Make a terms sheet before you sign
List the proposed price, financing, earnest money, requested credits, property included in the sale, closing date and possession arrangements. Ask your broker or attorney to explain how each will appear in the actual contract. A planning note is not an offer or a binding amendment.
Understand the protections
Discuss inspection, financing, appraisal and any home-sale conditions with a qualified professional. Ask what must happen, who must do it, and what notices or deadlines apply. Do not assume all contracts use the same timeline or that a conversation extends a written deadline.
Price the downside
If the appraisal is lower than expected, repairs are needed or a closing date moves, what options would you have? What money could you lose? Ask these questions before waiving a condition. A competitive offer should still reflect risks you understand and can carry.
Create a reliable deadline record
Once a contract is signed, have your transaction professional confirm the actual dates and delivery requirements. Store executed documents in an appropriate secure system. ADRE provides consumer resources and an official license lookup. Arizona Department of Real Estate ↗
Reviewed September 11, 2026. Education only; your circumstances and written agreements matter.
Arizona Department of Real Estate · Consumer resources ↗