Sun City West

Question. We are considering retiring and buying property in Sun City or Sun City West, Arizona, but do not feel comfortable with the purchase contract. Besides price, what other items and issues we need to be sure to check before we agree to sign the contract? - Troy Robbins and Jean Kent, WA

Response. Real current real estate purchase contracts or purchase agreements may have a lot of legalese and you need to spend the time to read the entire document and ask questions about anything you do not understand.

There are many important details, in addition to the purchase price, which must be stated satisfactorily in the purchase contract. Some important questions you'll want to look to understand the various deadlines for inspections of properties, including home and termite inspection. It is not mandatory, but strongly recommended that the properties must be inspected within the inspection period is usually ten days after both parties signed a purchase agreement and escrow being opened. Many times sellers will try to control this process, but make sure you give yourself enough time for all of your inspections and investigations completely finished.

The purchase agreement should also be clear about how the negotiations will continue once the inspector has completed his inspection report. Just because a home inspector states that certain elements must be fixed does not mean automatically that the seller will be responsible for repairs. The contract must also specify who will do the repairs that both parties have agreed or how this issue will be negotiated. Some sellers place a guarantee on some key elements of a house such as air conditioning unit or the roof. The contract must include specific elements that are "guaranteed" by the seller and those who do not. Meanwhile, you need to decide if you want a guarantee of the house to be included in the negotiations for the purchase contract. For properties in Sun City which were built more than 30-40 years ago and some Sun City West homes that were built by renowned developer of retirement communities, Del Webb is a very good idea to have a Home Warranty in force at any given time. Guarantees provides all major operating systems, plumbing and appliances in the house.

Another element important to pay attention before signing a contract is the date of closing. Give yourself more time to be sure that you are able to move from your current home to your new residence without being too rushed. Give yourself a few extra days in case of closure for some reason is delayed.

These are just several of the main themes to look for when signing a contract. Most important: do not conclude a contract without competent representation of a Realtor ® or a lawyer experienced.