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

5255 N Peach Lane Pine, AZ 85544

$550,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,426 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6781018

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Tucked away among the whispering pines, this charming cabin invites you into its warm embrace with a delightful covered patio. Every corner of this beautifully reimagined retreat exudes comfort, from the inviting indoor spaces to the serene outdoor living areas. You'll find hickory floors sweeping gracefully throughout, while the living room captivates with its elegant stack-stone fireplace, cozy window seat, and soaring vaulted tongue-and-groove ceiling. The kitchen beckons with granite counters and a handy pantry for all your culinary needs. Venture upstairs to discover a snug loft, perfect for leisurely afternoons or perhaps an additional sleeping nook. The main level houses a quaint bedroom and bath, while the upper level offers a second bedroom and bath for added privacy. Have delightful gatherings or simply unwind on the spacious, wrap-around Trex deck, enveloped in nature. A chain-link fenced yard ensures a safe haven for kids and pets to play, while a garden area, fruit trees, two storage sheds, a dog run, and RV hook-ups cater to your every need. The oversized two-car garage not only accommodates your vehicles but also features a workbench, laundry hook-ups, and a convenient half-bath. With central heating and AC, this cozy haven promises year-round comfort and tranquility.

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12610 N 45th Drive Glendale, AZ 85304

$550,000

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,697 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6785080

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home, where modern upgrades meet timeless comfort. Boasting 5 bedrooms, a versatile den, and 2 bathrooms, this property offers the space and functionality you've been searching for. Step inside to discover a thoughtfully designed layout, perfect for families or hosting guests. Recent upgrades enhance the charm and convenience of the interior, creating a move-in-ready haven. Outside, the resort-style backyard steals the show. Dive into relaxation in the updated pool, surrounded by a stunning travertine pool deck that exudes elegance and durability. The low-maintenance synthetic grass ensures you spend more time enjoying the yard and less time working on it. Gather under the gorgeous gazebo, complete with an outdoor kitchen. New roof 2022 + a plethora of more updates are listed in the documents tab.

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3417 N Kalarama Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,458 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6784285

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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9254 E Milagro Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$550,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,924 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780804

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and style in this beautifully remodeled home with extensive landscaping ideally situated on an oversized lot. Citrus trees and privacy hedges create a beautiful and quiet oasis. The home features newer wood-look tile and carpeting throughout. The modern kitchen features sleek white cabinets with stylish hardware, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances, making it a chef's dream. Enjoy the spacious owner's bath, complete with a separate shower and tub for your relaxation. The expansive covered patio is perfect for entertaining, featuring a beautiful Pebble-Tec pool, recently remodeled with tile and travertine that promises endless summer fun. The yard offers plenty of space for outdoor activities, with a gate for your convenience.... Located within the vibrant community of Augusta Ranch, you'll have easy access to the golf course and an elementary school right within the subdivision. Don't miss the chance to own this exceptional property that combines elegance with outdoor living at its finest!

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4107 S 109th Avenue Tolleson, AZ 85353

$550,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,649 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767165

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Must see large single story, Next Gen home! Versatile floor plan has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Three car garage. Attached casita for varies uses, this home is only a year old, beautiful home inside and out with many modern amenities. This home is conveniently located near schools, stores, shopping, gas stations, restaurants, highways and much more. Open concept floor plan with oversized master suite and split bedrooms for individual privacy.

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4314 E Oak Street Phoenix, AZ 85008

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,895 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781205

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**BUYER DID NOT PERFORM**FIXER UPPER OPPORTUNITY, ORIGINAL CONDITION - PRICED ACCORDINGLY. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in Phoenix, offering 1,895 sq.ft. is located in the highly sought-after Arcadia Lite area. Step inside to an open and airy floorplan where natural light flows effortlessly through the home. The spacious eat-in kitchen features plenty of cabinet space for storage and a gas stove range for cooking enthusiasts. The primary bedroom boasts a spacious closet and an en-suite bath for added privacy. Two additional well-sized bedrooms share a full second bath, ensuring comfort for everyone. Stepping outside, you'll be delighted by the huge backyard, which offers a covered patio ideal for outdoor dining and relaxation. The fenced sparkling pool invites you to unwind and enjoy on a sunny Arizona days. In addition to the beautiful pool area, there's a spacious storage room/workshop, perfect for extra storage or as a hobby space. This home is located in a peaceful and friendly community, offering easy access to local amenities, schools, and parks. Whether you're enjoying the serene backyard or exploring the neighborhood, 4314 E Oak St offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and outdoor living. Don't miss out on this wonderful home!

