Buying a Home This Summer? Use These Four Tips to Uncover Hidden Flaws and Issues

Buying a Home This Summer? Use These Four Tips to Uncover Hidden Flaws and IssuesIn a hot market it’s easy to be blinded by the competition and succumb to the pressure to make an offer on a home before you’ve adequately assessed it. If you’re looking to buy a home this summer, use these four tips to uncover hidden flaws before you put your offer in.

1) Hire A Pro

One of the most reliable ways to identify potential and existing problems within a property is to hire a professional home inspector to evaluate it. Home inspectors are trained to find issues that the average person may overlook, which can save you from putting in an offer on a money pit.

2) Do It Yourself

If you can’t afford to hire a home inspector, conduct a thorough home evaluation yourself. Ensure that the roof doesn’t have any significant damage or leaks, check window caulking for holes, and scan the basement thoroughly for asbestos and black mold.

Within the house, pay special attention to the bathrooms for leaks around the tubs, showers, and toilets, as this may indicate leaky pipes which can be a costly fix. Likewise, check underneath the kitchen sink and around appliances for leaks, which may also be a sign of a more expensive fix.

Even if you’ve hired a home inspector, always inspect the home yourself to the best of your ability. The more sets of eyes that look over the property the better, and you may find small problems that aren’t considered huge deficiencies to an inspector but may be deal breakers for you, such as peeling paint or cracked tile.

3) Seek Strata Minutes

If the home you are looking at is a condo, ask for copies of the strata minutes. Strata minutes serve as a record of any past issues that the building has had and will include notes on any upcoming costs that are already identified. Take these into consideration when estimating your condo fees and the value of the property.

4) Hire Help

Real estate agents can not only take a lot off of your plate when it comes to buying a home, but they also possess specialized knowledge and experience in uncovering flaws in homes. They know what to look for!

A real estate agent will take care of the property research for you, sifting through past strata notes or pointing out any deficiencies that they can identify when you are considering a home. With a trained professional on your team, you are more likely to find issues that could devalue the property.

Ready to find a home that’s fit for you? Get in contact with me today – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

5444 E Sanna Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$5,495,000
5 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,152 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782647
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on an expansive 1-acre lot in beautiful Paradise Valley, this stunning residence is an entertainer's dream, with an array of luxurious amenities and a fabulous guest house. Designed for ultimate functionality, the 4,855 square foot main house, has a split floor plan with 4 en-suite bedrooms, an office, a playroom and a gym. Beautiful white oak flooring throughout and a clean design, make this home warm and timeless. The attached 2,296 square foot guest house, was recently remodeled, with a full chef's kitchen, living room, bedroom, bathroom, laundry and movie theater- perfect for hosting guests and entertaining! The backyard is built for nonstop entertainment with a large pool, spa, sport court, firepit, in ground trampoline and batting cage. Located in one of Paradise Valley's most coveted areas, this home is just minutes from top-rated schools, world-class golf courses, shopping, and fine dining. Don't miss out on a property that embodies the best of Arizona luxury living in a prime location!

38031 N 97th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$5,485,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,556 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6443503
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
DESERT MTN. MEMBERSHIP NOW AVAILABLE WITH CLUB APPROVAL, ASK FOR DETAILS. Brand New Mortensen Signature Home. Now Completed 5750 sq ft main house plus stand alone 806 sq ft Casita with a king size bedroom, kitchen, large bathroom, closet and living room. Main house includes a large flex room, great for a Game Room, Home Theater or a hobby of your choice. Great Room, Gourmet Kitchen, Home Office and Master Bedroom have stunning S/W sunset views that overlook your pebble tec pool and spa. Custom built in BBQ, landscaped front and rear with auto drip systems, pots and lighting all included. Unlimited options for your family and friends. Whole home furniture packages available.

