In Arizona
©2014 – The Szabo Group
MISSION STATEMENT Consistently provide clients with the most exceptional and innovative real estate experience. We strive to exceed expectations and provide our clients honesty, integrity, and quality service.
CONTENTS
Introduction
The Loan Process
Property Tax Information
Escrow Process
Buyer Information
Contracts
In Arizona The Szabo Group | 2014
MEET JOE & LINDA SZABO In today’s Phoenix Metropolitan area real estate market, selecting the right real estate agent is crucial. It can make all the difference in the world.
Dear Buyer, Thank you for viewing The Szabo Luxury Group’s Buying Guide. This book will provide you valuable information regarding the home buying process, beginning with your initial search all the way through a closed transaction. We also invite you to visit our website at www.AZLuxuryHomes.com to learn more information about our team and search for available properties online. Thank you,
Joe and Linda Szabo Follow Us
Online
MEET JOE & LINDA SZABO With The Szabo Luxury Group’s extensive real estate experience in the “Valley of the Sun” including: Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Fountain Hills, Carefree, Cave Creek, Glendale, Chandler, and Gilbert real estate as well as intimate local area knowledge, they work diligently to help buyers and sellers meet their real estate needs.
Offer buyer a vivid picture of home ownership
Extensive experience and record results
Exceptional negotiation skills
Leading real estate company
Honest, trustworthy, with a keen awareness of your needs and goals
Vast market knowledge - All available and non-available homes, history of homes sold, understands area trends and value
Dedication to clients
Love and passion for real estate as well as the Valley lifestyle, schools, amenities, subdivisions, golfing communities and local happenings
Over 30 years of experience in the Phoenix Metropolitan area
Solid reputation in the brokerage community of integrity, trust and fairness
First-class support team for concierge-level real estate service
When representing buyers, Joe and Linda’s success has stemmed from a keen intuition and vast market knowledge. As described by many of their clients, they really listen to their clients and understand their needs. Being a better listener than talker is prime importance. They are tireless and tenacious and create a high level of trust when they take care of you, striving to find the highest quality property in the best location at the best value for each client. Joe and Linda offer first class service and always follow their motto Building Lifelong Relationships One Client At A Time. “We strive to establish a relationship based on integrity and reliability in each word and action we take�.
ACHIEVEMENTS Experience, Knowledge and Proven Results are qualities associated with Joe and Linda Szabo of RE/MAX Fine Properties.
Joe and Linda are in the top
1%
Designations/Accolades
of all Realtors in The Nation.
REALTOR Certified Distressed Property Expert Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource RE/MAX Top Team - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2004 - 2005 - 2007 - 2008 - 2011 - 2012 - 2013 - 2014 100% Club Award Winner Platinum Club Award Winner Chairman’s Club Award Winner Technology Award Winner Hall of Fame Award Winner Lifetime Achievement Award Winner
Anyone considering The Szabo Group to sell (or buy) a home--do it! I've been buying and selling real estate with various agents in both California and Arizona and until I worked with this professional team, had to rely on my own skill sets to help with the transaction of buying or selling a home. It is absolutely refreshing to work with someone who knows the tactics to move your home. Joe Szabo brings decades of experience in marketing, relationship building and NEGOTIATIONING the deal. Their open and honest representations, attention to detail, and personal motivation to help you sell (or buy) is unmatched by anyone. A specific example: in the final week of complying with the buyers wish list of "fixes", the air conditioning vendor and roofer tried to gouge us due to the fact that we had to fix these items. Through Joe's network, and relationships he reduced he cost from more than $2500 estimate to less than $1000. A $1500+savings. He also attended the full inspection, found the painter, attended many showings, and was absolutely professional in communications throughout the process. Now, more than ever before, you need a team who can get your home exposure to the most people, and have your house highlighted the right way--just see the professional virtual tours they do! Once you have a buyer you need a negotiator who will represent you properly--The Szabo Group absolutely can! I cannot say enough positive things about Joe, Linda and Brianna's stick to it attitude and commitment to excellence.
Chad and Tracey B.
THE LOAN PROCESS Choosing a Lender is a very important step in the buying process.
