Many Canadians ask us whether they really need a passport to enter the US these days. If you fly into to the US, you do need a valid passport. If you drive into the US, you can enter with only your birth certificate and drivers license for 6 more months. Starting June 1, 2009, U.S. law will require Canadians to present a valid passport to enter the United States by water or land. What a difference this is from when I was a kid in Alberta and we would hop back and forth across the border with NO id whatsoever. Times sure have changed.

Apply for your passport today to ensure you have it when you need it. We all know how long it takes for Passport Canada to process the application and get you your passport.

We specialize in helping Canadians purchase homes in Phoenix and Scottsdale. Call us with any questions.

Marc Brodeur, Realtor
www.ThePhoenixExperts.com
1-800-300-0263

Believe it or not – NONE! You do not need to put down any money with your offer, only the proof of funds which I discussed in my last blog. Once your offer is accepted (usually a day or two later depending on negotiations) then you will need to put down a refundable earnest deposit. This is usually $3000-10,000. That can be wired or a certified check can be sent from your bank in Canada. In general, you do not need to bring any money with you during your house buying trip. All funds can be transferred from Canada during the transaction after your offer is accepted.

We specialize in helping Canadians buy their dream homes in Phoenix and Scottsdale. Visit www.ThePhoenixExperts.com to search all available homes or give me a call. I’m glad to help!

Marc Brodeur, Realtor
www.ThePhoenixExperts.com
1-800-300-0263

Bring Your Proof of Funds

If you are making a trip to Phoenix to purchase a home, you will need to bring with you one very important document: Proof of Funds. The home buying process in Arizona is a little different than in Canada. When we find your dream home and you want to make an offer on it, you need to provide with the offer some sort of proof that you are financially able to complete the transaction. Sellers in Arizona will not even look at an offer without proof of funds. This can be a copy of an open HELOC with credit available, open personal line of credit, bank statement with cash in the account, investment account statement, etc. A letter from your bank in Canada that you have the funds available may suffice, although I have seen these rejected on rare occasions.

We are dedicated to serving Canadians interested in Phoenix or Scottsdale homes. Call us with all of your questions or contact us through www.ThePhoenixExperts.com.

Marc Brodeur, Realtor
www.ThePhoenixExperts.com
1-800-300-0263

I’ve spoken to many clients over the last few days who are just starting to make their travel plans to visit Phoenix for the purpose of looking at real estate. My advice is always book soon! The winter season is, of course, our high season and the best rentals and flights go fast. The more time in advance that you can make your plans the better. If you need any referrals to local long term furnished rentals (by the week or month) please feel free to call my wife, Carmen, at 1-877-832-3328. She helps many of our clients find the best rental deals in Scottsdale. She knows all the great deals.

Marc Brodeur
Realtor
www.ThePhoenixExperts.com
1-800-300-0263