Buying Your First Home? Learn These 5 Essential Home Maintenance Skills as Soon as Possible

New homes can be scary. But when you take the time to think about it, and plan ahead, maintaining a home is easier than you think a manageable mix of experience and common sense. Here are five skills that will help maintain your new home for years to come.

Fixing A Toilet

It’s not as daunting as it sounds. Just remember that toilets work with gravity the water wants to flow freely. Don’t be afraid to open that tank up and adjust the floater and valves as needed. Occasionally run the water (flush the toilet, turn on the sink) in unused rooms, like the guest bathroom, to keep the pipes clear and functioning.

Dealing With Animals

Sometimes your animal neighbors invite themselves in. While it’s always better to use professionals if you have a large-scale or persistent pest problem, there are steps you can take to minimize animal visitors before it comes to that. Check for termites by looking for raised, hollow tubes along the wood (tubes filled with bugs). If you have mice, and know how they’re getting in, block their holes with steel wool and set friendly traps ones that capture instead of kill. But make sure to release the captives far from your home.

Electricity and Water Awareness

Know how to shut off your electricity and water, just in case. Find the shut-offs when you first move in. And take the time then to test the breakers and label them, clearly, directly, with permanent marker. That way there is no confusion if one gets tripped.

A Regular Deep Clean

On a regular basis, give your house a deep clean. Scrub the bathrooms, clean the kitchen appliances and floors/walls. Doing this will not only prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime, which could lead to bigger problems later on, but will also give you a chance to do a run-down of your house and see what needs fixing/updating/replacing.

Be Prepared

Gather your home maintenance kit (Home Maintenance for Dummies has examples) before you need it, and keep it up if you use all the nails, replace them. It’s also a good idea to make a maintenance calendar with notes on what needs to be done when this makes it easy for the homeowner, and anyone they need to step in. Finally, in being prepared, don’t forget to maintain your fire and carbon monoxide detectors with regular checks and battery changes (suggested every six months, regardless of battery life).

Your first step in preparation is to contact me to find you the perfect home – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

17871 W Southgate Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85338

$569,900

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,232 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734110

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

30 DAY QUICK MOVE IN!! ASK ABOUT OUR LOWER THAN MARKET FINANCING! BEAUTIFUL 2-STORY HOME* EN SUITE ON 1ST FLOOR* FLEX ROOM & LOFT* WHITE SHAKER CABINETS* WOOD-PLANK LVP FLOORING* QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS* END LOT* N/S FACING!!!

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20314 N Wagner Wash Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$569,900

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,342 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733834

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**PREMIUM DESERT VIEW HOMESITE** This extended popular Refuge model includes the 4' garage extension and a 2' rear extension. Wonderfully appointed with a chef's kitchen, large pantry and two dens, each with glass French doors. Also, this home has 2 bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bath, plus a powder room for guests. Other add-ons include plantation shutters throughout, pre-wired surround sound, built in storage in garage, fully enclosed backyard, custom designed lighting and so much more!. Do not let this opportunity pass you by. Elegant French doors enhance the home's aesthetic appeal, adding a touch of sophistication to your living spaces. Step outside to your large covered patio, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation. The electric sun screen provides shade and comfort, allowing you to enjoy the outdoor space year-round. Experience the best of active adult living in this exceptional home. Don't miss out on this opportunity!

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5912 W Bushwood Way Florence, AZ 85132

$569,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,039 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755790

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ENJOY THE STUNNING VIEWS OF THE 8TH FAIRWAY of Poston Butte Golf Course with this gorgeous ''Pursuit'' model in Sun City Anthem at Merrill Ranch. This meticulously maintained home offers an abundance of upgrades that includes an outdoor living space that offers a paver entry w/sitting area, extended paver patio w/putting green, where all putts are good, and surrounded by beautiful landscape. Your new home is just as stunning inside with details that include upgraded LVP flooring throughout , reclaimed WY fence wood accent walls, French doors and Murphy bed for optional 3rd bedroom, simulated wood beam accents in great room and surround sound. Take advantage of the tremendous SOLAR SAVINGS w/23 panels producing 8.5kw of OWNED SOLAR and mini-split A/C in the garage. The Chefs kitchen... features true staggered upgraded cabinetry w/pull out shelves, pots/pans drawers, gas cooktop French door refrigerator, tiled backsplash, under cabinet and pendent lights over the spacious island. Additional features include a Roman walk-in shower with floor to ceiling tile in the primary en-suite, 4' extended garage and cabinets, epoxy garage floor, insulated garage, water softener, tankless water heater and a service door that leads to the exterior garbage corral. Some furniture available on a separate bill of sale...A MUST SEE HOME!! Merrill Ranch also offers the Anthem Grille, The Poston Butte Golf Club, a learning center and all the festivities, activities and amenities a Sun City community has to offer. Remember you are buying a lifestyle that goes beyond the homes property lines.

