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

5117 N 81st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$549,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,216 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785248

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Oasis by definition is a peaceful place in the desert or it can also be defined as 5117 N. 81st St. This designer remodeled, 2 bed/2 bath home with just over 1,200 sqft. is located in the best location in of all of Chateau De Vie and a heartbeat away from the popular attractions of Fashion Square and Old Town. This home boasts a luxury chef's kitchen highlighted by modern oak thin shaker cabinets, top tier quartz countertops with waterfall edges, and Stainless Steel Samsung Smart appliances. Luxury vinyl wood plank flooring and Berber carpet accentuate the space. Baths have been tastefully done. Take in many beautiful sunsets while relaxing on your covered patio. New dual pane windows, roof, water heater, and newer AC. Airbnb/STR approved. Don't miss out on this one of a kind property!

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16222 S 180th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

New

$549,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,899 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6789074

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Built in 2020, this modern home offers a stylish blend of luxury and functionality in the highly sought-after CantaMia at Estrella, a 55+ resort living community. It features 2 bedrooms, a versatile den, and 2 bathrooms within a thoughtfully designed split floorplan. Upon entering through the custom iron door, you'll notice modern fixtures and floors. The gourmet kitchen includes a gas stovetop, stainless steel appliances, and ample workspace, making it perfect for cooking and entertaining. The large master suite provides a private retreat, complete with a walk-in closet and an oversized tile shower, combining comfort with elegance. Outdoor living spaces are equally inviting. A private front courtyard welcomes you, while the backyard is perfect for entertaining with it's firepit, artificial grass, and paver accents. The property also includes a 3-car garage featuring epoxy floors and built-in cabinets, ideal for storage and versatility. With scenic mountain views, this home offers a perfect combination of modern design and an active, luxurious lifestyle, providing comfort and style both indoors and out.

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424 W Blackberry Lane Payson, AZ 85541

New

$549,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,540 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788535

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your serene retreat nestled among the towering Ponderosa pine trees! This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath residence offers the perfect combination of comfort and natural elegance. Step into a spacious living room, complete with a beautiful fireplace, ideal for cozy evenings. The separate dining room features gleaming hardwood floors, adding warmth and sophistication. A well-appointed kitchen comes equipped with a Thermador Range and stainless-steel appliances making this home both functional and inviting. Outside, you'll find a completely fenced property, perfect for privacy, pets, or outdoor gatherings. The expansive 10'x40' rear deck provides a tranquil space to relax, take in breathtaking scenery, and listen to the soothing sounds of the East Verde River. The ... CLICK MORE property also boasts a 2-car garage with an attached workshop, equipped with its own bathroom and shower. Above the garage, enjoy the flexibility of a mother-in-law suite or a game roomtailor this space to fit your lifestyle. Best of all, there is no HOA, giving you the freedom to enjoy your property your way. There is plenty of room on this 0.58-acre lot to park your toys, RV or have a phenomenal garden. Whether you're entertaining, enjoying nature or working on projects in your workshop, this home offers everything you need and more. Located in a nature-lover's paradise, with access to hiking, fishing, and abundant wildlife. Don't miss the chance to own this unique retreat!

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17319 W Butler Avenue Waddell, AZ 85355

$549,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,323 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6777022

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Prime oversized view lot location w/upgraded guest suite! Courtyard entry w/cabinetry at entry. Open gourmet kitchen w/KitchenAid stainless appliances, white extended height cabinets, expansive granite counters, farmhouse sink + pendant lighting. Split primary suite w/barn door to bathroom, pedestal tub, double sinks & walk in tiled shower. Laundry has a door to primary closet & includes upgraded cabinets & huge farmhouse sink. 3 more bdr's split w/walk in closets. View lot is fully landscaped with low maintenance landscaping. More great upgrades such as a high end whole home water softener system, reverse osmosis, wood blinds through out, garage side door, expansive wood tile floors and more! Located steps from a big park!

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2946 N 21st Place Phoenix, AZ 85016

$549,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,746 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6787545

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for a new home? This fabulous 3 bed 3 bath home with a large casita in Olive Manors is the one for you! Beautiful curb appeal, a manicured landscape w/lush natural turf & swaying shade trees, a 1 car garage w/built-in cabinets, RV gate, and a paver walkway are just the beginning! Discover a spacious dining & living area w/elegant wood flooring, modern light fixtures, and crisp palette throughout. Continue into the cozy great room, bathed in natural light & boasting a fireplace to keep you warm during the coming winter months. The fabulous kitchen is comprised of white cabinetry w/granite counters, stainless steel appliances, a breakfast nook, and a serving window w/a breakfast bar. Relax & unwind in the primary bedroom, showcasing vaulted ceilings, a mirrored closet, pristine ensu You'll also find a sizeable bonus/sitting room w/sliding barn doors, ideal for entertaining! Don't forget about the detached guest house, which features its very own kitchenette! Also including a lovely backyard w/a covered patio, a convenient storage shed, and a sparkling blue pool, this home is a dream come true! Hurry and act now before it's gone!

