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

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

View As: Thumbnails List

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

48008 N 520th Avenue Aguila, AZ 85320

$460,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,584 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6648747

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the enchanting skies adorned with stars at the incredible Fantastic Airpark property. Equipped with a hangar for your planes, RVs, and various toys, this residence is situated in Aguila within the Valley of the Eagle Flight Park. The kitchen boasts beautiful custom Knotty Alder cabinets, adding a touch of elegance. With three bedrooms and two baths, the property spans approximately 7 acres, featuring covered patios on either side to cater to all your outdoor activities. The bedrooms are thoughtfully soundproofed for peaceful nights free from snoring disturbances. The property is serviced by Aguila water, propane, and septic facilities. Building permits for the hangar are readily available. you won't be disappointed.

View Property

9322 W Oregon Avenue Glendale, AZ 85305

$460,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,145 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6659752

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home is located in the Westgate Entertainment District and features A 3-bedroom + Den and 2 bathroom. This home is perfect for entertaining with a Large open floor plan including a Living and Family Room. Gourmet Kitchen with dark oak cabinets, granite countertops and large Island, Caffe Refrigerator, Frigidaire Double oven, microwave and dishwasher. Walking through the home you will love the tall ceiling with classy two-toned paint and 8ft. door. The Primary bedroom has an inviting double door entry and larger walk-in closet. The primary bathroom has separate tub and shower, 2 private raised vanities with pendent lighting. The additional bedrooms are generously sized with walk-in closets. The exterior of the home has an extended paver drive to the RV gate and mature landscape. Just minutes to the Loop 101, Westgate with all it has to offer including shopping, dining and night life activities not to mentions all the sporting options like The State Farm Stadium, Gila River Arena and various sports training facilities nearby. Coming Soon is the 60-acre VAI Resort with hotels and entertainment destinations in Arizona scheduled to open in 2024.

View Property

21233 N 30th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85027

$460,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,750 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6659219

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful north Phoenix home in a great location! Luxury vinyl plank flooring and new interior paint provide a bright, neutral landscape for you to personalize. An Arizona room makes a perfect sitting area with it's own mini split, office or gym space. Backyard with grass, patio and paved sitting area. White cabinets in the kitchen and new fixtures have modernized this great home. No neighbors behind, backs to grass field. Additionally, the inclusion of solar panels- OWNED, new Ecobbe thermostat and a Tesla charger highlights the home's commitment to sustainability and modern technology, offering both energy efficiency and convenience for electric vehicle owners. Overall, this property presents an appealing combination of comfort, style, and practicality.

View Property

2682 N 158th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$460,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,824 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6665928

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Now here's a really nice home, situated on a cul-de-sac lot, and priced to sell. This is the ever-popular Newport model offering: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, office, open concept living and more. The main suite is spacious with roomy bath and built-ins in the closet. All tile floors thru-out. The lot is connected to common area, so there's no walls to make you feel closed in. This is a well-cared for home that will be sure to please.

View Property

17719 N 113th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85378

$460,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,934 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6663313

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to the Gated Community of Canyon Ridge West! This stunning home offers privacy with no neighbors behind and boasts a sparkling pool with a soothing waterfall feature, along with a convenient RV gate and added parking for all your outdoor storage needs. Inside, vaulted ceilings with tubular skylights and neutral tile floors create a spacious ambiance. The flexible layout includes a private den and ample living space. New HVAC in 2024! *Edited Neutral paint photos added.

View Property

2150 W Alameda Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$460,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

1,861 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6667331

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Lovely Townhome Ideally Situated in the Sought After Gated Community of Villagio at Happy Valley. This well-kept home boasts 4bds/3.5ba with the primary suite having its own balcony to enjoy Arizona's beautiful weather. Gourmet kitchen offers granite countertops, stainless steel appliance package, and breakfast bar that provides ample seating and overlooks your great room - ideal for entertaining! Enjoy community amenities that include a community pool, spa, BBQs, and spacious landscape areas. Prime location that has easy highway access to I-17, minutes from local attractions that include The Shops at Norterra, Desert Ridge MarketPlace, and Outlets at Anthem.