10039 N Mcdowell View Trail Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$5,450,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,068 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750498
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Extravagant custom home to be built in the beautiful hillside community of Firerock. Building to start as early as mid November with an estimated completion time of late 2025 to early 2026. The design of this home accentuates the views of the McDowell Mountains to the North and Four Peaks to the East. This home features 4 bedrooms, a theater room, and a study on the main level. There is a very large bonus room on the garage level. An elevator that brings you from the garage to the main level. Kitchen looks out past an L-shaped slider for an indoor/outdoor living feel. The luxury pool and raised spa are the focal point of the kitchen view. Built in BBQ area, planter boxes and a raised grass/garden area finishes off this luscious outside living space.

5455 E Berneil Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$5,445,000 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Hidden Paradise, Paradise Valley
Open House
$5,445,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
7,010 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753337
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This luxurious estate is located in the gated Hidden Paradise neighborhood of Paradise Valley, an exclusive enclave known for its seclusion and prestige, featuring 17 exceptional homes which are rarely on the market. As you approach the property, the beautifully landscaped grounds catch your eye, leading you to the circle driveway with a porte-cochère. The grand entrance of the home features a striking 10-foot door that opens into a beautiful stone foyer, offering a glimpse straight through the living room and out to the outdoor spaces. The recently renovated home boasts stunning grounds, light and bright lavish interiors with spacious rooms, soaring ceilings and expansive high windows that bring the outdoors inside. New hardwood floors add warmth and elegance to every room,

8037 N 7th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85021

$5,400,000
6 Beds
6 Baths
7,200 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774614
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Miami Meets Phoenix!! With a Fashion Glare to Contemporary Lifestyle! Welcome to (Nick-Named) FontaineBleau-New Construction 2024 Just Completed! A Must See to Experience the Quintessential Essence of Sophistication. Features A True Entertainers Style w/ Ease. Starting From Your Fingertips w/a Whole House Programable (RTI) Smart System Including Multiple iPad/Remotes( Lutron, Sonos & more), Full Wolf Appliance Package w/Custom 60inch Stainless Steel Hood, SubZero Frig/Freezer, 18ft Long H2O-Fall Granite Island, 48x48 Tile Floor from Italy, 21ft Enormous Tiled Fireplace, Floating Staircase, 5 Bosh a/c Units, Under-Mount Lighting, RO & Whole House Soft H2O Drinking System, Wine Cellar, 24ft Palm Trees, Resort Style Yrd, Sparking Blue Pool, w/Sunken Fireplace, Full BBQ, & Gazebo. Tons More!!

12232 N 65th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$5,389,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,637 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730125
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Cactus Corridor Luxurious Estate with Resort-Style Amenities Experience the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication with this exquisite transitional estate, nestled on nearly an acre of beautifully landscaped grounds in the coveted Cactus Corridor. Spanning 6,637 square feet, this home seamlessly blends elegance and functionality, offering a lifestyle of unparalleled comfort and style. Upon entering, you are greeted by a thoughtfully designed layout featuring five spacious bedrooms and five and a half opulent bathrooms. The master suite is a true sanctuary, complete with a luxurious bath and his-and-her walk-in closets, providing a serene retreat. Each of the additional bedrooms also boasts walk-in closets, ensuring ample storage and privacy for every member of the house

4946 N Ascent Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$5,360,130 - 4Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Phoenician, Scottsdale
Open House
$5,360,130
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,394 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748851
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Designer fully Furnished Home Coming Soon! This Cullum Home is designed for that ''Lock and Leave Lifestyle''. Guests will enter into the all Glass 2 story foyer. The elevator or wood staircase will lead you to the second floor of this home. The Chefs kitchen with Custom Cabinetry, Sub Zero and Wolf appliances over look the great room with fireplace wall and large glass of windows that open onto a entertaining deck. The formal dining room with custom cabinetry temperature controlled wine wall is just opposite of the large office, den or movie theater space with sliding glass doors to the entertaining outdoors and wall water feature The two en suite guests suites accommodate King size beds and walk in closets. Both guest suites open onto the fully landscaped backyard. There is a private gate from the yard for quicker access the Mountainside Club. Guests have their own laundry and the stylish powder room complete the main floor of this home. The top floor of this easy living home is dedicated to the Primary Oasis. The large patio space with walls of glass and windows has a tiled fireplace all overlooking the incredible views of the Mountains and city lights in the distance. The Primary suite with high ceilings opens into the bath with large shower, his and hers sinks and soaking tub. Tons of natural light fill the bath with a large skylight. The Primary closet is massive with all the custom built ins. The extra bonus space can be used as another en suite bedroom, office, or work out room. There also is a Full Wet Bar and nice size laundry with plenty of extra storage. The large oversized 3 car tandem garage has epoxy flooring and pre wired for A/C. The Private elevator, outdoor spaces and with this home coming fully furnished is easy living at it's finest.

