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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42515 N 102nd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$10,995,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
6,323
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750914
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Sited in Desert Mountain's prestigious Saguaro Forest this 1st time on the market 2020 custom home comes with furnishings and a golf membership. This stunning single level soft contemporary masterpiece was designed by Architect Shelby Wilson and built by Manship Homes. The interior (Elizabeth Rosensteel) and exterior (CF Design) are intertwined creating organic modern elegance. This perfectly situated 2.49-acre home sits above Desert Mountains highest clubhouse and its 18th hole. Perched above the rooftops it's unobstructed vista showcases eastern sunrises to western sunsets with city lights in between. The beauty of this property elicits the same statement over and over again...''Wow this is the best view in Desert Mountain''. Step inside and your eye is immediately drawn through the interior courtyard to the jaw dropping 83' negative edge lap/play pool which seamlessly merges into the horizon. This indoor/outdoor sanctuary represents the pinnacle of carefully curated contemporary design (outstanding balance/flow, natural light, generous space and privacy). The premier location is enhanced with walkability to the Chiricahua Clubhouse and Constantino/Angelos's restaurants. Make this your home and drop yourself into instant paradise.
9333 E Happy Valley Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$10,950,000
11
Beds
12
Baths
11,995
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754976
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This is a mini resort! This gated estate is perfect for those who value a luxury private estate with luxurious amenities, quality finishes and views. The current owner conceived and built the estate with gardens, terraces, balconies, pools, walkways, garages and amenities of grandeur that rival 5-star resorts while appealing to the car collector, equestrian lover, toy owner and entertainer alike. On just under 5 acres in the coveted zip code of 85255, this property frames Pinnacle Peak to the north and city lights and Camelback mountain to the south. In terms of accommodation, the main home offers two generous primary suites, 4 bedrooms ensuite, 2 bedroom with jack & jill bathroom, theater, office, grand dining room and wine cellar. The guest house feature a billiards room.... .. with a custom built-in bar (with a hidden door to a full-size server's kitchen), a theater with state-of-the-art technology, wine cellar, elevator, private office at entry, and grand dining room. A glass wall of pocket doors blends the inside and outside living space and expansive patio. The spectacular resort inspired outdoors feature mature lush landscape, misters, and putting green wrapped by a lazy river with in-pool lounge chair deck and 2 cabanas. Separate from the lazy river is an impressive pool and spa with swim-up bar, grotto, boulder water slide, splash pad and shallow pool perfect for pets or those who don't desire the depth of the pool. Enjoy food prep in the outdoor kitchen or cooking in the authentic pizza oven or smoker and invite friends to play volleyball in the full-size sand volleyball court. As a car collector, the owner built garages to house 12-14 vehicles which wrap around a paver motor court flanked by a 50' RV garage. The garage features a bar for entertaining, private bath and glass display doors to showcase his special treasures. This home also has an exquisite barn and turn-out for horses or livestock if you so desire. There are too many features to list, including a long list of recent mechanical updates. Showings by appointment only. We recommend at least 2 hours to view the estate. Your client can rest assured that this home will remain private to outsiders as only limited photos will be provided to the public.
41521 N 75th Place
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$10,500,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
7,250
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753754
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The Six Shooter residence seamlessly floats in harmony with the natural landscape through carefully selected rustic materials, such as rubble stone, concrete and raw steel. Perched high on the gentle hillside, this home offers panoramic views and ultimate privacy amidst ancient saguaros. The lower 7-car show garage not only serves as a focal point, but elevates the home even higher, transcending the hillside for commanding views. The great room is an open-concept space that seamlessly connects the front terraces with mountain vistas unfolding before you. The private primary suite, strategically hovering above the desert, offers utmost seclusion and astonishing views. The guest wing and lounge open up to the pool and terrace area, creating an oasis for relaxation and social gatherings.
