Essential Information for Home Buyers
Buying a home is a major investment, and having the right information can make all the difference. The Arizona Buyer Advisory (January 2025), provided by the Arizona Association of REALTORS® and the Arizona Department of Real Estate, is designed to help home buyers make informed decisions.
This guide outlines key documents, property conditions, and neighborhood factors every buyer should consider before purchasing a home in Arizona.
Why This Advisory Is Important
Real estate agents are valuable guides in the home-buying process, but they are not qualified to inspect or evaluate a property’s condition. That responsibility falls on the buyer. The Buyer Advisory serves as a supplemental resource to professional property inspections and due diligence.
What You’ll Find in This Advisory:
- Common documents a buyer should review
- Physical conditions of the property to investigate
- Factors affecting the surrounding area
- Additional resources for buyers
🔹 Full Advisory Document: Arizona Buyer Advisory (January 2025)
1. Important Documents to Review
Before purchasing a home, review these essential documents:
🏡 Purchase Contract
The Arizona REALTORS® Residential Resale Real Estate Purchase Contract outlines the legal obligations of both buyers and sellers. Buyers should read and understand the contract before making an offer.
📄 Arizona REALTORS® Residential Resale Purchase Contract
📑 MLS Printout
The listing provided in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) may contain errors or approximations. Buyers should verify all details regarding the property before proceeding.
📋 Subdivision Disclosure Report (Public Report)
New subdivisions require a Public Report, which contains important details about zoning, utilities, and restrictions.
🔗 Search for Arizona Public Reports
🔗 Arizona Property Buyer’s Checklist
📄 Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement (SPDS)
Most sellers provide a SPDS, which details any known issues with the property. Even if this document is not provided, sellers are still legally obligated to disclose known defects.
📜 Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs)
If the home is part of an HOA (Homeowners Association), the CC&Rs outline community rules and regulations.
📁 Title Report & Loan Information
A title report lists property ownership history, easements, and liens. Buyers should also ensure loan terms are clear before finalizing financing.
🔗 What is Title Insurance?
🔗 Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Buying a House
🔍 Home Inspection & Lead-Based Paint Disclosure
- Professional Inspection Report – Essential for identifying defects.
- Lead-Based Paint Disclosure – Required for homes built before 1978.
🔗 AAR Lead-Based Paint Disclosure Form
🔗 Home Inspection Guide
2. Common Physical Conditions to Investigate
Arizona homes may have unique issues. Buyers should inspect:
🏠 Home Structure & Roof
- Check for past repairs, remodeling, and construction permits.
- Roof inspections are recommended for homes over 10 years old.
🔗 Arizona Roofing Contractors Association
💧 Water, Sewer & Septic Systems
- Verify sewer connections with a licensed plumber.
- If the home uses a septic system, an inspection is required.
🔗 Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) – Septic Information
🔗 Arizona Water Companies
🐜 Pest Control
- Arizona homes are prone to termites, scorpions, and roof rats.
- Check for past termite treatments before purchasing.
🔗 Arizona Department of Agriculture – Termite Information
🔗 Pest Control Resources
🏚️ Environmental & Indoor Concerns
- Mold, radon gas, and carbon monoxide testing are recommended.
- Check for past fires or floods that may affect home stability.
🔗 EPA Indoor Air Quality
🔗 CDC Mold Information
3. Factors Affecting the Surrounding Area
🚗 Freeway Construction & Traffic
Check for planned roadway projects that may impact commute times and noise levels.
🔗 Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Projects
🚔 Crime Statistics & Sex Offenders
- Crime rates vary by neighborhood.
- Arizona has a public sex offender registry for safety awareness.
🔗 Community Crime Map
🔗 Arizona Sex Offender Registry
🌊 Flood Zones & Insurance
If the home is in a flood-prone area, additional flood insurance may be required.
🔗 National Flood Insurance Program
🔗 Arizona Floodplain Information
🏫 Schools & Zoning
- Research local schools and zoning laws before purchasing.
🔗 Arizona Department of Education
4. Additional Resources for Home Buyers
🏡 Market Conditions & Fair Housing
- Real estate prices fluctuate based on market conditions.
- Fair housing laws protect against discrimination.
🔗 Arizona REALTORS® Fair Housing Advisory
💸 Protect Yourself from Wire Fraud
- Cybercriminals may attempt to steal your down payment.
- Always verify wire instructions before sending funds.
🔗 Arizona REALTORS® Wire Fraud Advisory
Final Thoughts
The Arizona Buyer Advisory (2025) is an essential tool for any home buyer. Understanding the property, neighborhood, and local regulations will help you make an informed decision.
📢 Need expert guidance? Contact me today for personalized real estate assistance!