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
15883 N Silent Moon Lane
Prescott, AZ 86305
$4,100,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,037
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781256
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover unparalleled luxury in this 2023 custom-built home by Wind Dancer Construction. Nestled on 2 acres backing to State Trust Land. Enjoy breathtaking Northwest Valley views from an expansive floor plan filled with high-end finishes, including a custom Williamson Valley Black Walnut front door, hand-hewn Montana wild wood beams, 10'' engineered hardwood floors & lighted art niches throughout. Indulge in your own private spa-like primary en suite, featuring granite accent inlays, a free-standing tub, and a spacious walk-in shower. A wine lover's dream with two EuroCave wine towers, perfect for showcasing your collection. Experience breathtaking views from exceptional outdoor living spaces, including an upper deck with a built-in fireplace and a lower patio with a cozy fire pit perfect for relaxing or entertaining. This home is truly exceptional, offering the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Talking Rock is a 24-hour staffed gated private community for members only. Amenities include our award-winning Jay Morrish designed Golf Course, Fitness Barn, Ranch House Restaurant and Bar, Coop's Coffee House, Racquet Sports Courts, Dog Park, Community Garden, and over 14 miles of hiking and biking trails.
9127 N Fireridge Trail
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$4,099,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
4,685
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727253
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Situated above the 4th hole at Firerock Country Club, this Desert Contemporary home has all the architectural details and finishes. Floorplan that allows for sweeping views of the entire golf hole and desert hillsides, the home invites you to enjoy the elegance of the interior to exterior layout. An abundance of Natural Stone, Limestone, Granite and Marble blended with Metal Accents and crisp modern touches, are showcased in every room. All bedrooms are on-suite and allow for privacy for families and or guests. Large sliding glass walls allow for an easy path to the outside and pool area. Control4 smart electrical system integrates TV, music, HVAC, Security seamlessly with a control pad or your phone.
9143 E La Junta Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$4,000,000
5
Beds
6
Baths
5,569
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6778028
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A New Construction contemporary masterpiece nestled within prestigious Solitude, North Scottsdale awaits the discerning buyer. Built in 2024 and spanning over 5500 square feet with a separate casita, this architectural beauty designed by Swaback Architects and built by Sonora West Development, blends seamlessly with the desert landscape offering clean lines and a sophisticated façade that captures your attention, promising a home that is as stunning inside as it is out. The modern minimalist, open concept interior welcomes you with soaring ceilings, oak wood floors, custom chandeliers and high-end finishes throughout with over $895k in upgrades. Smart Home technology ensures every detail of modern living is at your fingertips, with an integrated audio visual system. More... A custom 490-bottle wine wall adds a touch of elegance in the entry and dining space of the home. The retractable doors leading to the exterior living space with a South facing backyard, mountain views. Enjoy the chilly Arizona evening with the in ceiling heaters and entertain with al fresco dining with a custom built in bar b que.
202 Calle Diamante --
Sedona, AZ 86336
$4,000,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
4,601
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753553
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning custom home built in 2022 in the gated community of Casa Contenta. If you're looking for views, this is the home! From the moment you open the front door you will understand why this home is special. Light, bright, and open floor plan on the main level. Sliders lead you to an expansive patio that runs the width of the house with a covered BBQ area and overhead heater for those chilly Sedona evenings. Master shares a similar view with Jacuzzi tub, walk in shower, dual sinks, makeup area, and lastly a large closet with extensive build-outs. The downstairs area offers you a multitude of functionality. These 2 rooms can be bedrooms or a game room, media room, and/or office. Once you step into the backyard you will be blown away by the finishes. Beautiful red rock streaming fountain, built in gas fire pit, pavers, artificial turf, and a putting green. Plenty of covered patio with surround sound and a hot tub with miles of unobstructed views. Owner Agent. Some personal property available with separate bill of sale.
5101 N Casa Blanca Drive Unit 301
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,000,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6751923
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Situated on a detached corner parcel for maximum privacy inside coveted Historic Casa Blanca Phase 3 lies this stunning Spanish/Moroccan contemporary with soaring views of Camelback and beautiful sunsets. Low care manicured landscaping complete with stone fountain and outdoor fireplace, 2 car garage, prime location for safety and tranquility. High ceilings with brand new Lutron lighting system, automated shades, everything new to the studs. Custom Thermador appliances. Marble and quartz counters, lots of natural light, soft oak floors and generous primary. Truly turnkey complete with an added custom built bar. Rich, timeless & elegant, enjoy tennis, pickleball, and 3 heated pools in the convenience of a manned guard gate. Minutes from Fashion Square Mall on most desirable street in PV. Paradise Valley's best shopping and restaurants.
12183 E Sand Hills Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$4,000,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,022
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764790
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fabulous home on 2 plus acres showcased by a stunning backdrop of natural landscape and large boulders. This home has 5 en-suite bedrooms and a bookcase lined office.The Casita has everything needed for an in-law setup, rental or just family and guests. The pool has a lagoon like setting with a breathtaking waterfall and hot tub spillway. Solar was installed in 2022. Don't be surprised to receive a check from APS at the end of the year. There is a 5 car garage, workshop and fully paved driveway. One has a sense of serenity just pulling up to this special home.
