State Buyer Guide

First-Time Home Buyer Guide
for Arizona

Down payment assistance, Arizona housing programs, closing cost estimates, and what to know before buying — including from FSBO sellers.

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$425,000
Avg Home Price
0.62%
Property Tax Rate
~$7,650
Est. Closing Costs
None
Transfer Tax

Arizona Housing Finance Agency Programs

The Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) is your primary source for below-market mortgage rates and down payment assistance in Arizona. Programs are available through approved lenders — not directly through the HFA.

HOME Plus Program
3–5% of loan amount as a 3-year forgivable second mortgage

DPA with a 30-year fixed FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional mortgage.

Income limit: $122,100
Learn more at Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH)
Home in Five Advantage
Up to 6% of loan amount (extra 1% for military)

Maricopa County DPA for buyers in the greater Phoenix area.

Income limit: $105,291 (individual); $138,169 (family)
Learn more at Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH)
High Value — $240/funded loan

Credible

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Closing Costs in Arizona

Typical Closing Cost Range
1.8% of purchase price

On a $425,000 home: approximately $7,650

Transfer Tax
None

Arizona has no real estate transfer tax — one of the most buyer-friendly states on closing costs.

Attorney at Closing?
No — title company state

Arizona is a title-company state. An attorney is not required at closing, but you can hire one to review your purchase contract independently.

Key Tips for Buying in Arizona

  • Termite inspections are essential in most of Arizona — get a separate pest inspection alongside the standard home inspection.
  • Check whether the property is in an HOA and review CC&Rs carefully; Arizona HOAs can have restrictive rules.
  • Monsoon season (July–September) can reveal roof and drainage issues — ask seller about water intrusion history.
  • The Phoenix metro has high summer cooling costs — verify the HVAC system age and condition before closing.
Home Inspection

HomeAdvisor

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Legal Help for Arizona Buyers

While Arizona doesn't require an attorney at closing, FSBO buyers should strongly consider having one review the purchase agreement and title work.

Legal Help for FSBO Buyers

Nolo

Nolo has been the go-to legal resource for DIY buyers since 1971. Their real estate guides explain purchase agreements, contingencies, and closing in language anyone can understand.

Browse Legal Guides
LegalZoom

Get a real estate attorney to review your purchase agreement or help you draft an offer letter — often for a fraction of traditional legal fees.

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US Legal Forms

Download state-specific purchase agreements, addenda, and disclosure forms — written by attorneys, ready to use in your state.

Browse Real Estate Forms

Frequently Asked Questions

What first-time buyer programs are available in Arizona?

Arizona first-time buyers can access programs through the Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) (https://housing.az.gov/), including the HOME Plus Program (3–5% of loan amount as a 3-year forgivable second mortgage) and the Home in Five Advantage (Up to 6% of loan amount (extra 1% for military)). Federal programs like FHA loans (3.5% down) and USDA loans (0% down in eligible areas) are also available.

What are typical closing costs in Arizona?

Closing costs in Arizona typically run 1.8% of the purchase price. Transfer tax: None. Arizona has no real estate transfer tax — one of the most buyer-friendly states on closing costs.

Do I need an attorney to buy a home in Arizona?

Arizona is a title-company state. An attorney is not required at closing, but you can hire one to review your purchase contract independently.

What is the average home price in Arizona?

The median home price in Arizona is approximately $425,000. Property taxes average 0.62% of assessed value annually.

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