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

3730 W Memorial Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$550,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,168 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754352

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

With understated elegance & the perfect 5 bdrm family home, this property is located in a very friendly neighborhood of the highly sought after Anthem community. This lovely abode is located within walking dist.to a very well maintained park & close to numerous shopping centers, boutiques, delicious dining along with all the wonderful amenities Anthem has to offer: workout facilities, tennis, pickleball, swimming, waterpark, walking paths and community parks. It boasts a very popular and attractive floor plan with open vaulted ceilings with 2 bdrms downstairs and 3 bdrms upstairs. The back yard is extremely private, relaxing, has a large patio area, a privacy wall and a very cozy fire pit with bench seating. Easy to maintain landscaping. Come & build your cherished family memories here!

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24098 N Wheat Road Florence, AZ 85132

$550,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,407 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755862

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning residence features a rare, massive RV garage and RV gate! Step into the backyard oasis where a sparkling pebble-tec pool awaits, framed by a beautiful travertine deck and a spacious covered patio—ideal for relaxing and entertaining. Inside, the modern home boasts sleek stainless steel appliances, island with elegant granite countertops, and a convenient walk-in pantry. Enjoy the vibrant community amenities including a playground, basketball court, and green spaces—perfect for fun weekends! Hurry before this opportunity is gone!

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4443 E Camino De Cafe -- Hereford, AZ 85615

$550,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,912 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756980

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 bath home on .88 acres, surrounded by mountain and valley views. Home amenities include granite throughout, tile flooring throughout living spaces and in office, carpet in bedrooms. Spacious master bedroom, master bath includes soaking tub and spacious walk-in shower with rain glass. Large walk-in closet through bathroom. Kitchen includes all appliances. Each room installed with cable/internet, fiber throughout. Water softener attachment installed, gas grill attachment installed for future outdoor kitchen, and electrical outlet for jacuzzi spa. Ground mounted solar and garden shed included. Walled back yard with covered porch.

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2236 W Aston Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85144

$550,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,560 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758921

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful well appointed home. This spacious 4 bedroom + den and 2.5 baths sit on a huge lot for outdoor entertaining. The huge kitchen has a massive island and a huge stainless built-in freezer fridge. The quartz countertops and white cabinets gives a sense of elegance which overlooks the huge great room. Plantation shutters are throughout the entire house with ceiling fans in every room. The garage is an over height 3 car tandem arrangement for that extra workshop area. There is an RV gate that leads to the backyard with sails covering the raised vegetable and flower beds. The backyard also has been pre-wired for a spa. Rainwater capture system located on the northeast corner of house and plastic storage box on west side of house does not convey with sale.

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300 N Gila Springs Boulevard Unit 181 Chandler, AZ 85226

$550,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,937 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761447

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Enjoy Luxury living in this gated community. Beautiful contemporary condo that has never been lived in full time and it shows! Main level consists of a tandem garage, laundry, kitchen, dining room, family room, half bath and large patio. Second level has three nice sized bedrooms, full bath and loft area. Top floor is for the entire primary suite. Enjoy a large kitchen with stainless appliances, pantry and bar seating. The formal dining room and family room are right off the patio making it great for entertaining guests. The guest rooms on the second level are split with a bathroom in between and a loft area can be used for fitness equipment, office or quiet reading space. The primary level is a dream for condo living. The bedroom has a patio large enough for chairs and a table so you can enjoy sunrises and sunsets. Lots of storage for linens and towels that leads you to the ensuite with dual sinks, private toilet room and a massive walk in closet! This gated community has a pool, spa, basketball hoop, fenced in grass area with picnic table and ample open parking. This particular unit is on the end making you only share one wall with no one below or above you. The owners spared no expense with this unit when it came to upgrades! They literally upgraded every single option you could do! Sit on the all turf patio with cute market lights and enjoy a glass of wine while you marvel in the architecture of this community. Furniture available of separate bill of sale.

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21019 N Totem Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$550,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,322 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782057

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is the perfect retirement haven you've been looking for! Situated on a HUGE lot in a cul-de-sac, this beautiful home offers 3 beds, 3 baths, a 2-car garage, & a desert landscape. Home exudes refined style with tons of natural light, recessed lighting, neutral paint, and wood-look TILE flooring t/out. You'll surely love the perfectly flowing living & dining room! The kitchen boasts black SS appliances, tile counters, ample cabinetry, a breakfast bar, & a cozy nook. But the true highlight is the two identical split main bedrooms, each with a walk-in closet, full bathroom, and sliding doors to separate patios. Want MORE? The attached CASITA provides so much possibilities! It includes the 3rd bedroom, a bathroom, and a spacious living/dining/den space - or transform it into a hobby room. Laundry room with storage closets for added convenience. Discover the expansive backyard with fruit trees and an open patio to relax while enjoying BBQ! Located in the 55+ Sun City West, providing a resort-style lifestyle with four recreation centers featuring pools, fitness facilities, and craft studios, plus seven golf courses, including private & public options. Residents also enjoy a variety of clubs, tennis & pickleball courts, and a year-round social calendar of events & performances, all set amid scenic walking & biking trails. What a RARE find! Make this gem yours! New roof 2019, New primary A/C 2022 2nd A/C 2016, New Redwood Gate 2022, New exterior paint 2023, New back patio cover 2023, New pavers 2023, New landscape trees 2022, New Sun screen throughout 2021, New valves & Timer at irrigation 2022, New garage door opener and key pad 2022, New landscape granite 2024, New exterior light fixtures 2022, New Gutters front and Back 2024, New fans and switch 2021, New 5 inch recessed lights 2021, Removed popcorn ceiling 2021, Fresh paint throughout 2024, New porcelain tile and base throughout, Epoxy paint in garage 2021, New storage cabinet in Laundry rm 2023, 3 NEW Kholer toilets 2021, New sinks 2021, New water valves 2021, New Hunter Douglas window coverings 2021, New bathroom vanity 2&3, Fan in garage, Dimmer switches, Tile wains coat at kitchen & bath

