Arizona Home Buying Timeline
Once your offer is accepted, the clock starts ticking. But don't worry—I'll help you keep track of every deadline so you can focus on getting ready for your new home.
Good to Know
You don't need to memorize everything on this page.
My job is to guide you through each step when the time comes, explain everything in plain English, and help you make informed decisions with confidence.
Why This Matters
The Arizona real estate contract is driven by strict timelines. Missing a deadline can put your earnest money at risk or cause delays in closing.
Understanding the general timeline helps you know what to expect, reduces surprises, and ensures we have enough time to complete inspections, secure financing, and review important documents.
You don't need to memorize these dates. My job as your project manager is to monitor the calendar, send you reminders, and make sure we stay on track.
What Happens During This Step?
1. Contract Acceptance
Once both parties sign the contract, escrow is officially opened. You'll need to deposit your earnest money (usually within 1-2 business days).
2. The Inspection Period
Typically 10 days. This is your time to inspect the property, review the Seller's Property Disclosure Statement (SPDS), and request any necessary repairs.
3. The Appraisal
If you're getting a loan, your lender will order an appraisal to verify the home's value. This usually happens after the inspection period.
4. Final Walkthrough
Usually a few days before closing. We'll walk through the home to ensure it's in the agreed-upon condition and any requested repairs have been completed.
5. Closing Day
You'll sign the final loan documents at the title company. Once the loan funds and the deed is recorded with the county, you get the keys!
What I'm Working On
Behind the Scenes
- Opening escrow and ensuring your earnest money is properly deposited.
- Coordinating with the inspector, listing agent, and sellers for access to the home.
- Following up with your lender weekly to ensure your loan is progressing smoothly.
- Reviewing the title commitment to check for any unexpected liens or issues.
- Monitoring every contract deadline to protect your earnest money.
- Drafting the Buyer's Inspection Notice and Seller's Response (BINSR) based on your repair requests.
Things You Can Do During This Step
- Schedule your inspection: We'll want to get this done as early in the 10-day period as possible.
- Review the SPDS: Read through the seller's disclosures carefully and write down any questions.
- Provide documents to your lender: Respond quickly to any requests from your loan officer to keep your financing on track.
- Don't make large purchases: Avoid buying furniture, cars, or opening new credit cards until after closing, as this can affect your loan.
Documents You'll See
The Arizona Purchase Contract
What is it? The legally binding agreement between you and the seller outlining the price, terms, and timelines.
Why it matters: It dictates exactly what happens, when it happens, and what happens if someone doesn't follow through.
Seller's Property Disclosure Statement (SPDS)
What is it? A document completed by the seller detailing everything they know about the property's condition, history, and any past repairs.
Why it matters: It helps you understand what you're buying and guides your home inspector on what to look closely at.
Contract Timeline
Note: Every transaction is unique, and these timeframes are estimates based on a typical 30-day closing.
- Day 1Contract Accepted. Escrow opened.
- Day 1-10Inspection Period. Review SPDS, HOA docs, and Title Commitment.
- Day 15-20Appraisal completed.
- Day 27Final Walkthrough. Sign closing documents.
- Day 30Closing Day! Loan funds, deed records, keys delivered.
Planning Around Real Life
Buying a home doesn't happen in a vacuum. Here are some practical things to consider as we move toward closing:
- Lease Notice: If you're renting, check your lease for required notice periods. Try to build in a few days of overlap so you aren't rushing to move in one day.
- Movers: Good movers book up quickly, especially at the end of the month. Start getting quotes once the inspection period is successfully completed.
- Utilities: Schedule your water, electricity, gas, and internet to be transferred to your name on the day of closing.
- Time Off Work: You'll likely need an hour or two off to sign closing documents at the title company, and you may want to take closing day off to start moving.
Common Questions
Source of the Source
One of my goals is to help you become an informed homeowner.
Whenever possible, I encourage my clients to review original documents, visit official websites, ask questions, and continue learning.
My role isn't to replace those resources.
My role is to help you understand what you're reading, explain things in plain English, answer your questions, and connect you with trusted professionals when additional expertise is needed.
Prefer to Watch Instead?
A short DeDe Explains video will soon be available for this topic.
These videos are designed to explain Arizona real estate in plain English so you can better understand the process before making important decisions.
Questions Are
Always Welcome
Buying a home comes with lots of moving pieces, and you're never expected to know everything.
If something doesn't make sense, ask.
One of my favorite parts of my job is helping people understand the process so they can make informed decisions with confidence.
Real estate is only one chapter of your story.
My job is to help you build a life you'll love.
