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

4938 N Ascent Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$3,994,293 - 2Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Phoenician, Scottsdale
Open House
$3,994,293
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,035 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6670454
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**Now accepting bitcoin for payment!* FULLY FURNISHED AND TURN-KEY READY. A NEW PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY WITH A COVETED LOCATION AT THE BASE OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN ADJACENT TO THE ICONIC PHOENICIAN® IN SCOTTSDALE. ONLY A SHORT DISTANCE TO FASHION SQUARE AND OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE. THIS COLLECTION OF CUSTOM HOMES BUILT EXCLUSIVELY BY CULLUM HOMES THAT REFLECT A TIMELESS, MODERN DESIGN AND LOOK OUT OVER THE BEAUTIFUL PHOENICIAN® GOLF COURSE. FEATURING THE ''DESERT ZEN LIVING'', A TWO-STORY HOME FEATURING 2 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHROOMS, AND A 3-CAR GARAGE. THROUGH THE EXTRAVAGANT FRONT ENTRANCE LOCATED ON THE LOWER LEVEL, A BEAUTIFUL STAIRCASE OR AN ELEVATOR TAKE YOU TO BOTH LEVELS OF THE RESIDENCE. THE MAIN LEVEL BOASTS TWO EN-SUITE BEDROOMS, A FORMAL DINING AREA, 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. ALONG WITH AN ADDITIONAL EN SUITE BEDROOM, LARGE LAUNDRY ROOM WITH EXTRA STORAGE AND A DECK AREA. 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.

4526 E Calle Tuberia -- Phoenix, AZ 85018

$3,990,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,935 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784564
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This turn-key, custom Rafterhouse in Arcadia Proper exudes elegance & warmth, from the front courtyard to the backyard's media projector, the attention to detail in this home is truly unmatched. As you enter, the quality finishes and touches stand out from the white oak floors, to the fireplaces, the soaring vaulted ceilings, and collapsable doors leading to the lush backyard with views of Camelback Mountain. Boasting nearly 4,000 SqFt, with 5 bedroom, 4.5 bathrooms, & an additional flex/living space, this highly desired floor plan provides it all. In the gourmet, chef's kitchen you'll find top of the line appliances, fixtures and custom cabinetry. The pantry offers plenty of storage, as well as the oversized kitchen island.. Just off the heart of the home & formal dining area, you'll find powder room for guests & an additional living/flex space with more sliding glass doors out to the back yard. The Primary bedroom feels more like a resort, with mountain views from the spacious bathroom and a beautifully designed closet. Two hallways lead to the additional four bedrooms which are perfectly laid out, with two having en-suite bathrooms, and the other two sharing a full bath. The extended 3 car garage offers plenty of storage, with a mud-room and drop zone leading into the home. The lush backyard is perfect for entertaining, with an outdoor dining area, built-in gas grill, outdoor living area & bar at the ramada, & a gas fire pit and additional seating area. With a Crestron Home AV system, citrus tree's, detached storage, and a newly added generator.

5939 E Orange Blossom Lane Phoenix, AZ 85018

$3,990,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,560 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785913
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible opportunity for a Ben Hawkins built masterpiece perfectly located on the highly desired Orange Blossom Lane adjacent to Arizona Country Club. This captivating cutting edge contemporary exudes style & class that few homes can match. Soaring tongue in groove detailed ceilings pull you into extraordinary inside/outside living that combines the custom island kitchen, living room, resort pool & outdoor dining. Stunning primary retreat provides views & privacy. 3 thoughtfully designed en suite bedrooms provide comfort for all. Upstairs flex space for office/art studio/workout or music room leads to a spacious outdoor deck. Ease of access with street access out both the front & back. Artistically blended concrete & wood design elements impresses the most discerning of tastes.

3101 N 53rd Place Phoenix, AZ 85018

$3,990,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,826 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6776724
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning Santa Barbara inspired home from SMITH, located in the heart of Grove Park Estates and sitting on a near 30k sf lot. Designed by Kozi Designs, the over 4800 sf home boasts a split floor plan with 5 beds and 4.5 baths, plus study and includes a spacious great room design. The spacious kitchen is adorned with top of the line appliances, fluted cabinetry and the 48'' range is topped off with an arched roman clay hood. Just off of the kitchen sits a cozy banquet that seats 8 and flows nicely into the large great room with gas fireplace. The 16' slider opens up to a large patio space of travertine and to the large pool. The home is perfect for the entertainer with incredible indoor/outdoor spaces and offers so much space. You will not want to miss this one!