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4043 N Smithsonian Drive Florence, AZ 85132

$569,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,467 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762591

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Enjoy the tour and views of this stunning 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath ''Endeavor'' model. The PREMIUM WASH LOT and outdoor living space offers gorgeous sunrises and private Sonoran desert views from the extended paver patio, surrounded by beautiful mature landscape. The home is just as beautiful inside with details that include a gourmet kitchen featuring upgraded staggered cabinetry w/roll-out trays, gas cooktop, beautiful granite countertops, tile backsplash, pendant lighting, RO system, water softener, tankless hot water, NEW A/C unit, impressive entry door, laundry/garage cabinets, entertainment center, solar and MUCH MORE! The primary suite features matching granite and cabinets, soaking tub w/separate shower and a large walk in closet. A MUST SEE HOME! Enjoy our Anthem Grille, The Poston Butte Golf Club, a learning center and all the festivities, activities and amenities a Sun City community has to offer. Remember you are buying a lifestyle that goes beyond the homes property lines.

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2044 W Trotter Trail Phoenix, AZ 85085

$569,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,942 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770717

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Modern home located in the highly sought after north Phoenix community of Union Park At Norterra. Home is only 5 years old w/ desirable open floor plan & great room feel. Upgraded gourmet kitchen has breakfast island, gas cook top & walk-in pantry. Large primary suite features dual vanities, oversized shower and spacious walk-in closet w/access to laundry room located on 2nd floor and the low maintenance yard has artificial turf & water fall. Conveniently located near DVUSD K-8, shopping & dining at Shops at Norterra, close to TSMC and has easy access east to Scottsdale or north to Sedona/Flagstaff via nearby I-17 & 101 Hwys. Friendly community w/resort-style heated pool & kids play pool, playgrounds, dog park, pickle ball & basketball courts too.

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4196 E Bonanza Road Gilbert, AZ 85297

$569,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,257 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772058

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is it folks very well maintained lovely two story home in Popular Power Ranch. Formal Living and Dining with a Family room kitchen area. Kitchen has stainless appliances with beautiful dark cabinets. 4 bedrooms plus a loft area, 2.5 bathrooms. Primary Bedroom ensuite with a separate tub and shower, double sinks and walk in closet. Low maintenance front and back yards with auto drip system. Power Ranch offers Elementary School across the street from subdivision, Tennis courts, pickle ball, heated pool, spa, 2 catch and release lakes, two club houses, playgrounds and walking trails and so much more. SO MANY COMMUNITY AMMENITIES.......

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744 E Laddoos Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$569,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,855 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772857

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fabulous Alexandria model on large corner lot! Welcome to this beautifully designed home featuring an open and functional floor plan, 10' ceilings perfect for modern living. The expansive great room seamlessly integrates a gourmet kitchen with a large island, a cozy breakfast nook, and a dining area, ideal for both casual meals and formal gatherings. The spacious living room offers ample room for relaxation, while an additional flexible space can serve as a home office, library, or den. The home boasts two generously sized BRs, including a luxurious primary suite complete with double sinks w/new fixtures, and walk-in closet. Cozy rear patio with fireplace, ideal for those cool AZ evenings, allows for outdoor living! All of this plus solar and a 4' extended garage, new paint in and out!