11540 N 104th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$5,359,200
6 Beds
7.5 Baths
6,496 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766641
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning New Construction Modern Home in the Prestigious Shea Corridor Experience luxury living in this breathtaking modern home, perfectly situated in the highly sought-after Shea corridor. Designed for both elegance and function, this property boasts 16-foot vaulted ceilings that create a grand sense of space and light. At the heart of this home is a chef's kitchen, outfitted with high-end appliances and premium finishes, perfect for gourmet cooking and entertaining. With 6 spacious bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms, every family member and guest will enjoy unparalleled comfort and privacy. For car enthusiasts, there's a 4-car garage and an impressive 57-foot RV garage, offering abundant storage for vehicles and recreational toys. The resort-style backyard features a brand new pool, making it a personal oasis for relaxation and outdoor gatherings. Whether hosting a grand event or enjoying quiet luxury, this home is a true entertainer's dream. Don't miss the chance to own a masterpiece of modern design in one of the most desirable neighborhoods.

4942 N Ascent Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$5,341,540 - 3Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Phoenician, Scottsdale
Open House
$5,341,540
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,311 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6670447
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FULLY FURNISHED AND TURN-KEY READY! HARMONY LUXE RETREAT LOCATED IN THE ASCENT AT THE PHOENICIAN - THE ESTATES. NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION BUILT BY CULLUM HOMES. THIS THREE-LEVEL HOME FEATURES 3 BEDROOMS, 3.5 BATHROOMS, A PRIVATE OFFICE AND A 3-CAR GARAGE. THROUGH THE EXTRAVAGANT FRONT ENTRANCE LOCATED ON THE LOWER LEVEL, A BEAUTIFUL STAIRCASE OR AN ELEVATOR TAKE YOU TO EVERY LEVEL OF THE RESIDENCE. THE MAIN LEVEL BOASTS TWO EN SUITE BEDROOMS, PRIVATE OFFICE, FORMAL DINING AREA, BUTLER'S PANTRY, OPEN CONCEPT KITCHEN, ADDITIONAL POWDER ROOM AND THE GREAT ROOM AREA. SPACIOUS KITCHEN WITH ISLAND, EAT-AT BAR AND WALK-IN PANTRY. A GLASS WALL LEADS YOU TO THE COVERED PATIO OFF THE GREAT ROOM WHERE GORGEOUS VIEWS AWAIT YOU. OWNER'S SUITE WITH WALK-IN CLOSET, DOUBLE SINK VANITY, SEPARATE TOILET ROOM, TUB AND WALK-IN SHOWER SIT ON THE TOP LEVEL. ALONG WITH A LARGE LAUNDRY ROOM WITH EXTRA STORAGE, PRIVATE OFFICE SPACE AND TWO DECKS. THE COMMUNITY IS GUARD GATED FOR PRIVACY AND SECURITY. AT THE BASE OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN, YOUR PRIVATE POOL, FITNESS CENTER, AND SOCIAL SPACES OFFER AN INTIMATE GATHERING PLACE FOR WELLNESS, SOCIALIZING AND RELAXATION. RESIDENTS ARE OFFERED THE OPTION TO JOIN THE PHOENICIAN® AMENITY ACCESS PROGRAM  ACCESS AND DISCOUNTS TO THE NEW ATHLETIC CLUB, 38,000 SQUARE FOOT SPA, TENNIS FACILITY AND RESORT POOLS AT THE PHOENICIAN® RESORT.

