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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332 W Malibu Drive Chandler, AZ 85248

$1,699,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,335 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749752
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICE ADJUSTMENT! A FULTON RANCH DREAM COME TRUE..... THIS STUNNING AGEAN COVE HOME HAS EVERYTHING YOU COULD EVER WANT & MORE! FROM THE GATED ENTRYWAY, FABULOUS CASITA, 4 CAR SPLIT GARAGE, AS WELL AS THE PRIVATE COURTYARD W/FIREPLACE & LOTS OF SEATING AREA, YOU ARE GOING TO BE HOOKED! CUSTOM IRON DOOR OPENS INTO A GRAND FOYER FEATURING A WINDING STAIRCASE ONLY SEEN IN THE MOVIES, CUSTOM STONE FLOORING, HUGE LIVING & DINING ROOMS (CURRENTLY SET AS A PERFECT GAME ROOM), LARGE OFFICE, AS WELL AS A HUGE OWNERS SUITE ON MAIN FLOOR W/SPACIOUS ENSUITE THAT INCLUDES 2 OWNERS CLOSETS, JETTED TUB, & SEPARATE SINK AREAS. TAKE A WALK INTO THE CHEF'S KITCHEN THAT OFFERS A GAS STOVE, 3 OVENS, WARMING DRAWER, MICROWAVE, OVERSIZED ISLAND W/WINE REFRIGERATOR. CHECK OUT THE BUTLERS SERVICE STATION EQUIPPED W/REFRIGERATOR AS WELL AS THE WALK-IN PANTRY. THIS HOME OFFERS YOU 2 LAUNDRY ROOMS (1 UP AND 1 DOWN). UPSTAIRS YOU WILL FIND A TRUE CINEMA EXPERIENCE W/STADIUM STYLE RECLINERS, & FULL MOVIE SCREEN, ALL UNDER A MESMERIZING CEILING OF SHOOTING STARS. 1 SET OF THE BEDROOMS UPSTAIRS OFFERS A JACK & JILL BATH; 1 OFFERS A PRIVATE ENSUITE, AND THE OTHER ONE OFFERS A SIZE FULL BATH! ALL BEDROOMS HAVE SPACIOUS CLOSETS! AFTER YOU HAVE BEEN WOWED BY THE INSIDE OF THIS HOME --- STEP OUT INTO THIS RESORT STYLE BACKYARD! THIS ONE OF A KIND CUSTOM HEATED POOL INCLUDES NUMEROUS WATERFALLS & FIRE FEATURES ENCOMPASSING JETTED GROTTOS WITH CHANGEABLE LIGHTING, SLIDES, AND A RAISED SPA. ADDITIONAL FOUNTAINS ALONG THE DECK MAKE THIS EXPERIENCE UNMATCHED! PUTT ON THE GREENS, SIT AT THE BUILT-IN BBQ & ENJOY A DRINK WHILE WATCHING ALL OF THE FUN IN THE POOL! -- NEEDING SOME SHADE --- THE REMOTE SHADES HAVE YOU COVERED! THIS GEM OF A HOME AND YARD WILL AMAZE YOU! CALL FOR YOUR PRIVATE SHOWING TODAY!

