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
5559 E Gable Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85206
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,848
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6771547
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful, one-owner, Fulton home in Stonegate is waiting for you! You will fall in love with the amazing custom kitchen features a massive dual fuel GE Monogram stove, new Stainless refrigerator, stunning wood cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances, which overlooks the living room with a custom tiled gas fireplace, built-in cabinetry, and large windows offer a view of the electric heated pool with fountains. The spacious primary bedroom boasts custom wooden shutters and a vaulted ceiling. The primary bathroom welcomes you with heated tile floors, a custom tiled shower, and a freestanding soaking tub. The resort-like backyard features a gorgeous tile deck, citrus trees and heated pool. Come see all the incredible features of this must-see home!
4591 E Sundance Avenue
Gilbert, AZ 85297
$550,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,120
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6772931
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Are you looking for a home in Power Ranch on a larger lot with some open space behind it? This beautiful home backs to a community park and has a large backyard with mature trees, new artificial turf lawn and new patio pavers. Power Ranch has long been one of the most desirable communities in Gilbert because of the abundance of community features such as community center, parks, lakes, sport courts and more. New plush carpet was just installed upstairs in all bedrooms and hallway. Lots of recent updates such as stove, dishwasher and all new garage door opener. A living and dining room with vaulted ceiling welcomes you upon entry while the large family room, kitchen and sunny breakfast nook are in back. This one won't last long because of its PRIME location backing to a park.
27219 S 171st Avenue
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$550,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,590
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6773768
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This picturesque 5-acre ranch offers a serene, countryside escape with all the modern conveniences. The two-story home features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, perfectly designed for comfortable living. Inside, you'll be greeted by a beautifully custom-made kitchen, showcasing elegant quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and custom cabinets that provide ample storage. The tile floors throughout the home not only add to its stylish appeal but also make for easy maintenance. One of the highlights of this property is the stunning view from the second floor and the expansive back deck, where you can relax and soak in the beauty of your private acreage. The entire property is fenced, providing both privacy and security. For those who value utility and space, the prope property is equipped with two carport shedsa large 40x30 carport shed perfect for storage or work projects, and a smaller 20x30 carport shed that can serve a variety of uses. A private water well ensures self-sufficiency, while the powerful 400-amp electrical panel provides ample capacity to build an additional home, set up a workshop, or create an RV parking area. This ranch is the perfect blend of rural charm and modern functionality, offering endless possibilities for expansion or customization.
27036 W Sequoia Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$550,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,998
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6774218
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEWLY REMODELED PRESERVE with OWNED SOLAR and WALLED LOT and FURNISHED! You'll fall in love the moment you walk through the door. This home features new wood-grain tile & carpet throughout, fresh interior paint & baseboards. Enjoy a custom-built media wall, new light fixtures, custom drapery & plantation shutters. The living room has a center slider door that enhances the space. The master bath boasts a floor-to-ceiling tile shower. In the kitchen, you'll find S/S appliances, a new microwave, quartz countertops, backsplash & under-counter lighting. The newly remodeled backyard offers beautiful landscaping and turf, an extended travertine patio with a BBQ & Blackstone. Epoxy, storage, sink & workbench in the garage. THIS HOME IS A GEM!
2301 E Binner Drive
Chandler, AZ 85225
$550,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,049
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774320
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Absolutely gorgeous 4 bedroom home with a 3-car garage in Dobson Place! Highly upgraded carpet in the living room, and LVP floors everywhere else! 4th bedroom has a closet and double French doors--makes the perfect home office! Lovely island kitchen with oversized cabinets, pendant lighting, stainless appliances! EXTENDED 3-car garage with 220! Private, grassy backyard. Terrific neighborhood with large grass park nearby--great schools (BASIS is right down the street), shopping close by, near the 202! Hurry to this one!
18429 W Robin Lane
Surprise, AZ 85387
$550,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,989
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774539
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 4 bed + den, 2.5 bath RV GARAGE home in Surprise's North Copper Canyon. The original owners upgraded just about everything, including extending the attached RV garage to 48 FEET! The designer kitchen includes upgraded cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, an apron sink, a giant island with loads of storage, and a walk-in pantry! Wood-look tile floors flow throughout the open floor plan, with plush carpet in the bedrooms. The primary bathroom includes double sinks, a walk-in shower, and a large walk-in closet. RV garage is 48 feet long, 14' Tall Front door and includes a 10' garage door leading to the backyard. There is also an RV gate for additional toy parking! The backyard has a gorgeous fully covered pergola with cafe lights perfect for entertaining!
23266 S 229th Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$550,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,311
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774566
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into a world of elegance and sophistication in this stunning, barely-lived-in home built in 2023. With 5 spacious bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, this is one of the rare gems you won't find around the corner. Picture soaring ceilings that invite natural light to dance through the expansive living spaces, and a gigantic kitchen that opens seamlessly to the great room—ideal for gatherings or cozy family nights. The stunning white stone tiles pair beautifully with rich chestnut cabinets, creating a striking contrast with pristine white Cort countertops. It's a chef's paradise! The master suite feels like a penthouse retreat, offering ample space and luxury that truly elevates your living experience. Each detail is designed to impress, from the breathtaking finishes to the thoughtfully laid-out floor plan. Nestled on a premium cul-de-sac lot in a vibrant community, you'll enjoy endless amenities right at your doorstep. This is not just a home; it's a lifestyle statement. Don't let this one-of-a-kind opportunity slip away,schedule a showing today!