6512 E Hummingbird Lane
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$10,400,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
6,990
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6652037
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This magnificent Paradise Valley estate takes its inspiration from traditional Mediterranean style while celebrating the clean lines and open floor plan of a modern design. The unrivaled design includes a grand light well connecting the main level to a lower living space featuring a theater, lounge, and custom handcrafted bar. As you enter the estate, a welcoming courtyard for guest parking will lead to the grand entrance. A secondary secluded auto court and 4 car garage is situated at the back west end of the property. Indulge in a private backyard oasis offering ultimate privacy and a state-of-the-art indoor-outdoor kitchen. The 64 feet lap pool and spa is perfectly situated for entertainment and enriches the design coupled with a large lawn and room for furry friends. With defined custom home knowledge alongside a tradition of quality and attention to detail, BedBrock has successfully developed luxury communities that have exceeded expectations for value and quality across the Valley. The award-winning team offers a seamless design-build process in-house. Renderings are made for illustration purposes only. Changes to the renderings and the plans are subject to change.
5939 E Quartz Mountain Road
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$10,300,000
5
Beds
8
Baths
8,320
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6702883
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Modern Mediterranean architecture w/ spectacular city light & mountain views! The floorplan is ideal for empty-nesters or seasonal owners w/ an updated full guest casita below the main house...perfect for a visiting family or caregiver. Serenely & intimately perched on the prestigious north slope of Mummy Mtn, the 5600 sf main house was recently completed w/ the best construction methods including 15'' thick steel & concrete walls, floor to ceiling walls of glass supported by steel I-beams & interior wall insulation. Design finishes include stone floors, wood beams, quarried stone accents, a reclaimed trough sink, marble & quartz slabs at the kitchen & baths, home automation wiring & high-end lighting throughout. The abundant mature landscaping is as captivating as the incredible view!
9743 E Madera Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$10,000,000
7
Beds
8.5
Baths
11,625
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785584
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
With Available Golf Membership: Experience luxurious desert living in this stunning Southwestern architectural masterpiece by renowned designer Lee Hutchinson. This exceptional estate features a flowing, organic Pueblo design, harmonizing seamlessly with the natural desert landscape. Encompassing an impressive 9,085 sq. ft., the main residence, built by Shiloh Homes, offers five spacious en-suite bedrooms. A hallmark of southwestern elegance, the home boasts six fireplaces, creating warm, inviting spaces throughout. Multiple living areas, expansive covered patios (totaling 4,000 sq. ft.), and sweeping views provide a blend of comfort and grandeur. Built in 2013 by Arnet, the guest house spans 2,540 sq. ft. and offers two en-suite bedrooms, a full kitchen, a spacious great room, laundry facilities, and a three-car garage. The guest house also features three fireplaces, its own hot tub, and generous outdoor living spaces, making it a private retreat within the estate. With a total of seven garage spaces, car enthusiasts will appreciate the climate-controlled four-car garage in the main house and an additional three-car garage in the guest house. Both garages provide extra-large storage rooms for ample space and organization. Situated on three expansive lots totaling 2.2 acres, this estate offers 490 feet of golf course frontage within the Desert Mountain Village of Lone Mountain II. Revel in unobstructed green fairway views and the majestic mountain panoramas that stretch across the horizon. The grounds also feature a cozy outdoor fire pit and beautifully landscaped areas designed to maximize outdoor relaxation and entertainment. This residence is a true oasis, combining privacy, luxury, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Explore this remarkable estate with the attached motion video to capture the full essence of its unique design and breathtaking views.
