In 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
40523 N 102nd Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$5,185,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
6,100
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776164
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Golf Membership Available - Nestled in one of Desert Mountain's most coveted villages, this exceptional residence rests at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on a premier lot overlooking fairway 1 of Cochise Golf Course, walk on a private path to the club house. The home provides sweeping mountain vistas, huge sunsets and unmatched privacy. Thoughtfully designed, the interior offers a gourmet kitchen with dining, a grand living room with large picture window and breathtaking views, a formal dining room, and a luxurious primary suite featuring dual master baths—each with its own private sitting area and walk-in closet. 2 additional ensuite bedrooms and a separate guest casita offers its own living room, kitchenette, large bedroom, and bathroom, perfect for visitors. Outdoor living is unparalleled, with a shaded patio and gas fireplace, stunning views, a pool, spa, and built-in BBQ. A generous three-car garage completes the home, all just moments from the Desert Mountain gate and Sonoran Club. Some furnishing may be available through a separate bill of sale. A transferrable GOLF MEMBERSHIP is available to transfer via a separate purchase through the Desert Mountain Club. 30 day minimum application review and acceptance is required. Embrace the Desert Mountain lifestyle with world-class amenities, stunning natural beauty, and the privacy of a prestigious community. Make this your full-time residence or the ultimate vacation getaway.
13074 E Saddlehorn Trail
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$5,150,000
5
Beds
6.5
Baths
6,679
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780791
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This home defines luxury, style and convenience w/ an amazing location and views!! Everyday feels like resort living, ideal for entertaining, too!! Impressive architectural details, ceilings, beams and unparalleled workmanship with all the finest finishes! Updated inside and out!!! Beautiful, custom kitchen boasts double islands, glazed cabinets, marble, mother of pearl backsplash, Wolf , Viking, Subzero appliances. Escape to the primary retreat w/ his/her closets, unbelievable spa like bath w/ fireplace, sitting area, his/her water closets, sauna, beverage bar and work out room. Settle into the theater room for the big game or your fav movie w/ highly upgraded equipment( new 8k projector included w/ sale)entire home has most up to date Savant smart home system including surround sound system, 10 new ultra thin profile 4k Sony TV's w/ Sonos soundbars(included), commercial grade hard-wired WIFI system inside and out w/ Cox gigabit internet and security. Temperature controlled wine storage and great wet bar area w/ seating. 4+ car garage is oversized and equipped w/ electric vehicle charger, epoxy floors and storage. The front courtyard includes fireplace, travertine and is accessible to both the casita and home. Casita has kitchenette, walk in closet, private bath, currently used as an amazing game room providing fun for everyone! 3 Guest rooms all ensuite w/ walk in closets. Private backyard offers breathtaking views and all the comfort and luxury of a 5 star resort! Pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, fireplace in a must see setting!! All 5 HVAC units replaced 2023, $240k in smart home Savant system/AV systems added, and over $500k in exterior/interior paint, courtyard, patio, outdoor kitchen and pool upgrades since 2022.
39601 N Ocotillo Ridge Drive
Carefree, AZ 85377
$5,150,000
5
Beds
7
Baths
7,783
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6620894
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Introducing the epitome of quiet luxury at this formidable estate on 5 acres of private land. Behind the gates at the pristine Ocotillo Ridge Estates in Carefree. Every inch of this 7,783 sq. ft. estate has been meticulously maintained and crafted with an array of upgrades and emphasis on the modern hacienda style. Exceptional finishes include hickory hardwood & slate floors, wood beams, custom cabinetry, Cantera stone fireplaces, tongue and groove wood ceilings, and hand-crafted tiles throughout the home. Upon entry, the pure elegance of the great room with the accordion doors opening to the infinity edge pool and the breathtaking mountain vistas and sunsets will amaze you every time. Well-appointed top-of-the-line gourmet kitchen. An impressive wet bar for entertaining & picturesque... views. A generous primary suite retreat with a sitting area, luxurious bath, oversized custom closet, and an exercise room. Three additional en-suites with their own patio access and separate office. Paver drive and motor court. Oversized four-car garage. Back to the enchanting courtyard, you can head to the quaint guest house that oozes the local town's flair. Your guests will have the best time at this inviting casita. Romantic outdoor spaces include 2000+/- sf of deep-covered paver patios and 1000+/- sf of elevated open dining/relaxing deck with Cantera fireplace and BBQ. There are endless, unobstructed views in every direction and every room. The setting is every bit as spectacular as the home itself. There are miles of quiet hiking and biking trails. Unequaled privacy and tranquility await you at this resort-like sanctuary. Yet, you are minutes (three miles) from the quaint, charming old towns of Cave Creek and Carefree. This property also presents a unique opportunity for seller financing and is available turnkey through a separate bill of saleeffortlessly inviting you to start your new chapter without delay.
