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Buyer Information

 

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Terms You Should Know

Amortized Loan - A loan that is paid off - both interest and principal - by regular payments that are equal or nearly equal.

Amendment- A change - either to alter, add to, or correct - part of an agreement without changing  the principal idea or essence.

Assumption - The act of conveying real property; taking title to a property with the Buyer assuming liability for paying an existing note secured by a deed of trust against the property.

Beneficiary - (1)One for whose benefit a trust is created. (2) In states in which deeds of trust are commonly used instead of mortgages, the lender (mortgagee) is called the beneficiary.

Close of Escrow - The date the documents are recorded and title passes from Seller to Buyer. On this date, the Buyer becomes the legal owner, and title insurance becomes effective.

Cloud on Title - An invalid encumbrance on real property, which, if valid, would affect the rights of the owner. For example: a sells lot 1, tract 1, to b. The deed is mistakenly drawn to read lot 2, tract 1. A cloud is created on lot 2 by the recording of the erroneous deed. The cloud may be removed by quitclaim deed, or, if necessary, by court action.

Comparable Sales - Sales that have similar characteristics as the subject property, used for analysis in the appraisal. Commonly called "comps".

Conveyance - An instrument in writing, such as a deed or trust deed, used to transfer (convey) title to property from one person to another.

Deed of Trust or Trust Deed - A written document by which the title to land is conveyed as security for the repayment of a loan or other obligation. It is a form of mortgage. The landowner or debtor is called the "trustor." The party to whom the legal title is conveyed (and who may be called on to conduct a sale thereof if the loan is not paid) is the "trustee." The lender is the "beneficiary." When the loan is paid off, the trustee is asked by the beneficiary to issue a "recon" or reconveyance. This reconveyance corresponds to the release that the holder of a mortgage executes when the mortgage is paid off.

Deed Restrictions - Limitations on the use of property placed in the conveyancing deed by the grantor, which bind all future owners.

Earnest Money Deposit - Down payment made by a purchaser of real estate as evidence of good faith; a deposit or partial payment.

Easement - A right created by grant, reservation, agreement, prescription, or necessary implication, which one has in the land of another. It is either for the benefit of land (appurtenant), such as right to cross a to get to b, or "in gross," such as a public utility easement.

Hazard Insurance - Real estate insurance protecting against fire, some natural causes, vandalism, etc., depending upon the policy. Buyer often adds liability insurance and extended coverage for personal property.

Homestead Exemption - Automatic in Arizona, it allows any resident of Arizona, 18 years of age or older, to exempt from attachment, execution or forced sale $100,000 of equity in a single dwelling unit.  Exceptions include (1) process and sale of a consensual lien, i.e. where a deed of trust or equity loan is foreclosed; (2) a forced sale resulting from a mechanic's lien, and (3) any equity beyond the $100,000.  (You should consult an attorney to determine if this exemption offers you protection in the event of an attachment, execution or forced sale.)

Impounds - A trust type of account established by lenders for the accumulation of borrower's funds to meet periodic payments of taxes, mortgage insurance premiums, and/or future insurance policy premiums, required to protect their security.

Legal Description - A description of land recognized by law, based on government surveys, spelling out the exact boundaries of the entire piece of land. It should so thoroughly identify a parcel of land that it cannot be confused with any other.

Lien - An encumbrance against property for money, either voluntary or involuntary. All liens are encumbrances but all encumbrances are not liens.

Mortgage - (1) To hypothecate as security, real property for the payment of a debt. The borrower (mortgagor) retains possession and use of the property. (2) The instrument by which real estate is hypothecated as security for the repayment of a loan.

PITI - A payment that combines Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance.

Power of Attorney - A document by which one person (called the "principal") authorizes another person (called the "attorney-in-fact") to act for him/her in a specific manner in designated transactions.

Purchase Agreement - The purchase contract between the Buyer and Seller.  It is usually completed by the real estate agent and signed by the Buyer and Seller.

Quitclaim Deed - A deed operating as a release; intended to pass any title, interest, or claim which the grantor may have in the property, but not containing any warranty of a valid interest or title in the grantor.

