NAHB: Builder Sentiment Improves in August

Buyer Beware: 4 Common Problems Home Sellers Try to HideAccording to the National Association of Home Builders, August home builder sentiment met analyst expectations and rose by two points to a reading of 60; July’s reading was revised downward to 58. Two out of three components used in calculating the Home Builder Index were higher. Builder sentiment concerning current housing conditions rose two points to 65. Builders were also more confident about housing market conditions within the next six months; August’s reading was one point higher at 56. Builders were less confident about buyer traffic in new housing developments. August’s reading slipped one point to 44.

Any reading above 50 indicates that a majority of builders surveyed were confident in market conditions; readings for buyer traffic have not reached 50 since 2005.

Building More Homes Seen as Solution to Persistent Home Shortage

Shortages of available homes have caused demand for homes to surge in recent months. As demand increases, home prices rise. This thwarts positive conditions including low mortgage rates and recent reports of rebounding job creation. If builder confidence rises, it follows that builders will expand construction, but builders also cited factors including regulatory obstacles, a lack of qualified labor and shortages of land available for development as ongoing concerns.

Regional Confidence Readings Mixed

Regional readings for builder confidence were mixed; builder confidence in the Northeast increased by two points to 41. In the South, builder confidence also rose two points to 63. Builder sentiment in the West was unchanged at 69 while builder sentiment in the Midwest fell two points to 55.

Although growing builder confidence considered positive in light of home shortages, analysts said that single-family housing starts remain well below historical levels.

In related news, NAHB reported that readings for the 55 plus housing market index increased by one point to 57 as compared to the first quarter reading and was unchanged as compared to the second quarter of 2015. As with the general HMI, any reading over 50 indicates that more builders than fewer are confident in market conditions for 55 plus housing markets.

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411 W Galvin Street Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,950,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,726 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771487
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxury Remodeled Farmhouse on 2.6 Acres - Horse Property with Resort-Style Pool & Guest Suite Step into the elegance of this completely remodeled farmhouse, sitting on 3 acres of pristine land, perfect for horse lovers. The property features a 2-mare hotel and an arena, catering to all your equestrian needs. Unwind in the 40,000-gallon saltwater pool—a true resort-style oasis right in your backyard. For those who need space to work or play, there's a 3,600 SF detached warehouse complete with a guest suite and bathroom. It's already prepped for a kitchenette, and includes a full gym, an inground cold plunge, and an infrared sauna for ultimate relaxation and wellness. Additionally, a 1,600 SF building on the property is fully outfitted as an office and schoolroom, perfect for homeschooling or remote work. With too many upgrades to list, this property is a rare find. Seller financing available.

10040 W Camino De Oro -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,950,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
4,313 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775810
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your DREAM home is here! Nestled on a HUGE 1.3-acre lot, highlighted by a manicured landscape & a paver circular driveway. The home exudes elegance throughout with a grand foyer, plantation shutters, wood-look tile flooring, designer paint, stylish light fixtures, archways, crown molding, and tall ceilings. You'll LOVE the separate living room with a planked ceiling, horizontal viga poles, stone accent walls, pre-wired surround sound, fireplace, & multi-sliding doors that merge the inside/outside activities! The chef's gourmet kitchen boasts granite counters, white shaker cabinetry, a sizable island, a dry bar w/wine cooler, and high-end SS appliances w/wall ovens. Separate casita with bathroom. RV garage with bar, workout room and bathroom. Owned solar with 2 backup batteries. The versatile den has built-ins, ready to be your office. Enter the lavish owner's suite to find French doors to the back and an ensuite with a barn door, a soaking tub, dual vanities, a tiled shower, & a walk-in closet. Two secondary bedrooms share a Jack & Jill bathroom. PLUS! You will also have a fully equipped guest suite with its own bath & entry, making it perfect for visitors. Beyond the interiors, the expansive backyard holds its own appeal! This space is beautifully designed for relaxing & entertaining, featuring a fireplace, built-in BBQ, lush lawn, and a sparkling pool for year-round enjoyment. The paver-covered patio will surely impress you, complete with an outdoor TV setup. But wait, there's MORE! For added convenience, this property comes with an attached 2-car garage, RV gate, and plenty of open parking space. You also have an oversized detached RV garage with multiple hookups & cabinetry, designed for toy storage and functionality. Between the bays is a 400 sqft air-conditioned entertainment bar area with a bathroom, creating the perfect setup for unwinding or workshop space. This property truly has it all! See it! Love it! Live it!