9108 E Grapevine Pass --
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$10,000,000
5
Beds
6.5
Baths
7,945
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6628320
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
FULL GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE TO BUYER AND READY TO TRANSFER UPON APPROVAL FROM DESERT MOUNTAIN CLUB AND A SUCCESSFUL CLOSE OF LAND AND HOME BUILD CONTRACT. Sexy, sleek contemporary encapsulating modern luxury with the natural surrounding beauty of the Sonoran Desert and private 25 Acres. Nestled at the end of a winding road, perched into the hillside where the horizon paints an exquisite blend of colors during the sunrise and sunset. Featuring elements of stone, glass and wood this home will come together harmoniously to create an elegant symphony of textures and forms. The heart of the home is a great room space / open kitchen with floor to ceiling windows that will capture the panoramic vistas, inviting the outside in. The patio spaces an extension of the home's grace, boasting an infinity-edge pool that will seemingly blended with the horizon, bar/bbq along with dining area for al fresco meals, and a fire pit where stories will be shared under the starlit skies. This floorplan allows for 100% single level living with main floor featuring split primary bedroom, two private guest en-suites, wine room, study and 5 car garage. Lower level encompasses a large game /bonus room and two private en-suites. Perfect for a couple or entertaining groups of family and friends this 7945 square foot 5 bedroom, 5 car garage home with a total of 14,320 square feet under roof is waiting for you. Black Stone Development and designer Graffin Design have successfully designed and built over 55 properties in Desert Mountain. Ground breaking can occur in as little as 2 to 3 months. Lifts can be added in garage for additional car storage.
5739 E Cactus Wren Road
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$10,000,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
6,322
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774047
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Iconic and Timeless: Two words that capture the essence of this masterfully curated trophy residence, boasting sprawling head to tail Camelback Mountain views from every room. Brought to life by world renowned architect Mark Candelaria and nestled into the gold coast of Paradise Valley; perfectly situated in between Camelback and Mummy Mountain, this signature view estate is privately gated on a 1 acre cul de sac lot. Timeless and elegant finishes are carried throughout the home, seamlessly blending the best of Arizona luxury indoor/outdoor living. Comfortable entertaining spaces and courtyards fully open to create an effortless flow to this one of a kind masterpiece; capturing the best panoramic views in Paradise Valley, within the area's most prestigious corridor. Highest quality of construction throughout, the main residence has 4 generously sized en suite bedrooms, a flex space, office nook, music/piano room, and a walk in wine room. The detached casita is perfect for accommodating guests featuring; A kitchenette, main living space, full bathroom and separate bedroom. The Chef's Kitchen, equipped with a Butler's Pantry and large center island, opens to the main living space and bar area, with retractable windows for indoor/outdoor serving and soaking in the majestic views. With an abundance of green space and 360 degree mountain views, the entertainer's dream backyard embodies elevated resort living and offers an abundance of privacy, while perfectly framing Camelback Mountain and the Praying Monk. Just seconds from world class resorts, dining, and shopping; We welcome you to preview and explore this 1 of 1 opportunity, to acquire a truly special property in one of Paradise Valley's most exclusive, established and coveted locations.
40 N Biltmore Estate
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$10,000,000
6
Beds
7.5
Baths
14,554
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6736578
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Here at the prestigious Biltmore Resort, the Estates within the circle are majestic. This setting is exceptional on the golf course at 1.3 acres of breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain backdrop. A grand motor court welcomes you to a stately foyer, leading to expansive living and dining areas that epitomize opulence. The kitchen is a culinary marvel, boasting generous pantries and an extensive laundry suite. The private master suite offers a serene retreat, while additional rooms include a sophisticated office, an elegant library, and a refined bar room. Descend to the lower level to discover a magnificent paneled game room, an impressive wine cellar accommodating thousands of bottles, a chic bar, and a luxurious theater room. The verdant backyard, overlooking the golf course, features an outdoor kitchen perfect for alfresco dining and a charming two-bedroom guest house. This estate exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship, architectural brilliance, and an unrivaled location, making it a true masterpiece of luxury living.
6850 N 39th Place
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$10,000,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
6,965
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749840
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
EPIC City Lights, Camelback Mountain VIEWS inside the Guard Gated community of Paradise Reserves. Just under 2.2 hillside acres, seamlessly crafted between newly built custom homes. Discover every luxury upgrade one can imagine; intricate tile-work, cascading stone waterfall, 25-ft great room, custom glass underlit bar, effortlessly merge its outdoor spaces, and infinity-edge pool with your interiors. The chef's kitchen, with a geo-lux quartz island, complements the entertaining lifestyle. The elegant primary suite, custom closets, private balconies, 7 car Garage and theater contribute to refined living. Inside this guard-gated Paradise Valley community minutes from premier shopping and dining, Tatum & Lincoln, HWY 51, this residence offers unparalleled privacy, elegance and security.
