Arizona is the 48th state of the US and is located to the west of the country. It has borders with California, Nevada, Utah and New Mexico, and as it is one of the 'four corners' states, it also touches Colorado in its north eastern corner. The state of Arizona borders Mexico to the south and is the largest of all the land locked states of the US. Arizona has a desert climate and is therefore unsuitable for any person who does not like too much heat. For this reason, properties with pools (including apartments with communal pool areas) are highly recommended, although could mean higher prices.

The state capital of Arizona is Phoenix, which is also its largest city in terms of population. Tucson, the second largest city in Arizona is also popular with people looking to relocate, as there are also many employment opportunities. Scottsdale is another popular area and house prices in the area are reasonably cheap.

Arizona - Employment

Two thirds of the national production of copper mining comes from Arizona, although copper mining is not as big as it once was there are still many employment opportunities in this area for those who are suitably qualified and experienced. Tourism is also big business in Arizona; this is due to the region’s hot climate and also the fact that the Grand Canyon is situated in the north of the state. Lake Havasu City also offers the chance to the see original London Bridge, bought and exported to the area in 1968.

The Arizona State government is the largest employer in the area, but only on extremely rare occasions do non-US citizens manage to find work. Wal-Mart is the largest private employer, and those who work for companies owned by Wal-Mart may find that intercompany transfers are available.

The cotton industry has for many years been one of the biggest in Arizona, again those with experience may find many job opportunities in this field. The healthcare sector is often a good place to start looking for work; particularly registered nurses as there is a shortfall in most states. Qualifications in the home country may not be enough to guarantee a position in Arizona, and additional exams to ensure a license to practice within the state may be required.

Those looking to start their own business in Arizona need to ensure that all visa requirements are met and maintained as this can cause legal problems if not. Those wishing to open private practice, such as dentists, or psychologists need to prove qualifications and also gain licenses to practice within the state. Those who have a license to practice in another state will not automatically be eligible to work in Arizona.

Those looking to open businesses within the tourist sector such as hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation will also need licenses to operate and the premises will need to be checked (electrics and so forth) to ensure they are to the required standard set by the Arizona state government.

Arizona - Property

House prices in Phoenix continue to rise steadily and look set to escape the housing slump of recent times. New home sales across the western coast of America have dropped, although the state capital of Arizona is as strong as ever. House prices here are amongst some of the highest in the state, although there are still many bargains to be found. Foreclosure and short sale homes offer the buyer the opportunity for investment and for those looking to buy to let properties, the area around the University of Phoenix is popular with students looking for rental accommodation.

Scottsdale, just a short drive outside of Phoenix is popular due to its chic boutiques and upscale shopping areas. It is also the ideal place to buy property and many bargains can be found, although some work may be required to bring them up to standard, but homes with pools are reasonably priced in this area.

Property sales have slowed since the tax credit incentive expired, but even so, the housing market still continues to stay strong across the state. Those who are willing to commute to work, or who are able to work from home will find buying outside of the city can afford them a larger home with better facilities for the same money as more urban areas.