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
11935 E Buckskin Trail
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$8,750,000
7
Beds
7.5
Baths
7,314
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777128
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
25 CAR GARAGE!!! Welcome to this extraordinary 6,114 SQFT luxury estate, perfectly set on 3.261 acres within an exclusive 11-parcel gated community. This custom home showcases stunning design elements throughout, including elegant wood flooring, a chef's kitchen featuring a double island with Alpine/Matterhorn polished granite countertops and matching Wolf and GE appliances. The main house boasts 5 en-suite bedrooms and an office, while the 1,200 sqft casita adds an additional 2 en-suite bedrooms, kitchen and living area for family and guests. The split floor plan ensures privacy, and a temperature-controlled wine cabinet and bar area adds sophistication for entertaining, while a dedicated home theater completes the luxury experience. The property features an attached, temperature-controlled 6,100 sqft RV garage/shop with four 16-foot tall industrial-grade garage doors and a loft, providing abundant space for vehicles, storage, and more. The shop is 85 feet long at it's furthest point, 85 feet wide, and 18 feet in height, large enough to accommodate an indoor pickleball or basketball court. Outdoor living is equally impressive, with a 70 foot bridge from the back patio leading to an 800 sqft pool with a spa. The ramada includes a storage room and bathroom/washroom, creating the perfect space for outdoor entertaining. Additionally, there's plenty of room to add a sport court, offering further recreational options. With breathtaking mountain views to the south and west, this property is the epitome of luxury, comfort, and versatility in a serene desert setting.
6623 N Hillside Drive
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$8,750,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,035
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773469
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Introducing an impeccable brand new modern masterpiece in Paradise Valley. Designed by Tyler Kuenzi and designtank, this stunning home offers outstanding views of the surrounding mountains, creating a tranquil backdrop for every room. The sleek architectural design is complemented by custom millwork throughout, highlighting exceptional craftsmanship in every detail. Seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living, the home features expansive retracting glass walls and roof cutouts that wash every living space with natural light. This very private home offers a perfect setting for entertaining or relaxing. Experience contemporary elegance and incredible design in this one-of-a-kind home which redefines luxury living! The construction of this brand new home will be completed in Spring 2025!
Cave Creek
AZ 85331
$8,500,000
7
Beds
7.5
Baths
3,304
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6722968
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
One of a kind property with potential to create a Retreat on 318 acres in the mountains! A unique opportunity for those with a vision to restore and revitalize. While the Home is currently in need of renovation, it offers immense potential for transformation. Don't miss the chance to unlock the charm of this property. Convenient location near the charming small towns of Cave Creek & Carefree. Once a cherished winter Home with a unique Hacienda design, the Great room, Kitchen, & each of 6 Suites open directly into a central courtyard, providing privacy for all. Embrace the potential to transform into a therapeutic Retreat focused on Healing, Wellness, or Lifestyle. This secluded location offers privacy & a tranquil, inspiring environment. As-Is sale, no repairs made by the Seller.
10134 E Cavedale Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$8,500,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,864
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761870
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Remarkable views from every room of this architecturally stunning new home, but also total privacy. Electric Walls of Glass surround the Great Room to soak in the views and feel the desert breezes. Main house has 3 ensuite bedrooms + an office & wine room. Home is oriented toward mtn peaks & rock formations. Hickory floors & ceilings; Ebony, Bolivian Rosewood, & Walnut cabinets; and custom Walnut doors thru-out. The casita has 2 separate units (a guest suite and a large ensuite flex-bedroom). Everything is a single level. Electric sun shades thru-out the house and blackout shades in main bedrooms. Spacious 4 car garage. Built with exquisite quality by builder who has won numerous awards including National Home of the Year for a prior home, also in Estancia. Taliesin trained architects.