Shopping for your Lender You need to check reputations and references. Comparing interest rates and loan packages are also advised.
Interest rates change daily There are different loan programs for different financial situations. If a Lender does not know much about you, he/she might quote you a rate from a program that does not fit your situation Interest rates quoted over the phone are not usually locked rates
Note: Make appointments with different lenders and compare. Four things to avoid when looking to purchase a property Tips on Credit to Help Buyers Do Not Change Jobs: Changing jobs before or during the loan process can create a real problem in qualifying for a loan, particularly if that job is in a different line of work or at a lower rate of pay. Do Not Switch Banks or Move Money Around: It’s difficult to verify funds if money is moved, so leave everything as is until your loan is closed. Do Not Pay Off Bills: Your loan officer will advise you if it is necessary to pay off bills to help you qualify. He/she will show you how to pay off bills so there is sufficient proof of payment. Do Not Make Any Major Purchases: Large purchases have a major impact of qualification. If you add a payment, or increase a payment, it will decrease your qualification amount. Stay away from purchases such as cars, boats, RV’s, furniture, etc. The large payment obligation may prelude you from qualifying. ALWAYS BE AWARE OF YOUR CREDIT BALANCES.
PRE-QUAL/PRE APPROVAL To help determine your property price range, most lenders and agents recommend getting pre-qualified.
Reasons for Pre-Qualification You will know the exact amount for which you can qualify. This allows you to view properties you are certain you can afford Your monthly payment will be set (approximately), so you can figure it into your budget You will receive closing costs and down payment figures You and your lender can select the best loan program for your particular situation If you are a first time buyer, you might qualify for a special loan package that would allow you to get more home for your money Your next step - Pre Approval The goal is for your to not just become pre-qualified, but pre-approved. Prequalification is a lender ratio analysis of your income and debts that approximates the maximum loan amount for which you are eligible. You become pre approved when you complete a loan application, pay for a credit report to be run, and the underwriter of the loan approves you for a loan based on the information provided (contingent upon subsequent items such as the appraisal).
THE LOAN PROCESS Pre-Qual/ Interview
The borrower meets with a lender who, through the course of the interview, gathers pertinent information and identifies any additional documentation that will be needed by the lender to obtain approval.
Verifications
The lender will obtain all documents required, including but not limited to, credit report, appraisal on property, verification of employment, mortgage or rent obligations, fund to close, landlord ratings, preliminary title report, etc.
Loan Submission
The loan package is assembled and submitted to the selected underwriter for approval.
Documentation
Supporting documentation is obtain as required. Lenders follow-up on any issues or problems that need resolution, and request any additional information or documentation.
Hazard Insurance
Hazard insurance covers the dwelling itself and Is required by the lender to protect their “risk” in your home. Your lender will explain the necessary hazard insurance coverage to you. If you are buying a condo, a master policy already exists which includes your unit—but it does not cover your personal belongings.
Documents
Loan documents are completed and sent to the title company. The borrowers come in for final signatures.
Funding
Lender reviews the loan package for completeness and accuracy. Funds are then transferred.
Recording
Title company records the Deed and Deed of Trust at the County Recorder’s Office and the escrow process is officially closed.
Peter and I continue to pinch ourselves. Is our new home really ours? Now that we have been in the house for a week, we are extremely happy. When Linda said, she always aims for the perfect match, we did not know how patient and perceptive she would be. From the street the house is unpretentious, nicely shaded, with attractive planting and a welcoming gate. Once you enter the front door the view is spectacular from the sky reflected in the pool, to the lush green golf course and the rising mountains on the horizon - exactly what we had hoped for but had not imagined possible. To you both, we owe a debt of gratitude. When an acquaintance of ours had said you must contact the Szabos if you are looking for a house in the Scottsdale area, they were right. From our first encounter on the phone to obtaining the keys, you were friendly, enthusiastic and extremely helpful. Thank you for making the purchase such an easy process. We look forward to our "retirement." Thank you, too, for the beautiful gift, we shall treasure them as we remember your kindness and your thoroughly professional assistance. Peter and Susie W.