Recording - Filing documents affecting real property as a matter of public record, giving notice to future purchasers, creditors, or other interested parties. Recording is controlled by statute and usually requires the witnessing and notarizing of an instrument to be recorded.   This is done with the County Recorder as a matter of public record.

Warranty Deed - A real-estate oriented document used to convey fee title to real property from the grantor (usually the Seller) to the grantee (usually the Buyer).

General Buyer Information

Areas in this section (click to immediately go to a specific area):

SELECTING A HOME

When you visit homes that you might want to purchase, it is always best to write down what you liked best and least about each one.  Rate features and/or make notes that will help you determine what pleased or displeased you. 

Remembering each home you see would appear easy, but it can quickly be confusing.   Having notes is especially important as the more homes you see the more they tend to get confused in your mind.  "Now which one had those walk-in closets in each bedroom?"  "Which one was near the school?"  Write down a "Something Memorable" category and note something you think is unusual such as a stained glass window, fruit trees, a child's playhouse.  This will make it easier for you to recall the property later and refer to a specific address.  And, last but not least, maybe the most important question - "Does this house feel like home?"

Contact us and we can provide a form called "Selecting A Home" which will help you in your search.

RENT VERSUS BUY

Why pay rent when you could build equity in a home? - Ever thought how much you pay in rent over an extended period of time?  Probably a lot more than you realize.  The amount you spend for rent each month could be applied to a mortgage, not only building equity in your own property, but - in most cases - substantially reducing the Federal and State income taxed you pay each year.  And what happens to your rent money?  It's gone!  There is no interest, no equity and not return.

Interest rates are still low, and you may be surprised at what you can afford.  To determine your home-buying ability, call your Realtor (you can reach us at 480-473-9999) or call your lender.  Our consultation is free with no strings attached so call us today.

THE LIFE OF AN ESCROW

The Escrow is a term for the time period after a Buyer has had their offer accepted by a Seller when Escrow is "Opened" at the Title Company through the "Close of Escrow" when the loan has been funded and the documents recorded.

Bullet Image See a graphical depiction of the steps »

TITLE COMMITMENT AND THE ESCROW PROCESS

What is an escrow? - An escrow is a process wherein the Buyer and Seller deposit written instructions, documents, and funds with a neutral third party until certain conditions are fulfilled.  In a real estate transaction, the Buyer does not pay the Seller directly for the property.  The Buyer gives the funds to an escrow company who, acting as an intermediary, verifies that title to the property is clear and all written instructions in the contract have been met.  Then the company transfers the ownership of the property to the Buyer through recordation and pays the Seller.  This process protects all parties involved.

The State of Arizona licenses and regulates all escrow companies.  The Insurance Commissioner and the State Banking Department can inspect a company's records at any time, providing further oversight of the company's management and position as an impartial third party to the transaction.

In Arizona, escrow services are generally provided by a title insurance company instead of an attorney.  The stability, reliability and performance of your title and escrow company are vital to protect the interests of all parties to the transaction.

We recommend First American Title to our clients who will provide the following services:

  • Open escrow and deposit your "good faith" funds in a separate escrow account.
  • Conduct a title search to determine ownership and status of the subject property.
  • Issue a title commitment and begin the process to delete or record items to provide clear title to the property.
  • Per contract, confirm that the lender has determined you, the Buyer, are qualified for a new loan.
  • Ask you to complete a beneficiary's statement if you are assuming the Seller's loan.
  • Meet all deadlines as specified in the contract.
  • Request payoff information for the Seller's loans, other liens, homeowner's association fees, etc.
  • Prorate fees, such as property taxes, per the contract, and prepare the settlement statement.
  • Set separate appointments:  Seller will sign documents; you will sign documents and deposit funds.
  • Review documents ensuring all conditions and legal requirements are fulfilled; request funds from lender.
  • When all funds are deposited, record documents at the County Recorder to transfer the subject property to you.
  • After recordation is confirmed, close escrow and disburse funds, including Seller's proceeds, loan payoffs, Realtor's commissions (paid by Seller), related fees for recording, etc.
  • Prepare and send final documents to parties involved.

