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

6638 N 66th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$11,000,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
10,071 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749099
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover an exclusive opportunity to own a prestigious estate in the highly sought-after Judson Estates of Paradise Valley. Set on a sprawling 1.5-acre lot, this magnificent property offers breathtaking mountain views and an expansive living space exceeding 11,000 square feet, which includes a private guest casita and a separate guest house. Upon arrival, be greeted by a grand circular driveway, meticulously landscaped to perfection. Enter through the impressive front doors to be welcomed by stunning vistas of the resort-style backyard and pool. The covered patio, designed for exceptional entertaining, features an outdoor kitchen, extensive covered seating areas, and serene fountains that enhance the tranquil ambiance. The gourmet kitchen is an entertainer's dream, while the elegant dining room, complete with a private bar and wine cellar, exudes sophistication. The living room features another bar and seamlessly opens with a wall to wall pocket door to the resort-style backyard, creating a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living. The luxurious primary suite boasts a thoughtfully designed split floor plan, two opulent closets, a private workout room or sitting area, extra storage, and exclusive patios. Guests will enjoy their stay in the private attached casita, which boasts a spacious living area and a full kitchen. For added privacy, the separate guest house offers additional luxurious accommodations apart from the main home. An oversized five-car garage, complete with a spacious recreation room, provides ample additional space. Indulge in the epitome of luxury living with this exquisite estate in Judson Estates.

42515 N 102nd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$10,995,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,323 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750914
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Sited in Desert Mountain's prestigious Saguaro Forest this 1st time on the market 2020 custom home comes with furnishings and a golf membership. This stunning single level soft contemporary masterpiece was designed by Architect Shelby Wilson and built by Manship Homes. The interior (Elizabeth Rosensteel) and exterior (CF Design) are intertwined creating organic modern elegance. This perfectly situated 2.49-acre home sits above Desert Mountains highest clubhouse and its 18th hole. Perched above the rooftops it's unobstructed vista showcases eastern sunrises to western sunsets with city lights in between. The beauty of this property elicits the same statement over and over again...''Wow this is the best view in Desert Mountain''. Step inside and your eye is immediately drawn through the interior courtyard to the jaw dropping 83' negative edge lap/play pool which seamlessly merges into the horizon. This indoor/outdoor sanctuary represents the pinnacle of carefully curated contemporary design (outstanding balance/flow, natural light, generous space and privacy). The premier location is enhanced with walkability to the Chiricahua Clubhouse and Constantino/Angelos's restaurants. Make this your home and drop yourself into instant paradise.

9333 E Happy Valley Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$10,950,000
11 Beds
12 Baths
11,995 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754976
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is a mini resort! This gated estate is perfect for those who value a luxury private estate with luxurious amenities, quality finishes and views. The current owner conceived and built the estate with gardens, terraces, balconies, pools, walkways, garages and amenities of grandeur that rival 5-star resorts while appealing to the car collector, equestrian lover, toy owner and entertainer alike. On just under 5 acres in the coveted zip code of 85255, this property frames Pinnacle Peak to the north and city lights and Camelback mountain to the south. In terms of accommodation, the main home offers two generous primary suites, 4 bedrooms ensuite, 2 bedroom with jack & jill bathroom, theater, office, grand dining room and wine cellar. The guest house feature a billiards room.... .. with a custom built-in bar (with a hidden door to a full-size server's kitchen), a theater with state-of-the-art technology, wine cellar, elevator, private office at entry, and grand dining room. A glass wall of pocket doors blends the inside and outside living space and expansive patio. The spectacular resort inspired outdoors feature mature lush landscape, misters, and putting green wrapped by a lazy river with in-pool lounge chair deck and 2 cabanas. Separate from the lazy river is an impressive pool and spa with swim-up bar, grotto, boulder water slide, splash pad and shallow pool perfect for pets or those who don't desire the depth of the pool. Enjoy food prep in the outdoor kitchen or cooking in the authentic pizza oven or smoker and invite friends to play volleyball in the full-size sand volleyball court. As a car collector, the owner built garages to house 12-14 vehicles which wrap around a paver motor court flanked by a 50' RV garage. The garage features a bar for entertaining, private bath and glass display doors to showcase his special treasures. This home also has an exquisite barn and turn-out for horses or livestock if you so desire. There are too many features to list, including a long list of recent mechanical updates. Showings by appointment only. We recommend at least 2 hours to view the estate. Your client can rest assured that this home will remain private to outsiders as only limited photos will be provided to the public.