9215 E Red Lawrence Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$4,000,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,343
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777014
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This charming Lash McDaniels design home is nestled within the community of Carefree Ranch yet within close proximity of the gate. You are welcomed with a mix of warm earthy tones, a weathered brick accents and inviting wood courtyard gates. As you enter the home, you're greeted by a spacious foyer adorned with vintage decor and soft lighting. The living room boasts large windows flooding the space with natural light all while highlighting the warm wood details and cozy fireplace. Entertain family and friends in the intimate elevated formal dining room. The kitchen combines modern appliances with rustic cabinetry, creating yet another warm and inviting space which flows seamlessly into the breakfast area and family room. A cozy office with custom wood doors is a quiet oasis and just steps away from primary suite which features another inviting fireplace, sitting area and stunning views. On the opposite wing you will find two comfortable bedrooms, each with its own unique character and ample storage space. The private separate guest castia is sure to please all your guest with kitchenette and forever views. The patio spaces are a serene oasis with private pool and spa, multiple sitting areas, large fireplace and built in BBQ; relax and enjoy the amazing Arizona sunsets and stunning city iight views.
7745 N Tatum Boulevard
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$4,000,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,322
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760938
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Home was just finished and now job transfer forces owners to sell there newly built dream home in Arizona's most prestigious area. Sitting In the heart of Paradise Valley you will find this Old Tucson Style Slump Block Home but inside is modern contemporary with lots of glass and high ceilings. Folding glass doors open to bring the natural stunning views from the backyard patio of Mummy Mountain to the east and Phoenix mountain preserves from the front patio. The split master bedroom floorplan provides privacy for the entire family and guests The floor to ceiling chilled glass wine cellar adds to the elegancy displaying over 250 bottles of your private collection. Huge covered rear patio has built-in heaters. Private guest quarters upstairs with viewing deck. Convenient N/S garages DRASTIC reduction 1.5 million from original list price of 5.5M
7360 E Sweetwater Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$3,999,999
6
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,454
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754191
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience the epitome of luxury in this brand-new construction located in gorgeous Scottsdale Arizona, with the added benefit of NO HOA. This exceptional property boasts an array of unique features, including two kitchens, two mudrooms, two laundry rooms (one with a pet shower), and a 6th bedroom with a private entrance. The thoughtfully designed split floor plan places the primary suite in the west wing, offering a spacious walk-in closet, an oversized shower, and a private patio. The east wing houses the second kitchen and an additional family room, perfect for extended family or guests. The custom kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring quartzite countertops, birch cabinets, top-of-the-line Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, and a walk-in pantry with a separate sink and dishwasher. The home is adorned with European oak hardwood plank flooring throughout, providing warmth and elegance. Beautifully designed by Kevin Robert Interiors, the home is architecturally stunning with a glass-encased wine rack, multiple ensuite bathrooms, and several covered outdoor spaces. The new outdoor kitchen is perfect for entertaining, and the oversized north-facing backyard includes a brand-new pebble-tec pool and a Pickleball/Basketball court for recreation. This property is a rare find, combining luxury, functionality, and style in one of Scottsdale's most desirable locations.
8436 E Sahuaro Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$3,999,999
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,721
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778929
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover ultimate luxury in this fully rebuilt 4,721 sq ft home in Scottsdale's Cactus Corridor. Reimagined under the architectural expertise of NewWest Design Studio, with interior design by Weaver Interiors, every inch of this property has been transformed with sophistication and style. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and high-end designer finishes throughout, this home exudes elegance. The gourmet kitchen includes a full suite of Thermador appliances, including a 36-inch fridge and freezer. Massive Western sliding glass doors open to a new pool and expansive backyard on nearly an acre, with room to build an oversized garage and a 2-bedroom casita. Architectural drawings for the garage and casita are complete, and the builder is ready to start construction immediately.
11108 E Mariola Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$3,999,977
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
7,277
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6662532
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A rare, immediate golf membership is available with purchase. Ask for details! This is a hillside gem capturing awe-inspiring panoramic mountain views from every corner! This home was made to entertain the largest of gatherings, yet cozy enough for the smallest. Top of the line when built in 2004. Built into the mountain. Hardly lived in. CMU build. Great bones. Needs some updating and you've just added to the equity. Multi generational for those who don't mind the shallow steps. 4 separate guest suites, including the 950 sf upper deck casita. 3 car garage, 7+ additional parking spots. Well designed motor court. Purchase the lot in front and build another home or tie it to this lot for an acre of expanded yard. For undisturbed views, pets, kids, parties or whatever your heart desires.
10728 E Cottontail Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$3,999,800
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,511
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6704872
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This timeless styled Spanish Colonial home rests in guard gated Windy Walk Estates of Troon. It's North - South exposure captures views of Pinnacle Peak, Troon Mountain and city lights. The luxurious home is all on one level except for a large 875/sf 2nd level game/office/bedroom with its own fireplace, full bath and balcony overlooking city light views. You enter the main home through a hand forged iron gate into a charming front courtyard with bubbly fountain. The iron front door opens to the formal living and dining areas with rough sawn beams, stone floors, Venetian plastered walls and a cantera stone fireplace. Just down the hall is an intimate home theater. The large family room includes a corner fireplace, walk-up wet bar with ice maker, dishwasher, Sub-Zero wine and beverage ..... cooler plus room for a pool table. It opens to a center island kitchen with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances and breakfast room. The Arcadia doors from the breakfast room lead to an outdoor patio with fireplace, BBQ and pizza oven all overlooking views of the boulder filled Troon Mountain. The kitchen conveniently opens to the 4 car garage and includes a key drop and very large walk-in pantry. The charming Primary suite includes a fireplace and a marble floored bath and a large closet that opens to the laundry room. The living room, family room and Primary suite are lined with Arcadia doors opening to arched covered patio that overlook the sparkling pool, paver hardscape, lush landscaping and views of Pinnacle Peak. The home has been updated with Venetian plastered walls, white oak flooring, new garage doors and a Bull Frog spa. Two of the three HVAC systems have been replaced and the exterior has been newly painted. The home includes 4 interior and 1 exterior fireplaces.
