First-Time Home Buyer Guide: Arizona

Getting Pre-Approved: Your First Step

Before you start touring homes, get a mortgage pre-approval. This tells you exactly how much home you can afford and makes your offers competitive in Arizona’s fast-moving market.

Arizona Home Buyer Loan Programs

Arizona offers several programs for first-time buyers: the Arizona Home Plus program offers down payment assistance up to 5%. FHA loans require as little as 3.5% down. VA loans offer zero down payment for qualifying veterans and service members.

Understanding Closing Costs in Arizona

Buyers in Arizona typically pay 2–5% of the purchase price in closing costs, including title insurance, escrow fees, lender fees, and prepaid items. Sellers can sometimes be negotiated to contribute toward buyer closing costs.