces. Expansive glass pocket doors and wall of elegant French doors paired with soaring cathedral ceilings with a grand living area allows for seamless indoor/outdoor luxury living & effortless entertaining. All while enjoying the fabulous view of the McDowell Mountains.
8537 E Los Gatos Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$3,390,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,590
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6714679
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience luxury living in the exclusive gated community of Los Gatos, North Scottsdale. Designed by renowned builder Geoffrey Edmonds, this home features a charming front courtyard and a meticulously crafted floor plan that provides an open and flowing main living space, ideal for daily living and entertaining friends and family. The light-filled interiors boast expansive windows with views of the landscaped backyard. The large eat-in kitchen is equipped with wood floors, wood beams, an island with a sink, extensive granite countertops, six-burner gas range, side-by-side refrigerator and freezer, and a warming oven, all seamlessly connecting to the family room with a fireplace. A formal dining room offers additional dining options. The principal suite, located apart from the ... three guest bedrooms, includes a sitting area with a fireplace. A separate casita with a refrigerator and microwave enhances guest privacy. Large multi panel glass doors lead to patios, both covered and uncovered, perfect for Arizona's outdoor living lifestyle. The sprawling backyard features lush green grass, a pool with a water feature, a spa, an outdoor kitchen with a built-in BBQ and refrigerator, and a gas fire pit. The north/south orientation boasts a panoramic view of the McDowell Mountains and captures sunsets and city lights.
10629 E Troon North Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$3,380,000
5
Beds
7
Baths
7,443
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6666657
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream oasis in the heart of the luxurious gated community of Talus at Troon North. This stunning Italian-inspired Custom Home is a masterpiece of architectural elegance and timeless design. Nestled on an expansive ~1-acre corner lot, this home enjoys the utmost privacy within a serene cul-de-sac setting. As you approach the residence you are greeted by a grand gated entry courtyard adorned with two majestic fountains and lush landscaping, setting the tone for the opulence that awaits inside. With a spacious 7,443 SF of living space, this five-bedroom, seven-bath estate offers an impressive array of features and amenities. The main level of the home boasts a functional & well-thought-out floor plan. Three generous bedrooms PLUS 420SF Casita plus Office (CLICK ''MORE'')... Four bedrooms on main level plus a stunning ensuite office w/ closet, private patio and calming water feature, all ensure ample space for family and guests. The upstairs area is dedicated to entertainment, featuring a media/game room with an exterior balcony that provides breathtaking views. This upstairs compound has bath, deck, closet & kitchenette= BR5. For those seeking additional privacy, an ensuite guest casita with a kitchenette, closet and private entrance can be found off the charming front courtyard. This home is a paradise for those who love to entertain. The kitchen seamlessly connects to the family room, complete with a wet bar and convenient access to the wine cellar, which is large enough to accommodate a tasting table. The kitchen itself is a chef's dream, featuring top-of-the-line appliances, including a Viking gas cooktop, two Wolf wall ovens, two Asko dishwashers, three sinks, and dual Sub Zero fridge/freezers. The master suite is a sanctuary of luxury, occupying its own private wing of the home. It includes a cozy sitting room with a fireplace, a sumptuous bathroom highlighted by a sunken jetted tub framed with Cantera stone columns and an inviting fireplace. Additionally, there is a safe room and even a hookup for a washer/dryer in one of the three walk-in closets, providing ultimate convenience. Every inch of this residence exudes elegance and sophistication. It is loaded with first-class amenities, including fresh interior paint and new carpet, a domed entry ceiling, an exotic pool and spa surrounded by travertine pavers (recently refinished), a three-car garage with an extra detached bay for a total of four car garages, and a total of five fireplaces throughout the home for added warmth and charm. Cantera stone accents adorn both the interior and exterior, while polished travertine flooring and electronic shades add to the overall sense of luxury. This home is simply impressive and offers a lifestyle of grandeur, elegance, and sophistication. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exquisite Italian-inspired residence your own, and experience the epitome of luxury living in the exclusive Talus at Troon North community.
6436 E Clinton Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$3,371,250
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,071
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6716201
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW from Thomas James Homes with an opportunity to select some interior finishes during early stages of construction! This house has a great address, great schools and great views. Sitting in the highly desirable Scottsdale neighborhood, this beautiful 5 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom is the definition of exceptional design. Wide plank wood flooring, decorative ceiling and wall treatments, including beams and wood paneling, impressive custom lighting, outstanding millwork, stone and tile accents, a gorgeous floor to ceiling fireplace, shaker cabinetry and a 4-car garage are just a sampling of the outstanding finishes going into the home. The large single story open concept floorplan is expertly crafted with a large interior courtyard leading to the home's entrance. Inside you'll find a large great room and luxury kitchen joined by a large quartz countertop island. The grand suite hosts a large his and hers walk-in closet and a spa like bathroom with a freestanding soaking tub and walk-in shower. The secondary bedrooms throughout the home have en-suite bathrooms. In addition to the bedrooms, you'll find ample added living space with a private office and a kitchen prep area adjoining a bonus room and a game room. Home will feature fully landscaped front and back yards with a pool and spa, providing great Arizona outdoor living space. Expected completion in Summer of 2025.
5215 E Lafayette Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$3,369,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,209
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775398
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to a rare mid-century modern retreat on a huge 36,440 sq. ft. lot updated to todays standards. This 4,305-square-foot main house, plus an additional 904-square-foot guest house, offers four bedrooms and 4.5 baths in the main home, brand new roof and high-efficiency AC units, both with a 10-year warranty. The open layout, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and iconic architectural lines draw in natural light and frame stunning views of entire Camelback Mountain. The guest house is equipped with a full bath, kitchenette, and private entrance. The expansive backyard is ready for gatherings, with a bocce ball court, sand volleyball court, peaceful pavilion and firepit. Original Architecture done by George Kenneth Rubel.
