Mona,
What a perfect time to be looking at the Phoenix Market. I have worked with a number of Canadian buyers myself in the past and as stated below there are a number of challenges with financing so I would also suggest to get that in order before finding your dream home and having it slip away.
Additionally, I would suggest interviewing a few agents here in Phoenix and ask some very specific questions of those agents. If you would like to contact me I would be happy help you with that list.
Make sure that things such as past appreciation/depreciation in an area are considered and remember that price and value are two very different things. Although I don't believe you need to be in the 200k-300k range, you certainly want to stay away from the "feeding frenzy" bottom. Lots of bad deals happen on that end.
Being in a different country does present it own unique challenges and be sure that you have an agent in place here that has a team of individuals that can help with all aspects of purchasing a home including financing, insurance, accounting, ect.. You don't want to be on your own for investigating and finding each professional you need.
I would love to have the opportunity to speak with you live. Please feel free to call me at your convenience.
Sincerely,
Barbara Broyles
Home Lover's Property Management
602 792-5350 - Mon Oct 19, 2009