9674 E Vantage Point Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,950,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,291 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778823
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacular elevated lot with breathtaking mountain views and total privacy! Step into your own private oasis through a charming paver courtyard with a fountain and exquisite, custom iron doors. The well-appointed kitchen features granite countertops, a spacious center island, a 6-burner gas cooktop, double oven, microwave and built-in refrigerator. Enjoy the spa-like feel of the fabulous owner's suite with a jacuzzi tub, large walk-in shower and his/her closets. The open concept plan with soaring ceilings and expansive windows creates a seamless connection to the magnificent resort like backyard and surrounding desert landscape. This recently updated, luxury home is the perfect blend of contemporary elegance and a sophisticated southwest charm.

14906 E Wildcat Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,949,500
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,301 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762766
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning split floor-plan ranch property on 5 acres of pristine land, perfect for equestrian enthusiasts. The side gate allows easy horse access, and the property boasts beautiful mountain views, privacy, and nearby riding trails. Over $200K was invested in improvements, including land grading, a second entrance road, cleared 1/2 acre, new fencing with snake mesh, iron gate, and 16 fully-paid solar panels. Features include a private main gate, secondary road to the barn for horses or RV, high-producing well, barn positioned for breezes, caretaker quarters, horse corral, flat land for an equestrian facility, playground, orchard, garden, pool with waterfall, and more. A MUST see!

1705 E Desert Mimosa Drive Payson, AZ 85541

$1,949,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,477 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738346
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stately and magnificent, this mountain home features a charming guest casita adjacent to a welcoming courtyard. The main home boasts post and beam construction, vaulted wood ceilings, and Venetian plaster walls. The elegant master bedroom is complemented by an office with custom built-in cabinetry and shelving. The spacious lower level includes a guest bedroom and a wine cellar, perfect for hosting visitors. Designer touches abound in this unique home, with custom cabinets, hardwood flooring, slate flooring, and a sound system that spans the entire house. The private courtyard, enclosed by stone walls, features a fountain and an outdoor gas fireplace with its own sitting area, creating a perfect space for relaxation. Further enhancements include an additional patio area with a built-in BBQ and fire pit, ideal for entertaining guests and family while enjoying the crisp mountain air and panoramic views of the majestic Mogollon Rim. This home seamlessly blends luxury with the natural beauty of its surroundings. A NEW CONCRETE TILE ROOF WAS JUST INSTALLED IN SEPT!

7137 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 7008 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,945,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,955 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6711208
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
***PENTHOUSE WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS** Welcome to your dream condo, a completely remodeled contemporary gem featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase stunning views of Camelback Mountain and the vibrant interior of Optima's pool area. This spacious retreat offers 2 large split primary suites and 2.5 baths, all complemented by superior finishes and an expansive open floor plan. Beautifully remodeled kitchen equipped with quartz countertops, Thermador appliances and ample storage space. Experience the beauty of nature from three private balconies adorned with gorgeous plant life, including a stunning 25-foot tree, perfect for soaking in breathtaking sunsets. Enjoy the condo's many convivences like a spacious laundry room, two premium parking spots with a 110V charging station, eco-friendly Wi-Fi-enabled HVAC controls, and automatic irrigation system. Recent upgrades include dimmers on every light, specialized art lighting, and large rain showerheads with massage wands. Indulge in a wealth of Optima's amenities which included two outdoor pools and spas, a newly remodeled state-of-the-art fitness center (2023) with an indoor heated pool, basketball and racquetball courts, and luxurious locker rooms with steam rooms. Enjoy yoga sessions with free mirror technology and host events in a spacious community party room. Additional perks include Metropolis restaurant and bar, a putting green for golf enthusiasts, and concierge service. Prime location. Just minutes away from Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall, Old Town Scottsdale, premier dining options, theaters, and the new Caesar's Republic Hotel, this condo is at the heart of Scottsdale's vibrant lifestyle. Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional property that combines luxury, convenience, and unparalleled views.

