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

7 W Sarah Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$549,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,588 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734133

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the highly sought-after Warner Ranch Villages, nestled in South Tempe! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a modern aesthetic with stylish finishes throughout. Located within walking distance to the beloved Postino wine café and with convenient canal access, this home offers the best of Tempe living. Families will appreciate the close proximity to the neighborhood elementary school and easy strolls to two nearby parks, perfect for outdoor activities. Kids will also delight in visiting friendly neighborhood horses, making this a unique and memorable place to make your home. HVAC replaced in 2020. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to enjoy both comfort and community!

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1121 E Jahns Drive Casa Grande, AZ 85122

$549,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,942 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736963

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Completely updated home with a built in pool and spa and 3 car garage! This spacious home has all new flooring, fresh paint and updated kitchen. Vaulted ceilings for a nice open feel. The kitchen features granite counters, gas stove and a beautiful tile backsplash. Gas fireplace. Both front and back yard are tastefully landscaped with mature plants and turf grass for easy maintenance. Cool off in the beautiful pebble tec pool with water features and a built in spa.

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25226 N 131st Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$549,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,254 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738818

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**Incentives available.** Welcome to The Views at Rancho Cabrillo! This is a new build home by Scott Communities. This one is the 4412 plan with 3 bedrooms plus den and 2.5 bathrooms. Includes gourmet kitchen featuring double ovens, microwave drawer, and gas cooktop. Beautiful white shaker cabinets and white quartz countertops. Great room layout with an eat-in kitchen. Large covered patio. Come out and see this home and beautiful north Peoria community!

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2830 S Arroyo Court Chandler, AZ 85286

$549,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,833 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740804

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

PRICED TO SELL! Beautifully upgraded Clemente Ranch single-level home with bright and open floor plan. Large corner lot home located in a quiet cul-de-sac with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. No carpet! Hardwood floor in rooms! Brand new Quartz counter in kitchen and bathrooms. Newly finished cabinets. Updated lighting. Open spacious kitchen with separate formal and family room. Spacious backyard has an RV gate, extended driveway, covered patio, flagstone, and pebble tec pool, and ample space for your garden and perfect for entertaining. It's close to Intel, Chandler Mall, Wells Fargo, freeways, Ocotillo Village, etc. Perfect family-friendly neighborhood for your client! Walking distance from 2 children's parks: Chuparusa and Dobson Park!

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8728 E Pampa Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$549,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,105 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749366

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your stunning home in East Mesa, perfectly situated in a prime location on a corner lot with convenient access to freeways, top-notch restaurants, excellent Gilbert schools, and a variety of shopping options. This home has a just be given a fresh coat of interior paint and new carpet. The Primary Bathroom has been completely remodeled from top to bottom and is absolutely gorgeous with walk in shower! This home has a great floor plan with large open kitchen, stainless steel appliances, and massive living/dining room. There is also a surveillance system with a monitor that conveys.

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1904 S Dexter -- Mesa, AZ 85209

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,233 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752553

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

NEW ROOF SEPT 2024! Amazing floor plan with great flow, 3 huge bedrooms plus over-sized den can easily convert and 2 full baths. Immense primary suite and all secondary bedrooms and den are much larger than the norm. No carpet in the home. Washer/Dryer &Refrigerator convey. Storage galore, neutral interior walls, and large lot with producing Citrus trees. Access to the Community Pool and Tennis Courts is exclusive to Sierra Ranch II residents. Home has been lightly updated and is priced to reflect. New Exterior Paint 2021, Patio Resealed 2021, Carrier R410a Refrigerant HVAC regularly maintained, Newer Water Heater and Soft Water System. Well Maintained Home in a highly desirable community with easy access to the 202 and US 60. Great schools and plenty of shopping just around the corner.

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2517 E Highland Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,872 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756519

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

No HOA Neighborhood. Convenient Mesa Location. This home has been Updated/Upgraded. New ROOF. POOL! New Carpet in the bedrooms. Home Features 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms & a Den! Kitchen and bathrooms have been updated. Main Bath has a door leading out to the backyard. The large Eat In Kitchen has Granite Counter Tops and plenty of cabinets. Family Room right off the kitchen which leads out to the covered patio and POOL. Formal Living room. Separate Laundry Room. Backyard has an RV gate and pad to park toys. Two car garage. Seller is offering $5000 in concessions. Walking Distance to schools. Close to the 202, 60 and 101. Close to Sky Harbor, ASU, Golf, Hiking, Tempe Marketplace, Mesa Riverview, dining, shopping, Cubs spring training. Must See Today.