How is an escrow opened? - Once you have completed the contract (or Purchase Agreement), and the Seller has accepted the offer, your Realtor will open the escrow.  The earnest money deposit and the contract are place in escrow.  As a neutral party to the transaction, the Title Company such as First American can respond only to those written instructions agreed to mutually by all "interested" parties (Seller and Buyer); they cannon otherwise alter the contract or create instructions, and that protects all interested parties.

How to Hold Title - You should inform your escrow officer and lender as soon as possible of how you wish to hold title to your home an exactly how your name(s) will appear on all documents.  This allows your lender and title company to prepare all documents correctly.  (Changes later, such as adding or deleting an initial in your name, can delay your closing.)  A comparison of the ways to hold title in the state of Arizona can be found in the next section below.  You may also wish to consult an attorney, accountant or professional before deciding how to hold title.

WAYS TO TAKE TITLE

Arizona is a community property state.  Property acquired by a husband and wife is presumed to be community property unless legally specified otherwise.  Title may be held as "Sole and Separate."  If a married person acquires title as sole and separate, his or her spouse must execute a disclaimer deed to avoid the presumption of community property.  Parties may choose to hold title in the name of an entity, e.g. a corporation; a limited liability company (LLC); a partnership (general or limited), or a trust.  Each method of taking title has certain significant legal and tax consequences; therefore, you are encouraged to obtain advice from an attorney or other qualified professional.

TITLE INSURANCE

What is Title Insurance? - Title Insurance provides coverage for certain losses due to defects in the title that occurred prior to your ownership.  The Seller can give only those rights that previously have been received with "good title".  Title insurance protects against defects such as prior fraud or forgery that might go undetected until after closing and possibly jeopardize your ownership and investment.

The Title Industry in Brief - Prior to the development of the title industry in the late 1800s, a homebuyer received a grantor's warranty, attorney's title opinion, or abstractor's certificate as assurance of home ownership. The Buyer relied on the financial integrity of the grantor, attorney, or abstractor for protection.  Today, title insurance companies are regulated by state statute.  They are required to post financial guarantees to ensure that any claims will be paid in a timely fashion.  They also must maintain their own "title plants" which house duplicates of recorded deeds, mortgages, plats, and other pertinent county property records.

Why Title Insurance is Needed - Title insurance assures the new Buyers that they are acquiring marketable title from the Seller.  It is designed to eliminate risk or loss caused by defects in title from the past.  Title insurance protects the interest of the mortgage lender as well as the equity of the Buyer for as long as they or their heirs have any interest in the property.

When is the Premium Due? - It is a one-time premium which is paid at the close of escrow.  It is customary for the Seller to pay for the Owner's Policy.  If there is a new loan, the Buyer pays for the Lender's Policy.  The policy has a perpetual term and provided coverage for as long as you are in a position to suffer a loss.

WHO PAYS CLOSING COSTS?

Your contract and any applicable government regulations determine who pays which closing costs.  Your Realtor can explain these costs to you.

The Buyer Generally Will Pay:

  • Lender's title policy premium, if new loan.
  • Escrow fee, one half (except Seller pays all on VA).
  • Document preparation, if applicable.
  • Notary fees, if applicable.
  • Recording charges for all documents in Buyer's names.
  • Homeowners Association transfer fee, one half (if any).
  • Two months Homeowners Association fees.
  • All new loan charges (except those lender requires Seller to pay).
  • Interest on new loan from date of funding to 30 days prior to first payment due.
  • Assumption/change of records fees for takeover of existing loan (on assumption loan only).
  • Beneficiary statement fee for assumption of existing loan.
  • Home warranty premium per contract.
  • Hazard insurance premium for first year.
  • All prepaid items, such as interest, or funds for an escrow account..
  • Courier fees if applicable.
  • Professional home inspection/s.

The Seller Generally Will Pay:

  • Owner's title insurance premium.
  • Realtor's commission.
  • Escrow fee, one half (except Seller pays all on VA).
  • Any loan fees required by Buyer's lender, i.e. FHA, VA.
  • All loans in Seller's name (unless Buyer assumes existing loan).
  • Interest accrued on loan being paid off, statement fees, reconveyance fees, prepayment penalties.
  • Termite inspection and termite repairs, per contract.    Buyer often hires termite inspector and pays as a result.
  • Home warranty premium per contract.
  • Homeowners Association transfer fee, on half (if any).
  • Homeowners Association Disclosure Fee.
  • Any unpaid Homeowners Association dues.
  • Any judgments, tax liens, etc. against Seller.
  • Recording charges to clear all documents of record against Seller.
  • Property taxes:  pro-rated to the date the title is transferred plus any delinquent taxes.
  • Any bonds or assessments per contract.
  • Courier fee if applicable.
  • Septic fees per contract.
  • Any repairs per contract.