26995 N 68th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,945,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,364 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731621
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
HORSE PROPERTY, nestled on a sprawling 1-acre lot with breathtaking mountain views from the observation deck and coveted horse privileges! This exquisite property features a spacious 4-car garage and a charming courtyard entry that sets the tone for luxury living. Step inside to discover a meticulously designed interior, including a formal dining room and a sophisticated living room, perfect for hosting gatherings. Remodel just completed-the home exudes modern elegance. The expansive family room, complete with fireplace, provides a cozy retreat for relaxing evenings. The state-of-the-art kitchen boasts a built-in refrigerator and an in-cabinet chilled water dispenser, making it a culinary haven. Horse corral with tack room and NO HOA round out this rare opportunity!

351 N Sky View Street Flagstaff, AZ 86004

$1,935,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,891 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6680475
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Escape to your own secluded paradise nestled amidst 3 wooded acres, boasting breathtaking views of the majestic San Francisco Peaks. This contemporary masterpiece offers a luxurious retreat with just under 5,000 square feet of meticulously crafted living space. Step inside to discover two primary suites upstairs, an additional bedroom on the main level, and a chef's kitchen fit for culinary indulgence. Entertain in style with a separate eat-in area, formal dining room, and a spacious living room featuring a sleek wet bar, all while soaking in panoramic views through expansive windows. Experience unparalleled privacy with a gated entrance and tranquil enclosed courtyards, while the 3-car garage ensures convenience. Pamper yourself in the dedicated exercise room and unwind in the endless pool, or enjoy outdoor adventure in the dedicated dog park complete with ponds and rivers. Embrace a lifestyle of sophistication and serenity in this remarkable sanctuary, where every detail is thoughtfully designed to elevate your living experience amidst nature's splendor.

12314 E Black Rock Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,931,995
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,860 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767177
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*NEW CONSTRUCTION: SUMMER 2025 COMPLETION. Interior Finishes have been added!* Stunning Callum floor plan with Spanish Contemporary exterior under construction on a private home site! Gorgeous 14' ceilings, a casita with private entrance and 3 outdoor spaces are some of the reasons this plan is a top seller. Professionally designed, tasteful neutral color scheme. Additional upgrades include SS Wolf appliances, a double oven, 48'' Sub Zero Fridge & extended Kitchen island. The great room has a 72'' linear fireplace & a 16' multi-slide pocket door, perfect for cozy nights at home. This is the low-maintenance, LUXURY, lock & leave home you have been waiting for! Located in the stunning guard-gated community, Sereno Canyon. The ultimate resort lifestyle community in North Scottsdale by Toll Brothers. Come take a tour today!

