In their 60-plus combined years working in real estate, Mike Mendoza and Josh Mendoza have helped countless clients find their dream homes throughout Ahwatukee and the rest of the Valley.
Having such extensive and successful careers as Realtors means the Mendozas, the owners of the renowned Mendoza Team, have spent plenty of time inside some of the most stunning luxury homes in the area.
While most high-end homes have plenty of attractive and desirable amenities, Mike and Josh have noticed that some bespoke details are especially desirable – both for them, and buyers.
“Many of these amenities are timeless rather than trends,” Mike says. “For example, while the type of flooring, cabinetry and countertop stone can shift throughout the years, the quality of the craftsmanship and what is placed in the house always matters the most.”
While the Mendozas work with clients at all price points, we asked them to explore 10 of their favorite opulent details found in the most luxurious homes.
High-end kitchen appliances
A beautiful kitchen is more than the heart of a home. As Josh notes, an expertly laid-out kitchen, filled with high-end appliances, is definitely a desirable feature of a luxury home.“People expect quality craftsmanship and equipment in luxury homes and expect the best finishes when purchasing,” Josh says, adding that kitchen appliances by the Viking, Wolf, Bosch and/or Sub-Zero companies are particularly attractive and desired by buyers.
Quality flooring
While there has recently been a movement to high-end luxury vinyl flooring in upper end housing, Mike says he feels real wood flooring is still an unparalleled luxury that he likes, and is often desired by his clients. “Many of our buyers prefer true wood,” he says.
A lovely view
There’s a reason that “location, location, location” is a common saying in real estate. Whether it’s in the mountains and foothills surrounding Ahwatukee, the desert, on the water or by a golf course, Mike says a beautiful home at an incredible location always drives sales.
Backyard amenities
“A resort-style backyard that takes advantage of the Arizona weather is preferred,” Josh says, adding that the amenities he always likes to see include a sparkling pool and spa, an outdoor kitchen, and entertainment areas.
Wine cellars
Although many luxury homes have started incorporating a “wine wall” that features clear glass, Mike says he, and many buyers, prefer the classic wine cellar. “For a true wine aficionado, a traditional wine cellar can be a selling point,” he notes.
Luxurious primary bath
“People like to see extra amenities and perks when purchasing a high-end home,” Mike says. “Items like saunas, steam rooms, large rain showers and other features elevate the property to the next level.”
Custom, quality built-in cabinetry
Instead of cookie cutter cabinets that are functional yet generic, Mike says he and Josh are always happy to list homes that feature custom-made cabinets. “Nothing says luxury like a uniquely built item meant only for your home. Custom designed cabinetry can make a home truly unique,” Mike says.
Ensuite bathrooms
In addition to the primary bedroom having an attached bathroom, the Mendozas say multiple ensuite bathrooms are a highly attractive feature. “When you’re purchasing a large home, every bedroom having a bathroom is desired for both resale, and the convenience it affords when living in the property,” Josh says.
A large garage
When it comes to the garage space, the Mendozas share the same opinion. “The bigger the garage, the better,” Mike says. More specifically, higher ceilings that can incorporate car lifts are a plus, and RV garages on the lot are also always a great feature, he notes.
Retractable, hidden sliding glass doors
These types of doors that open up the home to the backyard allow for effortless entertaining and great airflow through the home. “It’s a statement that people enjoy and helps elevate a property above others,” Josh says.
Achieving the aesthetics
As for the architectural style of a luxury home, Mike and Josh agree that this is usually a personal preference for buyers, and all styles tend to be popular.
What makes the difference, they note, are the high-end finishes that accompany the architecture.
“Different layouts and design choices flow with tastes through the decades, but updated amenities are what drives luxury real estate,” Mike says.
If a luxury home is missing a few of the amenities that buyers are looking for, the Mendozas may suggest the sellers consider adding them in.
“Updating a home to bring it into a more modern aesthetic can often help garner a higher price point,” Josh says.
Overall, the Mendozas say, a luxury home that offers plenty of bespoke amenities, and is turnkey, is likely to appeal to the broadest range of buyers.
“Every buyer has a different want or need,” Mike says. “But the more move-in ready a luxury home is, the more likely it is to sell quickly for top dollar.”
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