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

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

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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

3131 N Central Avenue Unit 6013 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$557,768

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,125 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6606900

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

*Construction completed* 5% BUYER INCENTIVE! Introducing Edison Midtown Phase 2 with 60 new construction condominiums. This spacious two bedroom condo offers ten ft. ceilings, an open floor plan, and large master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Chefs kitchen offers expansive cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances including a gas range. Edison Midtown features incredible amenities for that perfect Urbanite lifestyle. A beautiful pool and lap pool, 2000 sq. ft. fitness center and lounge, and gated parking garage.

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1056 N Miller Road Tempe, AZ 85288

Open House

$557,500

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,835 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783305

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to this delightful 2-bedroom townhome in Bella Vita! Fall in love with the inviting great room with high ceilings, recessed lighting, a soothing palette, and wood-look flooring. Cook delicious meals in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with granite counters, abundant cabinetry with crown moulding, a mosaic tile backsplash, chic pendant lighting, stainless steel appliances, a handy pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar for quick meals. Double doors lead to the main bedroom, offering soft carpeting, an ensuite with double vanities, and a walk-in closet. You'll also find a cozy loft ideal for an office or a reading nook. Venture onto the balcony and enjoy a breath of fresh air. Grab your favorite drink and unwind on the open patio. Make it yours!

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422 N Calle Largo Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$557,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,883 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771071

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in Mesa's sought-after northeast area! Situated on a 1/3 acre and tucked away in a quiet neighborhood. Inside, you'll find a bright, open floor plan with plenty of natural light, highlighting the well-maintained finishes throughout.Highly updated primary bathroom with dual rainfall shower heads, additional 6 head shower with a handheld extension. The private bath boasts a deep relaxing Jacuzzi tub to melt your worries away. Designer security doors both front and back and large RV gate with concrete pad for storing all your toys. Complete with a whole house filtration system and additional R/O system in the kitchen. With easy access to parks, schools, and shopping, this home is a rare find. Don't miss your chance to make it your

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1922 E Yale Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$557,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,231 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772421

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This fully renovated 1925 classic home blends charm with modern luxury. Featuring stunning luxury laminate floors and brand-new windows, the open floor plan is enhanced by beautiful wood beams and elegant crown molding. The custom bathroom showcases period-specific tile choices, while the kitchen boasts white shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, a striking blue tile backsplash, a pot filler above the gas range, and a farmhouse sink. Stainless steel appliances complete the space. Plus, enjoy peace of mind with a new roof and serviced A/C—all part of a permitted remodel!

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15394 W Cottontail Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$556,990

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,734 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786000

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

2,743 SQ FT SINGLE LEVEL - 3 CAR GARAGE Quick CLOSE! This beautiful 4 bedroom with a study + 3-bathroom single story is AMAZING !!! the perfect home, upgraded convenient electrical package, prewired for pendant light over the island, gorgeous tile flooring, Burlap Cabs, Quartz Slab, stainless steel appliances, gas range and dryer gas hookup, TANKLESS WATER HEATER, window coverings oversized sliding door, Smart Home and Energy Star Certified, garage door openers included just to mention a few, come see!

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20701 W Minnezona Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

Open House

$556,900

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,872 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750121

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to your 1,872 SF spacious retreat nestled on a generous 9,000 SF lot within the tree-lined streets of Victory; this home is perfect for embracing an active lifestyle tailored for those 55+. This charming home features stunning mountain views throughout that you can enjoy. Relax from the comfort of your spacious front porch, ideal to enjoy your peaceful neighborhood or socializing. Step inside to discover hardwood floors, complemented by upgraded carpet in the main living area as well as the bedrooms and loft. The heart of the home, the kitchen, boasts upgraded cabinetry and countertops, along with stainless steel appliances that make cooking a pleasure. You'll appreciate the ample storage space with the extended cabinetry. The home is bathed in natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that enhances the spacious and airy feel. The primary suite is complete with a large walk-in closet and generous sized bathroom. Down the hall you will find the additional bedroom and bathroom perfect for guests. An upstairs loft provides additional flexible space, perfect for a home office, craft room, or cozy retreat. The backyard, with its stunning mountain views, has mature landscaping that includes fruit trees and drought resistant plants. This home is thoughtfully designed to accommodate both comfort and functionality, making it the perfect choice for enjoying a vibrant and active lifestyle.