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3237 W Glenrosa Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85017

New

$550,000

6 Beds

3 Baths

2,928 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787792

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This unique block single story open floor plan home that showcases 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms sits on an unbelievable 19,602 square foot lot is ready for all your decorating and remodel ideas. This is a terrific opportunity for investors or buyers looking to create their perfect home. The home an unheard of size lot for the area and has many mature citrus trees and huge grass backyard with RV gates and driveway to store all your entertainment toys!

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3869 S Dew Drop Lane Gilbert, AZ 85297

$550,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,163 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785765

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Highly Updated in Power Ranch! - You Will Fall in Love with this 4BR 2.5BA + Loft - All Newer: Flooring, Kitchen, Baths, Quartz Countertops, Interior Paint, Stainless Steel Appliances, Water Softener, Water Heater, R/O System - The Master Bedroom is Downstairs - Great Gilbert Schools - The Community Includes: Fishing Lakes, Community Pools, Parks Throughout, Basketball Courts, Playgrounds, Trails, Clubhouse, & MUCH MORE!! Power Ranch is One of THE Premiere Neighborhoods in Gilbert/ East Valley! See This Beauty Soon!!

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18627 E Superstition Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$550,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,913 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779260

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this delightful 4 bed/ 2 bath home in the beautiful community of Cortina just around the corner from the community park & Cortina elementary school! This home offers a spacious floor-plan with a formal living/dining room, tile and vinyl floors in all the right places, neutral custom paint, & window shutters. The kitchen is spacious & features Corian counters, Island & pantry. The master bedroom boasts a large retreat along with a remodeled en-suite that includes separate tub & shower, dual sinks, private toilet room & walk in closet! Love entertaining? The backyard is perfect for just that! Relax under the extended patio & enjoy relaxing in the low maintenance backyard! Community boasts a children's playground and large pool/spa and clubhouse for family entertainment!

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2486 W Dapple Gray Court San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$550,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,211 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780694

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Incredible opportunity to own a stunning home. Owner added almost $100,000 towards upgrades above comparables, 2024 NEW HVAC Lennox with variable speed, NEW gas Pool Heater, NEW gas water heater, NEW OWNED 22 panel Solar. New EV plug in garage, NEW insulated garage door (with all new hardware) and NEW wifi garage door opener. Heated pool with pop-up cleaners, variable speed pump, artificial turf. In the backyard, along with bull nosed travertine decking! This house is turnkey! POOL FENCE and EV Charger included in sale. Your Arizona Lifestyle rear grounds are complete with an oversized patio with a wall mounted television and kitchen design complete with outdoor refrigerator/sink/BBQ Area. Spend warm summer nights in your sparkling pool with ambient lighting. Spend your winters by the fire feature with a cozy heated pool! Conservative additional $80,000 in back yard landscaping alone! Designer kitchen and bbq island complete with plumbed water/drains for sink, electric, and natural gas for the BBQ.

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17302 E Oro Grande Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,493 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750848

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A beautiful, well-kept home in a highly sought after areas of Fountain Hills. The inside has been very nicely updated. Enjoy the family area with beautiful flooring and a fireplace. The master bathroom has been redone to be handicap friendly. Enjoy spectacular mountain views from your kitchen window, the master bdrm and the patio/Arizona room. You can even see four peaks from the huge backyard. The landscaping is done. The back is on a partial watering system. There are native Desert Willows that thrive even in drought and cold and Meyer Lemon Trees. There is no HOA. There is an RV gate and lots of room out back for an RV, boat or whatever you like. The home is in a highly rated school district with plenty of shopping nearby. You won't be disappoint

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4936 E Coronado Road Phoenix, AZ 85008

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,821 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784981

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2- bathroom home! This property boasts a spacious front and backyard, complete with citrus trees and green plants, a 2-car garage, an RV gate, and a covered patio for outdoor enjoyment. Inside, you'll find tile flooring throughout, with a family room featuring laminate flooring perfect for entertaining guest. The freshly painted interior complements the kitchen's cream-colored cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and an island ideal for enjoying meals. Both bathrooms have been fully remodeled with modern tile backsplashes, glass doors, and sleek black faucets and shower heads, Conveniently located near freeway access, shopping centers, the Phoenix Zoo, and Papago Park, this home offers both comfort and accessibility.

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