8185 E Alameda Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$9,999,000
5
Beds
11
Baths
5,950
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6593970
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Boasting nearly 10 acres of land, this gated estate includes a stunning Spanish-style main house, a full equestrian facility, an entertainment pavilion with attached theater, 2 standalone casitas, 2 staff apartments & a 1200 sqft multi-use building. The 5,950 sqft main home was renovated in 2021. Vaulted, wood beamed ceilings, engineered hardwood floors & statement luxury light fixtures through-out the home. The primary suite presents a seating area, balcony & spa worthy ensuite. The backyard has an outdoor kitchen, a heated pool, spa & putting green. The 5,000-SF, entertainment pavilion has a game room, full bar, kitchen, gym, yoga studio & 3rd-level deck with 360º mountain and city views. The equestrian facility encompasses 15 stalls, 2 arenas, 3 turnouts & 2 RV parking.
9204 E Grapevine Pass
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$9,996,000
5
Beds
7
Baths
7,718
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6608449
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
DESERT MOUNTAIN GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE-Modern Mediterranean Luxury Living meets Fantastical Fun on one of the highest elevated estate sites in the premier community of Desert Mountain. Situated atop all of Desert Mountain on 12.2 acres with views of the entire valley. Entering the estate through the privately gated drive gives you the first sight of prominent elegance. The stone exterior with Cantera stone arches and accents, the forged metal details and limestone pavered entry greet you upon arrival. The 9 X 12 arched rain glass and iron scrolling door open to a brick mosaic lined rotunda with dazzling crystal chandelier. The elegant livability is instantly felt with the open and light great room split floor plan that blends seamlessly through the pocketing telescoping glass glass doors to the outdoor living space with linear spa and firepit offering unimaginable vistas in every direction. The Gourmet kitchen with large island, Alder wood cabinets, premium appliances and oversized walk-in pantry is every chefs dream. For the finest dining experience step through the circular entry defined by scrolled iron work, into the dining room with spectacular elevated views. The decadent Master Suite is well appointed with a stone wall backdrop, Cantera fireplace, dry sauna, spa like bath with glass tile shower, heated floors, free standing tub and designer closets. The Office, Guest Suite, Powder and Laundry each are statements in design and functionality. In the mood for some fun head downstairs to the whimsical bonus room with semi circular bar, work out room, home theater, and 2 additional guest bedrooms. The fanciful decor; bright colors, unique tile and fun finishes will make you smile. Head outside for more fun, relaxing and all your AZ outdoor entertainment needs; multi leveled patios, putting green, boulder waterfall cascading into the negative edge pool, sunning patios, outdoor kitchen and alfresco dining, Outdoor living room with fireplace, pool bath and outdoor shower. The separate entrance Casita charms every guest with the private patio, fireplace and unstoppable views. Car lovers will be astounded over the impeccably finished 5-car garage with garage vacuums, hot and cold water faucets, shoe closets and extra storage. The finest of organic finishes are throughout the home: wood and stone floors, wood, stone and tile wall details, brick mosaic and wood beam truss accented vaulted ceilings, stone counters and vanities, metal hand made iron work and the impressive steel great room grand fireplace. Additional details include smart home with Control 4 system, 44 solar panels, tankless water heaters, 2-inch water lines, 50 amp RV service and so much more! Ideal south facing backyard capturing maximum winter sun on the patio areas, along with tremendous sunsets, city lights and surrounding mountain views by day and mountain silhouettes by night. Bike or hike from your home to the nearby Desert Mountain Trails with over 20 miles of multi-use trails. Chiricahua and Cochise Geronimo Clubhouses are nearby for quick access to dining and golf. Sonoran Fitness center located within a short drive from this home. Golf Membership to the Desert Mountain Club available.