4949 E Lincoln Drive Unit 16 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,988,888 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in La Posada, Paradise Valley
New
$3,988,888
5 Beds
6 Baths
4,918 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6789054
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Live on the resort grounds of the 24 hour guard gated community at Omni Montelucia Resort. This is the most desired floor plan that rarely becomes available. This fully updated 5 bedroom 6 bathroom villa is nearly 5,000sqft livable, comprised of: Main House - 3 Bedroom 4 Bathroom + Loft and PRIMARY SUITE on the Main Level, plus 1 Detached Guest Casita on the main level and a 2nd Guest Casita with a separate entrance. This residence features a light & bright kitchen that opens to the spacious family room with vaulted beam ceilings opening to charming patios. The lush landscaping surrounds and the 5 star resort amenities include: gym, 6 gourmet restaurants, 3 resort pools with cabanas, world-class spa and salon, room service & concierge. Why visit a resort when you can own a home at one?

9930 E Miramonte Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,985,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,638 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769058
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE. Brand new Mortensen Signature Home. COMPLETION HAPPENING NOW, MOVE IN NOVEMBER. Outstanding Mountain and Sunset Views. Easy access to the main gate. Cul-de-sac location. Dual Primary Suites, 2 other en-suite bedrooms plus an office, den or 5th bedroom, take your pick. 4 Sliding door exits to your view patio with pool, spa, oversize fireplace and bbq ready for relaxation and entertainment. Whole Home Furniture packages available.

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 275 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,980,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,023 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784983
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Designed by renowned architect Bob McIntyre this phenomenal property encompasses all that Desert Living should be. Located on the Sixth Fairway of the celebrated Desert Highlands Golf Course with a perfect southern facing exposure to soak in the desert sun you will start your day with sunrises over the McDowell Mountains and end your day with watercolor sunsets, you couldn't ask for a better view or location. Completely remodeled from top to bottom with only the highest quality and craftsmanship, this open single-story floorplan flows perfectly with countless private yards and courtyards off of every suite to take in the majestic views. This home truly has it all! The light and bright living room is complemented by the soaring ceilings, cozy hand plastered fireplace, floor to ceiling French doors and clear story windows, as well as a dramatic chandelier. Whether you are a top-notch chef or just like to admire a beautiful kitchen, this home has the perfect combination of function and form with top of the line appliances (6 burner gas range, 2 burner induction cooktop, 3 ovens, 2 dishwashers, built-in Subzero refrigerator, wine refrigerator, beverage refrigerator and ice maker), timeless custom cabinetry, passthrough entertainment area to the outdoors and more. Open to the kitchen, the family room features expansive French doors to the pool area as well as a second tranquil courtyard with a water feature, beautiful natural light, warm fireplace, in addition to an entertainment bar with a beverage and wine refrigerator. The owner's suite is a treat with an expansive bedroom filled with natural light from the floor to ceiling picture window and French doors that invite the outdoors in, an inviting fireplace, the perfect sitting room, 3 spacious walk-in closets, and a luxurious bathroom with a dramatic multi-head steam shower, artistic free-standing bathtub, dual sinks with plenty of storage, a make-up vanity, and two separate commode rooms. It's not just the owners who are treated like royalty in this amazing home, guests are too. Not only are each of the 3 guest suites completely separate from each other, but all of them also have their own private courtyard to take in the beautiful golf course and mountain views, as well as their own distinct designer bathroom. The private casita also features its own kitchenette to make your guests truly feel at home on top of it's own private courtyard with water feature and access to the backyard pool area. The fourth guest suite could also make the perfect at home office / den with its own private entrance, inviting fireplace, as well as a private courtyard complete with a relaxing water feature, fireplace, and mountain views. The stress-free backyard not only takes in the breathtaking lush golf course and magnificent mountain views, outdoor entertainment is also taken to the extreme with a built-in misting system, heaters, and BBQ, as well as an outdoor dining area with a stylish chandelier and plenty of covered and uncovered spaces surrounding the refreshing pool and spa. Owning in Desert Highlands has its privileges; this amazing home comes with an immediate Full Golf Membership to Desert Highlands where you will enjoy an 18 hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, an 18 hole par 42 putting course designed by Gary Panks, 13 perfectly groomed tennis courts (grass, clay, & hard courts), state of the art fitness center, multiple dining options, and 24 hr guard gated security! To make things even better, this home may be purchased fully furnished and turnkey by separate bill of sale so that you may start enjoying the perfect desert lifestyle immediately with ease, all you will need are your clothes and a toothbrush!

36138 N Summit Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$3,975,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,017 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6711246
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Million Dollar Views as far and wide as the eye can see! Views from every window in the house. Your own AZ get a way on about 1.5 acres. This 4bed + office, 4.5 bath includes an elevator. Retractable wall of windows bring the outdoors in, vaulted ceilings with beams, large wrap around balcony, Open floor plan, Gourmet Kitchen, SS Appliances, Dual ovens, Granite & Wood block Countertop, Alder cabinets and doors, Fireplaces in Family Room & Kitchen, Master boasts more amazing views. Master Bath with large walk-in closet. Take the ELEVATOR to Game/Theatre room, Wine Cellar and 2 guest bedrooms. Resort Style Backyard is perfect for entertaining. Extensive exterior misting system.