5347 E Mockingbird Lane
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$5,100,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
7,425
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754720
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
PRICED AT $687 PER SQ FT! ABSOLUTE MUST SEE IN PERSON! From the second you walk into this beautiful Paradise Valley estate you will LOVE the open floor plan, soaring ceilings, walk out of the 16 foot pocket doors to the spectacular Mummy Mountain views, gorgeous resort style pool/backyard. THIS HOME IS AN ENTERTAINERS DREAM. Recently refreshed Primary wing. Custom brick ceilings, exposed wood beams, beautiful stone accents throughout the home, and custom wood cabinetry. 3 large stone fireplaces. Oversized kitchen with large 14 ft island and high end appliances. New hardwood flooring throughout the home. Recently updated theatre room. Oversized bedrooms and showers throughout. 4 ENSUITES. Stadium style theater room complete with 4k projector. Welcome to your new home.
41735 N 101st Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$5,000,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,699
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765688
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Golf Membership Available- Today's modern interpretation of the original Pueblo style - keeping in harmony with the desert. This privately gated home within Saguaro Forest at Desert Mountain is situated on an elevated lot with magical sunset, golf course, surrounding mountains, city lights and mountain silhouettes at night. Ideal south facing backyard captures winter sun on the pool/patio areas all day. Built by Phil Smith, this home emanates master crafted details; rooms in the round, forged metal rails, wood detailed ceilings, tubular skylights, stone, wood and concrete floors and Venetian plaster walls. The great room split floor plan with Master and library wing on one side and 3 guest ensuites on the other allows privacy for all. Patios around the home provide gathering spaces for many or sanctuaries for a few. The pool, spa, outdoor kiva fireplace and barbecue create outdoor living and dining at its finest. Electric shades, central vac, high end appliances and an elevator keep current with today's luxuries and conveniences. Lush Sonoran desert vegetation surrounding the home creates a true desert botanical experience. Private and tranquil, yet located close to the Cochise/Geronimo and Chiricahua Clubhouses for dining and golf. Bike or hike from your home to the nearby Desert Mountain Trails with over 20 miles of multi-use trails. Sonoran Fitness center located within a short drive from home. Golf Membership to the Desert Mountain Club available.
10535 E Paradise Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$5,000,000
6
Beds
6.5
Baths
6,181
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6596265
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW CONSTRUCTION - Permits ready and we are set to break ground on the exceptionally designed Modern Luxury Estate brought to you by Blue Sky Homes. Boasting roughly 5312 SF this home is an entertainer's dream, with open kitchen, large sliding door system to the backyard and a split bedroom floor plan and with 10'+ ceilings. Guest will fee welcomed in the spacious 800+ SF casita overlooking resort style backyard. This amazing home is located in the popular Cactus/Shea corridor close to shopping, dining, as well as hiking trails. Don't miss out on the opportunity to semi customize this desert gem before it's too late. *This property is located on lot A of the site.
9279 E Andora Hills Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$5,000,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,305
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6667422
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Completion January 2025. Golf Membership available from seller. New build by leading luxury home builder - Blackstone Development and designed by Graffin Design. Terrific mountain views from Apache Peak all the way across the Continental Mountain Range to the western mountains and wonderful spring sunsets. Offering the floor plan today's buyer is looking for: open great room plan with retractable glass doors to enjoy the gorgeous views and one level living with 4 suites plus a study. Outdoors enjoy a large patio area complete with two way fireplace, pool, spa, and BBQ. Buyer still has time to put their own stamp on this home and colorize it as they would like to. Save a year and half of design headaches and just do the fun part-picking out the colors. Home can be purchased and new owners can start enjoying the Desert Mountain Club upon closing-of course subject to membership approval. Floor plan is located under the Document tab. This home is now thru drywall stage and cabinets are being installed.
23433 N 84th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$5,000,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,340
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6701102
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This to-be-completed home will be the epitome of modern sophistication and luxury living, offering two primary suites, with spa like bathrooms, and large walk-in closets. There are two additional bedrooms with attached bathrooms and walk-in closets, and an additional office/den. The attached casita offers a separate entrance with private bath, making it the perfect space for guest quarters or home gym. Kitchen is a chefs dream with large island, top of the line appliances, and a butlers pantry. Sitting on almost two acres, corner lot, gorgeous mountain views, and located in the quiet, gated community of Pinnacle Paradise. Plans and permits available. Home to be finished by end of 2024. This is your opportunity to work with the contractor in picking your own finishes.
