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

4936 E Coronado Road Phoenix, AZ 85008

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,821 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784981

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2- bathroom home! This property boasts a spacious front and backyard, complete with citrus trees and green plants, a 2-car garage, an RV gate, and a covered patio for outdoor enjoyment. Inside, you'll find tile flooring throughout, with a family room featuring laminate flooring perfect for entertaining guest. The freshly painted interior complements the kitchen's cream-colored cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and an island ideal for enjoying meals. Both bathrooms have been fully remodeled with modern tile backsplashes, glass doors, and sleek black faucets and shower heads, Conveniently located near freeway access, shopping centers, the Phoenix Zoo, and Papago Park, this home offers both comfort and accessibility.

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22870 W Sunset Lane Congress, AZ 85332

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,933 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6771222

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't let the lot size fool you! This easy to manage horse property is strategically set up to accommodate horses, LQs and RVs. Step into the warmth of this enchanting home where every room whispers tales of tradition and heritage. The home is the perfect size for a full time retreat or a winter get away. With wooden beams and handcrafted accents, this home is unlike any other. Enjoy picture perfect sunsets as you unwind in the front courtyard. Out front is a red barn with water and electric offering endless possibilities for horse enthusiasts or those seeking additional storage. The property does have income potential and is turn key. It is fully fenced with an electric gate and all pens have automatic waterers. A portion of the turnouts can be removed and enlarged into a riding arena or

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5341 E Sheena Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,836 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782334

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming Corner Lot with Endless Potential - Needs TLC and Finishing Touches! This oversized corner lot ranch-style home is full of charm and potential! No HOA, RV parking, and North/South exposure! Featuring 3 beds, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage, it offers a unique layout with a spacious family room, arched accents, a cozy wood-burning fireplace, and a mix of carpet and tile flooring. The master bedroom includes a full bath, while the kitchen is fully equipped with an electric range/oven, dishwasher, and refrigerator. The backyard is an oasis with a sparkling pool, covered patio, and mature fruit trees. Though partially remodeled, this home requires some repairs and updates, making it an ideal opportunity to add value and personal touches.

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4815 N 74th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85251

New

$550,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,348 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788496

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Great central location in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale's waterfront. Just a five minute walk to Fashion Square, restaurants, entertainment and grocery shopping. Low hoa fees at $73 a month. The home has been meticulously maintained & offers custom white shaker cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, Anderson dual pane windows, Boss Screens & Awnings, 20 inch tile, white beveled subway tile , & living room wall of glass overlooking the spectacularly landscaped backyard. Built in BBQ & thoughtfully placed lighting to showcase the landscape at night. Large laundry room finished with the same quality of the home, built in shaker cabinets, sink, & door to the backyard. AC replaced in 2024. Large corner lot offers a side gate. Foam roof installed by Inca roofing in 2016 under warranty until 2/27/2025 Living room door is Milguard Double Pane Tempered glass 17 ft door 2022 installed new York 16 seer 3 ton AC as well as complete cleaning of attic, new insulation, new air ducts, and new air registers inside of home.Refrigerator 2022 Garbage disposal replaced in 2023 Interior of home plumbing replaced with copper in 2016. Water system R/O new in 2023 with New RO filters October 2024 Freezer in the utility room 2022 Washer and dryer that allow extra wash/water and rinse top of the line 2023. Inside carport, for privacy / shade awning Large plantation shutters Bathrooms have skylights Installed water regulator to regulate water pressure Security and landscape lighting around exterior Driveway has motion detector automatic lights for when arriving home at night Anderson double pane windows,Boss security screens awnings with large white shutters inside to protect with heat, security and noise.Low maintenance landscape twice a year blowing and maintenanceThe front and back yard have native plants and cacti designed for your enjoyment. Five minutes to walk from property to fashion square, waterfront Restaurants and grocery stores close byIdeal central location with low HOA fee Honor Health Hospital very close Neighborhood is 55 and older Community center offers a beautiful kitchen, pool, barbecue, and shower. The neighborhood offers many functions for holidays and throughout the year held at the main pool. Honor Health hospital is one mile.

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8544 E Ocaso Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

New

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,253 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787548

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing opportunity to own a beautiful family home, with a pool and 3-car garage for only $244/sqft! As you pull up to your new home, you'll be invited by the large saguaro cactus in the front yard, large driveway and 3-car garage, enough parking for everyone! Enter into the front door and notice how open the formal living room, den, family room and kitchen are, perfect for all your entertaining needs. Soaring ceilings will guide you to the backyard door where you'll picture your family enjoying years of making memories in and around your sparkling pool and long covered patio. The master bedroom is spacious, with private French door access to your backyard. This home is priced right and will not last long! Available for a quick close, possibly in time to enjoy the holidays!

