Hy Shelly: ...Tthank you for your question. I am from Canada ( Hello) !and now practise real estate here in Arizona and getting with your question : As long as all your information is disclosed properly and honestly with all parties involved, your Title company of choice will guide you as well in this process . Please let me know if you would like a contact source of 2 or 3 for you to consult with. Speaking with your accountant would be suggested for your tax questions as well. Financing issues would need to be addressed , depending on how you are chosing to purchase. Please let me know if I may be of service to you , having been a full time Professional Realtor for over 20+ years in Canada and , the last 9 in Tucson, AZ . Have a wonderful day and please visit my website if you like to peruse other properties, http://www.tucsonbesthomes.com All the best, Sincerely, Lucill Alkabir, Avalar Advantage Realty , Tucson, AZ

Wed Apr 30 2008, 12:40

A Canadian does not face legal challenges to homeownership. Indeed, many Canadians are taking advantage of currency valuation and making smart real estate investment choices in Arizona. Mobile homes are more like automobile purchases than real estate purchases. The legal choices amount to truth in filling out paperwork for financing and recording purposes, and responsibility to meet taxation demands.

Wed Apr 30 2008, 10:23

Hi Shelley,

You may want to contact a Mortgage Broker in Arizona and ask if they are familiar with International Mortgages. Your local Canadian bank may have some resources, try TD Bank, as they have TD Waterhouse in the US (GMAC does Mortgages in Canada and the US as well so they may be of assistance).

There are two scenarios: 1) If you have top-notch credit the US bank will use your credit rating from Canada for preapproval. 2) Only your employment, liquid assets, and visa status are used for a preapproval. This option usually involves ARM loans, higher down payments, or balloon payments.

The two options above are only available for the purchase of a second home. Purchasing a primary residence is still available but will require a long-term US visa such as an H-1B. It also requires proof of continued employment in the US for up to three years. The process is then exactly the same as that for Americans.

Wed Apr 30 2008, 10:21