24751 N 90th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,326,000
3 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,326 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6705406
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover luxury living in North Scottsdale with a NEW HOME in Solitude. Breathtaking single level retreat is simply defined as, PERFECTION with an owner that is meticulous to detail, none smoker and no pets. As you arrive to the exclusive gated community, your experience of this Desert Gem begins as you enter the home, with its enchanting spa like energy trough the breathtaking entry door with glass floor to ceiling. Entering the home you cannot miss the sliding glass doors, opening out to the breathtaking zero-edge pool with two water features and expansive covered patio & ramada offering the ultimate resort setting. The home was Designed to seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor contemporary luxury living, the great room features a custom fireplace with a chiseled black tile surround No detail was left out even the roof eves done with matching the interior tongue-and-groove Alder. The gourmet kitchen boasts two sprawling white marble islands with waterfall effect, Wolf commercial range, separate Subzero refrigerator/ freezer/ ice maker and Asko dishwasher looking out to the entertainers dream Great room with bookend floor to ceiling Valhalla Quartzite Leathered fireplace and resort back yard. The primary suite is a private haven with views of beautiful pool and water features, a custom tiled fireplace, and on suite with fully tiled walk-in steam shower. The secondary oversized bedrooms include two generous ensuite bathrooms, a bonus flex/media room, and a laundry room with hair sink. Outdoors, indulge in a zero-edge pool, back fire wall, firepit, bocce ball court, and fully covered ramada with bathroom, Misters, ceiling fans, built in heaters and fully equipped built-in BBQ area with a pop-up TV that hides away! This residence is a meticulously crafted haven, where every detail enhances the Contemporary luxurious lifestyle offered in the heart of 85255.

8821 E Havasupai Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,324,900
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,016 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733606
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Remodeled in 2019 and 2024 this awe inspiring residence on a 1.5 acre lot with impressive views of the McDowell mountains. In the perfect cul-de-sac location in sought after Pima Acres Estates Community. Perfectly located to everything Scottsdale has to offer. Established desert landscaping with front patio, 4 car garage and circular driveway, space to the side for RV garage or sport court. Enter through the newly installed glass front door to find plantation shutters, wood floors, an extensive great room, two Heat & Glo gas fireplaces, glass wine cellar and wet bar area. The Chef's kitchen has Thermador/ Viking appliances, 2 dishwashers, 3 ovens, walk -in pantry, 2 oversized islands and a desk area all finished in quartz counters. There are 2 private offices, upscale baths with designer finishes , walk in closets and generous sized bedrooms. A large media/living room sits perfectly located off the kitchen seating area. Each room is a work of art. The split bedroom layout ensures privacy with a grand owner's retreat with a spa-like en-suite with a stand alone tub, walk-in shower, dual vanities and makeup area. The casita opens to the pool courtyard and boasts a full kitchen, dining and living areas. A fully owned solar system keeps energy bills down. The resort style backyard has a built in summer kitchen, pool with wrap around patio and fire pit all overlooking the extensive mountain views.

9290 E Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 493 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,300,000
5 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,138 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774780
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible Bing Hu design masterpiece at the top of the curve in DC Ranch. This almost 1.4 acre elevated lot captures all the views that DC Ranch can provide. Mountains views, City lights and more. The entry experience takes your breath away. Large formal spaces intertwine and seamlessly create the perfect entertainers dream. As you enter the kitchen, the magic continues. Plenty of counter work space adjacent to a cozy family eating area and family room, More than just a split floor plan, this home boasts 3 very separate living spaces. Ideally situated for children, extended family or just extra quiet retreats. Outside living spaces continue to delight. Large turf area leads to a stunning pool and lounging area.

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