TYPES OF LOANS Listed below are general explanations of different loans. For additional explanations please contact a lender.
1
ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTAGE Mortgage loans under which the interest rate is periodically adjusted to coincide with current rates.
2
BALLOON PAYMENT LOAN A loan that is typically amortized over 30 years, but is due and payable at the end of a certain term. May be extended or rolled into a different loan.
3
BUYDOWN LOAN Loan that has a reduced rate and payment for a specific period of time. This is done by paying interest up front.
4
COMMUNITY HOMEBUYER’S PROGRAM A first time buyer program with a fixed rate and a low down payment, commonly 3-5%. There are not cash reserve requirements and qualifying ratios are easier. Loan is subject to buyer meeting all income standards.
5
CONVENTIONAL LOAN A mortgage not obtained under a government insured program, secured by investors.
6
FHA LOAN Loans insured by the Federal Housing Administration under H.U.D. They offer low down payments and easier qualifying.
7
FIXED RATE LOAN A loan with one interest rate that remains constant through the life of the loan.
8
GRADUATED PAYMENT MORTGAGE A loan that starts payments lower than standard fixed rate loans, and increases the payment by a predetermined amount each year.
9
NON-QUALIFYING LOAN A loan that may be taken over from the seller by the buyer. The buyer would pay the seller for his/her equity and assume the payments, avoiding qualification.
10
VA LOAN A loan that can be up to 100%, secured by the government for people who have served in the armed forces. Customarily, the buyer pays no costs of the purchase.
PROPERTY TAX INFO Annual Tax Statement Annual tax statements are issued in the fall of the current year and billed for the calendar year. They may be paid in two installments:
First half due October 1, DELINQUENT NOVEMBER 1 Second half due March 1, DELINQUENT MAY 1
The County Treasurer WILL NOT be held responsible for payments on the wrong property. Here are two ways to avoid this problem:
Always check the property description on your tax statement Always provide your parcel number when making payments or inquiries at the Treasurer’s or Assessor’s office
Your parcel number can be found in the paperwork you receive from the title company. The Treasurer must place interest on all delinquent accounts. New Ownership Information Ownership information transfers can take six months or more to process. If a property is purchased after November 1 of the previous year, new owners may not receive a tax statement. The new owner must contact the Treasurer’s office if a statement is not received by October 15. Treasurer’s phone number: (602) 542-7800 Notification of Value Assessment notices are sent to every property owner on or before January 31st of each year. This noticed includes assessed value, full cash value, classification and assessment ratio. If there is an issue it can be protested through the County Assessor within 45 days of receipt. County Assessor’s phone number: (602) 506-3406
ARIZONA TAX CALENDAR Important dates in the Arizona Tax Calendar.
Jan 1
Current taxes become a lien not yet payable. First day to file exemption with the Assessor’s office.
Feb 1
On or before this date, Assessor is required to notify property owners of any increase in taxes or delinquent taxes for previous years sold at auction.
Feb 15
Last day to file an appeal with the Assessor’s office if the property owner feels that the values are excessive or that they violate the limitations of increases.
Feb 28
Last day to file exemptions.
March 1
Second half taxes for previous year, are due and payable.
May 1
Second half taxes for previous year, are now delinquent.
July 25
Tax Roll is certified.
Sept 15
Tax statements are mailed from mid-September.
Oct 1
First half of current year taxes are now due and payable. You may pay for the full year at this time.
Nov 1
First half of current year taxes are now delinquent.