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2603 S Playa -- Mesa, AZ 85202

$550,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,823 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786635

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

5 BR 2.5 BA single level home in prestigious Laguna Shores of Dobson Ranch. What a find at just under $195/sq ft. The possibilities are endless for a family or investor. From the moment you walk in, you will feel at home w/spacious rooms, a flexible floorplan, & the most private tranquil back yard. Enter thru the double door entry w/formal LR on the Lt & formal DR to the Rt. Down the hall is a half BA, 3 lg secondary BR's, a hall BA, & the primary BR. Primary BA has dual sinks & upgraded tile shower. KIT has been updated with SS appliances & flows into the FR w/wood burning FRPL, lg Bonus Rm & 5th BR (perfect for BR, office, or playroom). French doors lead to the backyard. This home has so many possibilities for any buyer's lifestyle. It is full of charm & warmth w/Saltillo tile floors & baths w/Capelo sinks from Guanajuato. Private backyard w/lush landscaping is ideal for entertaining friends & family. Large grass area w/patios, RV gate, newer A/C's, & roof resealed in 2024. Ample storage, walk-in KIT pantry, & inside laundry w/built-in cabinets. The home is a true bargain, located on one of the most desirable streets in Dobson Ranch. Lake access down the street for your boating adventures. Saratoga Park & Laguna Park around the corner. Dobson Ranch amenities include community pools, clubhouses, pickle ball, planned family activities, 8 lakes, public golf course & library, and easy access to #60 & #101 freeways. This home won't last!

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10709 E Knowles Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$550,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,161 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787305

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully updated home, offering luxury and comfort at every turn. The spacious kitchen boasts sleek stainless steel appliances and elegant slab granite countertops, making it perfect for both cooking and entertaining. The expansive master suite provides a peaceful retreat with plenty of room to relax. Step outside to your private oasis featuring a sparkling pool. With a 3-car garage, there's ample space for vehicles, storage, or a workshop. This home combines style, space, and functionality—don't miss the chance to make it yours!

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13202 W Beechwood Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,525 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693377

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful, fully remodeled brick front home on a corner lot in the 55+ community, Sun City West. Gorgeous new flooring throughout this thought out, open floor plan. The kitchen has new white cabinets with a large island for entertaining. The living area has a wet bar with a built-in refrigerator. All 3 BRs have walk-in closets and large enough for King beds with space to spare. The entry has a privacy gate to keep out solicitors and it opens to an impressively large patio. The back yard has another large patio with flourishing citrus trees. There are many extras throughout including plantation shutters, weather shield roller shades for when you travel, extra long garage, plush landscaping, and more. The furnishings are included in so all you have to do is pack your bags and move in!

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27524 N Montana Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$550,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,730 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751350

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Beautiful turnkey townhome in the gated community of Tonto Verde. Located in a quiet cul-de-sac, backing to the beautiful driving range and a short walk to the clubhouse and its amenities. Great room style living with fireplace and walls of windows taking in the backyard views and gorgeous sunsets. Split floor plan with 2 large bedrooms and 2 full baths. Primary bedroom with access to the spacious patio and primary bath with dual vanities, tub, walk in shower and walk in closet. Kitchen with center island and cooktop, breakfast counter and dining that is open to the lush landscaping with floor to ceiling windows. New Interior paint 2024, New roof in 2022, New HVAC in 2020, New Hot water heater in 2022 and New Washer/Dryer in 2020. Oversized 2.5 car garage with golf cart access

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11991 N 69th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85345

$550,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,323 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781152

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover a stunning blend of modern elegance and Arizona charm in this fully remodeled 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home, spanning 2,323 square feet. Every detail of this renovation has been carefully curated for style, comfort, and functionality, creating a warm yet sophisticated atmosphere. The heart of the home unfolds seamlessly as the living room transitions into a private backyard sanctuary through beautiful bifold doors. These doors bring the outdoors in, offering panoramic views of Arizona's endless skies and direct access to a sparkling pool—ideal for relaxation or entertaining. This backyard oasis provides ample space for lounging, al fresco dining, and savoring the tranquility of the Arizona desert.

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930 W Mclean Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$550,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,022 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780676

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully appointed home, boasting 3 spacious bedrooms (Note: 2 are suites) and 3 bathrooms, with over 2,022 sq. ft. of living space. Perfectly located in the center of town, this home offers easy access to everything Wickenburg has to offer - whether you're looking for a vacation getaway or a year-round residence, this property is ideal. Step into the heart of the home—the kitchen—with custom cabinetry that will truly take your breath away. The open and inviting great room features stunning wood floors and solid custom doors throughout. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed for both beauty and function. Outside, you'll appreciate the convenient pickup-height garage door and the RV gate with ample space for your bus or recreational vehicles. The backyard offers plenty of room for outdoor activities and is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy Arizona's incredible weather. This home is truly a must-see. It combines the comfort, space, and convenience you've been looking for. Don't waithomes like this go fast!

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14916 W Piccadilly Road Goodyear, AZ 85395

$550,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,962 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6622880

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

$60,000 BELOW RECENT COMP. see MLS#6608783 Welcome to luxury living of Goodyear, nestled within the prestigious guard-gated community of PebbleCreek! As you enter, you're greeted with soaring ceilings in the grand foyer. The Cambria plan revolves around a spacious great room with vaulted ceilings, bar area, chef's kitchen with granite counters, large breakfast area flowing seamlessly to the outdoors. The primary suite is accompanied by a relaxing sitting room, walk-in shower, make-up with a dual sink vanity. This home is ready for your touch! Lastly, step out back to a covered patio and a professionally landscaped low maintenance backyard. The community offers golfing, restaurants, social clubs, fitness center, indoor/outdoor pools, tennis, trails and so much more!

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