NEVER Buy These Types of Houses in Phoenix Arizona

by Shawn Shackelton

Searching for a home can be a daunting task, filled with stress and uncertainty. After a while, some buyers feel exhausted and just want to get off the hamster wheel of house hunting. But let me tell you something: you should never settle. There are some homes you should never buy, and this applies to all buyers, not just first-timers.

1. Homes Near Major Roads

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is purchasing a home that backs up to or is near a major road. Why? Location, location, location. Homes near busy roads come with excessive road noise, which can be tolerable at first but quickly becomes a nuisance. While some buyers moving from big cities may think they can handle it, these homes typically take longer to sell and fetch a lower price than other homes in the same neighborhood. And when it comes time to sell, you’ll hear the same objections from potential buyers over and over again. The only way to overcome those objections? Lower the price. If you’re looking for long-term value, steer clear of homes near major roads.

2. Homes That Have Been Flipped (Poorly)

Common home buying mistakes in Phoenix

Flipped homes can be a red flag. Many flippers prioritize speed and profit over quality, leading to shoddy workmanship. Some of the biggest warning signs of a bad flip include:

Poorly painted cabinets or cheap, ill-fitting cabinetry
Uneven tile floors that can cause tripping hazards
Sloppy paint jobs with visible streaks
Mismatched or missing baseboards and door casings

Most flippers focus on cosmetic upgrades rather than essential repairs like roofing and HVAC systems. Additionally, many flipped homes are renovated without permits, meaning no one is checking the work. Unlicensed contractors are often used to cut costs, and there are no warranties like those you’d get with a new construction home. Always get a home inspection and ask for a seller’s disclosure, even if the flipper claims they never lived in the house. If walls were removed, verify whether a licensed contractor or structural engineer was involved to ensure the home is safe.

3. Homes with Major Structural Issues

first-time buyer mistakes Phoenix

Foundation cracks, incorrectly cut trusses, and other structural issues should immediately raise red flags. Some cracks are normal, but long, significant cracks extending across floors, walls, or stucco may indicate foundational problems.

Buyers often don’t notice cut trusses in the attic, but inspectors do. While minor cuts might be acceptable (like those made for HVAC replacements), severely damaged trusses could compromise the roof’s stability. If your inspector raises concerns about major structural defects, walk away—these repairs can be expensive and may lead to ongoing issues.

4. Homes with Multiple Big-Ticket Issues

A home with one repairable issue might be manageable, but if multiple high-cost problems exist, it's best to move on. Some major red flags include:

Roof replacements ($15,000–$50,000)
HVAC unit replacements ($9,000–$15,000 per unit, with larger homes needing multiple units)
Sewer line issues (common in Phoenix, requiring costly repairs if tree roots invade the pipes)
Mold problems (black mold is especially concerning in Arizona, found under sinks, in attics, and around plumbing)
Polybutylene pipes, which can fail and cause extensive water damage

If a home has multiple major issues, it’s not worth the financial and emotional burden. Repairs add up quickly, turning what seemed like a great deal into a money pit.

Bottomline

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you'll ever make, and avoiding these types of properties can save you from costly mistakes. If you're planning a move to Phoenix, it's crucial to be informed before making a purchase. On that note, if you're considering relocating, be sure to check out my other post, The Top Reasons People Regret Moving to Phoenix, Arizona, to avoid common pitfalls that many buyers face in this market.