I want to send you a huge thank you for all that you did to support me and my wife Kathy during our recent sale of our home in Scottsdale, AZ! Not only are you professional in your handling of such an important transaction, but you have been terrific to work with. Let’s begin with your approach to Marketing our home. The pictures of the home made it look even better than what we know the home to be with the attention to detail and a topnotch photographer who knows how to put it all together. In addition, you know how to “stage” a home properly, taking out unnecessary clutter and getting it ready to sell. Secondly, you are knowledgeable not only of the local area, but your experience gives you a great deal of credibility when it comes to establishing a suggested selling price. Not only that, you are willing to take into account the seller’s situation and will work with the seller to come to a fair and reasonable starting point. Thirdly, the feedback you receive from prospective agents and buyers is taken seriously and you take that into account when making suggestions to the seller as to what can be done to sell the house more expeditiously and at a higher price. Finally, when it comes to negotiating the sale, you know your business! You have the right balance with getting a fair price and still making the sell. We were in a difficult market and you did everything you could to balance reality with the seller’s needs. If we had to do it all over again, we would not hesitate to hire both you and Linda to sell our home! In fact, we wish you were able to assist us with buying our home now that we have moved to the Midwest. All in all, we had a great experience with you and your associates and wish you nothing but the best in the years ahead. And, if we decide we need to move back to where the sun shines 320 days out of the year, we will call you first without hesitation!
Bill and Kathy S.
THE ESCROW PROCESS What is an escrow? An escrow is a neutral, independent account created to process a transaction such as a sale or loan. It protects the interests of all parties involved and favors neither the buyer nor seller. An escrow is created after the Purchase Contract is executed and becomes the depository for all monies, instructions and documents pertaining to the transaction.
Opening an escrow Either real estate agent may open escrow as soon as the Purchase Contract is executed by placing the initial deposit (earnest money) in an escrow account at the Title Company.
Information you need to provide You will be asked to complete a Statement of Identity for the Title Company. This is a confidential tool used to correctly identify all parties involved in the transaction.
Title companies and escrow officers Title companies in Arizona offer escrow services. An escrow officer is employed by the title company to handle the escrow transaction. Your escrow officer is a “neutral third party” and follows instructions based on the written terms of your Purchase Contract and the lender’s requirements for closing. Her/his job is to gather all the documents and information from all involved parties to prepare for the transfer of the property. The escrow officer secures the satisfaction of all requirements of the title commitment. Escrow cannot be completed until all terms and conditions have been met. The buyer should be aware of and willing to help with any portions of this closing process where assistance is needed. The duties of the escrow officer are as follows:
Accept executed contract and issue earnest money receipt Request a commitment for title insurance (shows requirements for issuance of a title policy) Obtain payoffs to clear title Prorate taxes and insurance upon instruction from the seller and buyer Accept hazard insurance policy, inspection reports, and relevant bills Compute settlement figures Assist the buyer and seller when signing documents Record the appropriate documents with the county recorder Disburse final documents and money on the basis of mutual instructions
THE ESCROW PROCESS Listed below are the items you need to obtain and bring to your escrow appointment. Note: Make sure all of your lender’s requirements have been met before your appointment.
Identification In order to notarize your signature you must bring picture I.D. (current driver’s license, military I.D., or passport)
Funds to close escrow Wired funds or a cashiers check made out to the title company (your title company will let you know which) are acceptable methods of payment since out of town and personal checks can cause a delay in the processing. Your escrow officer will tell you the amount you will need to provide.
Taking Title Review your options and decide how you wish to take title to your new home.
Fire and Hazard Insurance Be sure to contact your insurance agent to order coverage before you appointment. Have your agent contact your escrow officer with premium information & for property verification.
Close of Escrow The escrow officer schedules the closing and recording time and handles all financial and technical details. Signing the loan documents and escrow instructions is not the closing day. After the documents are signed by buyers and sellers, the escrow officer must package and return them to the lender for their review. Lenders take 24 to 72 hours to review and fund. The day after the lender deposits funds to escrow, escrow presents the original documents (deed, deed of trust) to the County Recorder for recordation. The recordation day is the “Close of Escrow”. NOTE: It will take several weeks for the Recorder’s Office to send you your Deed.
Power of Attorney If any one of the buyers will not be available to sign the escrow instructions and the loan documents, notify your real estate agent immediately. Your real estate agent will notify your loan broker or bank and the title company. Most banks will accept a power of attorney signature if the document is prepared by the title company. A power of attorney must always be approved by the lender.
HOLDING TITLE IN ARIZONA Community Property. Arizona is a community property state. Community property is a method of co-ownership for married persons only. Upon death of one of the spouses, the deceased spouse’s interest will pass by either a will or intestate succession.
Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship. Joint tenancy is a method of coownership that gives title to the real property to the last survivor. Title to real property can be acquired by 2 or more individuals. If a married couple acquires title as joint tenants with the right of survivorship, they must specifically accept the joint tenancy to avoid the presumption of community property.
Community Property with the Right of Survivorship. Community property with the right of survivorship is a method of co-ownership between married parties which provides for the survivor to retain the ownership without probate and purports to be an advantage for estate tax valuation after the death of one of the parties. They must specifically accept the community property with the right of survivorship to avoid the presumption of community property only.
Tenancy in Common. A method of co-ownership where parties do not have survivorship rights and each owns a specific undivided interest in the entire title.
Sole and Separate. Real property owned by a spouse before marriage or any acquired after marriage by gift devise, decent or specific intent. If a married person acquires title as sole and separate property, his/her spouse must execute a disclaimer deed.
Corporation. Title may be taken in the name of a corporation provided the corporation is duly formed and in good standing in the state of its incorporation.
General Partnership. Title may be taken in the name of a general partnership duly formed under the laws of the state of the formation of the partnership. A partnership is defined as a voluntary association of two or more persons as co-owners in business for profit.
Limited Liability Partnership. A partnership formed by two or more persons under the laws of Arizona or another state and having one or more general partners and one or more limited partners. A certificate of limited partnership must be filed in the Office of the Secretary of State.
Limited Liability Company. Must be formed with the Corporation Commission and must be a voluntary association of two or more persons as members. Provides less personal liability than partnerships and corporations.
Limited Liability Partnership. Must be formed with the Corporation Commission and must be a voluntary association of two or more persons as members. Provides no personal liability for acts of other members on behalf of the partnership.
Joe and Linda Szabo are an incredible team. They are extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of real estate and provided meticulous and comprehensive service to us in every facet of the buying and selling processes. Their expertise, unmatched integrity, dedication and personal commitment to us brought a deep sense confidence and trust as they guided us through the sale of two houses and a condo, the renting of two properties, and the purchase of two homes. We particularly appreciated that they made a concerted effort to provide guidance around the strengths and weaknesses of each property in every situation, taking a personal interest in what was best for our family. They are resourceful and well-informed and were conscientious in effectively communicating with all parties. They made themselves available and accessible every and any time we needed them. They are warm, caring, individuals whose professional prowess is built on strong moral values. Both are unassuming and enjoyable to work with which helped alleviate our stress as we navigated through all of our real estate ventures. We enthusiastically and confidently recommend the Szabo Group. Michael and Fran C.
TITLE INSURANCE Title
The evidence one has of right to possession of land.
Title Insurance
An insurance policy that protects the investment or equity of the buyer, lender or owner in their real property interest.
Types of Policies
It is important for the buyer to know there are two kinds of title insurance:
Lender’s title insurance protects the interest of the mortgage lender; this is often referred to as the ALTA Policy. The lender’s policy protects the lender against loss due to unknown title defects at the time of the sale and in the future. Owner’s title insurance protects the equity of the buyer. It assures owners that they are acquiring marketable title. Title insurance is designed to eliminate risk or loss caused by defects in title from the past.
Preliminary Title Report
The commitment for title insurance (often called a prelim) indicates all the items or situations that pertain to the subject property. It is a detailed report of findings from a title company search. It sets forth the current status of the property ownership, matters affecting title that will appear as exceptions or exclusions to the policy, and requirements for issuing a policy.
CLOSING COSTS Closing costs are often confusing. To help clarify, here is a mini-glossary of standard closing costs. When you apply for your loan, you will receive a Good Faith estimate of these charges, as well as an explanatory booklet.
APPRAISAL FEE
A one-time fee to pay an independent fee appraiser.
CREDIT REPORT FEE
A one-time fee covering the cost of the credit report.
DOCUMENT PREPARATION FEE
There may be a separate fee covering the preparation of the final legal papers.
HOMEOWNERS FEE
Some associations may require an up front deposit or dues, as well as a fee to transfer their records from seller to buyer (transfer fee). These amounts vary for each association.
