A number of our neighbors to the north who recently hosted the spectacular 2010 Olympic Winter Games have been finding a new home for the winter right here in Maricopa. With attractive real estate prices, warm sunshine, and a growing local Canadian population, Maricopa is a wonderful destination for those looking to escape the winter cold of the north.
There are a number of things to consider when deciding whether being a snowbird is right for you. Specifically for Canadians, health insurance is one thing to consider. In order to maintain your provincial health insurance you must maintain your residency in your home province for at least 6 months (5 months in Ontario). Additionally, travel insurance can be purchased from a number of providers to maintain health coverage while in the US.
The 6 month rule also applies when dealing with border crossing issues within the United States. The rule of thumb regarding the use of b2 Visitor Visas to the United States is the maximum stay is 6 months minus 1 day. Canadians finding themselves in the US longer than 6 months may find themselves subject to US tax laws and other consequences.
Once in the United States and in your winter home, you will also need to deal with utilities. Many local utilities in Arizona provide snowbird specific plans that allow you to disconnect services when you are back home. This may be a good option if you do not plan on having your home occupied while you are home in Canada.
However, some Canadians have found a good way to offset the cost of real estate in the Valley of the Sun is to rent their home as a vacation rental during the summer months. This may or may not be an attractive option depending on your circumstances.
When and if you do decide that persuing real estate in Arizona is part of your plans it is important to find a qualified real estate professional than can assist you in the buying process. A licensed Realtor® can be your eyes and ears on the ground in Arizona long before you make the trip down to find your dream home.
If you are in need of a real estate professional who is experienced in helping Canadians, please contact Realtor® Dennis Smart.
Photo Courtesy of: Ian Muttoo
