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Phoenix Housing Market - September 2024

As of September 2024, the Phoenix housing market is showing mixed signals. While home prices continue to rise, the pace of sales has slowed. The median sales price for homes in Phoenix is around $477,000, reflecting moderate growth compared to previous years. Inventory has increased by nearly 50% from last year, providing more options for buyers, but higher interest rates have made purchasing more expensive, causing some hesitancy among potential buyers.

Notably, areas like Scottsdale and the Southeast Valley have seen stronger price growth, with median prices in Scottsdale jumping 11% compared to last year. Overall, while prices are still rising, the market is experiencing fewer transactions and slower turnover in some areas


Arizona Area Mold Inspection - Hot Water Heater

mold incpector hot water heater scottsdaledesertinspectionMold inspection around a hot water heater is a critical task for homeowners, as this area is particularly prone to moisture-related issues. Hot water heaters, by their nature, involve both heat and water, creating an environment where mold can thrive if conditions are not properly managed. Leaks, condensation, or even just the natural humidity in a utility room can lead to mold growth, which can be harmful to both the property and the health of its occupants. Regular inspections are essential to catch any early signs of mold and prevent larger problems.

The first step in a mold inspection around a hot water heater is to visually examine the area. Look for any signs of water damage, such as discoloration on walls, floors, or the heater itself. Pay special attention to corners, the base of the heater, and any visible pipes. Even small amounts of water can lead to mold growth over time, so it’s important to catch any leaks or condensation early. In addition to visible mold, be on the lookout for musty odors, which can also indicate hidden mold.

What skills are required by your business real estate inspector?

A business real estate inspector in the Phoenix, AZ area specializes in evaluating commercial properties for compliance, safety, and structural integrity. SDI possess' in-depth knowledge of local building codes and regulations, ensuring thorough inspections of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and structural systems. With keen attention to detail, they identify potential issues and provide clear, comprehensive reports. Effective communication and strong customer service skills is our strategy to make our service a value add. 

We help explain findings and offer practical solutions. Their expertise ensures that clients make informed decisions about property investments, safeguarding their interests in the dynamic Phoenix real estate market.  A business real estate inspector requires a combination of technical, analytical, and interpersonal skills to effectively evaluate commercial properties. Here are the key skills required:

  1. Technical Knowledge:

    • Understanding of building construction, systems, and materials.
    • Familiarity with local, state, and federal building codes and regulations.
    • Knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and structural systems.
  2. Attention to Detail:

    • Ability to identify and document defects or issues in the property.
    • Meticulous in checking every aspect of the property to ensure nothing is overlooked.
  3. Analytical Skills:

    • Capability to analyze findings and determine the significance of any issues.
    • Proficiency in assessing the condition and functionality of various building systems.
  4. Communication Skills:

    • Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey findings to clients.
    • Ability to explain technical information in a clear and understandable manner.
  5. Problem-Solving Skills:

Strategies on How to Relocate Your Business to the Phoenix area

Relocating your business to the Phoenix area can offer numerous opportunities for growth, access to a new market, and potential cost savings. However, it's essential to approach the move strategically to minimize disruptions and set the stage for a successful transition. Here are some strategies to consider:

The Real Estate Business in Phoenix

The real estate business in Phoenix, Arizona, is dynamic and influenced by various factors such as population growth, economic conditions, housing demand, and market trends. If you are a realtor be sure to use our inspection service for your residential and commercial properties before listing and be proactive.

Here's an overview of the real estate business in Phoenix:

  1. Population Growth: Phoenix has experienced significant population growth over the past several decades, driven by factors such as job opportunities, affordable housing, and a favorable climate. This population growth has contributed to increased demand for housing, both for home ownership and rental properties.

  2. Housing Market: The housing market in Phoenix is characterized by fluctuations in home prices, inventory levels, and sales activity. Like many metropolitan areas, Phoenix experienced a housing market boom followed by a downturn during the Great Recession of the late 2000s. However, the market has since rebounded, with steady appreciation in home values and increased construction activity.

User How will mold remediation improve your home sale in the Phoenix AZ area?

microscopic image of black mold sporeMold remediation can significantly improve your Phoenix area home sale in several ways, making it a critical step if mold is present before putting your home or business property on the market.

Before you remediate you must inspect.  Contact Scottsdale Desert Inspections to schedule a time for your mold inspection. 

Here are a few ways your property will increase in value after we provide a mold inspection.

  1. Increases Property Value: By eliminating mold, you enhance the overall condition of your home, which can positively affect its market value. Buyers are willing to pay more for homes that are in excellent condition without the need for immediate repairs.

  2. Boosts Buyer Confidence: Addressing mold issues proactively demonstrates to potential buyers that the home has been well-maintained. This transparency can increase trust and confidence among buyers, making them more likely to consider purchasing.