LOAN DISCOUNT
A one-time fee to adjust the yield on the loan to what market conditions demand (often called POINTS).
LOAN ORIGINATION FEE
A one-time set up fee charged by the lender for their administrative costs.
MISCELLANEOUS TITLE CHARGES
The title company may charge fees for items such as: title examination, document preparation, recording fees, notary fees, and a closing or settlement fee.
PMI PREMIUM
Depending on your down payment, you may have to pay an up front fee for mortgage insurance. Lenders may also require monies to be held by them in a reserve account.
PREPAID INTEREST
This is a per diem charge that may vary depending on the time of month your loan closes.
TAXES AND HAZARD INSURANCE
Depending on the month your property closes, you may be required to reimburse the seller for property taxes. You will have to pay a year’s hazard insurance premium up front, and may be required by the lender to put a certain amount for taxes and insurance in a reserve account. This account is held by the lender.
RELATIONSHIPS WITH AGENCY It is required that Realtors and their clients record the nature of their working relationship. There are many different types of agency relationships.
The Buyer’s Broker A Buyer’s Broker works only for the Buyer and has fiduciary responsibilities to the Buyer. These responsibilities include “undivided loyalty, reasonable skill and care, confidentiality, obedience, advocacy, accountability and disclosure.” However, a Buyer’s Broker must also treat all parties, including the Seller and the Seller’s agent, fairly and honestly and must not misrepresent on matters that apply to the transaction. NOTE: Sellers and their agents have similar relationships. The Seller’s Agents have the same responsibilities and obligations to their clients.
The Limited Representative Limited dual representation occurs when a Buyer client wishes to view a listing represented by another RE/MAX Fine Properties agent. In this particular case, the RE/MAX Fine Properties broker would represent both the Buyer and the Seller in a transaction. This is done with limitations on the duties owed to both. These limitations would include the disclosure of confidential information. In essence, a brokerage firm involved in a limited dual representation will not be able to put one party’s interest ahead of those of the other party and cannot advise or counsel either party on gaining an advantage at the cost of the other party.
THE “SPDS” & C.L.U.E. REPORT Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement (SPDS) This document poses a variety of questions for the seller to answer about the property and its condition. This 6 page form asks specific questions about your home and was designed to help you fulfill the disclosure requirements. The benefit to you as the Seller, is that is reduces liability after you’ve closed. Please note that the SPDS is not a substitute for a Buyer’s Inspection nor is it a warranty of any kind. The Disclosure Statement will be placed in your file until an offer is received. At that time the prospective Buyer will examine it and will have to acknowledge the receipt of the SPDS in writing, within 5 days after contract acceptance.
Insurance Claims History The seller is obligated to deliver a written 5 year insurance claim history regarding the premises (or claims history for the length of time the seller has owned the premises if less than 5 years), from the sellers insurance company, an insurance support organization, such as Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (C.L.U.E.), a consumer reporting agency, or if unavailable from these sources, from the seller, within 5 days after contract acceptance.
HOME INSPECTIONS In most cases, real estate contracts allow a physical inspection period for the buyer. This is the time to identity existing and potential problems in the property. For most of us, this is a nerve racking process we are not knowledgeable about. This is the time to turn to a professional home inspector. Home inspectors identify problems and assist in promoting and facilitating communication with the seller. This is a sizeable investment you are making, possibly the largest in your life. You may save substantial amounts in the future by investing a small amount now. Here Are Some Areas Inspectors Look At: Structural: Home inspection organizations have set standards on areas of the home that the inspector looks at to determine the integrity of the essential internal and external structural components. Inspectors are not structural engineers, but can identify visual defects in areas requiring immediate repairs.
Electrical: Do all the outlets work? Does the house use fuses or is there a breaker box? Are there any signs of fraying on the wiring?
Plumbing: Are there any leaks or annoying drips? Are all the mechanical systems and fixtures working properly?
Built-In Appliances: Are they functioning properly? Safety Hazards: Inspectors are not environmental specialists, but they can identify a number of safety hazards and dangerous conditions.
Miscellaneous: Other items may or may not be included in standard home inspections. Some may be: Septic systems, roofs, drainage, wood decks, patios or other exterior structures.