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29449 N Sorrento Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$569,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,835 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761271

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to the Adult Community of Trilogy of Vistancia. This Shea built home is the Vibrant Model and features charming stone accents and entry paver details. As you walk inside, you'll see the pride of ownership is throughout. It features an open-concept layout with living, dining and kitchen flowing easily together. The kitchen features designer cabinetry, tile backsplash, granite countertops, pendant lighting, pantry and a full stainless steel appliance package. The master bedroom offers plenty of room for large furniture and includes a walk-in closet, along with a master bathroom featuring dual sinks and a walk-in shower. The secondary bedroom is separate from the master and conveniently located near the additional bath. The den / office features multiple areas of built in cabinets. It could also be converted to a third bedroom or formal dining. The laundry room is complete with washer, dryer, lower and upper cabinets, and additional hobby / craft area. The backyard is an absolute delight and perfect for entertaining with a full covered patio. Additional features include plantation shutters throughout and a central vacuum system which has additional connections for the garage. Trilogy at Vistancia combines luxurious amenities with a vibrant social atmosphere.

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4340 E Park Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85234

$569,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,556 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6783894

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the charm of this home in Highland Groves at Morrison Ranch! Step inside to an inviting interior bathed in natural light, featuring two-tone paint, elegant archways, recessed lighting, and a blend of wood and carpeting throughout. The expansive living/dining area flows seamlessly into the cozy family room, complete with a fireplace and a built-in media niche. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, offering stainless steel appliances, sleek granite countertops, a stylish mosaic tile backsplash, a pantry, a central island, and cabinetry with crown molding. A versatile den and a full bath are conveniently located downstairs, while a spacious loft awaits upstairs. The luxurious master suite boasts a spa-like ensuite with dual vanities, a separate tub and shower, and a generous walk-in closet. Step outside to the backyard, where you'll find a covered patio, a putting green, and beautifully arranged pavers for a perfect outdoor retreat.

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322 E La Diosa Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$569,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,035 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6780028

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful spacious Tempe home with mature trees on a large corner interior lot! Just 1.5 blocks from ASU. This home is ready to become whatever you envision, is livable and could us some serious updates. Larger a/c unit replaced this last June, plumbing work done a few years ago too. Alley entry 2 car garage with extra storage space and a covered space to park out front of the home too. Possibilities are endless and this one won't last long once it goes active.

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5414 N Scottsdale Road Eloy, AZ 85131

$569,900

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,709 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6653533

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Updated home with Guest Casita, private bath & entrance. This home is spacious and comfortable with an updated courtyard at front entrance. The house has 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, den and a mud room off the laundry/garage entrance. Entertainers and chef's dream kitchen, open floor plan, tons of granite counter and Maple cabinet space, full wall natural gas fireplace and upgraded tile. Newer stainless-steel appliances. Matching granite back splash. Garage has epoxy floors, AC and a custom golf cart space hidden inside (can easily park 2 golf carts in this space) with golf cart charger for easy use & extended garage. Outside on the oversized Patio you will find a built-in fire pit with seating & pavers. The patio has open views with stunning western sunsets. Patio has gas hook up for BBQ. New extended patio tile. All new PVC in front & back. Water feature is included. Patio/yard lights on a timer. Fridge in mudroom stays. Casita has its own heating/cooling system. Utility sink in the laundry room. Garage cabinets are negotiable as well as all furnishings. Garage has a utility door. New 8' doors added to the den for privacy. All new lights on the exterior. New mirrors and shower floor in the primary bath. Exterior and interior recently painted. All furnishings available for purchase on a separate bill of sale.

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17334 E San Marcus Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$569,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,354 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769056

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW! Don't miss out on this gorgeous, remodeled 3 bed 2 bath home steps away from Four Peaks Park in Fountain Hills. Walking in, you will be greeted by a fully renovated kitchen & a beautiful open floor plan. Enjoy all new flooring throughout the entire home that creates a perfect flow. Additional updates include; NEW AC, NEW water softener, NEW RO water system, NEW exterior and interior paint, raised ceilings and so much more! In addition to all the interior updates, you will love spending time outside on this oversized private lot that backs to a wash giving added privacy. This backyard has new artificial turf & pavers that allow for a year-round beautiful look, that is conveniently low maintenance. Another amazing feature of the backyard is the RV gate and RV parking with NO HOA

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