13051 N 70th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,699,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,586 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755937
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the coveted Desert Estates neighborhood, this charming ranch-style home sits on a sprawling half-acre lot with striking curb appeal. The mature desert landscaping and expansive front ramada offer the perfect setting to relax and take in the stunning evening sunsets. Inside, the home boasts recent updates, incl interior paint, new kitchen featuring granite countertops, ample cabinetry, a buffet bar, extra storage, & renovated bathrooms. Addt'l upgrades include a re-coated roof, new lighting, and so much more! The spacious family room & an impressive laundry/pantry room are sure to delight any buyer. The main living area flows seamlessly into an open-concept kitchen & family space, w/ large windows throughout the home showcasing backyard views and breathtaking sunrise moments. The primary suite features an oversized walk-in closet, dual sinks, and private access to the backyard oasis, while the secondary bedrooms are generously sized, including one with an ensuite, perfect for guests. Designed for entertaining, the backyard is a true desert paradise with an expansive covered patio for outdoor dining, a built-in BBQ, a synthetic lawn, a sparkling diving pool, a fire pit, and beautiful desert landscaping. An additional storage room is conveniently located on the south side of the property. With no HOA and located within the top-rated Scottsdale school district (Sequoya, Cocopah, and Chaparral), this home offers unbeatable value. Enjoy easy access to world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment at Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter, as well as proximity to premier events like the Barrett-Jackson car auction and the WM Phoenix Open. Plus, you're just minutes from the 101 and 51 freeways, providing quick routes to Sky Harbor Airport and Downtown Phoenix. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional, turn-key desert estate!

30600 N Pima Road Unit 19 Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,699,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,272 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760538
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the exquisite, unparalleled beauty & craftsmanship of this elegant Santa-Fe style property on 1.4 acres! With over 3,000 sqft of construction, this breathtaking custom-built home is full of sophistication & charm! From the large paver driveway, the attached 3 car garage, and the private courtyard with beehive fireplace, you'll want to see more. The impressive interior boasts a semi-open floor plan, promoting privacy while maintaining an open feel. Tall ceilings, recessed lighting, luxury wood-look vinyl flooring, soft gray palette, and windows galore favor a modern, functional design. The spacious family room features a fireplace adorned with stone cladding. Double-height ceilings extend to the gourmet kitchen, showcasing elegant stacked white cabinetry, quartz counters, tile backsplash, and high-end Kitchen Aid SS appliances. The generously sized owner's suite has outdoor access and a sizable walk-in closet. The lavish ensuite hosts a large quartz dual vanity, LED Wall-mounted mirrors with adjustable temp, and an oversized shower. Split 5th bedroom is great for overnight guests, featuring private outdoor access & direct entry to a bathroom. Upstairs, you'll find a bright loft with amazing Mtn views that's ideal for an office or a hobby area. The exceptional backyard offers an oversized covered patio, faux-flagstone floor, outdoor kitchen, fireplace, eat-in bar, fire pit, above-ground spa, and a pool. The fantastic amenities don't stop there! The Sincuidados community hosts a clubhouse, fireplace, pergola, grill, and basketball & tennis courts. Surrounded by Mtns, you can contemplate stunning sunsets every evening. What's not to like? Come, experience the magic!

27029 N Javelina Trail Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,698,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,860 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762449
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Be prepared to be wowed. This is a gorgeous Mike Foster Custom Home with all the extras. An amenities sheet is in the listing for more details. The exterior design with stone accents and the custom front door with a 3 panel steel bronze and etched glass establishes the feel of quality. Step into the spacious greatroom with 12 ft high ceiling with handcrafted beams and elegant wood flooring. The kitchen has shaker cabinets, Monogram appliances with the quartzite countertops. Designer lighting and tiles in all bathrooms continue to delight visitors. Enjoy the beauty of your own pool and spa surrounded by travertine pavers and entertain with a built-in BBQ. This home has an ideal floor plan with 2 ensuite baths with each guest bedroom.The 3-car garage has extra storage and epoxy floor.

10243 N 58th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,696,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,693 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6727530
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Turn-key offered fully furnished. Country Estates w/private large yard & new pool! 4 bedroom with 3 baths. Double bedroom that could easily be split for a 5th bedroom! BRAND new pool remodel just completed! Spacious open split floor plan w/ 2 master suites, high ceilings, skylights & lots of natural light. Expanded custom chef's kitchen w/ beautiful custom cherry cabinets, 3 sinks, 2 refrigerators, top of the line appliances- wolf, subzero, gas cooking & built in steamer. Quality luxury finishes- tile & Berber carpeting throughout, thermo pane windows, sophisticated lighting & sound systems, central vacuum, . Resort style mature landscaping w/ sparkling pool & lawn.