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27280 S State Route 89 Highway Congress, AZ 85332

$550,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,735 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763756

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a versatile property with two parcels, totaling 1.13 acres. This unique offering features a vintage 2,735 sq ft home, once a charming restaurant. Inside, you'll find new flooring, beautiful wood-beamed ceilings, vintage posts, corbels, and period-style light fixtures, adding character to every corner. The property boasts two separate living quarters, and a guest studio making it perfect for multi-family living or rental opportunities. In addition, there's a spacious 2,100 sq ft detached metal building, ideal for vehicles, equipment, or storage. With a 30x70 ft garage door for easy access, this building offers endless possibilities. The property benefits from prime frontage on Hwy 89 and offers ample parking, making it perfect for a business venture or investment. While the main building has vintage charm and may need some TLC, it's brimming with potential. Whether you're looking for a rental income opportunity or a unique home, this property is full of possibilities!

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20034 N 273rd Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$550,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,478 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765303

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ENDEAVOR MODEL WITH A SPOOL ON A LARGE CORNER LOT! 2,478 sq. ft. of living space. 3 Bedroom, Flex Room, & 2.5 bath. Main living areas feature wood floors! Great Room fireplace, floor outlet, & SS speakers. Kitchen w\ Quartz counters, soft close drawers & cabinets, glide-out shelves, center island, large walk-in pantry, & R.O. system. Owners' Suite w\door to patio, power blinds, low threshold tiled shower w\glass door & seat, dual sinks, toilet room & large walk-in closet. 2 Guest bedrooms are adjoined by a Jack & Jill bathroom, w/a tiled shower & seat, perfect for guests! Hallway bath w/pedestal sink. Laundry room with sink. 4 ft Extended Garage with water softener & overhead storage. Private walled backyard w\ext Kool Deck & paver patio, spool w\water feature, roller shades & SS speaker

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2130 Remington Drive Sierra Vista, AZ 85635

$550,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,247 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764103

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 4-bed, 2-bath home! This spacious home features a semi-open floor plan, perfect for entertaining. The home includes large energy efficient windows allowing plenty of natural light throughout. The kitchen is equipped with modern appliances and a center island, perfect for gatherings. The master suite offers a tranquil retreat including an en-suite bathroom featuring a soaking tub, dual vanities, and a walk-in closet. Step outside to your private oasis! Enjoy your own sparkling in-ground pool and spa, perfect for year-round fun. Relax under the covered patio which features two automated shades. The backyard includes low maintenance lush landscaping and lawn all completely irrigated.

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4245 S 247th Drive Buckeye, AZ 85326

$550,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,694 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765716

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning former model home is move in ready with updated flooring and fresh paint throughout. Situated in the serene neighborhood of Rancho Vista. Offering 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, a 3-car garage and backyard oasis perfect for Arizona outdoor living. Step inside and be greeted by the separate formal living and dining area. Continue into the heart of the home, the stunning gourmet kitchen with all new cabinets, boasting expansive granite countertops and backsplash. Enjoy the seamlessly connected kitchen, dining room and family room. Downstairs, you'll also find a large laundry room, a guest bedroom and fully remodeled bathroom. Venture outside through double doors and discover your own private oasis, where meticulously designed landscaping sets the stage for relaxation and entertainment. Enjoy the low-maintenance artificial turf, a 40ft covered patio with mist system, a soothing waterfall, built-in firepit with seating and a relaxing hot tub. Upstairs, a spacious loft with built- ins ads additional entertainment space. You'll also find three secondary bedrooms and remodeled full bath. Retreat to the expansive owner's suite through double doors, where a soaking tub, separate walk-in shower, double sinks, and a large custom walk-in closet await. Welcome Home!

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16222 N 161st Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$550,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,166 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766768

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Cul de sac home, updated from top to bottom, including the heated pool. On top of that, an outdoor kitchen with pizza oven! Backyard paradise with fruit trees, grape vines, hydroponic system and huge covered patio. Sunny kitchen eat-in kitchen is open to family/great room and has beautiful granite counters, island, an added coffee bar, lots of cabinets, counter space and pantry. Large living/dining room with flex space, a guest bedroom, full bath and laundry room round out the lower level. Upstairs, a large primary suite with walk-in closet, dual sinks, separate tub and shower. Two ample bedrooms with Jack and Jill bath. Solar system with low monthly loan payment means low energy costs overall. Close to great shopping, dining, spring training and Loop 303. This home has everything!

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560 S 197th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326

$550,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,369 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767143

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home! This stunning four-bedroom, three-bathroom residence combines rustic charm with modern luxury. With captivating beamed ceilings and breathtaking mountain views, you'll experience tranquility just minutes from major retail areas. The four well-appointed bedrooms provide ample space for family and guests, each with large windows that let in plenty of light The spacious gourmet kitchen features a high-end gas range and elegant tile floors. Cozy evenings await in the living room, where large windows flood the space with natural light. This home offers a paid off solar system and great savings. Step outside to a covered patio perfect for entertaining, complete with a gas fire pit for cozy nights. Golf enthusiasts will love the three mini putting greens.

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