41521 N 75th Place Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$10,500,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
7,250 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753754
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The Six Shooter residence seamlessly floats in harmony with the natural landscape through carefully selected rustic materials, such as rubble stone, concrete and raw steel. Perched high on the gentle hillside, this home offers panoramic views and ultimate privacy amidst ancient saguaros. The lower 7-car show garage not only serves as a focal point, but elevates the home even higher, transcending the hillside for commanding views. The great room is an open-concept space that seamlessly connects the front terraces with mountain vistas unfolding before you. The private primary suite, strategically hovering above the desert, offers utmost seclusion and astonishing views. The guest wing and lounge open up to the pool and terrace area, creating an oasis for relaxation and social gatherings.

6512 E Hummingbird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$10,400,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
6,990 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6652037
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This magnificent Paradise Valley estate takes its inspiration from traditional Mediterranean style while celebrating the clean lines and open floor plan of a modern design. The unrivaled design includes a grand light well connecting the main level to a lower living space featuring a theater, lounge, and custom handcrafted bar. As you enter the estate, a welcoming courtyard for guest parking will lead to the grand entrance. A secondary secluded auto court and 4 car garage is situated at the back west end of the property. Indulge in a private backyard oasis offering ultimate privacy and a state-of-the-art indoor-outdoor kitchen. The 64 feet lap pool and spa is perfectly situated for entertainment and enriches the design coupled with a large lawn and room for furry friends. With defined custom home knowledge alongside a tradition of quality and attention to detail, BedBrock has successfully developed luxury communities that have exceeded expectations for value and quality across the Valley. The award-winning team offers a seamless design-build process in-house. Renderings are made for illustration purposes only. Changes to the renderings and the plans are subject to change.

5939 E Quartz Mountain Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$10,300,000
5 Beds
8 Baths
8,320 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702883
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Modern Mediterranean architecture w/ spectacular city light & mountain views! The floorplan is ideal for empty-nesters or seasonal owners w/ an updated full guest casita below the main house...perfect for a visiting family or caregiver. Serenely & intimately perched on the prestigious north slope of Mummy Mtn, the 5600 sf main house was recently completed w/ the best construction methods including 15'' thick steel & concrete walls, floor to ceiling walls of glass supported by steel I-beams & interior wall insulation. Design finishes include stone floors, wood beams, quarried stone accents, a reclaimed trough sink, marble & quartz slabs at the kitchen & baths, home automation wiring & high-end lighting throughout. The abundant mature landscaping is as captivating as the incredible view!

9108 E Grapevine Pass -- Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$10,000,000
5 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,945 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6628320
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FULL GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE TO BUYER AND READY TO TRANSFER UPON APPROVAL FROM DESERT MOUNTAIN CLUB AND A SUCCESSFUL CLOSE OF LAND AND HOME BUILD CONTRACT. Sexy, sleek contemporary encapsulating modern luxury with the natural surrounding beauty of the Sonoran Desert and private 25 Acres. Nestled at the end of a winding road, perched into the hillside where the horizon paints an exquisite blend of colors during the sunrise and sunset. Featuring elements of stone, glass and wood this home will come together harmoniously to create an elegant symphony of textures and forms. The heart of the home is a great room space / open kitchen with floor to ceiling windows that will capture the panoramic vistas, inviting the outside in. The patio spaces an extension of the home's grace, boasting an infinity-edge pool that will seemingly blended with the horizon, bar/bbq along with dining area for al fresco meals, and a fire pit where stories will be shared under the starlit skies. This floorplan allows for 100% single level living with main floor featuring split primary bedroom, two private guest en-suites, wine room, study and 5 car garage. Lower level encompasses a large game /bonus room and two private en-suites. Perfect for a couple or entertaining groups of family and friends this 7945 square foot 5 bedroom, 5 car garage home with a total of 14,320 square feet under roof is waiting for you. Black Stone Development and designer Graffin Design have successfully designed and built over 55 properties in Desert Mountain. Ground breaking can occur in as little as 2 to 3 months. Lifts can be added in garage for additional car storage.

9743 E Madera Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$10,000,000
7 Beds
8.5 Baths
11,625 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785584
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
With Available Golf Membership: Experience luxurious desert living in this stunning Southwestern architectural masterpiece by renowned designer Lee Hutchinson. This exceptional estate features a flowing, organic Pueblo design, harmonizing seamlessly with the natural desert landscape. Encompassing an impressive 9,085 sq. ft., the main residence, built by Shiloh Homes, offers five spacious en-suite bedrooms. A hallmark of southwestern elegance, the home boasts six fireplaces, creating warm, inviting spaces throughout. Multiple living areas, expansive covered patios (totaling 4,000 sq. ft.), and sweeping views provide a blend of comfort and grandeur. Built in 2013 by Arnet, the guest house spans 2,540 sq. ft. and offers two en-suite bedrooms, a full kitchen, a spacious great room, laundry facilities, and a three-car garage. The guest house also features three fireplaces, its own hot tub, and generous outdoor living spaces, making it a private retreat within the estate. With a total of seven garage spaces, car enthusiasts will appreciate the climate-controlled four-car garage in the main house and an additional three-car garage in the guest house. Both garages provide extra-large storage rooms for ample space and organization. Situated on three expansive lots totaling 2.2 acres, this estate offers 490 feet of golf course frontage within the Desert Mountain Village of Lone Mountain II. Revel in unobstructed green fairway views and the majestic mountain panoramas that stretch across the horizon. The grounds also feature a cozy outdoor fire pit and beautifully landscaped areas designed to maximize outdoor relaxation and entertainment. This residence is a true oasis, combining privacy, luxury, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Explore this remarkable estate with the attached motion video to capture the full essence of its unique design and breathtaking views.