ARIZONA GOOD FUNDS LAW

House Bill 2074 requires that "escrow agents not disburse money from an escrow account until funds related to the transaction have been deposited and available."  The legislation specifies which forms of payments are acceptable for deposit.  All availability dates are based on funds deposited in the bank, and the days are considered business days.  A business day is defined as a calendar day other than Saturday or Sunday, and also excluding most major holidays.

The seller should note that this law may affect the time needed for recordation, possession or disbursement of sale funds.

Same-Day Availability

  • Cash:  Special requirements may need to be met if necessary to receive cash.
  • Electronic Payment/Transfer or Wire:  This is the preferred method for loan proceeds.

Next Day

  • Official Checks:  Must be In-State checks drawn on FDIC-Insured Institution.
  • Cashiers, Certified or Tellers Checks
  • U.S. Treasury Checks
  • Postal Money Orders (other Money Orders - consult Title Company)
  • Federal Reserve, Federal Credit Union and Federal Home Loan Bank Checks
  • State and Local Government Checks:  Must be In-State

2nd Day

  • Other Checks:  Personal, Corporate, Credit Union, Money Market and Travelers Checks -- Must be Local

AFTER THE CLOSING

We recommend you keep all records pertaining to your home together in a safe place, including all purchase documents, insurance, maintenance and improvements.

Loan Payments and Impounds - You should receive your loan coupon book before your first payment is due.  If you don't receive your book, or if you have questions about your tax and insurance impounds, contact your lender.

Home Warranty Repairs - If you have a home warranty policy, call your home warranty company directly for repairs.  Have your policy number available when you call.

Recorded Deed - The original deed to your home will be mailed directly to you by the County Recorder, generally within two to three weeks.

Title Insurance Policy - Your title company will mail your policy to you.  First American usually mails to you in about two to three weeks.

Property Taxes - You may not receive a tax statement for the current year on the home you buy; however, it is your obligation to make sure the taxes are paid when due.  Check with your mortgage company to find out if taxes are included with your payment.  For more information on your Maricopa County property taxes, contact the Maricopa County Tax Assessor at 602-506-3406 or the Maricopa County Treasurer at 602-506-8511.

Financing

Areas in this section (click to immediately go to a specific area):

OBTAINING A NEW LOAN

When and Where to Apply for a Loan - There are many sources for home loans including banks, credit unions, mortgage companies, and mortgage brokers.  Your Realtor may give you several names of lenders who have proven reliable in their previous transactions. 

Apply for a loan as soon as possible.  In fact, it's probably a good idea to know what you can afford before you begin looking for your new home.  It can give you more bargaining power when negotiating with a Seller, especially in today's market.  A lender can pre qualify you for a certain price range and help you avoid disappointment later.

Your lender will mail out verification requests and order an appraisal on the property you are buying.  If your lender asks for additional items, please comply promptly with those requests to avoid delaying loan approval.

What is Hazard or Fire Insurance? - Hazard insurance covers the dwelling itself and is required by the lender to protect their "risk" in your home.  Your lender or Realtor will explain the necessary hazard insurance coverage to you.  If you are buying a condominium, a master policy already exists which includes your unit -- but it does not cover your personal belongings.

Contact your Insurance Agent early in the process, because this coverage must be provided so that the lender can release loan funds to the Title Company.  Hazard insurance is one of the items frequently postponed until the last minute, and this can result in delaying the closing for a day or more.  Order your insurance as soon as your loan is approved; then furnish your escrow officer with the agent's name and phone number.

When you talk with your insurance agent, be sure to ask about additional coverage in a homeowner's policy to insure your personal belongings and to protect against liability for such events as injuries to visitors.