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 676 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,975,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,445 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6654478
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Embrace elegance on the 17th fairway of the renowned Desert Highlands Golf Course. Enjoy immediate access to FULL CLUB Privileges in this 5 bed/5.5 jewel box home designed by Allen Tafoya, in built by Rick Merritt-built 5 bed/5.5 with interiors by Billi Springer. This old-world inspired home features an open floor plan, blending exquisite finishes with functional luxury. The expansive layout includes a grand master suite, a dedicated exercise room, and a versatile upstairs office. Every space is crafted with precision, harmonizing indoor comfort with serene golf course views. Experience sophistication in this stunning home, where lifestyle, luxury, and exquisite craftsmanship meet. The upstairs Study has outstanding city light views. The main level frames Pinnacle Peak.

9015 E Los Gatos Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,975,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,849 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751566
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Just Completed! Exquisite Luxury Modern-Spanish Masterpiece located in the best pocket of N. Scottsdale and ready for executive entertaining. Entry through the vintage gated courtyard and calmed by the serene water fountain that leads you through the custom arched glass doors. The high ceilings will draw your eyes to the stunning resort-like yard with new custom pool and spa off the massive patio. The chefs kitchen offers two oversized Islands, dual wine refrig, plus a butlers pantry that is so divine, you must see for yourself! Private master retreat with city lights, mtn views and unforgettable sunsets from your private balcony. Add'l bedrooms all en-suites w/ private entry and views everywhere. This estate home would be perfect for year around or a lock and leave.

3955 E Sierra Vista Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,962,456
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,820 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728696
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is the last remaining New Home under construction by Cullum Homes in the community of Paradise Reserve. This contemporary Santa Barbara design home sits next to the community park with no neighbors. The Iron front door leads you into a 2 story foyer with a checkered pattern black and white flooring and staircase in a warm wood by Du Chateau. The Chefs Kitchen adorned with Sub Zero, Wolf and Cove appliances over look the Great Room with high ceilings, large Fireplace, Wet Bar and wall of glass opening to the covered patio of the back yard. The outdoor space carries the same checkered pattern tile bringing the outdoors in. The outdoor fireplace, water feature and outdoor BBQ are great for those entertaining evenings. 2 of the 3 oversized en suite guest rooms all accommodate King Size Beds and have there own outdoor sitting space. 1 of the guest bedroom en suite is designed like a guest Casita with a Kitchenette and attached garage. Use it as part of the home at all times or close it off to give guests their own space and privacy. The 3 car total garage, laundry, powder bath and elevator complete the first level of this home. You may take the elevator or staircase to the Primary suite level. The loft area and outdoor loggia is perfect for retiring to for the evening. Take in the incredible views of the Phoenix Nature Preserve from the covered entertaining space. The Primary suite and bath are just steps away. The calming spa like bath with Shower, soaking tub, vanity and custom walk in closet with built in storage give privacy to the Primary. The loggia off the Primary bedroom has views of Downtown and Uptown Phoenix on the Horizon. This community is situated in close proximity to all Paradise Valley, Biltmore and Scottsdale have to offer! 24/7 Guard Gated Clubhouse and Pet Park The mixture of contemporary design and pops of old world blend timelessly in this new home. Come see this home today!

2782 Andrew Douglass -- Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$3,950,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,100 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755147
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Perched upon 1.28 acres of picturesque land, this stunning log home is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and history, built from ''King'' logs salvaged from the historic Yellowstone fire. The property boasts panoramic views of the 16th hole of the Meadow Golf Course and amazing views of the San Francisco Peaks, enhancing its serene and picturesque setting. Inside, the home offers multiple living areas, including a spacious, reimagined game room complete with newly constructed full bar—ideal for entertaining guests. The large chef's kitchen features a center island, modern appliances and is open to the formal dining area and an additional family room, providing a seamless flow for gatherings. The primary suite is conveniently located on the main level, providing easy access and a tranquil retreat, with the other bedrooms tucked away downstairs. The residence is designed for comfort and elegance, with four rustic fireplaces and central air conditioning ensuring a pleasant atmosphere year-round. Enjoy the outdoors from multiple covered decks that offer sweeping views and wonderful privacy. A brand-new Lutron lighting system has just been installed! With its blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and stunning natural views, this log home is a unique sanctuary. Tucked away amidst 1,100 acres of pristine alpine beauty, Forest Highlands exudes an unparalleled sense of exclusivity and serenity. With two championship golf courses designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, Forest Highlands sets the stage for unforgettable golf experiences. The community offers an array of exceptional amenities, including two clubhouses, multiple dining options, tennis courts, swimming pools, and miles of hiking and biking trails. Forest Highlands is a retreat where luxury meets nature, ensuring a harmonious lifestyle for its residents.

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