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2171 S Portland Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85295

$549,000

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,146 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761929

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your dream home with the ideal combination of space, convenience, and community! This stunning single-story gem, perfectly situated on a corner lot, offers both privacy and prime location. With quick highway access, your daily commute or weekend adventures are a breeze. You'll love being just steps away from a beautiful park and the refreshing community pool—ideal for family gatherings or a peaceful escape. Featuring 5 generously sized bedrooms, there's room for everyone to spread out and enjoy. Plus, the roof is less than a year old, providing long-term peace of mind. Located in a highly desirable neighborhood, this home has everything you're looking for. Make it yours today! 🏡✨

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334 W Aspen Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85233

$549,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,817 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762031

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Embrace the full experience of the Southwest with this gorgeous custom home in Gilbert. Located on a convenient cul-de-sac, it is within walking distance of the trendy downtown Gilbert area. You'll love being in this non-HOA neighborhood. The Spanish Mediterranean style begins in the front yard with the adobe half walls, and the curved tile path leads to the charming blue door. The foyer is flooded with natural light from the skylight above, and the first view is out the tall glass windows to the pool beyond. Colorful Saltillo and blue tiles are throughout the entire home, with the exception of two carpeted bedrooms. Vaulted ceilings, tall windows and arches add loads of character to this house. A window seat is in the Great Room, and is flanked by built in lighted

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5333 N Las Casitas Place Phoenix, AZ 85016

$549,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,644 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769783

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Charming remodel with timeless appeal! You will fall in love with this 2 bed, 2 bath, 2 car garage townhouse in the perfect neighborhood! The standout kitchen features white soft-close cabinets, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances, while a striking red barn door hides the walk-in pantry. The adjacent formal dining room opens to a low-maintenance backyard with a covered patio. The primary bedroom offers an oversized closet and a spacious bath with tub/shower. Throughout the home, recessed lighting and crown molding add sophistication. The epoxy-coated garage features a full workbench & storage closet. An updated HVAC system with a split unit in the main living area ensures comfort year-round. This home is minutes from dining, shopping, outdoor activities and freeway access!

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1530 E Roosevelt Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,580 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777565

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Exceptional Remodel in the heart of Historic Garfield, blending modern finishes with timeless charm and SOLAR OWNED system included. This beautifully reimagined home offers a spacious master suite with French doors leading to the private backyard, an ensuite bathroom with dual vanities, a large walk-in closet, and premium finishes throughout. NEW Trane high quality HVAC system(2022), new water softener and hot tub. The gourmet kitchen features quartz countertops, custom cabinetry, a tile backsplash, and high-end appliances. Throughout the home, you'll find 5-panel doors, adding to its refined style. For garden lovers, this property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat with over 10 varieties of fruits and edibles, creating a unique outdoor oasis. The backyard offers complete privacy, a fire pit, night landscape lighting, and one of the best hammock spots in Garfield! Additionally, the home boasts a private spa, owned solar system, and desirable north-south exposure. Don't miss this rare gem in the vibrant Downtown Phoenix area!

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2440 E Fairmount Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

$549,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,054 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768328

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this unique home with tons of charm and character in the highly desirable area of Earl Heights. This urban oasis provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy lush vegetation, Koi Pond, custom rockwork and NO HOA. The large 450 sq. ft. studio space can be utilized for a workshop, office or easily converted into an income-generating guest house. Inside awaits an open concept kitchen, living and dining area. The original cement floor adds interest. The kitchen contains modern amenities that will make cooking and entertaining a joy. The large primary bedroom and en suite include a separate large, jetted tub, shower and large walk-in closet. French doors lead out to the serene backyard. Darling screened in front patio adds additional living space to the home. There is plenty of parking and storage. Come and view this gem of a property. It will not last long.

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