  3. Improves Home Aesthetics: Mold can cause unsightly stains and damage to surfaces. Remediation not only removes the mold but often involves repairing or replacing affected areas, thus improving the home's appearance and appeal to buyers.

  4. Enhances Health Appeal: Mold can pose health risks, particularly to individuals with allergies or respiratory issues. By removing mold, you make your home safer and more appealing to health-conscious buyers or families with young children.

  5. Reduces Negotiation Leverage: Buyers often use known issues like mold as leverage to negotiate a lower price. By remediating mold before listing your home, you eliminate this negotiation point, helping to maintain your asking price.

  6. Faster Sale Process: Homes with no health or safety concerns, like mold, tend to sell faster. Buyers and their agents are more likely to move quickly on a property that doesn’t require remedial work, leading to a smoother and quicker sale process.

  7. Compliance with Disclosure Laws: Many jurisdictions require sellers to disclose known issues, including mold, to potential buyers. By remediating mold before selling, you ensure compliance with these laws, reducing the risk of post-sale legal issues related to nondisclosure.

Investing in mold remediation before selling your home can enhance its value, appeal, and safety, making it a more attractive proposition to potential buyers and potentially leading to a quicker, more profitable sale.

Before you remediate you must inspect.  Contact Scottsdale Desert Inspections to schedule a time for your mold inspection.

How mold inspection can improve the value of your home.

scottsdale home mold inspectionMold inspection plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy living environment and can significantly impact the value of your home. Mold growth is not only unsightly but can also pose serious health risks to occupants and compromise the structural integrity of a building. By addressing mold issues proactively through inspection, homeowners can ensure their property remains safe, appealing, and retains its market value.

Contact us to schedule a home mold inspection.

Here's how mold inspection can improve the value of your home:

1. Health and Safety Enhancement

Mold can cause a variety of health problems, ranging from allergic reactions and respiratory issues to more severe health conditions. By conducting regular mold inspections, homeowners can identify and mitigate potential health risks, ensuring a safer living environment. This commitment to health and safety is a significant value proposition for potential buyers.

2. Prevention of Costly Repairs

Mold can be indicative of larger issues, such as leaks or water damage, that may not be immediately visible. Early detection through mold inspections allows for prompt remediation, preventing more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Addressing these issues early on maintains the home's condition and appeal, positively affecting its value.

3. Enhancing Indoor Air Quality

Mold significantly affects indoor air quality, leading to musty odors and a less comfortable living environment. Mold inspections followed by proper remediation can eliminate these odors and improve air quality, making the home more inviting and valuable to potential buyers.

Testing for Mold in Your Phoenix Home: A Vital Measure for Healthy Living

mold inspectorIn the arid climate of Phoenix, Arizona, the thought of mold may seem unlikely. However, mold can thrive even in the desert, particularly in homes with undetected leaks, poor ventilation, or after flooding. Understanding and managing mold is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment. Here's how to effectively test for mold in your Phoenix home.

Why Mold Testing is Essential

Mold in your home can lead to various health issues, ranging from allergies and respiratory problems to more severe conditions. In Phoenix, the combination of occasional heavy rains and high indoor air conditioning usage can create ideal conditions for mold growth in hidden spots. Regular mold testing helps detect these problems early, ensuring the health and safety of your household.

When to Test for Mold

Consider mold testing if you:

  • Notice a musty smell.
  • See visible mold growth.
  • Have had recent water damage.
  • Experience unexplained health issues like allergies or respiratory problems.

Professional vs. DIY Testing

While DIY mold test kits are available, they often provide limited information. Professional testing by Scottsdale Desert Inspection is more comprehensive, identifying the mold type and concentration, which is crucial for effective remediation. We use tools like infrared cameras to find hidden mold and moisture meters to detect dampness invisible to the naked eye.

Business Property Mold Inspection in the Phoenix Area

Created by Jeff HoneyagerMold inspection in a business environment offers several significant benefits. Mold can pose health risks and affect the integrity of a building, making it crucial to identify and address any mold issues promptly.

Contact Scottsdale Desert Inspections for a free estimate.


Here are key benefits of a mold inspection for your business:

  1. Health and Safety of Employees and Customers: Mold can cause various health problems, especially for individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems. By identifying and addressing mold issues, a mold inspection helps ensure a healthier and safer environment for employees and customers.

  2. Prevention of Structural Damage: Mold can cause significant damage to building materials over time, including wood rot and degradation of drywall. Early detection through a mold inspection can prevent extensive structural damage, saving the business considerable repair costs in the long run.

  3. Maintaining Indoor Air Quality: Mold can significantly deteriorate indoor air quality. A mold inspection helps in identifying the presence of mold spores in the air, leading to actions that can improve the overall air quality within the business premises.

