The Journey of Buying a Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
Meet Your Relentlessly Local™ Real Estate Expert: Chris Jones
Chris Jones has distinguished himself in the Phoenix real estate market, featuring in The Wall Street Journal and selling the highest-priced home in Biltmore Highlands/Piestewa Peak history in 2022. He is also recognized for his talent in interior design and handling the sale of exclusive properties around the valley.
He remains a leading figure in Phoenix real estate, partnering with The Brokery, a prominent brokerage in the Biltmore, Arcadia, and North Central Phoenix areas. Chris has elevated his service by investing in completely custom marketing for his exclusive listings, demonstrating his dedication to offering top-tier marketing.
Working with Chris means joining his exclusive network, connecting with Phoenix’s upper echelon. Known for his expertise in luxury real estate, Chris understands the unique demands of luxury buyers and sellers. He holds dual licenses in Arizona and California and is actively expanding his real estate presence in Phoenix and beyond.
Keep this information handy throughout your home buying journey!
Step-by-Step Guide
Purchase Contract:
Upon contract acceptance, the Purchase Contract will be sent to the Title Company and Escrow will be opened. The Title Company will contact you to arrange pickup and delivery of your Earnest Money. Pertinent documents will be sent to your Lender to start the loan process.
If You Are Financing Your Property:
Expect regular requests for information from your Lender.
Return requested documents promptly to avoid delays.
Discuss with your Lender how to appropriately receive gifted funds if applicable.
Avoid making major purchases, taking on new debt, or making life changes until after closing.
Earnest Money:
Must be delivered to the Title Company no later than the next business day after contract acceptance.
Needs to come from your account via personal check or wire; no cash, money orders, or cashier’s checks.
Preliminary Title Commitment:
Received within the first week after Escrow is opened.
Shows if there are any title issues to be resolved before closing.
Seller Disclosures:
The Seller has 3 days to provide the Seller Property Disclosure Statement (SPDS), 5 days to provide an Insurance Claims History, and 5 days to provide the Lead-Based Paint Disclosure (if applicable).
Inspection Period:
Begins the day after contract acceptance, generally a 10-day period.
Highly recommended to perform a Home Inspection.
Buyer’s Inspection Notice & Seller’s Response (BINSR):
Request repairs using the BINSR.
Seller has 5 days to respond to the BINSR.
Appraisal:
Can be ordered once the contract is accepted but recommended to wait until after BINSR completion.
Costs typically $500-600 and required for the loan.
The Path to Closing:
Closing Disclosure: Must be acknowledged 3 business days prior to signing Loan Docs.
Preliminary Walkthrough: Verify repairs and condition of the property a few days before closing.
Estimated Settlement Statement: Shows debits, credits, and the amount required to close.
Closing Documents & Costs: Sign Closing Documents and pay Down Payment + Closing Costs via Wire or Cashier’s Check.
Final Walkthrough: Confirm the property condition before closing.
It's All Yours!
Property is officially yours once recorded through the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office.
Coordinate a time to meet at the property for keys handover.
Utility Guide
Electric:
Provider: SRP or APS
Website: www.srpnet.com | 602.236.8888 OR www.aps.com | 602.371.7171
Account Number:
Internet:
Multiple options available
Research bundling options with cable TV
Service Provider:
Account Number:
Gas:
Provider: Southwest Gas
Website: www.swgas.com | 877.860.6020
Account Number:
Trash/Water:
Through your city
Account Number:
Phone Number:
Cable Television:
Multiple options available
Research bundling options with internet
Service Provider:
Account Number:
Homeowner’s Insurance:
Motor Vehicle Department:
Update your address with the Arizona MVD
Additional Notes:
Important Contacts
Your Title Officer Is:
Company:
Officer:
Telephone:
Email:
Your Loan Officer Is:
Company:
Officer:
Telephone:
Email:
Your Transaction Coordinator Is:
Company:
Officer:
Telephone:
Email:
Contact Information:
Chris Jones - Realtor®
Email: ChrisJones@TheBrokery.com
Phone: 602.319.7270
Website: ChrisAdamJones.com
Arcadia: 4546 N 40th St, Phoenix, AZ 85018
North Central: 840 E Bethany Home Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014
Biltmore: 2400 E Missouri Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Scottsdale: 4747 N Scottsdale Rd H100, Scottsdale, AZ 85251