33806 N 69th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,925,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,953 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6757673
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience breathtaking, unparalleled VIEWS OF THE GOLF COURSE AND BLACK MOUNTAIN from this exquisitely renovated home. (Including new roof and HVAC) Ideally situated a mere chip shot from the clubhouse and all Terravita's of amazing amenities. Every detail of this home has been thoughtfully crafted with top-tier materials, combining elegance, functionality, and stunning views. THIS IS LIKE BUYING A BRAND-NEW HOME IN AN ESTABLISHED COMMUNITY ON THE BEST LOT IMAGINABLE. Here are some upgrades: HVAC: New system (2022) with gas furnace and (2) American Standard 14 s HVAC: New system (2022) with gas furnace and (2) American Standard 14 seer condensing units Roof: Brand new roof (2022) with warranty Water Filtration: Summit Home Water System Processor (no salt, no maintenance, all water is drinkable) Windows: New Windows from Window World with Low-E Glass and Argon gas, lifetime warranty on all South, West, and North-facing windows Flooring: Porcelain wood-look plank tile throughout Paint: New interior and exterior paint throughout (Premium Sherwin Williams) Lighting: All new LED lights, new light fixtures, new ceiling fans, new kitchen lighting, exterior lighting with timer Shutters and Shades: Plantation shutters on the East side, Hunter Douglas plantation shutters throughout, remote-controlled room darkening shades in the Owner's suite Baseboards and Trim: 6 baseboards throughout, new trim Doors and Hardware: New doors, new hardware, all interior and exterior locks and hinges replaced Security: Top-of-the-line digital security system with cameras in the Great room, backyard, front door, and garage Plumbing Fixtures: All new Moen faucets and fixtures, new Toto comfort height toilets New Office Space: Reconfiguration of Great room to accommodate new office space Family/Dining Room Fireplace: 3-way fireplace with heat blower system, new chimney, new exterior fans and lighting Views: Huge golf (18th Hole) and Black Mountain views Kitchen Counters: Quartzite countertops Sink: Franke chef-style heavy-duty large stainless steel single basin sink Appliances: Thermador oven and speed cooker, Thermador 5 burner gas range, 90 bottle Thermador 3-temp wine chiller, Thermador high-output built-in range hood, Thermador dishwasher, GE Cafe built-in refrigerator Cabinets: New white ENVII shaker cabinets to the ceiling, two-toned cabinets with island in dark grey, glass-tiled backsplash Lighting: Large pendants above the island Primary Bedroom/Bath Shades: Remote-controlled shades Access: Private entry to the backyard Closets: 2 owners closets Vanities: Dual raised quartz vanities Bath & Shower: Soaker tub, dual showerheads, frameless-tiled shower, built-in shower caddies on both sides Flooring: Marble flooring up to the walls in the shower Additional Bathroom Accessories: Heated light & ceiling fan in the bathroom Additional Bathrooms Toilet: Moved for comfort seating Counter and Bowl: Onyx counter and bowl Vanity: Custom vanity Shower: Frameless tiled shower, raised vanity Additional Office & Den Office: New office with Expansive Golf and Mountain Views Den: 7' Closet added, creating additional bedroom as needed Laundry Counters: Quartz counter, folding counter Storage: Storage above washer and dryer, above and below folding counter Appliances: New top-of-line GE high-capacity washer and dryer with pedestals Garage Capacity: 3-car garage Flooring: Epoxied floor Lighting: LED lights throughout Climate Control: Carrier high-efficiency mini-split heating and air conditioning unit with remote Water Heaters: Two 50-gallon gas water heaters with new hot water circulator systems, one for the house and one for the casita Doors: New weatherstripping, new ultra-quiet garage motors, side entry door Storage: Built-in cabinets, bike racks, custom workbench with shelves, custom 6-bike rack with storage above, additional storage racks Utility Sink: Huge 40x24 tub sink for big jobs Ceiling Fans: Two ceiling fans Exterior BBQ: New built-in BBQ Landscaping Rock: New landscape stone for the entire property, front and rear Stucco: New stucco was applied and painted to match the house on all exterior perimeter walls Irrigation: The irrigation system totally upgraded with new pumps, timers, regulators, lines, and heads Landscaping: Extensive removal of old overgrown trees, bushes, and vines, planting new cactus, trees, and other landscaping enhancements Decking: Front and rear patio decking painted with top of the line exterior HD cool decking paint Gutters: New 5 commercial grade gutters Fountain: Rebuilt piping and pump system, new motor for the fountain by the casita Cameras: Security camera with night vision Meter: New electric meter for accurate readings Rattlesnake Proofing: All points of entry by gates and fences were rattlesnake-proofed Screens: HD screens on all applicable doors Patio Fans: New exterior patio fans and lighting Casita (Complete Renovation 2024) (CASITA COMES FULLY FURNISHED!) Flooring: New porcelain plank flooring in the bed area, new ceramic flooring in the bath area Shower: New floor-to-ceiling tile shower with custom glass shower doors Paint: Painted walls and ceilings Lighting: New LED ceiling lights, new ceiling fan Security: Upgraded security system tied into the house Thermostat: New digital thermostat Vanity: New vanities with marble top Toilet: New comfort height toilet Shutters: New Hunter Douglass plantation shutters Mirrors: New vanity mirrors Total Cost of Renovations: $600,000.00 Welcome to Terravita - Where Lifestyle is the True Luxury Dear Prospective Homebuyer, If you're considering making Terravita your home, know that you're not just buying a property; you're embracing a lifestyle that's rich, engaging, and brimming with opportunities. Terravita stands as a testament to a community that values experiences, relationships, and personal growth over mere bricks and mortar. Here, the house you buy is simply a gateway to the life you desire. A visit to Terravita's clubhouse and a brief tour of the amenities is essential - it's not just recommended; it's crucial. It is literally what you are buying. If you are just looking for a house, this is likely not the place for you. Dialing 480-488- 3456 can set you on a path to discovering a world where every day is a new adventure. This initial tour is more than just a walkthrough; it's an eye-opener to the vibrant, active lifestyle that awaits you. Many have said that understanding the depth and breadth of Terravita's amenities was a pivotal moment in their decision to join our community. We invite you to take the first step towards discovering if Terravita is the right fit for you. It's not just about finding a home; it's about finding a place where you can live your life to the fullest. The lifestyle you've dreamed of is here, waiting for you to embrace it. Remember, exploring Terravita starts with a tour of our clubhouse and amenities. Make that choice today and open the door to a world where life is rich, full, and wonderfully yours. Terravita is a guard gated 823 acre planned community which consists of many amenities including an 18 hole championship golf course, a 39,000 square foot newly remodeled clubhouse facility with 2 dining areas, a heated Olympic pool with easy beach front entrance and hot tub, 6 tennis courts and a full-time tennis pro, a 13,000 square foot health and fitness center, community-wide 6 mile long walking and jogging trails, and extensive event calendar with fun-filled events for the dozens of social organizations. Terravita Golf and Country Club has been voted Best Master Planned Community and Best Private Golf Club numerous times by Ranking Arizona. Terravita was created by Del Webb and was their first non-age restricted community. Terravita golf course was created by PGA Hall of Fame member Billy Casper and designer Greg Nash. Terravita golf amenities include a pro shop, a large driving range, and four separate areas to practice chipping and putting.