Normally Not Included: Termite, radon, mold, geological or land subsidence surveys and environmental or pollution inspections should be completed separately for your own protection.
“Thank you, again, for the tremendous job that you did in finding us our wonderful home. After moving six times in eight years we can say with certainty that you are the most professional, capable and conscientious real estate agents we have ever known. You exceeded our every expectation. Finding our new house in one day (after we had looked for a year with other agents) and then selling our house for full asking price in less than a week can only be described in one word: Wow!! Thank you again. “ Al and Hillary B. (President, Cavalry Investments)
HOME WARRANTIES Home warranties are policies designed to protect the buyer against repair costs of mechanical systems and major appliances. This warranty is sometimes offered by Seller or may be negotiated in the contract. There are a variety of plans covering items such as: heating, air-conditioning, dishwashers, garbage disposals, etc. We will be happy to gather a selection of warranty plans for you. Benefits of Home Warranty Protection:
Coverage for your major mechanical systems and built in appliances A full network of well qualified technicians at your service Your budget is protected against unexpected repair bills All of the above for a very low deductible/service call
RESIDENTIAL POOL SAFETY Pool Enclosure Requirements At a residence with a swimming pool where one or more children under six years of age live in the residence: A.R.S. § 36-1681 requires that a swimming pool be protected by an enclosure (wall, fence, or barrier) that surrounds the pool area. Unless a local code provides otherwise, the enclosure of a belowground or aboveground pool must: • Entirely enclose the pool area; • Be at least 5 feet high; • Have no openings other then doors or gates, through which an object 4 inches in diameter can pass; • Have no openings, handholds, or footholds accessible from the exterior side that can be used to climb the barrier; and • Be at least 20 inches from the water's edge. If, however, a residence or living area makes up part of the enclosure required by A.R.S. § 36-1681(B), there must be: A wall, fence, or barrier located between the swimming pool or other contained
body of water and the residence or living area that: o Has a height of at least four feet; Has no openings through which a spherical object four inches in diameter can pass; Has a gate that opens outward from the pool and is self-closing and selflatching; Has no openings, handholds, or footholds accessible from the exterior side of the enclosure that can be used to climb the wall, fence, or barrier; and Is at a distance of at least twenty inches from the water's edge; A motorized safety pool cover that requires a key switch and meets the American
Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards in F1346-91 (www.astm.org); For each door or window in the residence or living area that has direct access to
the pool: A self-latching device that is located not less then fifty-four inches above the floor; and Either a screwed in wire mesh screen covering a dwelling or guest room window or a keyed lock that prevents a dwelling or guest room window from opening more then four inches; or For an aboveground swimming pool, non-climbable exterior sides which are a minimum height of four feet and access ladders or steps that are removable and able to be secured when the pool is not in use.
RESIDENTIAL POOL SAFETY Gate Requirements According to A.R.S. § 36-1681(B)(3), any gate in either the five-foot-tall wall, fence, or barrier enclosing a pool or the four-foot-tall wall, fence, or barrier between the residence or other living area and a pool must: Open outward from the pool Be self-closing and self-latching; and Have a latch: Located at least fifty-four inches above the underlying ground; Located on the pool side of the gate with the latch's release mechanism lo-
cated at least five inches below the top of the gate and no opening greater than one-half inch with twenty-four inches of the release mechanism; or Located at any height if secured by a padlock or similar device which requires a key, electric opening, or integral combination.
Arizona Department of Health Services Pool Safety Recommendations Never leave a child unattended in the pool or pool area. Because flotation devices and swimming lessons are not substitutes for supervision, a child should always be watched when in or around the pool area. CPR/CCR instructions and the 911 emergency number (or local emergency number) should be posted in the pool area. A phone should be located in the pool area or easily accessible in case of an emergency. All residential pool owners should attend water rescue and CPR/CCR classes. Lifesaving equipment should be easily accessible and stored n the pool area. All gate locks and latches should be checked regularly to insure they are working properly. A gate should never be left propped open. All items that could be used to climb a pool barrier should be removed from around the barrier. In an emergency: Shout for help; Pull the child from the water; Call 911 (or local emergency number) for help; and After checking the child's airway and breathing, immediately begin CPR/CCR if necessary. Note: The state requirements contained in A.R.S. § 36-1681 may be superseded by local requirements that are equal to or more restrictive than the state requirements. Check with your local city and county governments to see if they have adopted different pool barrier requirements. "Pool" means an in-ground or aboveground swimming pool or other contained body of water 18 or more inches in depth, wider than 8 feet at any point, and intended for swimming, pursuant to A.R.S. § 36-1681 (A).