13023 N 68th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$3,350,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,071
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6752069
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Unique opportunity to unlock the advantages of buying an in-progress home built by Thomas James Homes. When purchasing this home, you will benefit from preferred pricing, design personalization, a guaranteed delivery, and more. Estimated home completion Spring 2025. Great address, great schools! Sitting in the highly desirable Sweetwater Corridor in Central Scottsdale, this beautiful 5 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom modern farmhouse is the definition of exceptional design. Wide plank wood flooring, decorative ceiling and wall treatments, including beams and wood paneling, impressive custom lighting, outstanding millwork, stone and tile accents, a gorgeous floor to ceiling fireplace, shaker cabinetry and a 4-car garage are just a sampling of the outstanding finishes going into the home. The large single story open concept floorplan is expertly crafted for modern living with a large interior courtyard leading to the home's entrance. Inside you'll find a large great room and luxury kitchen joined by a large quartz countertop island. The grand suite hosts a large his and hers walk-in closet and a spa like bathroom with a freestanding soaking tub and walk-in shower. The secondary bedrooms throughout the home have en-suite bathrooms. In addition to the bedrooms, you'll find ample added living space with a private office, gym and a kitchen prep area adjoining the dining room and a bonus room. Home will feature fully landscaped front and back yards, providing great Arizona outdoor living space. This home is minutes from dining, shopping and more.
9068 E Rimrock Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$3,349,900
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,352
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6752751
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This modern luxury estate is the result of a two-year like new, complete remodel on a 1.5-acre view lot! Future expansion survey and drawings offer an incredible opportunity to double the size of this home. The stunning new design created a fabulous, open great room featuring a modern see-through gas fireplace and a gourmet chef's kitchen boasting all new Viking appliances, custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, and an oversized island with bar seating. The split primary suite is the ultimate retreat featuring an expanded shower, a new tub, and custom walk-in closet. Two bedrooms are ensuite and a full bath was added across from the third bed. The backyard oasis features a brand-new heated pool, spa, white travertine, artificial grass, mature trees and picturesque McDowell mountain views!
1275 Dry Creek Road
Sedona, AZ 86336
$3,345,000
6
Beds
5
Baths
6,414
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6747035
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This sprawling West Sedona Estate is amazing for so many reasons! The main home is spacious and has 4 bedrooms, 4 ensuite baths on 2.09 fabulous acres with expansive 360 views overlooking so many of Sedonas' landmark red rock mountains in an amazing location with no HOA. The outdoor entertaining areas are ample with plenty of room to relax and unwind including a putting green, multiple fireplaces, hot tub and pool. This home has an oversized 4 car detached garage with room for a workshop, 2 driveways, a separate guest house featuring 16-foot ceilings, 2 bedrooms, living area, kitchen with an attached climate-controlled RV garage. This extraordinary retreat is currently functioning as a successful short-term rental. This property has produced 350k in gross revenue in its first year, comes fully furnished but would also be a wonderful home for your family or great second home. The main house is 6,414 square feet with 4 spacious bedrooms 4 ensuite bathrooms and the primary Bedroom is on the main level and is huge with a stacked stone rock wall to add to its ambiance. Walk out to the expansive rear patio and enjoy morning coffee while admiring some of Sedona's most iconic rock formations. The kitchen has a Cambria Quartz Island and countertops. NXR chef grade range with a 6 burner gas cooktop, wine fridge, plenty of space to cook and entertain with multiple options for casual dining including a charming out door pergola with a large dining area, an outdoor fireplace and 2 outdoor fire pit areas, surrounded by lush greenery and mature fruit trees. There are so many outdoor entertainment areas it will be hard to choose where to be, the upper level which boasts a large living room/game room, fireplace and two huge decks. The views are unobstructed, you can see all the way to Mingus Mountain and the twinkling lights of Jerome. Cockscomb, Doe Mesa, Bear Mountain and Boynton Canyon to the West and Lizard, Chimney, Thunder Mountain to the East. Come see this in person, it is truly spectacular. Allow time to take it all in. New wine fridge, new roof, expanded new septic, new water heater, new washer and dryer, both in main house and guest house, refurbished putting green, ev charger and fully furnished.
4302 E Marion Way
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$3,325,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,698
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768404
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful NEW modern-style home by Thomas James Homes located in MARION ESTATES! This home has 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths and an estimated completion date of Summer 2025. Featuring a 3 car garage, attached Casita, beautiful pool and landscaped front and backyards which when combined with the professionally designed interior will make this home spectacular. Spend time in the formal dining room, snuggle up in the spacious great room with the gas fireplace on or open the stacking doors to the patio and let in some fresh air. Chef-inspired kitchen has a large island with bar seating, nook, and walk-in pantry. Beyond the kitchen sits a large bonus room connected to a second covered patio. The grand suite is spacious with a grand bath, freestanding tub, a walk-in shower, dual vanities, and an amazing walk-in closet. Hopi and Arcadia High School district and within walking distance to Global Ambassador and Phoenix Country Day!
8867 N 63rd Place
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$3,325,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
6,298
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6702331
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fabulous location in Paradise Valley! Great floor plan with primary suite downstairs and 3 split secondary bedrooms, Primary suite has a bonus room for additional closet, nursery, office or studio. Upstairs is a large bonus room for media, playroom, office or hang out room. Spacious main living space has a stunning kitchen with dining and large family room area. Outside is a haven for entertaining with both gas and wood grills, dining gazebo, pool with waterfall, hot tub, bocce ball court, horseshoes and a great play area. Five car garage is split into 3 attached at the main house and an additional detached 2 car garage. Make this home yours!