  4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: In some regions, there are health and safety regulations that businesses must comply with, which include maintaining a mold-free environment. Regular mold inspections ensure compliance with these regulations, helping to avoid legal issues and potential fines.

  5. Enhancing Reputation and Customer Trust: Demonstrating a commitment to a healthy, safe, and clean environment can positively impact a business's reputation. Customers and clients are more likely to trust and feel comfortable in a business that takes proactive steps to ensure their well-being.

You’ve Discovered Mold? Now What?

Mold growth can be a problem in many homes, and as a home inspector, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of finding mold during an inspection. When you do, as a professional you want to be able to help your client know how to take proper steps to ensure that any mold found is properly remediated.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss what to do if mold growth is found during a home inspection and how to follow the guidelines set out by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) S520 standard and R520 reference for mold remediation.

Note: this blog is only focusing on what to do with the mold and does not cover addressing the underlying moisture issues! In any remediation project, it is crucial that the underlying moisture source is resolved; otherwise, the mold will return in the future even after remediation.

Step 1: Identify the Mold.

Before you can begin to remediate mold, it’s important to identify the extent to which mold is present in the home. Collecting surface samples can help determine if discoloration on a surface is, in fact, mold. And collecting air samples are a key element in determining if a mold issue is impacting indoor air quality.

Step 2: Determine the Extent of the Mold Growth

Next, you’ll need to determine the extent of the mold growth. Some home inspectors may have the experience to do this step themselves, while most will likely want to refer to local environmental consultants or mold remediation companies. This will help you determine the level of remediation required. Some professionals use 5 levels to guide the response to mold growth:

  • Level 1: Small Isolated Areas (10 square feet or less)

  • Level 2: Mid-Sized Isolated Areas (10-30 square feet)

  • Level 3: Large Isolated Areas (greater than 30-100 square feet)

  • Level 4 (>100 square feet)

If the mold growth is larger than 10 square feet, hiring a professional mold remediation company to handle the job is typically recommended. Some states have regulations on who can perform remediation. You will want to learn the rules for your local area to ensure you give your clients the best advice possible.

Is Mold Testing a Waste of my Client's Money?

In this webinar we put it all out there: objections, doubts, and things you might have heard about mold testing. We address each one of them, openly and honestly.

Everything You Wanted to Know About Mold... But Were Afraid to Ask.

In this webinar, we cover all things mold and answer the most pressing mold-related questions on home inspectors' minds - Mold Basics - Mold in the natural environment - Mold in the built environment - Health effects related to mold




Three Myths about Mold Testing

The Complete Mold Inspection is performed in accordance with the Mold Inspection Standards of Practice of the International Association of Certified Indoor Air Consultants.

In this webinar, we discuss three myths associated with mold testing; mold testing is expensive, mold testing requires too much training, and mold testing takes too long.

We also discuss the Sporecyte advantage and the AI-powered mold revolution.

Stick around to get the knowledge and resources to improve your service offering and help you make more money.

Presented by Dylan McIntosh: Sporecyte Lab Director and Product Group Manager. With over eight years of experience in the industry, Dylan is a Certified Industrial Hygienist and a PAACB Certified Spore Analyst.

Does a Pre-Sale Home Inspection Increase the Sales Price?

A pre-sale home inspection can have both positive and negative impacts on the sales price of a home, depending on various factors. Here are some considerations:

  1. Positive Impact:

    • Transparency: A pre-sale inspection provides potential buyers with a clear understanding of the condition of the property. This transparency can build trust and confidence, making buyers more likely to offer a higher price because they have fewer concerns about hidden issues.
    • Repairs: If the inspection identifies minor issues that can be easily fixed, the seller can choose to address these problems before listing the property. This can result in a higher sales price because buyers may be willing to pay more for a well-maintained home.
  2. Negative Impact:

    • Major Issues: If the inspection reveals significant problems that require costly repairs or renovations, it could potentially lower the sales price. Buyers may negotiate for a lower price or ask the seller to make the necessary repairs or provide a credit.
    • Bargaining Power: Some buyers might view a pre-sale inspection as an opportunity to negotiate a lower price, even if the issues identified are relatively minor. They may argue that the price should be reduced to account for the cost of addressing these issues.

Ultimately, the impact of a pre-sale home inspection on the sales price depends on the specific circumstances, the real estate market conditions, and how both the seller and the buyer choose to handle the information from the inspection. In some cases, a well-maintained home with a clean inspection report may attract multiple offers, potentially leading to a higher sales price. However, if significant issues are uncovered, it may lead to price negotiations or the need for the seller to lower their asking price to accommodate necessary repairs.

