Cross Border Planning for the Canadian Snowbird or Investor
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Recommended Books for Canadians
We highly recommend the following books which generally answer most of the basic tax, legal and accounting questions involving Canadians buying US property.
Additional Cross Border Information
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The Home Buying Process in Arizona
One of the primary differences between the home buying process in Canada and Arizona is the use of title companies.
When you purchase a property in Arizona a title company will handle the transaction and provide all escrow services.
Lawyers are not usually involved in residential real estate purchases in Arizona. The title company is a neutral third party to the transaction.
The title company will follow the instructions written in the contract agreed to by both the Buyer and Seller.
Title companies cannot alter the contract or create instructions. Title companies are licensed and regulated by the State of Arizona.
Once a contract is reached between Buyer and Seller, escrow will be opened at a title company. The title company will:
Open escrow and deposit your "good faith" funds in a separate escrow account.
Conduct a historical title search to determine ownership and status of the property.
Issue a title commitment and begin the process to delete or record items to provide clear title to the property.
Meet all deadlines as specified in the contract.
Request payoff information for the Seller's loans, other liens, homeowners association fees, etc.
Prorate fees, such as property taxes, per the contract, and prepare a settlement statement.
Set separate appointments for the Seller and Buyer to sign documents (you can sign your documents in Canada if you prefer).
Deposit final funds from the Buyer.
Review documents ensuring all conditions and legal requirements are fulfilled.
When all funds are deposited, record documents at the County Recorder to transfer the subject property to you.
After recordation is confirmed, close escrow and disburse funds, including Seller's proceeds, loan payoffs, Realtor commissions, related fees for recording etc.
This website merely provides information about Phoenix Real Estate that is readily available on many other websites.
All information herein is deemed accurate but is not in any way guaranteed. Prices may change at any time.
