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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9033 E Ivyglen Circle Mesa, AZ 85207

$559,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,379 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776519

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Nestled within the exclusive Mountain Bridge community, this immaculate Villa boasts mountain views and a rare private driveway. The beautifully landscaped outdoors features a covered patio and pergola plus roller shades creating an ideal setting to unwind any time of day and take in breathtaking desert sunsets in the evenings. Low-maintenance desert landscaping, fruit trees, and charming pavered side-yard path, this home seamlessly blends elegance with the beauty of nature. Custom iron screen doors, front and back bring cool breezes and fresh air into a refined interior, where soft, neutral tones, upgraded cabinetry, and a gourmet kitchen with a gas stove and double ovens await. Tile floors flow throughout, complemented by elegant wood shutters and crown molding in the Owner's Suite. The garage offers practical upgrades, including a utility sink, cabinetry, and added insulation in ceiling. Additional insulation added in attic throughout home. This home offers both luxury and comfort, creating a peaceful retreat in the heart of Mountain Bridgeperfect for year-round living or as a lock-and-leave escape. Easy access to hiking, biking, kayaking, tubing and more. Easy drive to Tempe Marketplace, Old Scottsdale, and Scottsdale proper for fun, food, fashion and more! This is your opportunity to enjoy the resort-style living in the gated community of Mountain Bridge.

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3834 E Cavalry Court Gilbert, AZ 85297

$559,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,160 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769305

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

UPDATED TO FIVE BEDROOMS AND THREE BATHROOMS, GREAT POWER RANCH COMMUNITY, HOME SITS ON A PRIVATE CUL DE SAC, FIRST FLOOR HAS A BEDROOM, FULL BATHROOM, FAMILY ROOM AND SPACIOUS KITCHEN WITH ALL APPLIANCES AND CENTER ISLAND, MASTER SUITE HAS A PRIVATE BATH WITH SEPARATE TUB/SHOWER, DUAL SINKS, AND A WALKIN CLOSET, BACKYARD HAS COVERED PATIO AND A LARGE GRASSY AREA, GARAGE AND LAUNDRY ROOM HAVE CABINETS, COMMUNITY POOLS, CLUBHOUSE, POND AMD MANY PARKS AND WALKING PATHS, TWO NEW A/Cs IN 2021 AND A NEWER WATER HEATER, NICELY LANDSCAPED FRONT YARD AND PRIVACY IN BACKYARD,

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15147 W Double Tree Way Surprise, AZ 85374

$559,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780561

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxurious expanded Coronado with Magnificent Kitchen and Dining Room. 3 CAR GARAGE!! Lavish Upgraded Baths. Large Front Courtyard. Lots of Privacy at SE Back with Spacious Covered Patio and Decorative Knee Walls. Kitchen with Custom Cabinets, Granite, SS Appliances, Gas Range, Island, Pantry, Bar, Skylight. 20'' tile on the diagonal flow T/O most of the home. Wonderful Primary Suite with wood floors, sitting area with a bay window. Luxurious bathrooms feature custom vanities & updated showers. Bedrooms, kitchen, office have window shutters. Beautiful Expensive Custom Draperies and Cornice Boards in Living, Dining Areas. Create a New Chapter in Your Life in this Great Home on a Great Lot in a Great Location!

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2575 N Tamarisk Street Chandler, AZ 85224

$559,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,922 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783649

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to 2575 N Tamarisk—a charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single level home designed for both comfort and convenience! This home has been lovingly owned by one family! This property features two spacious living rooms; one with a wood-burning fireplace, perfect for entertaining or relaxing with family. The kitchen features granite countertops, a convenient breakfast bar, and plenty of cabinet space for all your storage needs. The primary bedroom is a true retreat with direct access to the backyard, offering a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Step outside to find a sparkling pool, covered patio, and a low-maintenance backyard, perfect for enjoying Arizona's sunny weather year-round. Don't miss this opportunity for a home that combines style, space, and outdoor living! Located with easy access to the 101 and US-60 freeways, Mesa Community College, shopping centers, and beautiful parks.

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1620 W Carol Avenue Mesa, AZ 85202

$559,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,051 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785676

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A must see home in the heart of Mesa. Step inside this beautifully remodeled home with all new flooring, brand new kitchen cabinets/countertop +appliances, and entertainment area (complete with a stunning fireplace). Bedrooms and bathrooms are fully redone with new vanities, and a gorgeous walk in shower+free standing tub in the primary bathroom. Two of the bedrooms boast en suite bathrooms! New turf in the front and back gives this home a beautiful finish!

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22420 N 20th Place Phoenix, AZ 85024

$559,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,557 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6778503

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning, remodeled 3-bedroom + loft, 2.5-bathroom home in the highly sought-after area of North Phoenix, within walking distance to award-winning PV schools! This move-in-ready home showcases pride of ownership with recent upgrades and thoughtful design throughout. The chef's kitchen features white cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and an undermount sink, perfect for cooking and entertaining. Inside, enjoy a spacious floor plan with vaulted ceilings, new waterproof vinyl flooring, fresh interior paint, and upgraded baseboards. The loft has been enhanced with custom built-ins, providing a versatile space for an office, playroom, or relaxation area. Other recent updates include new ceiling fans, blinds, and an updated primary shower for a modern touch. Storage is plentiful with added space in the garage. The resort-style backyard is perfect for entertaining, featuring a sparkling pool, pavered areas, synthetic grass, and an irrigation system, offering low maintenance and year-round enjoyment. With easy access to freeways, shopping, and local amenities, this home combines comfort, convenience, and style in an unbeatable location. Don't miss out on this incredible North Phoenix gem!

