Questions, answered
Short answers with their sources. Anything else, just ask Blaine.
What should I know before buying my first home in the Phoenix Valley?
Get pre-approved before you shop seriously, since sellers respond better to buyers with a lender commitment in hand, and budget beyond the purchase price for property taxes, insurance, utilities, and HOA fees if applicable. Closing costs in the Phoenix area typically run 2% to 5% of the purchase price, covering lender charges, appraisal, inspection, title insurance, and recording fees.
Sources:First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide to Phoenix, Arizona: What to Know Before You Buy in 2025First Time Buyers - Buying Your First Home in PhoenixFirst Time Home Buyer in Phoenix: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
What should I consider when deciding whether to sell my home or keep it as a rental?
Start with whether you need the sale proceeds now for a down payment or moving costs, versus whether steady rental income and possible future appreciation fit your plans better. Factor in your local market conditions, whether you'd want to move back into the home someday, and whether you're prepared to handle landlord responsibilities like tenant screening and maintenance, or would need a property manager.
Sources:Should I Sell My House or Rent It Out?Should I Sell or Rent My House? Here’s How to DecideShould I Sell or Rent My House? 8 Key Factors to Weigh
How do I find out my property taxes in Peoria, Glendale, Avondale, and other Maricopa County cities?
The Maricopa County Assessor's Office sets your property's assessed value each year, and the Treasurer's Office bills and collects the tax based on rates set by the county, cities, school districts, and special districts. You can look up a specific parcel's tax information on the Treasurer's website or by calling (602) 506-8511; effective rates across the county generally run in the range of roughly 0.6% to 1.3% of market value depending on location.
Sources:Maricopa County Property Taxes: A Complete Guide - JVM LendingMaricopa County - Treasurer's Office - Property Tax Information
What should I know about HOAs when buying in these areas?
Arizona law (ARS 33-1806 for planned communities and 33-1260 for condos) requires the seller to provide a disclosure packet with the CC&Rs, financial statements, and any pending litigation before closing, and standard Arizona contracts give buyers a review period, commonly 5 days, after that packet is delivered. Review the packet closely for rental restrictions, upcoming special assessments, and rule enforcement history before your review period ends.
Sources:Arizona HOA laws and regulations - 2026 guideArizona HOA Guide 2026: Laws, CC&Rs, Fines, DisputesHOA Disclosure Packets: The Four Pages That Actually Matter | Preview Arizona Homes
What areas does Blaine serve?
Blaine works with buyers and sellers in Peoria, Glendale, Avondale, North Phoenix, Surprise, Litchfield Park and Laveen.
Source:Service areas
How many homes has Blaine sold?
Blaine has 1 closed sale on record, including 1 in Glendale. Every one is listed on the sold page.
Source:Recently sold
How long has Blaine been licensed?
Blaine has been a licensed real estate agent since 2017, 9 years.
Source:About Blaine