9316 E Aw Tillinghast Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$8,500,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
5,700
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6583092
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NOW STAKED & FLAGGED! An incredible 5 acre homesite opportunity to build a 5,700 SF residence with 3 beds, 3 baths & elevated to capture breathtaking views. You may further reimagine this home to perfection; customize it for your lifestyle. This is a very private location with views overlooking golf courses, serene mountain ranges, & stunning Desert Mountain lights that bring enchanting beauty to the environment both day & night. The Ranch & Trails provide hiking & a preserve that borders the 3 million acre Tonto National Forest. Convenient, DUAL access is available through Carefree Ranch, cutting access time in half. For an exclusive 10 acre homesite, see MLS 6583078, the adjacent 5 acre lot to the East. A membership is not included with this offering. Contact Desert Mountain Membership
4723 E Desert Park Place
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$8,499,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
7,351
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6728915
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled on just under an acre of meticulously landscaped grounds, this luxurious single-level home completed in late 2023, boasts five suites and five and a half bathrooms. The gourmet chef's kitchen is equipped with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, two Cove dishwashers, quartz countertops, and seamlessly integrates to the spacious great room with glass doors that can be pulled back for a seamless indoor outdoor living flow. Throughout the home, European Oak flooring and premier finishes create an atmosphere of elegance. The primary suite is a true retreat within the home, located in its own private wing. The primary bathroom offers separate his and hers areas with two vanities, two walk-in closets, and two private toilet rooms, one with a bidet, ensuring utmost comfort and privacy... On the other end of this private wing is an expansive office, keeping work and rest in perfect proximity. Step outside to discover a breathtaking backyard oasis complete with a pool, spa, BBQ area, fire pit, fireplace, mini-golf course, and thoughtful amenities like built-in misters and heatersall framed by stunning mountain views. Nestled in an exclusive neighborhood with top-rated schools and convenient access to upscale dining and shopping, this residence offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and tranquility.
28110 N 96th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$8,400,000
4
Beds
5.5
Baths
7,147
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6710822
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Award-winning architect C.P. Drewett designed this elegantly crafted modern home in north Scottsdale's Estancia Golf Community. With a nod toward Mid-Century Modernism—characterized by its boxy architecture, straight lines and minimalist nature—the home's design takes full advantage of its unique setting. Pocketing doors slide open to allow full immersion with the outdoors, creating a pavilion-like ambience where the indoor/outdoor spaces meld into one another. A stunning palette of materials includes hemlock, bronze, and textured limestone inside and out. Organic in nature and stunning in its simplicity, this light-filled work of modern architecture is a perfect example of how a well-executed design can so effortlessly respond to the true essence of its site. The modern kitchen is designed to inspire any chef with its Wolf convection steam oven, speed oven, induction cooktop, gas cooktop, coffee system and a hidden pantry with appliance garage, wall oven and ice machine. Other features include a split primary suite, two guest suites, an office in the main house, and a detached guest casita with a bedroom suite and sitting area. A 1,322-square-foot luxury car lounge provides the perfect setting to showcase your auto collection while entertaining. Estancia is a luxury residential community centered around golf and located at the base of Pinnacle Peak in north Scottsdale, Arizona. The community offers a private, members-only golf club with an 18-hole championship course designed by Tom Fazio. The clubhouse amenities include dining, a fitness center, tennis, pickleball and basketball courts, and a swimming pool. Residents enjoy views of Scottsdale's landmark Pinnacle Peak and a serene desert setting just minutes from world-class dining, shopping and entertainment.
22803 N Via Ventosa Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$8,375,000
5
Beds
7
Baths
6,800
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6681467
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
CP Drewett of Drewett Works Architecture inside Canyon Heights. North Scottsdale's most prestigious gated, hillside, view community; sides to Silverleaf without Silverleaf architectural guidelines and density. This is the last available hillside lot within the enclave. With nearly 10 acres of panoramic sunset and city light views, this elevated lot offers a rare opportunity to build your dream home. The entrance to the parcel is flat, providing acreage for endless options. A gradual slope ensues, rendering incredible Westward facing views. Sweeping views of Lost Canyon to the South. An elevated view lot of this caliber is a rare find and deserves a first in class Builder behind it; we welcome you to set up a walkthrough with Jeff at True North Builders or CP at Drewett Works.