What a fantastic experience my wife Liz and I had working with Joe and Linda Szabo. They listed, showed, sold and closed our 2 homes in the Scottsdale area within 60 days and really helped us to meet all our deadlines on our new home in Clearwater, Florida. Selling a house (let alone two) is a stressful experience and the Szabos led us through the process effortlessly. They were instrumental in getting us the highest price in our neighborhood for the homes we sold. They are total pros and it shows. We are VERY pleased with the Szabos and as a result will be recommending your RE/MAX office (and the Szabos!!) to everyone we know. It is this kind of customer service, attention to detail and caring personal attention that makes people feel terrific enough to take time out to write personal letters like this. You have a real pair of jems in Joe and Linda Szabo. Having bought and sold 5 different homes in the past 10 years, I can without a doubt say that our experience with them was the BEST realty experience we have EVER had. Greg and Liz M.
MOVING CHECKLIST PREVIOUS RESIDENCE PREPARING FOR THE MOVE Leave keys, garage door openers, gate remotes, instructions manuals for new owner Travel funds (cash & checks) Defrost Refrigerator Prepare pet transportation Personally transport valuables, jewelry & important documents ADDRESS CHANGE: 2 to 3 weeks prior to moving Bank accounts Forward address at post office Credit cards Magazines/Publications (6 to 8 weeks prior to moving) CANCEL UTILITIES: CHECK FOR REFUNDS Electric/gas Telephone Water Garbage Removal Cable Misc. - bottled water, propane, newspapers, etc. DOCUMENTS TO OBTAIN Schools transcripts (some districts require that they be send directly from prior school) Medical records Dental records Veterinary records Insurance company (notify company of new locations for coverage: life, health, fire & auto) *Make sure home owners coverage for your new home is in place!
NEW RESIDENCE ADDRESS CHANGE Ask post office to hold mail for your arrival ACTIVATE UTILTIES Electric/gas Telephone Water Garbage Removal Cable Misc. - bottled water, propane, newspapers, etc.
SCHOOLS, LICENSES & SERVICES Register children in school Register to vote Register your car & get new license plates Driver’s license (apply or new address) OBTAIN NEW MEDICAL SERVICES New doctor New dentist New vet
HELPFUL NUMBERS UTILTIES 602-371-7171 602-236-8888
Telephone Cox Telephone Qwest Telephone Directory Order
623-594-1156 800-244-1111 800-422-8793
Gas Southwest Gas
602-861-1999
Cable Cox Communications
602-277-1000
Water & Trash Carefree Cave Creek Chandler Fountain Hills Gilbert Glendale Mesa Paradise Valley Peoria Phoenix Scottsdale Surprise Tempe
480-488-3686 480-488-1400 480-786-2280 480-837-2003 480-503-6800 623-930-3190 480-644-3770 480-948-7411 623-412-7160 602-262-6251 480-312-2461 623-594-1156 480-350-8361
POST OFFICE
800-275-8777
VOTER REGISTRATION
602-506-1511
Electric Arizona Public Service Salt River Project SRP
AUTOMOBILE INFORMATION Emissions Testing Motor Vehicle Division
602-470-4646 800-284-7748 602-255-0072
SCHOOLS Maricopa School Superintendent -District Boundaries 602-506-3866 www.maricopa.gov/schools
Joe and Linda Szabo Joe Direct 480.688.2020 Linda Direct 480.688.3344 Joe@AZLuxuryHomes.com Linda@AZLuxuryHomes.com
www.AZLuxuryHomes.com