What happens after loan approval?  After loan approval and just prior to your planned closing date, the lender will send loan documents to the Title Company, and your escrow officer will prepare an estimated settlement statement.  This statement indicates what funds go where, and at this time your escrow officer can tell you how much money you need to bring to the closing appointment.  Be aware that this amount may be higher or lower than previously estimated due to changes in such items as prepaid interest, prorated fees, courier fees, and impound accounts.

WHAT YOU MAY NEED FOR THE LOAN APPLICATION

Be prepared to provide some or all of these items to your loan officer:

  • Addresses of residences for the last two years
  • Social Security Number
  • Driver's License or other valid ID
  • Names and addresses of employers for last two years
  • Two recent pay stubs showing year-to-date earnings
  • Federal tax returns for last two years
  • W-2 forms for last two years
  • Last two months statements for all checking and savings accounts
  • Loans:  Names, addresses, account numbers, and payment amounts on all loans
  • Real estate loans:  Names, addresses, account numbers, and payment amounts on all loans for other real estate you own
  • Credit cards:  Names, addresses, account numbers, and payment amounts on all credit cards
  • Addresses and values of other real estate owned
  • Value of personal property.  Your best estimate of the value of all your personal property (autos, boats, furniture, jewelry, television, stereo, computer, other electronics, etc.)
  • For a VA loan, Certificate of Eligibility or DD214s
  • Divorce decree if applicable
  • Funds to pay up front for the credit report and appraisal

WHAT TO AVOID DURING THE LOAN PROCESS

Do NOT change jobs - A job change may result in your loan being denied, particularly if you are taking a lower paying position or moving into a different field.  Don't think you're safe because you've received approval earlier in the process, as the lender may call your employer to re-verify your employment just prior to funding the loan.

Avoid switching banks or moving your money to another institution - After the lender has verified your funds at one or more institutions, the money should remain there until needed for the purchase.

Don't pay off existing accounts unless the lender requests it - If your Loan Officer advises you to pay off certain bills in order to qualify for the loan, follow that advice.  Otherwise, leave your accounts as they are until your escrow closes.

Don't make any large purchases - A major purchase that requires a withdrawal from your verified funds or increases your debt can result in your not qualifying for the loan.  A lender may check your credit or re-verify funds at the last minute, so avoid purchases that could impact your loan approval.

TYPES OF LOANS

Adjustable Rate Loan - Adjustable or variable rate refers to the fluctuating interest rate you'll pay over the life of the loan.  The rate is adjusted periodically to coincide with changes in the index on which the rate is based.  The minimum and maximum amounts of adjustment, as well as the frequency of adjustment are specified in the loan terms.  An adjustable rate mortgage may allow you to qualify for a higher loan amount but maximums, caps and time frames should be considered before deciding on this type of loan.

Assumable Loan - A true assumable loan is rare today!  This loan used to enable a buyer to pay the seller for the equity in the home and take over the payments without meeting any requirements.  Assumables these days generally require standard income, credit and funds verification by the lender before the loan can be transferred to the buyer.

Balloon Payment Loan - A balloon loan is amortized over a long period but the balance is due and payable much sooner, such as amortized over 30 years but due in five years.  The loan also may be extendable or it may roll into a different type.  This could be an option if you expect to refinance before the loan is due or you plan to sell before that date.  Discus this option carefully with your Loan Officer before accepting this type of loan.

Buy-Down Loan - If you have cash to spare, you can pay a portion of the interest up front to reduce your monthly payments.

Community Homebuyer's Program - This program is designed to assist first-time buyers by offering a fixed rate and a low downpayment, such as 3 to 5% down.  The program doesn't require cash reserves, and qualifying ratios are more lenient; however, the buyer's income must fall within a certain range and a training course may be necessary if required by the program.  Ask your Loan Officer if this program is available in your community and whether or not you might qualify.

Conventional Loan - This simply describes a loan that is not obtained under any government-insured program, secured by investors.  It could be any type:  fixed, adjustable, balloon, etc.

FHA Loan - This program is beneficial for buyers who don't have large downpayments.  The loan is insured by the Federal Housing Administration under Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and offers easier qualifying with less cash needed up front but the condition of the property is strictly regulated.  The Seller will pay a portion of the closing costs that would typically be paid by they buyer in a conventional loan program.

