480-670-1781 sromines@axenrealty.com
Arizona Real Estate 2026

Home Buyer's GuideScottsdale & Phoenix AZ

Everything you need to know about buying a home in Arizona's most competitive markets — straight from an agent who has been on both sides of the transaction for 20+ years.

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The Buying Process

6 Steps to Buying Your Home

01
Define Your Goals
Before we look at a single home, we talk. What are your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves? What's your real timeline? What neighborhoods fit your life? Getting clear on this saves weeks of wasted showings.
02
Get Pre-Approved
In Arizona's market, a pre-approval letter isn't optional — it's your entry ticket. I'll connect you with lenders who are fast, transparent, and competitive. Know your number before you fall in love with a home.
03
Search & Tour
I set you up on live MLS alerts and we tour strategically — not endlessly. I give you the honest investor's take on every home: what's priced right, what has issues, and what represents real value.
04
Make an Offer
When we find the right home, we move fast and smart. I write competitive offers, advise on escalation clauses when needed, and negotiate terms that protect you — not just the headline price.
05
Inspections & Due Diligence
This is where my renovation background pays off. I attend every inspection and help you interpret findings realistically — so you know what's a dealbreaker and what's a negotiating chip.
06
Close & Move In
Arizona closings are typically 30–45 days. I stay on top of every milestone — title, lender conditions, appraisal, final walkthrough — so nothing falls through the cracks on your way to the keys.
Common Questions

Buyer FAQ

How much do I need for a down payment in Arizona?
It depends on your loan type. Conventional loans typically require 5–20% down. FHA loans allow as little as 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score. VA loans (for eligible veterans) and USDA loans can require 0% down. I'll connect you with lenders who can walk through all options for your situation.
How long does buying a home in Arizona typically take?
From the time you start actively searching to closing, most buyers are in their home within 60–90 days. Once you're under contract, Arizona closings typically take 30–45 days. Getting pre-approved before you start searching is the single best way to compress that timeline.
Is it a buyer's or seller's market right now in Scottsdale?
As of 2026, the market has shifted toward balance. Scottsdale has 2,974 homes available with about 2 months of supply — more inventory than in recent years. Buyers now have more room for price reductions, closing cost concessions, and rate buy-downs than they did in 2021–2023. It's a good time to buy strategically.
Do I need a buyer's agent? What does it cost me?
In Arizona, buyers typically don't pay their agent's commission directly — it's negotiated as part of the transaction. As your buyer's agent, I represent your interests exclusively, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through every step. There's no cost to you for quality representation.
What are closing costs in Arizona?
Arizona buyers typically pay 2–4% of the purchase price in closing costs, which include lender fees, title insurance, escrow fees, and prepaid items like homeowner's insurance and property taxes. I'll give you a detailed estimate early in the process so there are no surprises at the closing table.
What's the best neighborhood in Scottsdale for families?
McCormick Ranch and Grayhawk consistently rank at the top for families — excellent schools, parks, trails, and community amenities. The east valley (Chandler, Gilbert) also offers outstanding schools and more affordable price points. The best fit depends on your budget, commute, and lifestyle priorities — let's talk it through.
Shon Romines — Scottsdale Buyer's Agent
Your Buyer's Agent
Shon Romines
Desert Breeze Real Estate Partners · AXEN Realty · AZ REALTOR®

I've been a buyer in this market — many times. Long before I got my license, I was purchasing properties to flip, hold, and rent across the Phoenix metro. That experience means I bring a fundamentally different perspective to every buyer client I work with.

I'm not going to rush you into a home or tell you everything is great when it isn't. My job is to make sure you buy the right home at the right price — and that you understand exactly what you're getting into before you sign anything.

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480-670-1781
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sromines@axenrealty.com
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