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

3512 N Citrus Cove Mesa, AZ 85213

$575,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,294 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6776608

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled in a serene, gated community! Fully updated and move-in ready, this home shines with fresh interior paint, brand new carpet, a new water softener, water heater, and AC system. The gorgeous kitchen is a showstopper with upgraded cabinets, sleek granite countertops, and a spacious island that flows effortlessly into the dining and great room—perfect for entertaining! A full bedroom and bathroom on the first floor provide the ideal setup for guests or multigenerational living. Upstairs, unwind in the luxurious master suite, complete with an en suite bathroom and a huge walk-in closet. The community offers beautiful walking paths, play areas, and is just minutes from the Red Mountain 202 Freeway and a quick 20-minute drive to Sky Harbor Airport!

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13313 N 84th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85381

$575,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,336 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6780747

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out this home on 1/3rd of an acre with NO HOA!..3 car garage with epoxy flooring, RV parking with electric hookups, travertine front patio leads you into to the spacious front living room, updated kitchen features granite countertops, white cabinets and double ovens, formal dining with patio overlooking pool area, family room with stacked stone fireplace, and a bedroom with full bath downstairs, two more guest rooms upstairs, large primary suite with updated primary bath. Huge backyard with turf, pavers, fruit trees and sparkling swimming pool to entertain family and friends. Don't miss out on this one!

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10015 E Mountain View Road Unit 1004 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$575,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,792 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749416

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to a charming oasis in the heart of Scottsdale Ranch, where elegance meets comfort. This exceptional home offers a spacious living area perfect for relaxation and entertaining, highlighted by a cozy fireplace that invites warmth and charm. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring custom cabinetry, gleaming quartz countertops, and state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances. Unwind in the expansive Primary Suite, your personal retreat, complete with a spa-like bath designed for ultimate relaxation. Discover luxury living at its finest in one of Scottsdale's most sought-after neighborhoods!

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955 S Henry Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$575,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,539 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783385

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this lovely 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence in Cooley Station North! Discover a charming living room with high ceilings, half-moon clerestory windows, and wood-look flooring. The inviting family room is perfect for relaxing moments with loved ones. Cook delicious meals in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with granite counters, warm wood cabinetry with crown moulding, pendant/recessed lighting, and a large serving window with a breakfast bar. You'll also find a versatile den ideal for an office or study. Upstairs, the size-able loft provides additional living space. The main bedroom offers plush new carpeting, a walk-in closet, and an ensuite with double sinks. Outdoors, you'll find a covered patio for al fresco dining and a rear-entry 3-car garage. Make it yours!

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2930 W Laredo Lane Phoenix, AZ 85085

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,788 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784835

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Meticulously maintained home with extensive builder updates in a gated community. The owner selected timeless, soft-grey custom upgraded cabinetry (48'' in upper cabinets) with gorgeous granite and coordinating glass back splash, charming farm sink, range (ALSO PLUMBED FOR GAS) and stainless steel appliances. The open floor plan flows perfectly and has a living room/den positioned toward the front which is perfect flex space. Split master floorpan with a spacious walk-in closet, dual sinks and natural light. Upgraded flooring, window coverings, custom paint, crown molding. The backyard has a covered patio and artificial turf for the ultimate in low maintenance. Newest home in the subdivision and more current finishes. This home is spectacular.

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7179 W Surrey Avenue Peoria, AZ 85381

$575,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,081 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785618

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 5 bedroom, 3 bath home in the heart of Peoria. Featuring a 3-car garage and a sparkling pool, this residence offers luxurious living with an open floor plan that invites natural light through high ceilings and large windows. The modern kitchen is equipped with ample counter and cabinet space, perfect for meal preparation along with a huge island. The master suite is a retreat with its private bath featuring double sinks, a separate walk-in shower, and a soaking tub. The backyard is huge with lots of space and a sparkling pool, ideal for outdoor activities and entertaining. Conveniently located near schools, parks, shopping, and dining, this home is perfect for comfortable living.