39349 N 107th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,925,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,576 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773588
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This Bing Hu designed home is the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship in the highly sought after community of Desert Mountain. The entire home has been totally reimagined and recreated using the finest materials and finishes expertly crafted by AB Design Elements and Allhaus. Every detail has been thoughtfully customized to evoke a sense of warmth and style. The completely redesigned kitchen and great room invite gatherings with friends and family. The Primary Suite offers privacy and tranquility while being enveloped in lavish ambiance. A well-appointed guest suite will not disappoint. The outdoor living spaces offer spectacular views of the 7th hole of the Apache Golf Course complementing the expansive private patio with a heated spa, large gas fire pit and outdoor kitchen. Homebuyer may make application to join the Desert Mountain Club's Full Golf Membership Wait List (the Wait List). Homebuyer's Application for Membership must be approved and all Wait List requirements must be met to join the Wait List. While on the Wait List, homebuyer may be offered the opportunity to have club use privileges by obtaining a Full Lifestyle Membership or a Full Seven Golf Membership with the requirement to upgrade to a Full Golf Membership once it becomes available. Wait List times vary. Please contact the Desert Mountain Club for details.

3110 E Georgia Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

$1,925,000 - 3Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Village On The Lakes At The Arizona Biltmore Estat, Phoenix
New
$1,925,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,600 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775617
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to this charming single-level home, nestled on the lake in the gated community of Village on the Lakes at the Biltmore. Completely renovated in 2015, this home was designed with attention to every detail. From the moment you approach, you're greeted by an inviting front courtyard with a beautiful outdoor seating area, complemented by travertine pavers that guide you to the front entrance. Inside, you'll find three spacious bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, soaring vaulted ceilings & numerous windows that enhance the home's open, airy feel. The kitchen features custom cabinetry, stunning Taj Mahal quartz countertops, premium KitchenAid appliances, and a dedicated bar and beverage fridge area, making it a dream for both cooking and entertaining. The primary bedroom is a retreat offering the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation. Large sliding doors open to the backyard, allowing you to wake up to breathtaking views of the lake and golf course. The primary bathroom is equally impressive, with a double vanity, spacious walk-in shower, and his-and-hers closets. The backyard is an entertainer's paradise, boasting travertine pavers, a breathtaking ficus tree, a beautiful water feature, low-maintenance artificial grass and a cozy backyard fire-pit. With its private setting, the backyard delivers peace and serenity, framed by stunning views of both the lake and golf course. Additional features include a two-car garage and easy walking access to scenic green belts, upscale shopping, dining, and all the Biltmore area has to offer. This is more than just a homeit's a lifestyle defined by elegance, privacy, and some of the most breathtaking views available. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a true gem in the desert!