6432 E El Sendero Road
Carefree, AZ 85377
$5,000,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
6,087
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780745
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
*View documents for full list of features* *3D Walk through and video tour provided in photos* Welcome to this exquisite, fully renovated masterpiece on the coveted south side of Black Mountain. Thoughtfully designed to capture breathtaking views from every room, including the guest house, this home harmoniously combines modern elegance with timeless character. Original features, such as wood plank ceilings, rich wood window frames, exposed beams, solid wood interior doors, and custom-stained glass, have been meticulously refurbished to enhance their beauty and preserve the home's unique charm. Every space offers a distinct experience, blending sophistication with warmth. Entering through the gated courtyard, you're greeted by a stunning water feature adorned with a lush living wall, setting a serene tone as you approach the custom glass and iron pivot front door. Inside, the journey begins in the sophisticated lounge, featuring a nearly 1,000-bottle wine room, a true haven for the wine enthusiast. The main house showcases expansive large-format tile flooring, custom cabinetry, three generous bedrooms, an office, and a media room, supported by four luxurious bathrooms. The guest house spans 1,920 square feet across two independent levels. The main level serves as a fully equipped living space, complete with a full kitchen, laundry, a cozy one-bedroom suite, and a spacious great room. The lower level opens up endless potential, perfect for a gym, music studio, art room, office, or any other vision you can imagine. Both the main and guest houses feature custom lighting, high-end finishes, and smooth, no-texture walls, complemented by views that will take your breath away. With 87 fully-owned solar panels and two EV chargers in the garage, this home is as sustainable as it is beautiful. This is a must-see property that perfectly combines luxury, innovation, and stunning surroundings. Please view the documents tab for a full list of features.
5123 E Mcdonald Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$5,000,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,379
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778627
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled on the iconic Camelback Mountain, this charming single-story home offers the best of Arizona living with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and 4,379 sq/ft of beautifully designed space on an expansive acre of land. The interiors feature a reception foyer leading into the formal living room and family room. The home boasts 2 primary suites, both beautifully presented with one enjoying a fireplace. One guest bedroom is currently being used as an office. Boasting panoramic mountain views while still high enough to enjoy dazzling city lights, this property offers an unparalleled combination of natural beauty and urban convenience. The resort-style backyard is perfect for entertaining, featuring lush landscaping, classic swimming pool, and serene views that provide the perfect backdrop for any occasion. This is Arizona luxury living at its finest.
4959 E Red Rock Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$5,000,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,460
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775731
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Perched on the red rocks of Camelback, this hillside house boasts incredible views of the city to the south and stunning rock features as a surround. The main house has 3 bedrooms adorned with city views, with a guest house nestled underneath. The offset pool and spa are tucked against the mountain for an incredible combination of privacy and top of the rock atmosphere. The master suite has room to spare with a master bath that blends contemporary design with luxury features. The kitchen and dining room open to a living room and deck with indoor outdoor living in mind. An inviting gas fireplace serves as a feature to the living room inside while outdoor fire features lead you outside for sunny days and twinkling lights at night.
32 Biltmore Estate
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$5,000,000
7
Beds
10
Baths
10,030
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6736576
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
''As a philanthropist who loved golf and played it daily in retirement, he chose 32 BILTMORE ESTATES''. For the past 24 years, the Estate has been owned by the same ''second'' owner. The property's pedigree speaks volumes about its affluence and distinction. Embodying a seamless blend of classic elegance and modern luxury ambiance, the home is both welcoming and grand. Almost fireproof; commercial grade mechanicals, steel framed, masonry and metal roof. Its panoramic views of Camelback Mountain coupled with the lush golf course greens offers a serene and evolving picturesque setting. You'll appreciate the home's location, rich history, and architectural beauty from the moment you step up, family gatherings with friends in its spacious living and dining areas will become most memorable... Both primary bedroom-windows are undoubtedly and accurately facing towards breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain. Views of the green, the outdoor kitchen, and the expansive terrace all provide a perfect setting to enjoy the picturesque landscape, making every day feel like a retreat. The staff quarter is generous in size, the lot coverage allows for additional livable guest home or garage storage to be added within its setbacks. This is a rare chance to own a piece of history, an opportunity to experience the unparalleled lifestyle that 32 Biltmore Estates has to offer. Schedule a viewing today to see for yourself what makes this estate truly exceptional.