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25799 S 226th Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$549,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,407 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6606963

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home! This exquisite single-family residence boasts 4 beds and 2.5 bath, providing ample space for comfortable family living & entertaining. Step inside to discover a well-appointed interior that combines modern elegance with timeless design. The open-concept floor plan seamlessly connects the living, dining, & kitchen areas, creating a warm & inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring top-of-the-line appliances, granite countertops, & a generous island that serves as the focal point for culinary creations & casual gatherings. The four bedrooms are thoughtfully designed, offering privacy & comfort to all occupants. Outside, the property continues to impress with a huge backyard space. It's a blank canvas awaiting your personal touch. Built in 2021 & situated minutes away from Queen Creek's entertainment hub, you'll enjoy the convenience of nearby amenities, excellent schools, & easy access to shopping, dining, movie theaters and a variety of entertainment options. This property truly offers the best of both worlds - a peaceful suburban retreat with a front-row seat to all the entertainment you desire. surrounded by lush green areas, amazing playgrounds, & a super cool community pool area!

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44560 W Copper Trail Maricopa, AZ 85139

$549,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,054 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707658

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER OFFERING RATE BUYDOWN Resort living at its finest in Maricopa. Located in the Cobblestone Farms neighborhood. The expansive interior shines with natural light, creating a welcoming ambiance throughout. Enter through a custom iron door where a chef's kitchen awaits, boasting top-tier appliances, perfect for culinary enthusiasts & entertaining guests alike. This luxurious home offers 4 spacious bedrooms, including a magnificent owner's retreat with a owners bath including a full tiled shower, freestanding tub and custom sinks. Retreat to the spacious bedrooms, each with a walk in closet. You will also find a separate den/office & loft, providing versatile spaces for work & play. Outside, the meticulously landscaped backyard features a sparkling pool with a water fall, a hot tub while enjoying Arizona's stunning sunsets. Lush green grass and palm trees makes this a home a private oasis. Parking is never an issue with the convenience of an extra parking slab and RV Gate, providing ample space for vehicles & storage. Additional features of this remarkable property include a low maintenance front yard and exterior stone features. This is a rare find that offers the perfect blend of luxury & comfort. Don't miss the opportunity to own this remarkable property. Your new home has been lovingly cared for, allowing you to move right in & start creating memories.

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3218 N Ravine -- Mesa, AZ 85215

$549,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,868 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752209

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

No HOA! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home features elegant travertine floors throughout and plantation shutters for a touch of sophistication. The central vacuum and water softener make for carefree maintenance and vaulted ceilings enhance the open, airy feel, while the play pool in the backyard offers a perfect retreat. The fireplace in the family room, breakfast bar seating in the kitchen, ceiling fans throughout the home & 220V access in the garage for EV charging are just a few of the features that make this the home of your dreams. Located in a desirable Mesa neighborhood, this home blends style and functionality seamlessly and is ideal for both relaxation and entertaining. It's a true gem in a prime location with easy access to the 202 freeway, shopping and schools.

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9351 W Deanna Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$549,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,126 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756025

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing Home within Dove Valley Ranch Community! The Home Offers 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths and Sparkling Pool! Close to Schools, Shopping and Freeway! Seller is offering a 2% concession towards Buyer(s) closing costs or loan fees. Seller just completed remodeling this home.

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921 E Becker Lane Phoenix, AZ 85020

$549,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,925 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747960

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ELEGANCE STYLE CONVENIENCE Discover the seamless blend between modern and classic in this Phoenix home. Featuring breathtaking mountain views from the 2nd story master balcony, this stunning home offers a sprawling pie-shaped backyard. Inside, inviting living space with vaulted ceilings and a choice of master bedroom on either the lower or upper floor. Enjoy the warmth of hardwood flooring and tile. Gather around the Saltillo accented beehive fireplace in the great room. The kitchen shines with white cabinets, granite countertops, new appliances including dishwasher, stove, microwave and even our very own wine fridge. Cul de sac lot surrounded by well maintained homes and yards. Nestled into seclusion yet close to all conveniences include the Hilton Tapatio Cliffs resort

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19801 W Badgett Lane Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$549,900

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,605 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744804

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Not often a Pulte home is for sale! This home offers 4 beds, 3.5 bathrooms with a Jr Suite upstairs! The tastefully designed interior features soothing paint tones, tall ceilings, wood-plank tile flooring, and a formal living room perfect for entertaining guests. Step into the impeccable great room filled with abundant natural light through expansive windows & two sliding glass doors. Spotless kitchen has a gas cooktop, a wall oven, quartz counters, recessed lighting, gray wood cabinetry, and an island with a breakfast bar. Upstairs, the well-sized loft is ideal for a hobby space! The main retreat showcases a soft carpet, a private bathroom, and a walk-in closet. The home's elegance extends outdoors to the tranquil backyard with a covered patio. Don't miss out

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9859 W Potter Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$549,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,828 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748059

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your beautiful, corner lot home located in the highly popular Parkridge community. This gorgeous home features an updated kitchen with new quartz countertops, matching stainless steel appliances with built-in microwave, freshly painted cabinets, a large island with breakfast bar, and high vaulted ceilings. The primary suite features a double door entry, vaulted ceilings, bay window, a full bath with dual sinks, a separate tub and shower set up, and spacious walk-in closet. The backyard features a sparkling dive pool, an entertaining area with an outdoor fireplace, and covered patio. This one is move-in ready.

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