4 Tips for Buying a Home in Phoenix

Whether you’re looking to buy a home in Phoenix for you and your family to live in, or you’re planning on turning it into an investment property, here are 4 tips for purchasing a house in this desert state.

Choose the Right Realtor

Picking the right realtor can make or break your entire home-buying experience, and it can also dramatically impact how much you end up paying for a home. Look for realtors like AZ Flat Fee that specifically focus on the Phoenix area and have an intimate knowledge of the properties available and what each neighborhood is like.

Don’t be afraid to interview multiple realtors before picking the one that’s right for you. Make sure the realtor is interested in your wants and needs when it comes to a house and they’re not just interested in getting your business.

Consider Buying During Summer Months

In the heat of the summer, Phoenix becomes a great time to buy a house. While you will need to survive the 100+ degree temperatures, there is typically less competition because potential homebuyers prefer to wait until the weather is a bit more manageable (especially those moving from cooler states that are not used to extreme heat).

Research Phoenix Suburbs

There are several suburbs within Phoenix, and they each have their own charm and vibe. While your realtor can help you understand each of the different areas, it’s good to have an idea of the general type of area you’re looking to buy in to help narrow down the search. Here are a few of the areas you might consider:

Gilbert

If the school district is important to you, Gilbert is a great place to settle down in. It’s one of the best places in Arizona to send your kids to school in, and there are several job opportunities available. The cost of living it a bit higher than average, so depending on your budget, Gilbert may be at the top-end of your price range.

Chandler

If you want to be a bit removed from downtown and live in an area with a very low crime rate, Chandler could be a strong contender. It’s about 25 miles from downtown, and it definitely has more of a suburban feel than some of the other areas in Phoenix. This area is also a bit more affordable than places like Gilbert or Scottsdale.

Paradise Valley

This is probably one of the top rated suburbs in Phoenix, though you’ll need to be able to spend a good amount to get into this community. On average, houses here are over the million dollar mark. If your budget allows you to purchase in this area though, it’s a great place to raise a family!

Check for Pests

Every state tends to have that one negative thing they’re known for – California has earthquakes, Florida gets hit by hurricanes, and Arizona has scorpions everywhere. Don’t let this deter you from buying a home in your dream location, though!

One thing to know about scorpions is that they are territorial, which could work to your advantage, especially if you are buying a home that is already built. Get information from the previous homeowner about the scorpion activity on the property to know if they were commonly seen (and how often). Sometimes, one house within a neighborhood can be a hotspot for scorpions, while other houses rarely see them.

Additionally, certain areas of Phoenix have issues with roof rats, which can live up in house attics. While the seller should disclose this type of information, be sure to have an inspector do a thorough walkthrough of the home you’re interested in.

Regardless of the stage of life you’re in, Phoenix is a great place to live and there’s something for everyone here.