Chase StewartREALTOR® · eXp Realty

Home / Buyer's Guide / After closing

Buyer's Guide · Section 8

Your first 30 days as an Arizona homeowner

After closing, change the locks, schedule AC service, set up HOA payments, and learn how Arizona property taxes work: 2 installments due October 1 and March 1. Arizona's homestead law automatically protects up to $437,600 of your home equity from creditors in 2026, with no filing required.

Written by Chase Stewart, REALTOR® with eXp Realty · Last reviewed October 2026

Your first-30-day checklist

  • Change the locks. You don't know who has copies of the old keys.
  • Schedule AC service. Get a tune-up before summer and change filters monthly.
  • Set up HOA auto-pay. Arizona HOAs can place a lien for unpaid dues.
  • Set up utilities. APS or SRP for electric, your city for water, and Cox, Quantum Fiber, or T-Mobile for internet.
  • Update your license. New residents should get an Arizona license through the MVD once they establish residency.

Property taxes and homestead protection

Arizona property taxes are paid in two halves. The first is due October 1 and becomes delinquent after November 1. The second is due March 1 and becomes delinquent after May 1. Your lender may pay them from escrow. In Maricopa County, expect roughly 0.6% to 1.3% of market value per year, depending on your taxing district.

Arizona's homestead exemption automatically protects up to $437,600 of equity in your primary home from most creditors in 2026. The law sets a $400,000 base that adjusts every January for inflation, and you don't need to file anything.

Living in the desert

  • Monsoon season runs June 15 to September 30. Check your roof and drainage before it starts, and never drive through a flooded road.
  • Pool service usually runs $100 to $200 a month.
  • Pest control is worth it for scorpions, termites, and roof rats. Most homeowners pay $40 to $100 a month.
  • Taxes: a flat 2.5% state income tax and a 5.6% state sales tax, with combined local rates around 8% to 9%.

I'm still your agent after closing. Text me with any question about your home, contractors, or the market.

Common questions

When are property taxes due in Arizona?

First half October 1, delinquent after November 1. Second half March 1, delinquent after May 1.

Do I need to file for a homestead exemption in Arizona?

No. Arizona's homestead protection is automatic for your primary residence. It protects up to $437,600 of equity in 2026, adjusted every January for inflation.

Rules, rates, and limits change, so confirm current numbers with your lender and escrow officer before you rely on them.