Fixed Rate Loan - This loan has one interest rate that is constant throughout the loan.

Graduated Payments - This is a mortgage that has lower payments in the beginning that increase a pre-determined amount (not based on current rate fluctuations as with an adjustable) usually on an annual schedule for a specific number of years.

No-Qualifying - A no-qualifying loan may be an option for those who can afford a larger downpayment, generally 25% to 30% or more.  Since the risk for the lender is virtually eliminated, the borrower doesn't have to meet normal lender requirements such as proof of income.

VA Loan - People who have served in the U.S. armed forces can apply for a VA loan which covers up to 100% of the purchase price and requires little or no downpayment.  The seller pays much of the closing costs but those fees are added to the sales price of the home.

CALCULATING MORTGAGE PAYMENTS

You can quickly determine a payment (Principal and Interest only) using the Financial Calculator at this link »

Contact your Loan Officer to determine more accurately what price range you should consider.  Lenders abide by certain ratios when calculating the loan amount their customers can qualify for and the ratios vary by lender and loan program.  Many use 28% of your gross monthly income as the maximum allowed for your mortgage payment (Principal/Interest/Taxes/Insurance or PITI); for your total monthly debt, the ratio is 36%.  Total monthly expenses means PITI plus long-term debt (such as auto loans) and revolving/credit-card debt.  Do not include other expenses such as groceries, utilities, clothing, tuition, etc., to calculate this ratio.

Moving / School / Pets / Emergency Numbers

Areas in this section (click to immediately go to a specific area):

PLANNING YOUR MOVE

2 Months Before the Move

  • Decide whether you will use a professional mover or move everything yourself.
  • Research your new city through the Chamber of Commerce or through many of the online websites.
  • Set the date for your move.  Consider timing your move to coincide with 'off-peak' moving periods.  Generally Mondays, Fridays and first and last days of each month are the busiest times for professional movers and truck rental.
  • If using a mover, obtain estimates from at least three professional moving companies as well as recommendations from friends before making your selection.
  • If moving yourself, obtain estimates for the hire of removal trucks, etc. Make a booking to hire your selected vehicle/s for the moving day/s.
  • Sketch a floor plan of your new home.  Photocopy this plan and then draft onto it the layout for your furniture.  Will everything fit?  Perhaps some furniture may need to be sold or given away.
  • Start using up food from your freezer to save it spoiling during the move.
  • Clean out clutter. Perhaps hold a garage sale or donate items to charity.
  • Start developing a list of all the people who you will want to notify about your move.  Include schools, doctors, dentists, creditors, attorney, accountant, broker, and any recurring services such as maid, lawn, exterminator, water softener, diaper, internet provider, etc.  As mail is received, check that the sender is on your list of people to inform.  This will include friends, relatives, banks, any subscriptions or catalogues, etc.

6 Weeks Before the Move

  • Discuss the moving details with your mover, including all costs and insurance cover.  When you are completely satisfied with the details, book the mover for the day of the move.  Also collect as many packing boxes as the moving company is willing to provide.
  • If you are moving yourself, start collecting boxes.  You could gather used boxes from supermarkets or friends but make sure these can withstand the rigors of moving.  Alternatively buy or hire sturdy moving boxes from professional moving companies.
  • Develop an inventory of all your possessions.  This will come in handy not only for organizing your move, but also as a record of your assets for insurance purposes.
  • Arrange for the transfer of your children’s school records to their new school.
  • Send out furniture or drapes, etc. to be cleaned.
  • Start notifying others of your forthcoming change in address.  This is especially important for any businesses you may deal with as it can often take time to update your address on their systems.  Why not produce a moving notice and photocopy this for distribution?
  • Fill in a form at the post office to have your mail redirected.  You should elect to have your mail forwarded to this new address for at least two months following your move.

1 Month Before the Move

  • If you need to organize storage, do this now.
  • Using your inventory list, start organizing how you will pack your possessions.   How many boxes will you need? Which items should be packed last and unpacked first?
  • If you have pets, consider how these will be moved.  Perhaps ask your vet to recommend companies who specialize in the safe transport of pets.
  • Arrange for final readings of your services, e.g. gas, water and electricity, to be performed just prior to your move.  Also organize for these services to be connected in your new home prior to your arrival.
  • Make sure that your telephone is connected at both your new and old addresses during the move.  This will allow for communication between the two places should this be necessary.  Alternatively, borrow two mobile phones if you don't have them.
  • If you are going to need temporary accommodation, make the necessary hotel/motel bookings.

