— For Sale By Owner Financing
Buying a For Sale By Owner Home in Tucson? Let's Get the Financing Right.
Buying directly from the owner changes how you and the seller communicate and arrange the sale. It doesn't change what a lender reviews: your income, credit, the property and the purchase contract, plus title and appraisal as needed. Whether the home is in Tucson, Marana or Oro Valley, I can help you understand the financing side from the start.
Your FSBO Financing Roadmap
- 1
Talk Through Price and Budget
Before you make an offer, we can review your budget, estimated payment and down payment. Getting preapproved first is optional, but it can help you make an offer with confidence.
- 2
Put the Agreement in Writing
A written purchase agreement should capture the price, terms, contingencies and closing details. Without agents involved, consider getting qualified real estate or legal help to prepare or review it.
- 3
Lender Review of the Contract and Property
Once there's a signed contract, I review it and look at the loan programs that may fit you and the property. Your income, credit, assets and the property itself are all reviewed.
- 4
Appraisal, Title, Insurance and Conditions
An appraisal is ordered as applicable, title and escrow are opened, homeowners insurance is set up, and any underwriting conditions are worked through.
- 5
Closing and Keys
Once conditions are satisfied and the loan is cleared to close, you sign final documents with the title or escrow company and receive the keys.
Timing varies by contract, property, loan program and documentation. No specific timeline is guaranteed.
What Makes an FSBO Mortgage Different?
How the home is sold is what changes. Without listing agents, you and the seller negotiate directly and decide together how the contract, title and escrow will be handled.
How you qualify stays the same. The loan is underwritten on your income, credit, assets and the property, just like any other purchase.
You'll still need a written purchase agreement, and typically a title or escrow company to close. Planning for these early helps avoid surprises later.
FSBO Financing Questions
Can I get a mortgage on an FSBO home?
Yes, it's possible. Buying directly from the owner changes how the sale is arranged, but it doesn't change how you qualify. The lender still reviews your income, credit, assets, the property and the purchase contract. All financing is subject to underwriting and approval.
Can I use FHA, VA or conventional financing?
Often, yes. FHA, VA and conventional loans can be used on FSBO purchases when you and the property meet the program's requirements. Some programs have specific property condition and appraisal requirements, so we'd review those early.
What if neither side has a real estate agent?
That's allowed, but someone still needs to handle the paperwork and closing. Buyers and sellers usually use a title or escrow company and may want a real estate attorney or other qualified professional. As your lender, I can't represent either party legally or give legal advice.
Should I get preapproved before making an offer?
It's a good idea. A preapproval helps you understand your price range and shows the seller you've started the financing process. A preapproval is not a commitment to lend; final approval comes after full underwriting.
Who handles appraisal and title?
The lender orders the appraisal when the loan program requires one. Title and escrow are chosen for each transaction, often agreed between buyer and seller in the purchase contract. You're free to choose your own providers where allowed.
What if I'm purchasing FSBO in Florida?
I'm personally licensed in both Arizona and Florida, so I can help with financing in either state. Customs for contracts, title and closing can differ between states, so we'd talk through how your Florida purchase will be handled.
Found the Home? Let's Plan the Financing.
Also see how the mortgage process works or meet Paul.
Mortgage services are offered through NEXA Lending. Paul Dunn, individual NMLS #174659, is personally licensed to originate loans in Arizona and Florida only. For other states, Paul may be able to introduce you to a separate, appropriately licensed NEXA Lending loan officer, but this is not guaranteed. This page is for education only and is not a commitment to lend; all financing is subject to credit, income, property and underwriting approval. Any real estate services are separate from lending services. Nothing here is legal advice, and you're free to choose your own representation, title, escrow and other providers.