2978 Glenview Drive
Sierra Vista, AZ 85650
$550,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,373
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774663
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This is a beautifully remodeled home in Winterhaven that is totally handicap accessible to include zero entry, pocket doors, special shower with seat and high toilet, and tile floors throughout the home. The completely remodeled kitchen includes a counter with sink that raises and lowers by motor and makes the perfect prep station. You'll find all new tile floors, new windows, remodeled kitchen custom cherry cabinets and granite counters, along with high end appliances, automated window coverings, new HVAC, water treatment system, new tile roof and owned solar system. There's a water feature out back along with a covered patio, built in grill, astroturf for the puppies to play, established landscaping and an awesome view of both the golf course and Huachuca Mtns. This is a Beauty!
9908 S 43rd Avenue
Laveen, AZ 85339
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,220
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6774848
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Wonderful 3-bedroom home + DEN w/eye-catching porch! The 3-car garage, extended driveway, & RV gate/parking provide plenty of parking space. A welcoming iron gate opens to the ample courtyard. Inside, you'll find fresh paint, surround sound speakers, a gas fireplace, tile flooring, & a luminous great room that merges all areas for easy entertainment. Gourmet kitchen has SS appliances, a walk-in pantry, granite counters, an island w/breakfast bar, & wood cabinets. Discover a main retreat featuring French doors to the backyard & a newly remodeled bathroom w/two vanities & a soaking tub. The sizable den w/own entry from the courtyard can be easily used as the 4th bedroom, office, yoga studio, etc. Out the back, you'll see an extended covered patio, refreshing pool, & firepit area. Must see!
7005 E Russell Street
Mesa, AZ 85207
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,756
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6774932
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**Beautifully Upgraded Single-Level Home in Las Sendas!** Welcome to this freshly updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in the desirable Las Sendas community. Recent upgrades include new paint throughout, elegant laminate floors, and stylish light fixtures in every room. The kitchen features brand-new quartz countertops, a new microwave, and an island, making it perfect for casual dining and entertaining. It opens up to a cozy family room with a gas fireplace, ideal for relaxing evenings. The flexible front room can serve as an office, formal dining, or creative space. The master suite includes a walk-in closet, dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms share a full bath. Enjoy the convenience of an inside laundry room and a 2-car garage. Step outside to a newly landscaped private backyard, perfect for outdoor gatherings. Located close to the community's pools, spas, splash pad, tennis and pickleball courts, and the top-rated elementary school. Las Sendas offers a gated golf course lifestyle with parks, sport courts, and activities for all ages. Easy access to hiking, biking, shopping, and the 202 freeway makes this an ideal location!
1325 Tanglewood Road
Prescott, AZ 86303
$550,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,139
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6775016
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Set amidst the Ponderosa Pines in the highly desirable Haisley Homestead neighborhood, this tastefully updated single-level home is the perfect Prescott retreat. Featuring two ensuite bedrooms, this home has been beautifully upgraded throughout. Enjoy new luxury vinyl plank flooring in the main living areas, and freshly carpeted bedrooms for added comfort. The countertops have been replaced with a stylish mix of Corian and quartz, paired with fresh two-tone paint, five new solar tubes, modern light fixtures, and kitchen upgrades. The HVAC system was replaced five years ago, and a new roof was installed within the last couple of years, ensuring peace of mind for the new owners. The potential for dual master suites makes this an ideal getaway for families looking to escape the valley heat. The home boasts a large driveway with extra parking, in addition to the two-car garage with built-in storage shelves. Haisley Homestead is located just a mile from Prescott's new Bean Peaks Mountain Bike Park at White Spar Campground, offering nearby access to hiking trails in the Prescott National Forest, including the picturesque Goldwater Lake trail. The backyard features a covered patio, perfect for transforming into your own private escape with additional landscaping. A single-level home with four bedrooms, a two-car garage, and all the amenities of southwest Prescott at this price point is a rare find. Plus, enjoy a reasonably priced HOA that includes access to a swimming pool, tennis, and pickleball courts. Located within 5 minutes of Prescott's downtown courthouse square, this wonderfully maintained home is ready for you to make it your own!
41581 W Somerset Drive
Maricopa, AZ 85138
$550,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,521
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775776
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 2-car garage home is located in the sought-after Glennwilde community in Maricopa. The home has two floors and covers 2521 SqFt of space. **It features a solar system, a large pool, a heated spa, and a low-maintenance backyard with artificial turf and citrus trees. *The kitchen has granite countertops and the flooring is laminate plank throughout. The windows in the home was replaced with low energy has Solar The Glennwilde community also offers two heated pools for your enjoyment the home is close to Pacana Park with its amenities. Dog Park, Playground, Basketball, Baseball, Tennis, Fishing Pond, etc.