3 Weeks Before the Move

  • Gather together all the packing materials you will need.  This includes: Packing Tape, Bubble Wrap, Styrofoam 'beads', Old Newspapers, Scissors, Utility Knife, Packing String, Rope, Labels, Marking Pens, Hand Truck and/or Dolly, Plenty of Boxes, etc.
  • Start packing the items that you will not need over the next few weeks, e.g. extra linen or spare crockery.

2 Weeks Before the Move

  • Transfer all your bank accounts to new branch locations.
  • Cancel all deliveries, e.g. newspaper, milk.
  • Check on the arrangements for the new telephone service and other connections.
  • Consider storing jewelry and valuables, including certain legal documents, at your bank during the move.  Alternatively, set these aside to carry with you on the day of the move.
  • Ensure your possessions will be fully insured during the move.  If not, arrange for extra insurance cover.
  • Contact the council where you are going to reside to find out about garbage pick-up, local regulations and other information.

1 Week Before the Move

  • Return all library books and rented videos.  Also don't forget to collect any dry-cleaning, shoes from the repairer or lay-bys.
  • If necessary, arrange a babysitter for the day of the move.
  • Tidy up the garden and outside area.
  • Arrange for new locks to be installed on the house you are moving into.
  • Defrost your refrigerator and freezer.
  • Finalize all packing.  Number each box and take notes on their contents. Also, keep items from different rooms in separate boxes.
  • Keep in mind that heavier items deserve smaller boxes.
  • Mark any items that should be handled with care.
  • Pack bags of clothing and toiletries to take with you rather than send with the mover.
  • Have the carpet steam cleaned.
  • Also put together a box of items which could be useful for the day of the move. This might include such items as scissors, a utility knife, paper plates and towels, toilet paper, drinks, cups, soap, Band-Aids, headache tablets, tea towels, rubbish bags and small toys for children.

Moving Day

  • Remove all remaining food from your refrigerator and freezer.
  • Clean out cupboards, sweep the floors and ensure the house is tidy for its next inhabitant.
  • Double check rooms, cupboards, drawers, shelves, outdoor areas and the garage to make sure you have taken everything.
  • Turn off all services, including the mains switch and taps.
  • Lock all windows and doors securely.
  • Leave the old house keys with the real estate agent for collection by the new inhabitant.
  • Check to see if all the services are on and appliances are working in your new home.
  • Check off each box as it comes off the truck.
  • Register for voting in the new electorate.
  • Visit your new post office to see whether they are holding any mail for you.

SCHOOL INFORMATION

School Crossing Sign

Before children can attend private or public schools and preschools, parents must show proof of their children's immunizations.  Requirements typically include multiple doses of Polio, Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertusis, and Hepatitis B.  Children may be admitted if they have received one dos of required immunizations and if parents provide a schedule for remaining requirements.  For specific requirements and exemptions, call the County Health Department at 602-506-6767, your school administration office, or your physician.  You also may want to inquire about free immunizations available at numerous locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan area.

ARIZONA PETS

Gecko ImageThe Maricopa County leash law states that no dogs (or cats) can run loose unless participating at a kennel club sanctioned event, or dogs are being used for livestock control or hunting.  Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies and then licenses annually by the County.  Licenses can be purchased at any Animal Control facility or through the mail.  Call 602-506-7387 for more information.

Services provided by Animal Control include adoptions, vaccinations, tick dips, licenses, and pickup of stray dogs.  Spaying and neutering are recommended for all pets!

Don't forget to get new name tags for your pets and update registration information with local licensing offices.  if your pet is lost and picked up by Animal Control, it will be held a maximum of only three days if it doesn't have tags, or six days if it has tags, before being destroyed.  You are responsible for visiting the Animal Control facilities to look for your lost pet.  Also, to report lost or found pets, call 1-888PETS911 or visit their website at www.1888PETS911.org

The Arizona Humane Society picks up injured and roaming stray animals and will accept strays brought in by non-owners.  All strays are transferred to Animal Control.  Animals given up by owners may be offered for adoption by the Humane Society, but many are taken to Animal Control.