How do real estate companies select an inspector?

a good real estate agentReal estate companies, whether they are representing the buyer, seller, or a property management firm, often work with property inspectors to ensure that properties are in good condition or to identify potential issues that might affect the sale or maintenance of a property. Here's how real estate companies typically select an inspector:

  1. Licensing and Certification:

    • In many regions, property inspectors are required to be licensed by a state or local authority. Real estate companies will look for inspectors who hold a valid license.
    • Some areas may not require licensing but have professional organizations that offer certification programs. In such cases, real estate companies might prioritize inspectors who are certified.
  2. Experience:

Phoenix Housing Market - September 2023

From BizJournals - Angela Gonzales

"The housing market is finally stabilizing, according to a deep dive into the latest numbers by top real estate analysts and Realtors. Here's what they're seeing and what they expect for the rest of 2023."


Other Info.


In July 2023, Phoenix home prices were down 0.72% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $437K. On average, homes in Phoenix sell after 39 days on the market compared to 32 days last year. There were 1,382 homes sold in July this year, down from 1,588 last year.

In Jun '23 - Aug '23, 30% of Phoenix home buyers searched to move out of Phoenix, while 70% looked to stay within the metropolitan area.
  • Across the nation, 2% of home buyers searched to move into Phoenix from outside metros.
  • Los Angeles home buyers searched to move into Phoenix more than any other metro followed by Seattle and Tucson.
Where are people from Phoenix moving to?
  • 70% of Phoenix home buyers searched to stay within the Phoenix metropolitan area.
  • Prescott Valley was the most popular destination among Phoenix home buyers followed by Show Low and Flagstaff.

What are the benefits of a business property inspection?

building blue printA business property inspection refers to the process of a professional inspector evaluating the structural, electrical, plumbing, and other vital components of a commercial property. This type of inspection is often necessary when purchasing, selling, or leasing commercial real estate, and it can offer several important benefits and Scottsdale Desert Inspection is ready to validate your investment:

Identifying Potential Issues: By uncovering hidden defects and areas in need of repair, an inspection helps identify problems that might be overlooked by an untrained eye. This can include issues related to the foundation, roofing, HVAC systems, electrical wiring, plumbing, and more.

Cost Savings: Understanding the condition of the property can save money in the long run. Knowing about needed repairs upfront can prevent unexpected expenses later. Buyers can negotiate a better price, or request that the seller make necessary repairs, potentially saving thousands of dollars.

Benefits of a home inspection for buyer and seller.

home inspector 600x554A home inspection in Scottsdale, AZ, provides several benefits for both buyers and sellers. Here are some key advantages:


For Buyers:


  • Awareness of Property Condition: A home inspection provides a detailed evaluation of the property's condition, including its structure, systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), and overall safety. It helps buyers identify any potential issues or deficiencies that may require attention or repairs.
  • Informed Decision-Making: Armed with the information from a home inspection report, buyers can make more informed decisions about their purchase. They can better understand the costs and potential risks associated with the property, negotiate repairs or price adjustments, or decide whether the property meets their needs and expectations.
  • Safety and Peace of Mind: A thorough home inspection can uncover safety concerns such as electrical hazards, mold, or structural issues. By identifying these issues in advance, buyers can address them before moving in, ensuring the safety of themselves and their families.
  • Negotiating Power: If the inspection report reveals significant defects or repair needs, buyers can negotiate with the seller to address these issues. They may request repairs, ask for a price reduction, or include specific contingencies in the purchase agreement. The inspection report provides leverage in the negotiation process.

How to prepare for a home inspection.

Preparing your home for inspection is an important step in the selling process. A home inspection is typically requested by a potential buyer to assess the condition of the property and identify any issues that need to be addressed. A positive inspection can help to increase the value of your home and lead to a smoother transaction. To ensure that your home inspection goes smoothly, it's important to properly prepare your home beforehand.

Here are some tips on how to prepare your home before an inspection.

Benefits of a Home Inspection - Scottsdale AZ

phoenix cactus 795x560Buying a home is a significant investment, and it's crucial to ensure that you are making a wise decision. One way to do this is by having a home inspection. A home inspection is a thorough evaluation of a property's condition by a professional home inspector. The inspector examines the home's structure, electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC system, roofing, and other components to identify any potential issues. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of home inspection.


Identifying issues before they become costly problems


A home inspection can reveal issues that may not be apparent during a walk-through. Identifying problems before closing on a home can save you money in the long run. For example, if the inspector discovers a leaking roof or a faulty electrical system, you can negotiate with the seller to fix the issues before closing or lower the price of the home to account for the necessary repairs.


Ensuring your safety


A home inspector can identify safety hazards, such as carbon monoxide leaks, mold, and faulty electrical systems. These issues can pose serious health risks to you and your family. Identifying these issues before moving in allows you to make necessary repairs and ensure your safety.