40 N Biltmore Estate Phoenix, AZ 85016

$10,000,000
6 Beds
7.5 Baths
14,554 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6736578
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Here at the prestigious Biltmore Resort, the Estates within the circle are majestic. This setting is exceptional on the golf course at 1.3 acres of breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain backdrop. A grand motor court welcomes you to a stately foyer, leading to expansive living and dining areas that epitomize opulence. The kitchen is a culinary marvel, boasting generous pantries and an extensive laundry suite. The private master suite offers a serene retreat, while additional rooms include a sophisticated office, an elegant library, and a refined bar room. Descend to the lower level to discover a magnificent paneled game room, an impressive wine cellar accommodating thousands of bottles, a chic bar, and a luxurious theater room. The verdant backyard, overlooking the golf course, features an outdoor kitchen perfect for alfresco dining and a charming two-bedroom guest house. This estate exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship, architectural brilliance, and an unrivaled location, making it a true masterpiece of luxury living.

5739 E Cactus Wren Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$10,000,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,322 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774047
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Iconic and Timeless: Two words that capture the essence of this masterfully curated trophy residence, boasting sprawling head to tail Camelback Mountain views from every room. Brought to life by world renowned architect Mark Candelaria and nestled into the gold coast of Paradise Valley; perfectly situated in between Camelback and Mummy Mountain, this signature view estate is privately gated on a 1 acre cul de sac lot. Timeless and elegant finishes are carried throughout the home, seamlessly blending the best of Arizona luxury indoor/outdoor living. Comfortable entertaining spaces and courtyards fully open to create an effortless flow to this one of a kind masterpiece; capturing the best panoramic views in Paradise Valley, within the area's most prestigious corridor. Highest quality of construction throughout, the main residence has 4 generously sized en suite bedrooms, a flex space, office nook, music/piano room, and a walk in wine room. The detached casita is perfect for accommodating guests featuring; A kitchenette, main living space, full bathroom and separate bedroom. The Chef's Kitchen, equipped with a Butler's Pantry and large center island, opens to the main living space and bar area, with retractable windows for indoor/outdoor serving and soaking in the majestic views. With an abundance of green space and 360 degree mountain views, the entertainer's dream backyard embodies elevated resort living and offers an abundance of privacy, while perfectly framing Camelback Mountain and the Praying Monk. Just seconds from world class resorts, dining, and shopping; We welcome you to preview and explore this 1 of 1 opportunity, to acquire a truly special property in one of Paradise Valley's most exclusive, established and coveted locations.

6850 N 39th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$10,000,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,965 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749840
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
EPIC City Lights, Camelback Mountain VIEWS inside the Guard Gated community of Paradise Reserves. Just under 2.2 hillside acres, seamlessly crafted between newly built custom homes. Discover every luxury upgrade one can imagine; intricate tile-work, cascading stone waterfall, 25-ft great room, custom glass underlit bar, effortlessly merge its outdoor spaces, and infinity-edge pool with your interiors. The chef's kitchen, with a geo-lux quartz island, complements the entertaining lifestyle. The elegant primary suite, custom closets, private balconies, 7 car Garage and theater contribute to refined living. Inside this guard-gated Paradise Valley community minutes from premier shopping and dining, Tatum & Lincoln, HWY 51, this residence offers unparalleled privacy, elegance and security.

8185 E Alameda Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$9,999,000
5 Beds
11 Baths
5,950 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6593970
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Boasting nearly 10 acres of land, this gated estate includes a stunning Spanish-style main house, a full equestrian facility, an entertainment pavilion with attached theater, 2 standalone casitas, 2 staff apartments & a 1200 sqft multi-use building. The 5,950 sqft main home was renovated in 2021. Vaulted, wood beamed ceilings, engineered hardwood floors & statement luxury light fixtures through-out the home. The primary suite presents a seating area, balcony & spa worthy ensuite. The backyard has an outdoor kitchen, a heated pool, spa & putting green. The 5,000-SF, entertainment pavilion has a game room, full bar, kitchen, gym, yoga studio & 3rd-level deck with 360º mountain and city views. The equestrian facility encompasses 15 stalls, 2 arenas, 3 turnouts & 2 RV parking.

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