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3821 E Branham Lane Phoenix, AZ 85042

$575,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,203 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786987

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into this stunning former model home packed with upgrades and extras! This 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom gem offers green space and mountain views from the backyard, setting the tone for serene living. The spacious kitchen features granite countertops, upgraded cabinets, a gas range, and a large pantry—perfect for cooking and entertaining. A formal living area adds a touch of elegance and versatility. Upstairs, you'll find all 4 bedrooms, including two luxurious suites, each with a private bathroom. One suite even boasts its own private entrance, ideal for guests, in-laws, or a home office. The convenience continues with an upstairs laundry room, making everyday chores a breeze. Centrally located in Phoenix, this home is perfect for commuters with easy access to downtown and the airport. For outdoor enthusiasts, South Mountain trails are just minutes away, offering hiking and adventure at your doorstep. This home is loaded with standout upgrades, including a custom iron front door, soft water system, surround sound, 9-foot ceilings, recessed lighting, and more. Nestled in a gated community with walking paths, a playground, and a park just behind the house, it's the perfect spot for families or anyone seeking a vibrant, active lifestyle.

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33231 N 43rd Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,511 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785534

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your dream home in the prestigious gated community of Dove Valley Ranch! Beautifully upgraded single-level property features a desirable great-room floor plan with a split owner's suite, vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, 5-inch baseboards, and stunning wood-look tile flooring. A brand-new HVAC system ensures year-round comfort.Open kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, a pantry, a breakfast bar, and an elegant subway marble tile backsplash. Both bathrooms have been thoughtfully updated with granite countertops, under-mount sinks, framed mirrors, and new lighting fixtures. The master bath is a true retreat, featuring custom tile work, an expanded layout, and a frameless glass shower. Step outside to your private, low-maintenance backyard overlooking serene NAOS land no homes behind. The tranquil setting is perfect for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment. Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, and the Dove Valley Ranch Golf Club, this home truly has it all!

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3025 N 160th Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$575,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,033 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787438

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Now here's a true value. Look at what you get for only $575K: pool with hot tub, 3-car garage, outdoor and indoor fireplaces, built-in grilling station, expansive and beautiful corner lot. Home consists of 2 beds, 2 baths, office and open concept living with eating areas. There are granite counters and stainless-steel appliances in the kitchen, and tile floors throughout. There's also a prepaid solar lease with approx 7 years of no solar lease payments left. Home inspection and appraisal were just done and are on file in the doc section. Home is priced at appraised value. This one is well worth the money.

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23014 N 22nd Place Phoenix, AZ 85024

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,554 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775017

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is IT. The perfect home with an incredible location. With easy freeway access, lots of local parks and entertainment while still being situated in a nice quiet suburb. With a spacious 3 bedroom 2 bathroom floor plan with dining and entertainment space you will be ready to invite over all your guests. The pool and outdoor space is perfect with mountain views to relax and enjoy your new home. Only 12 minutes to Desert Ridge with dining, entertainment and shopping. Close enough to main freeways for an easy commute to Downtown, TSMC, or Scottsdale. This one is sure to check all your boxes! So go ahead and start packing them!

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12132 W Ashby Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$575,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,751 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787370

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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15735 W Autumn Sage Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,282 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6778325

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Exquisitely updated Hacienda/Stonecrest model starting from the minute you walk up to the cozy front courtyard, Stone veneer finishes & cool deck driveway & sidewalk. Entrance has custom security door & front door. Formal living room for entertainment & dining area, all open to the spacious great room with custom fireplace, media wall with stone veneer, special lighting & TV included. Huge kitchen with refinished cabinets, tiled backsplash, beautiful granite countertops, stainless appliances plus an ice making machine & a massive breakfast bar with stone finish & double pantry. Split floorplan offers great privacy. Primary suite includes large picture window, oversized walk in closet, bathroom upgrades include granite counters, double sinks, plumbing fixtures & framed mirrors, lighting, hardware, tiled shower & door, tiled soaking tub surround. 2 spacious guest rooms, 1 with built in Murphy bed & desk. The guest bath has a walk-in shower, updated vanity, granite counters, plumbing fixtures & sink, hardware, mirror & lighting. Nicely appointed laundry room with built in cabinets. Absolutely stunning back yard extended covered patio with cool decking, massive rock water feature, beautiful mature landscape, wrought iron fencing. Additional upgrades include: Baseboards, wood trim around window, 5 new Anderson windows in main areas, interior & exterior paint, custom blinds, recirculating hot water pump, security system, water softener, extended length garage with golf cart space & keyless entry system. Outside heater hardwired in & awnings.

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