52312 N 461st Avenue Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$1,695,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,794 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733592
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream estate! Custom-built home sits on a 5-acre property in the desirable Wickenburg/Forepaugh area perfect for horse enthusiasts, here's what makes this property truly exceptional- tile floors elegant and easy to maintain wood shutters adds a touch of classic charm, pantry, utility sink in laundry room, bar area for entertaining, master suite walk-in closet, luxurious shower with double heads, knotty alder doors, tile baseboards, tongue & groove patio ceilings, full-size roping arena, ideal for practicing, priefert roping chute, 2 RV plug-Ins, 4 stall free style horse walker ,wash rack ,custom tack room with pavers, automatic waters, 12 covered stalls, 4 (30x40) pens, 3 (60x40) pens, 2 (50x 100) pens, hay shed, custom entry, quarter minus driveway, top notch facility,

6939 E Chaparral Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,695,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
2,673 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776773
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand new Heated pool in NOV 2024! PV home on almost half acre lot with NO HOA restrictions. Incredible Camelback Mountain views, walking distance from world-class Old Town Scottsdale restaurants/nightlife, & even fashion square mall. This 6 Bed, 4 Bath home with easy maintenance turf yard, putting greens, volleyball court w/ 2 hot tubs. This home has 2 kitchens and masters making it perfect for house hacking/investment or a mother-in-law suite. Home has separate entrances and ability to close off door to create two 3 bed, 2 bath living quarters.This home can can be used as a Air BNB, Behavior Health, Assisted Living, Sober Living; sky is the limit with this remodeled home in Desirable Rancho Vista PV neighborhood

6125 E Hodges Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,695,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,025 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769293
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exceptional Location! This stunning home is situated on one of the largest premium lots, featuring a highly sought-after south-facing backyard that opens to serene views of the surrounding open space. The desirable ''Robert'' model is designed to showcase the expansive views, spacious yard & sparkling pool through its dramatic wall of stacking glass doors, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated with high-end finishes throughout, including luxurious slab granite, custom cabinetry, & soaring ceilings that enhance the spaciousness. The timeless, hand-scraped wood flooring adds warmth and elegance. The chef's kitchen is a true centerpiece perfect for entertaining with a s/s Wolf gas cooktop, convenient pot filler, Subzero refrigerations, R/O farm sink, walk-in pantry and adjacent to a butler's pantry complete with a wine refrigerator. The split master retreat offers tranquil views of the sparkling pool & features coffered ceilings, plantation shutters, & dual closets outfitted with custom luxury closet systems. The spa-like master bath has been beautifully updated with sleek quartz countertops, stylish backsplash, and freshly painted cabinets, delivering a modern touch to a classic design.This is a sample of the extensive features. This home perfectly blends elegance, comfort, and luxury in a highly desirable location within a gated community. See our features sheet for a list detailed amenities.

309 E Georgia Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85012

$1,695,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,526 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6764499
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 4 bed, 2.5 bath Tuscan inspired home in the heart of Uptown Phoenix has everything you've been looking for! Bursting with curb appeal, you are welcomed with lush landscaping and Chicago reclaimed brick walkways that lead to an open patio with gas fire pit at the entryway and as you step inside enjoy a thoughtfully designed floor plan split between two stories. The open concept kitchen features granite countertops, an island with a breakfast bar, and upgraded stainless steel appliances including a Viking range. The kitchen seamlessly flows into a tucked away eating nook and the open living room which includes a gas fireplace. The primary bedroom features its own fireplace, a separate seating area, a private entrance leading to the backyard, and a spa-like ensuite with a large walk-in shower, jetted tub, dual vanities, and a walk-in closet with custom built-in shelving. The first floor also includes a full bar that connects a formal eating space to the kitchen and living room, a convenient powder bath for guests, a full-sized laundry room, a private office, and a wine cellar tucked beneath the stairs, showcasing a custom arched iron door. Upstairs, you'll find a den, along with three additional bedrooms. One bedroom has been thoughtfully remodeled with rubberized flooring, ideal for a yoga or workout space. Step outside into your own backyard oasis designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The lush landscaping surrounds a shaded patio, pool, and multiple pergolas. You'll also enjoy an outdoor shower and a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen that includes a bar top with seating for 10, making this the perfect space for outdoor dining and hosting friends and family. The 3-car garage features ample built-in storage, additional racking system, a fridge and 2 Tesla charging stations. This home truly has it allluxury, style, and functionality. Don't miss the opportunity to make it yours!