View Property

21647 N Mozart Court Sun City West, AZ 85375

$460,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,507 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6668285

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy the good life in this San Manuel model home located on an 18,451 sq ft Cul de Sac lot with 3 bedrooms & 2 1/2 baths. Newly painted exterior with a gated front courtyard. The expansive living/dining room has high ceilings, + large family room with ample built-ins, in addition to travertine & wood flooring throughout. The large primary suite features two walk-in closets, dressing area & the bath has a recently renovated walk-in shower. Guest bedrooms are on the other side of the house along with a full bath. The kitchen a R.O. water system and recessed ceiling lights. Inside laundry room + whole home water filtration system. The huge 2 ½ car garage has built in storage. There is also a spacious Sunroom. The home has Solar power with a fixed $159.23 monthly, assumable lease.

View Property

7600 S Thimble Peak Point Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$460,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,806 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6662035

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the highly desirable Peralta Canyon neighborhood of Gold Canyon, Arizona! This exquisite corner lot property offers breathtaking mountain views that promise a serene and picturesque living experience. With 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an inviting open concept great room, this home is the epitome of comfort and style. As you step inside, you'll immediately notice the spacious and well-designed layout that seamlessly connects living, dining, and kitchen areas, perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The home is truly move-in ready, featuring modern stainless steel appliances, a gas range, and elegant quartz countertops that add a touch of sophistication to the kitchen. The master suite is a retreat within itself, boasting a large walk-in closet and an expansive walk-in shower, complete with dual sinks and ample space for relaxation and rejuvenation. Each bedroom is thoughtfully crafted to ensure comfort and privacy for all. Step outside to the backyard, a low-maintenance oasis where you can enjoy your morning coffee or evening relaxation with unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains. This property's location is second to none, situated near the majestic Superstition Mountains, offering easy access to award-winning golf courses and the Peralta Trail, perfect for hiking enthusiasts and 4x4 adventures. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of paradise in Gold Canyon, AZ.

View Property

4217 W Barbara Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85051

$460,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,064 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6668378

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the allure of this tastefully updated single-story home with no HOA! It displays a desert front yard, a 2-car garage, an RV gate, and a private courtyard for welcoming guests. You'll love the spacious living areas filled with ceiling fans, recessed lighting, and one with a brick-wall fireplace and outdoor access. The home exudes charm with fresh paint, chic light fixtures, and wood-plank flooring. The kitchen provides SS appliances, granite counters, white cabinetry, a breakfast nook, a walk-in pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar. Retreat to the generous main suite, showcasing designer's paint, backyard access, a dedicated bathroom, and a walk-in closet. Plunge into the diving pool during hot weather days, and it is perfect for year-round entertainment. Visit now

View Property

648 E Cottontail Run Cottonwood, AZ 86326

$460,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,800 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6668849

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

2bedroom 2bath home with remodeled kitchen granite countertops, flat top stove, trash compactor, dishwasher, sink and faucet new can lighting. New flooring in living room , dining room. and kitchen. Bedrooms have new carpet. Both bathroom have been updated with flooring, medicine cabinets, mirrors, vanities, sinks and faucet. ceiling fans throughout rooms. Home has two bonus room and basement. 2 car garage .

View Property

19010 N 143rd Avenue Sun City West, AZ 85375

$460,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,528 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6671428

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of a TRANQUIL community, this home offers 2,528 square feet, 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, and a SPACIOUS 2.5-car garage w/ WONDERFUL updates & COZY comfort. BEAUTIFUL Quartz Counters & White Shaker Cabinets adorn the Eat-in Kitchen. The AZ room, Living, and Dining areas create an IDEAL space for entertaining guests. WATERPROOF LVP flooring has been installed T/O. 3 sliding glass doors lead out to a LARGE covered back patio, providing the PERFECT spot for quiet morning coffee or simply unwinding after a long day. The Primary Bedroom has its own PRIVATE courtyard. Two additional Bedrooms provide AMPLE space for Family members or Guests. With its MODERN & STYLISH design, this home offers the perfect combination of COMFORT and ALL the AMENITIES that Sun City West offers.

View Property

5701 W Royal Palm Road Glendale, AZ 85302

$460,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,593 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6670689

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This fabulous property nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac in Glendale is the one you've been looking for! Discover an impressive interior showcasing tile flooring, fresh soothing palette throughout, dazzling light fixtures, and French doors opening to the back patio. The impeccable kitchen boasts pristine white shaker cabinets, stylish tile backsplash, quartz counters, and modern recessed lighting. The primary bedroom features soft carpet in all the right places, a private bathroom, and a generously sized closet. You will find a spacious backyard with a covered patio offering plenty of potential for adding your personal touch! What's not to like? Create new memories in this fantastic home!

View Property