9989 E Aleka Way Unit 337
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$8,277,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
6,983
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780858
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Recently Completed, this spectacular Lineage built spec home overlooks the 16th green of the prestigious Mirabel golf course and offers beautiful views of Pinnacle Peak & McDowell Mountains. This stunning home features the Lineage open floorplan showcasing retractable walls and windows of glass opening to expansive patios and courtyards that allow for indoor/outdoor Arizona living at its finest. Enjoy entertaining guests in the games room featuring a unique Cantina Wet Bar that opens to the resort style backyard boasting a 2-way fireplace, oversized heated pool & spa, & built-in BBQ. The generously equipped kitchen has top-of-the-line Sub-Zero/Wolf appliances, oversized island, 2 dishwashers, built-in coffee bar & a large walk-in pantry w/custom shelving & additional refrigerator. An elegant glass wine room highlights the formal dining room. The primary bedroom features a fireplace, bar area w/mini refrigerator, luxurious bath w/ separate tub, shower, 2 water closets & a huge customized walk-in closet w/ washer/dryer. There are 3 additional bedroom suites (one easily converted to an office), & a private casita w/ living room, kitchenette, bedroom & bathroom. The spacious laundry has ample storage cabinets & a dog shower. The oversized garages offer 4 car bays, lifts can easily be added to accommodate up to 7 vehicles.
29211 N 53rd Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$8,250,000
6
Beds
5
Baths
8,700
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6609693
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
INCOME PRODUCING PROPERTY! Equestrian Estate has 25+ acres, city water, paved roads, & one of the most desirable locations for horse Training, Boarding or Breeding Facility in the Valley. This Equestrian Estate offers three well-appointed homes, perfect for multi-generational living or rental income potential. The main home, a luxurious retreat, features a sparkling pool, outdoor living space, creating an oasis of relaxation & entertainment. The property also boasts 4 spacious barns, mare motel, 2 covered arenas, outdoor arena & bridle path. Additional equestrian amenities include a round pen, multiple turnouts, hay barn, tractor storage, mister system, multiple tack rooms, ensuring top-notch facilities for your horses. There are 2 manufactured homes, the possibilities are endless.
20908 W Durango Street
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$8,000,000
8
Beds
8
Baths
5,512
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6688287
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
One of a kind commercial vet clinic/breeding facility including two residential homes and 30 acres of prime land in one of the fastest growing cities in the country. The subject property presents an exceptional opportunity for multiple uses. Its location creates an optimal environment for multi family, commercial and many other uses just minutes from ''The Landing'' near I-10 and Verrado Way. This area is primed to be the West Valley's newest entertainment, employment and residential hub of Buckeye. Don't miss this golden opportunity to become one of Buckeye's prime destination spots. Two beautiful 4 bedroom 3 bath slump block identical homes, huge barn with apartment, detached garage, multiple pastures, flood irrigation and 60 covered stalls with turnouts. Opportunity of a life time!!!
33094 N Northstar Circle
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$8,000,000
5
Beds
6.5
Baths
7,460
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773912
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Presenting a stunning new build in Whisper Rock Estates with approved plans , this high-quality contemporary residence boasts 7,460 sqft of luxurious single-story living. A thoughtfully designed floor plan includes 4 bedrooms, a dedicated exercise room, & a versatile flex room, centered around an expansive kitchen & great room. The attached casita adds an extra layer of comfort & privacy. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views of the resort-style backyard, complete with a pool, spa, & water features. The surrounding natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, Winfield Mountain, & distant Chiricahua Mountain vistas create a serene backdrop. Perfect for entertaining, the home features a wet bar with retractable glass walls, a spacious covered patio with a fireplace, & an outdoor more kitchen with a built-in BBQ, blending indoor and outdoor living effortlessly.The primary suite is a private retreat, featuring a tranquil, spa-like bathroom with custom Copenhagen cabinetry, limestone countertops, a marble shower, dual water closets, and a freestanding soaking tub. Guests can enjoy their own 903 sq ft 1-bedroom guest house, complete with a kitchen and living room, offering ultimate privacy and comfort. Premium finishes are showcased throughout, including a Wolf and SubZero appliance package. The 5-car garage and ample parking provide the perfect space for a luxury car collection. This home exemplifies contemporary elegance, surrounded by the beauty of the desert landscape. This property is ready to break ground with builder.
