Moving to Prescott, AZ from out of state
Relocating to Prescott from out of state takes six steps: a call to make a plan, lender pre-approval or proof of funds, showings in person or by video, an offer, a 10-day inspection period, and closing (typically about 30 days). I'm there at every step, including FaceTiming you through inspections when you can't be in town.
How buying a home in Prescott works
Buying out of state is very doable when you know what's coming. Here's how it works with me, start to finish. Tap any step to open it up.
01Connect with meA call to talk through your plans
We've probably been chatting through DMs already. Let's set up a call to talk about what you're looking for, your timeline, and how you want to live in Prescott. Then we'll make a plan to get you here.
Book that call02Lender pre-approval or proof of fundsThe one thing I need before we tour
Talk with a lender to confirm your purchase price and monthly payment. If you have a lender you love, you're welcome to use them. If not, I'm happy to connect you with a few wonderful local ones.
Paying cash? Then you'll just need a proof of funds showing the money is available.
I don't show homes without one of these two, and some sellers require it before they'll approve a showing.03Showing homesIn person or by video
If you can't come out, or the perfect home hits the market while you're away, I'm happy to do a virtual showing. I've had clients buy a house sight-unseen and love it.
If you're coming to town for showings, I'll schedule them 48 hours ahead. We'll aim for 5 to 8 homes a day. Any more than that and everything starts to blur together.
04Making an offerNegotiating for you
Once we find "the one," we'll write the offer and negotiate. When we reach an agreement, you're officially under contract.
A typical closing is about 30 days. It can be shorter (as quick as 4 or 5 days with cash and no HOA) or longer, though a very long closing usually isn't appealing to a seller.
05Due diligence & inspectionsYour 10-day window
In Arizona, the inspection period is usually 10 days. I'll help set up your inspections. At a minimum, my clients typically do a home, termite and sewer inspection. Depending on the area, we'll also talk about well, septic and fire insurance quotes.
You're welcome to come to town for the inspection wrap-up. If you can't, I'll be there and FaceTime you through it.
06Closing dayWelcome home
In Arizona, closing day is the day the house officially becomes yours. Unlike some states where you sign and close the same day, here you'll usually sign and send funds a day or two ahead. Once escrow has everything, the deed records, and you're officially an Arizona homeowner.
Planning your Prescott house-hunting trip
Getting to Prescott
Most of my California clients drive. It's a beautiful trip. Prescott has its own airport, currently served by United with direct flights to LA and Denver.
Flying into a bigger airport? Phoenix Sky Harbor is about an hour and 45 minutes away. Rent a car and enjoy the scenic drive up, or book a shuttle with Groome Transportation, which runs all day, every day.
Where to stay in Prescott
Downtown is the place to stay. For historic charm, the Hassayampa Inn and Hotel St. Michael are classics, each with its own cozy restaurant, or you can stroll the Square and choose from so many local spots.
Prefer something more modern? The newer Hilton is a beautiful option just outside the bustle, and still walkable to coffee shops, breweries and local restaurants.
Your first 30 days in Prescott
You've got the keys. Now let's get you settled. Here's the checklist I share with clients, and I'm always a text away if you need a name or a number.
Get set up
- Electric: APS
- Natural gas: UniSource Energy Services (many rural homes use propane instead)
- Water, sewer & trash: City of Prescott if you're in city limits; otherwise your private water company or well
- Internet: options vary by street, so we'll check before you close
- Change your mailing address with USPS
Make it official
- Get your Arizona driver license and register your vehicles with ADOT MVD (book online to skip the wait)
- Register to vote in Yavapai County
- Make sure your home is classified as your primary residence for property tax (we'll handle this at closing)
- Get established with a primary care doctor and transfer prescriptions
- Living near the forest? Sign up for Yavapai County emergency alerts
Start living like a local
- Saturday morning at the Prescott Farmers Market
- Walk the Flume Trail around Watson Lake
- Coffee and a stroll around the Courthouse Square
- Join a club, a church, a pickleball group, or the library
- Dinner at The Raven, my favorite
Moving to Prescott: quick answers
Can I buy a home in Prescott without seeing it in person?
Absolutely. I do detailed video walkthroughs, and I've had clients buy sight-unseen and love their homes. I'll be at your inspection and can FaceTime you through anything you'd want to see.
How long does it take to close on a home in Arizona?
A typical closing is about 30 days. Cash purchases with no HOA can close in as little as 4–5 days.
How long is the inspection period in Arizona?
The standard inspection (due diligence) period in Arizona is 10 days, though it can be negotiated shorter or longer.
What's the best way to get to Prescott?
Many California clients drive. Prescott's airport has United flights to LAX and Denver, and Phoenix Sky Harbor is about 1 hour 45 minutes away, with Groome Transportation shuttles running daily.
