Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Home in Arizona

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of the process in Arizona:

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1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

• Connect with a local lender to determine how much home you can afford.

• A pre-approval shows sellers you’re a serious buyer.

• In Arizona’s competitive markets (Metro Phoenix & Yuma), pre-approval is often required before touring homes.

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2. Find the Right Realtor®

• Work with an experienced local agent who knows the Market.

• A Realtor® helps you find listings, negotiate offers, and guide you through contracts.

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3. Start Your Home Search

• Identify what matters most: location, schools, commute, budget, and lifestyle.

• In Arizona, consider HOA communities, new builds, and homes with pools (common in the desert climate).

• Your agent will set up a search to send you properties the moment they hit the market.

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4. Tour Homes & Narrow Your Options

• Visit homes in person or virtually.

• Take notes on condition, upgrades, and neighborhood feel.

• In hot markets, be prepared to act quickly.

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5. Make an Offer

• Your Realtor® will prepare a competitive offer based on market value.

• Expect negotiations on price, closing costs, or repairs.

• Earnest money is deposited to open escrow.

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6. Inspection Period

• In Arizona, buyers typically have a 10-day inspection period.

• Hire a licensed inspector to check the property’s condition.

• You can request repairs, negotiate credits, or even cancel if major issues arise.

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7. Appraisal & Loan Approval

• If you’re financing, the lender will order an appraisal to confirm the home’s value.

• Once appraisal and underwriting are complete, your loan gets final approval.

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8. Closing (Escrow Process)

• Arizona is an escrow state, meaning a neutral third party (the title company) handles documents and funds.

• You’ll review and sign final paperwork, pay closing costs, and transfer funds.

• Typical closing timeline: 30–45 days from contract acceptance.

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9. Get the Keys! 🎉

• Once the deed is recorded with the county, the home is officially yours.

• Congratulations — you’re a homeowner in Arizona!

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Pro Tip: Arizona markets move quickly. Having a trusted Realtor® and a reliable lender makes all the difference. The good news? We work with experienced, trusted lenders as part of our team — giving you a smoother process, stronger offers, and a better chance at landing your dream home.