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5145 N 87th Drive Glendale, AZ 85305

$556,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,140 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766130

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6766130 December Completion! The elegant single-story Sterling plan in Stonehaven Encore features 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and 2,140 square feet of living space. The open-concept design connects the gathering room, casual dining area, and kitchen with a center island, creating the perfect space for entertaining. Unwind in the private owner's suite with a spa-like bath, dual vanity, and walk-in closet. Three additional bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a convenient laundry room complete this beautiful home. Structural options include: 8' doors, extended patio, bed 4 in lieu of the tandem garage.

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3842 E Fiesta Flower Lane San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$555,988

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,741 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700081

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6700081 December Completion! The Revere plan at Combs Ranch-Landmark is a 4 bedroom, 2-story home designed to accommodate the ultimate living experience. With a main level guest room, gorgeous island kitchen, casual dining area and great room opening up to the outdoor living space this home is thoughtfully laid out at every turn. Upstairs, the luxe owner's suite has a large WIC, spa-like bath, and is separate from 2 bedrooms and loft. Design upgrades feature flooring cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances.

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4405 N 203rd Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$555,784

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,416 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786223

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the coveted Victory at Verrado Active Adult community, this stunning Clyde plan home blends farmhouse charm with modern elegance. Relax on the cozy front porch while soaking in breathtaking views of the White Tank Mountains and Roma Park. The chef's kitchen shines with a large island, quartz countertops, subway tile backsplash, and GE Profile stainless steel appliances. The great room, highlighted by a coffered ceiling, is perfect for entertaining. A serene home office offers space for hobbies or reading. The Primary Suite boasts a spa-like bath and spacious walk-in closet. Extras include pendant lighting, ceiling fans, blinds, and owned solar panels. ***Short/long term interest rate buydowns available when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.

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20931 E Via Del Sol Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$555,541

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,638 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754262

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER CONSESSION AVAILABLE ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN NEW CONSTRUCTION HOME! Located Close to Queen Creek Marketplace Shopping, Dining & Entertainment, this Community has Parks, Tot Lots, BBQ's, Basketball Courts, Soccer Field and is just steps to the 8-Mile Walking Trail. This Beautiful Home is located in the Cul-de-sac and has the upgrades your clients are looking for: All Appliances Including Stainless Refrigerator, White Washer & Dryer, Stainless Gas Cooktop with Double Wall Ovens, Beautiful Cabinetry w/Hardware, Plank Tile Flooring, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Front yard landscaping and so much more! Backyard is large enough for a future pool. We are in Close-Out with a limited number of homes remaining. Don't Wait, Come See This Home Today!

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10852 E Texas Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$555,188

5 Beds

3 Baths

1,960 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761136

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6761136 Ready Now! Welcome to the Harlow at La Mira! This charming single-story home greets you with a cozy front porch. Just steps away, the open-concept kitchen with an island seamlessly flows into the dining and gathering rooms, creating an ideal space for entertaining. The private owner's suite boasts a corner-entry bathroom with dual sinks and a generous walk-in closet. Three equally sized secondary bedrooms share a full bath, providing ample comfort for everyone. Home options include: window coverings, whole house appliance package, bedroom 5 and bath 3, garage service door, raised bath vanity at bath 2 and 3, paver front porch, soft water loop, and garden tub in primary.

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13342 N 173rd Lane Surprise, AZ 85388

Open House

$555,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,774 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783711

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fabulous home in the growing Aria Ranch at Surprise! This two-story residence is in like-new condition, showcasing a great curb appeal with a desert landscape & a 3 car tandem garage. The functional interior boasts soft paint, wood-look tile flooring, a den, a formal dining room, and a living room open to the kitchen for easy entertaining. This open layout is made bright & airy by tall ceilings that promote a sleek design & a modern feel! The immaculate white kitchen features shaker cabinetry with crown moulding, herringbone subway tile backsplash, quartz counters, SS appliances, gas cooktop, and an island with breakfast bar. You'll also find a walk-in pantry & a mud room. Plush carpet throughout the second floor. The loft is perfect for a secondary family room, come see it today!!! The large owner's suite hosts a pristine ensuite with an oversized dual vanity, a tiled shower, and a bountiful walk-in closet. The expansive backyard offers a covered patio & endless potential to be customized. Close to shopping, major roads, and easy access to Loop 303. Hurry to see, this beauty will sell fast!

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