Buyer Consultation
A working session, not a sales pitch. You leave with a price range, a neighborhood short list and a plan.
A buyer consultation with Shawn Shackelton is a no cost, no obligation meeting that ends with three things: a realistic price range confirmed with a lender, a short list of neighborhoods that fit your criteria, and a written plan for how offers will be structured in the current market. It usually takes 45 to 60 minutes, at the property, somewhere convenient in the Scottsdale area or on video. Book one at shawnshackelton.com/15min and bring your questions and your timeline.
What happens in a buyer consultation?
Define the target
Price band, must haves, deal breakers, commute, lot orientation and whether you want a finished home or a project. This is where most buyers save the most time.
Confirm the financing
Pre approval, not pre qualification. In competitive situations a verified letter from a lender who answers the phone on a Sunday is worth real money.
Tour with a filter
Shawn previews and rules homes out before you spend a Saturday on them. You see the short list, not the whole feed.
Write to win
Price is one of several levers. Inspection period, appraisal handling, close date and seller rent back often matter more than another $10,000.
How much do I need for a down payment in Arizona?
It depends on loan type, not on the market. Conventional financing commonly starts at 5 percent down, FHA at 3.5 percent, VA at zero for eligible buyers, and jumbo loans above the conforming limit typically require 10 to 20 percent. Shawn will connect you with lenders who quote in writing so you can compare on the same terms.
What does a buyer pay the agent?
Buyer broker compensation is negotiated in writing before you tour homes. In many transactions the seller offers compensation that covers it, in others the buyer pays some or all of it directly. Shawn puts the number and the source in front of you before you commit to anything.
What should relocating buyers know about Greater Phoenix?
Three things surprise most out of state buyers. First, the market is hyper local, and neighborhoods five minutes apart price very differently. Second, HOA and community district assessments vary widely and belong in your monthly math. Third, orientation and shade structure matter here in a way they do not in cooler climates, and they affect both comfort and utility cost.
Shawn has handled relocation into the Scottsdale market since 2001 and can run a first trip that covers four or five candidate areas in a single day.
Where you want to live
Buyer questions answered
Is a buyer consultation free?
Yes. The consultation carries no cost and no obligation. Compensation is only discussed and agreed in writing if you decide to work together.
How long does it take to buy a home in Arizona?
Once you are under contract, a financed purchase in Arizona commonly closes in 30 to 45 days, and a cash purchase can close in as little as 10 to 14 days. Finding the right home is the variable, and it typically takes longer than the escrow itself.
What is the inspection period in an Arizona purchase contract?
The standard AAR residential resale contract provides a 10 day inspection period by default, which is negotiable. During that window a buyer can investigate the property and can cancel for any reason disclosed by the inspection and receive the earnest money back.
Can I buy a home in Scottsdale from out of state?
Yes, and it happens constantly. Shawn runs video walkthroughs, arranges local inspections and coordinates remote notarization where the lender allows it. Many relocation buyers close before their second visit.
Should I buy new construction or resale?
New construction gives you warranty and configuration control but costs more per square foot and takes longer, and builder contracts favor the builder. Resale gives you mature landscaping, known neighbors and negotiating room. Shawn represents buyers on both.
Let's connect
Tell me what you are trying to accomplish and by when. I will reply personally, usually the same business day.
This form prepares an email draft. Send it from your email app to deliver your inquiry, or call 480.734.7277.