ARIZONA PHONE NUMBERS

Emergency Numbers to Keep on Hand

  • Emergency -- 911
  • Crisis Services -- 602-249-1749
  • Drug Abuse Hotline -- 800-992-9239
  • Scottsdale Police Department -- 480-312-5000 (non-emergency)
  • Phoenix Police Dept -- 602-262-6151 (non-emergency)
  • Poison Control Hotline -- 602-253-3334
  • Suicide Prevention Center -- 480-784-1500
  • Youth Crisis Hotline -- 800-448-4663

 

Bullet Image Real Estate Agents - Realtors®

National Association of Realtors LogoREALTOR® - A Realtor is a licensed real estate agent and a member of the National Association of Realtors, a real estate trade association.

Realtors belong to state and also a local Association of Realtors.   They have a wealth of resources at their disposal, including the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and continuing education.  All association members agree to abide by a 17-article Code of Ethics and strive for the height of professionalism.

REAL ESTATE AGENT - A real estate agent is licensed by the state to represent parties in the transfer of property.  Every Realtor is a real estate agent but not every agent is a professional Realtor.

LISTING AGENT - A Listing agent forms a legal relationship with the homeowner to sell the property.  A Realtor can place the property in the MLS.

BUYER'S AGENT - A Buyer's agent or Buyer broker is an agent hired by the Buyer.  Generally, the Buyer broker is paid the commission fee agreed to by the Seller.

MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE (MLS) - The MLS is a database of properties listed for sale by Realtors who are members of the local Association of Realtors.  Information on an MLS property is available to thousands of Realtors.

COMMITMENT IS A TWO-WAY STREET - Your Realtor will make a commitment to spend valuable hours finding the right home for you:  re-searching listings, pre-viewing properties, visiting homes with you, and negotiating your contract.  Honor that commitment by staying with the Realtor you've selected until you purchase your home.  Be sure your Realtor accompanies you on your first visit to all new homes and open houses as well.

The advantages of working with only one Realtor include:

  • The Realtor becomes familiar with your family's needs.
  • You develop better rapport and communication when working towards your goal with only one Realtor.
  • The Realtor is more committed to you because you return that commitment.
  • You avoid any uncomfortable situation arising from agent conflict.

Benefits from using a Professional Realtor

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR DECISION TO BUY A HOME! - It's a challenging project, and there are many ways a professional can help.  Here are some of the many ways you may benefit from working with a Realtor:

IT WON'T COST YOU A PENNY! - The Realtor who helps you buy a home is traditionally paid by the Seller, even though they have fiduciary (financial) responsibility just to you, the Buyer.

MANY MORE HOME CHOICES - Your Realtor has thousands of homes to choose from through the MLS, so you're more likely to find the home that's just right for you and find it quicker.  In fact, a majority of the homes for sale are listed by Realtors and aren't available to you unless you are working with a Realtor.

A NUMBER OF TRANSACTIONS "FALL OUT" - Unfortunately, it's true.  Some transactions fall apart before closing.  An experienced Realtor may be able to resolve problems and see your transaction through to a successful closing.

KNOWLEDGE OF NEW HOME SUBDIVISIONS - New home subdivisions will welcome you and your Realtor.  If you're interested in buying a new home, take your agent with you on your first visit to each subdivision.  Your professional Realtor is an important source of information who can supply background on the builder, nearby subdivisions, and the local community.

IT'S A MAJOR INVESTMENT - You use a professional for your legal, financial and health needs.  Why gamble on what may be your biggest investment without a professional at your side?

HELP WITH FSBO'S - If you consider a "For Sale By Owner," take your Realtor along to help negotiate the contract.  The owner may not only agree to your terms, but also agree to pay the agent's commission.

LESS LIABILITY - You will have more protection from legal and financial liability, especially as real estate transactions become more complicated.

THE PAPERWORK - Your experienced Realtor will negotiate and prepare the purchase contract for you and assist you throughout the escrow process.