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11967 W Vernon Avenue Avondale, AZ 85392

$559,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,979 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781455

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS 5 bedroom, 2.75 bath with a separate den/office nestled in a quiet neighborhood conveniently located close to I-10, shopping, and the 101! A soaring ceiling, open floor plan, and an inviting color palette greet you as you step inside to the combination dining/living room. The spacious kitchen is perfect for entertaining and features granite countertops, an island, new stainless-steel appliances, farmhouse sink, and plenty of counter space. The space opens to a family room for easy conversation and gatherings. You will also find a bedroom, a full bathroom, and a separate den/office on the main level. The kid friendly, low maintenance backyard is a sanctuary for bird lovers. With its view of the Estrella Mountains, this yard provides a great venue for those gatherings. The home borders an open green space allowing for peaceful evenings on the back patio. With its sparkling pebble tech pool, turf, landscape, storage shed, pergola and concrete side yards, this beauty won't last long! Updates/new in 2023 - paint interior and exterior, carpet, plantation shutters, French doors leading to outside patio, additional insulation in attic, mini split heat pump in garage, garage door opener, ducts cleaned, and pool pump!!

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10260 E White Feather Lane Unit 2039 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$559,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,381 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786921

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Resort Style Living! Stunning, Pristine & Move in Ready! Highly upgraded condo featuring Bosch appliances, quartz countertops, white shaker cabinets & plank tile wood flooring! Beautiful floor to ceiling custom stack stone fireplace w/ distressed wood mantle! Designer shower surrounds! Custom Shiplap wall in dining area! Gourmet Kitchen w/ gas cooking and new tile herringbone backsplash & under cabinet lighting! Like new & lightly lived in! Enjoy covered Patio w/ Mountain, City & Natural Desert Views. Prestigious Ridge at Troon North Community features a Heated Pool & SPA & Fitness Center! Minutes to more world class golf, shopping & entertainment! Conveniently located close to hiking & biking trails. Walking distance to Troon North Golf Club. Welcome Home!

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9969 W Via Del Sol -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$559,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,898 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736412

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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20629 N Danielle Avenue Maricopa, AZ 85138

$559,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,595 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6787610

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! This beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath residence in Homestead North is the one for you! Charming curb appeal, a no-fuss front yard, a 2 car garage w/built-in cabinets, and an electric RV gate are just the beginning. Discover a spacious great room w/high ceilings, elegant wood-look flooring, and warm palette throughout. Hone your cooking skills in this gorgeous kitchen, comprised of wood cabinetry w/crown molding, a pantry, granite counters, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and an island complete w/a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom boasts a walk-in closet and a private ensuite w/dual sinks & designer touches. Double doors open up to a cozy den, ideal for an office! New 16 seer heat pump perfectly sized for your energy efficient warmth and cooling. Upgrades galore!! Lastly, the resort-like backyard includes a covered patio, extended seating area, a lovely gazebo w/a built-in BBQ, artificial turf, and a separate guest house w/an additional garage space! Fully paved RV parking with electric gate. What are you waiting for? Act NOW!

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13326 W Montansoro Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$559,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,760 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6753497

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SPECTACULAR N/S home on a PREMIUM lot with a NATURAL DESERT/MOUNTAIN SETTING - walking distance to the MITA CLUB! This GORGEOUS like new - open concept - 2022 built Vibrant shows like a MODEL & furniture can be purchased on a separate Bill of Sale making it the perfect winter retreat or full-time home! PAVER driveway/walkway & STONE ACCENTS greet you as you enter this PRISTINE home! STUNNING tile flooring in all the right areas & upgraded carpet in the bedrooms. The BEAUTIFUL kitchen features a large breakfast island, pendant lighting, roll-outs/trash-recycle & soft close drawers, LED under cabinet lighting, GRANITE slab, large pantry, gas stove, SS appliances & dining area. Great room w/2 large windows overlook the natural desert. Den/office has a BUILT-IN cabinet for additional storage. Both baths have CUSTOM tile showers w/decorative listelles - framed mirrors in the spacious owner's suite w/dual sinks & large walk-in closet. Enjoy your FENCED backyard DESERT OASIS - EXTENDED COVERED paver patio, synthetic grass, lighting & natural stone fountain. What an AMAZING opportunity to make this your HOME!! Upgrades: split-tilt plantation shutters, drapery panels, two tone paint t/o, laundry sink w/upper & lower cabinets w/stone c-tops, larger baseboards t/o, lighting, ceiling fans, deeper garage for toys/storage, water softener, reverse osmosis & trash enclosure on side of home.

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6560 N Loma Court Casa Grande, AZ 85194

$559,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,032 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785782

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful brand new 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Chaparral Estates! 2,032 sq. ft. on approximately half an acre, this property includes a spacious 3-car garage and is set in a quiet cul-de-sac with stunning mountain views. Kitchen: Quartz countertops, large entertainment island, white cabinetry with nickel hardware, and stainless steel appliances. Tile plank flooring runs thru high traffic areas & carpeted bedrooms. Primary Suite: Features a ceiling fan, double vanity, and a relaxing garden tub. Hall Bath: Includes double sinks for added convenience. Exterior painted with stylish gray tones with an all-tile roof for durability. A low HOA allows flexibility for storing boats, RVs & Toys, ready for immediate occupancy.

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