Moving to Lake Havasu? Don’t Let Out-of-State Advice Cost You Thousands

Hey! 👋 Thinking about moving to Lake Havasu City from California, Oregon, Colorado—or anywhere outside Arizona? You’re not alone. This lakeside desert city is one of the fastest-growing hidden gems in the Southwest.

But here’s the truth: buying a home in Arizona—especially in Lake Havasu—is likely not the same as buying in the state you’re coming from.

Let me break it down for you, real-talk style 👇

🏜️ Why People Are Moving to Lake Havasu City

✅ Lower Taxes – Arizona has some of the lowest property tax rates in the country (~0.36% in Havasu). Bonus: Social Security income isn’t taxed here either.
✅ Year-Round Outdoor Lifestyle – Lake Havasu is perfect for boating, off-roading, hiking, fishing, and more. If you love sunshine, we’ve got 300+ days of it. You never have to shovel sunshine

✅ Lake Culture + Laid-Back Vibes – From sandbar weekends to winter balloon festivals, the lifestyle here is unbeatable.

✅ Affordable Homes Compared to the Coast – Many buyers find they can get more house—and more land—for less money.

But… the way homes are bought and valued here is different, and that’s where working with a local expert really matters.🧭 Why It’s Important to Work with a Licensed Arizona Agent

Real estate laws, forms, and timelines vary from state to state. If someone isn’t licensed in Arizona, they’re not do you a favor by advising you on Arizona real estate matters.

That’s why it’s essential to work with a REALTOR® who is licensed in Arizona and a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). We follow a strict Code of Ethics and are trained to navigate Arizona-specific contracts, disclosures, and practices to ensure your interests are protected.

🔍 Buying in Arizona: What Out-of-State Buyers Don’t Expect

Here’s what makes the Arizona process—and your responsibilities as a buyer—unique:

1. You Pay for All Your Own Inspections
In AZ, buyers are responsible for ordering and paying for inspections: home, termite (WDIIR), roof, sewer, pool, HVAC—you name it.

2. You Handle Due Diligence
Arizona is a "buyer-beware" state. You must verify zoning, square footage, permitting, HOA rules, school districts, flood zones—everything. It’s on you (and your agent) to investigate before moving forward.

3. Repairs Are Not Guaranteed
You’ll submit a BINSIR (Buyer’s Inspection Notice and Seller’s Response). Sellers can accept, reject, or negotiate repairs. If they say no, you can walk away—but only within the inspection period.

4. Appraisal Gap? That’s Your Responsibility
If the home appraises low, you may have to cover the difference, unless your contract includes specific appraisal gap protection.

5. No Attorney Involved in Closing
Unlike other states, Arizona doesn’t require attorneys for real estate closings. Your licensed REALTOR® and title company handle everything.

6. Utilities? You’re on Your Own
You’ll need to arrange electric, water, sewer, gas, and internet before you close. No one does this for you automatically.

7. Yes, You Get Disclosures—but You Still Need to Verify
Sellers must provide SPDS (Seller Property Disclosure Statement) and the Residential Seller Advisory—but that doesn’t replace your due diligence.

⚠️ So What’s the Risk?

Even a top-producing agent in California or Colorado doesn’t know the intricacies of Lake Havasu unless they live and work here, every day.

And while advice from a friend or relative might sound helpful, if they’re not licensed in Arizona, they shouldn’t be giving advice on Arizona real estate.

🔑 The Smart Move?

Trust an Arizona-Licensed Agent—Not a Well-Meaning Out-of-Stater

A local REALTOR® who is licensed in Arizona and a member of the National Association of REALTORS® knows how to:

✅ Write contracts that protect you under Arizona law
✅ Spot red flags in inspections or disclosures
✅ Price and evaluate homes with Havasu-specific insight
✅ Navigate second-home dynamics, RV garage value, and local lender nuances
✅ Keep your deal on track and your investment secure

Thinking about relocating to Lake Havasu? Let’s talk before you make a costly mistake.

📲 Charley Narcomey
🏡 Realty One Group Mountain Desert
🌐 charleyhavasuhomes.com
📞 808-250-0155
📍 Licensed REALTOR® in Arizona | Member, National Association of REALTORS®