7151 E Mcdonald Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,695,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
1,884 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768548
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to the epitome of modern luxury at this exquisitely rebuilt from the studs out and reimagined single level jewel box. Luxuriously appointed, this Paradise Valley masterpiece is exactly what you have been waiting for and more. This stunning two bedroom, 2.5 bathroom townhome, complete with a versatile den, has been meticulously reconfigured to maximize space, eliminate hallways and raise ceilings, all with a soft contemporary design. Step inside to discover an open floor plan bathed in natural light, custom iron Western doors and windows and French white oak flooring and gas fireplace, highlighting the sophisticated style of the interior. Embracing indoor out door living, there are two charming limestone and turf patios with one patio featuring a newly built gas fireplace, creating an intimate atmosphere for both relaxing and hosting guests. The gourmet kitchen features custom designer cabinetry, elegant honed white marble countertops, wolf range, subzero refrigerator, subzero wine tower, and two additional beverage drawers. Retreat to the spacious master suite, where you'll find a luxurious spa-like bathroom with a walk-in shower, soaking tub, dual vanities, designer cabinetry, white marble and premium fixtures and custom walk-in closet. The second bedroom offers ample space and comfort, featuring a full ensuite and new closet. Attached direct access two car garage has newly epoxied floor and generous storage. A rare opportunity for an interior location at the exclusive Villa Serena community. You'll have access to a range of amenities including a sparkling pool, fitness center, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Located in prestigious Paradise Valley, this home offers unparalleled convenience with close proximity and walkability to upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment.

28669 N 94th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,695,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,858 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772160
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Only 8 years old! This beautiful home is a must-see in the Troon North Community. Stylish yet casual, it features stunning finishes and an easy-living layout. The chef's kitchen boasts a spacious island and premium appliances, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. From your breakfast table, patio, and master suite, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Pinnacle Peak and the lush greens of the Troon North golf course every day. For the adventurous spirit, the area offers numerous hiking and biking trails nearby. As you enter through the charming, enclosed entryway, you'll find a cozy sitting area—ideal for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Inside, discover beautiful stone floors and a seamless layout with no interior steps. This home includes 4 bedrooms, including a spacious master suite and a separate casita, along with 3.5 bathrooms, a large office, a great room, and a television or reading room. This residence embodies the Troon lifestyle at its finestluxurious, welcoming, and surrounded by natural beauty.

13439 N 79th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,695,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,710 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776801
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Phoenix Home & Garden Cover Home July 2022! This beautifully restored mid-century modern gem is so special and unique, you don't want to miss it! The main living room features original exposed beamed ceilings, gorgeous stacked stone fireplace, floor to ceiling & clerestory windows and opens to the new vibrant custom kitchen and dining space. Handmade Moroccan tiles adorn the kitchen backsplash with custom glass shelving and eco-friendly terrazzo countertops add a timeless appeal. In addition to the great room, there is an oversized bonus/game room with stone faced fireplace and vaulted exposed beams. Rounding out this 3 bedroom home is a bonus office/den space. All of this, plus located on a 32,000+ square foot lot with horse privileges in the heart of Scottsdale!