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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1385 S Loy Road Cornville, AZ 86325

$6,900,000
10 Beds
10 Baths
39,489 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6757510
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Unparalleled opportunity to own over 40 acres outside of Sedona. These remarkable 8 parcels hold the potential to create your own ranch, business, and rental opportunities all in one place. Sitting Creekside and just 20 minutes outside of Sedona, this horse property includes residential homes, a hotel, an opera house, indoor skating rink, tennis court, golf course, barn/stable, general store, and original stage coach. Listing Broker has full parcel and property details. This is truly a one of a kind property.

19452 N 98th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,895,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,288 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741408
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This exquisite home, beautifully updated and perfectly situated on a prime lot backing to the Reata Wash, is located in the highly sought-after Arcadia Silverleaf neighborhood. It offers breathtaking mountain and city light views while providing the ultimate in privacy and the best of Arizona living. This stunning residence features luxurious modern Spanish details and unmatched, expansive outdoor spaces. With 5 ensuite bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, & a bonus room, the home boasts an open, light, and bright floor plan adorned with limestone and hardwood flooring, Cantera stone fireplaces, and a gourmet kitchen equipped with quartz and marble waterfall counters, custom cabinetry, eglomise mirrored glass backsplashes, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, two Bosch dishwashers, a butler pantry w with a Sub-Zero wine fridge, and two refrigerator drawers. The spacious laundry room includes ample cabinetry and an ice maker. The private primary retreat offers a sitting room with a cozy fireplace, a coffee/beverage center, his and her closets, his and her water closets, and a grand two-sided entry steam shower. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated wine tasting room with a temperature-controlled wine wall that holds 864 bottles, complemented by an additional wine cellar for 212 bottles. The backyard is an entertainer's paradise, perfect for enjoying spectacular Arizona sunsets with a heated pool and spa, serene water features, electric sun shades, an outdoor kitchen, and a wood-burning fireplace. The immaculate oversized three-car garage features epoxy flooring and ample storage cabinets. Recent upgrades to the property include all new HVAC units, updated Pentair pool equipment, an updated lighting system, and two new tankless hot water heaters to ensure modern comfort and convenience. For a comprehensive list of features and upgrades, please refer to the documents tab. This home is truly exceptional and is sure to appeal to the most discerning buyers, with its ideal proximity to shopping, dining, and the 101 freeway. The best of location, luxury, and lifestyle.

8627 E Whisper Rock Trail Unit 120 Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$6,830,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,295 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6561784
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located on one of the finest lots within Whisper Rock Estates, this to-be-built home has been designed with the utmost care and craftsmanship * Craig Wickersham (Architect) & R-Net Custom Homes (Builder) combine to create a timeless, one-of-a-kind masterpiece on a south-facing, 2.7 acre site * Just about 6300 sq ft of livable space, offering an ideal layout consisting of an open living concept, 4 full bedroom suites, gym, media, office, bar and wine room * Zero interior steps, true indoor/outdoor living, 4-car garage and outdoor kitchen complete the design * See the documents tab for details *

22423 N 89th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,800,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,350 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784610
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Set in a prime location in North Scottsdale surrounded by Arizona's top golf destinations, this iconic new contemporary estate is situated on an Elevated large flagship lot with south-southwest facing city views spanning all of Scottsdale and boasts ultimate privacy, luxury, and technology. Resort-like living throughout this single-story home that is completely flat with zero stairs or steps. Featuring spectacular indoor and outdoor living spaces, this home includes multi-slide stacking glass doors throughout, 420 bottle wine wall by Heritage Vine, full size wet bar, billiards room, sports bar, wet edge black tiled infinity pool and spa by California Pools, professional landscaping by Berghoff Design Group, private BBQ patio with Wolf grill, state-of-the-art systems throughout including motorized blinds, Smart house Control4 technology system, security system and cameras, and custom lighting and speakers throughout each room including the courtyard and backyard. Owner built with highest attention to details, featuring wall tiling by Bisazza, 24x48 Pietra Italia white tile flooring, 3 countertops, stone wall cladding throughout, and T&G wood ceilings.

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 1 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,800,000
7 Beds
9.5 Baths
12,307 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6476411
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Desert Highlands #1! The Epitome of Multigenerational Resort-Style Living. This extraordinary estate, nestled on a sprawling 2.6 acre private cul-de-sac homesite, offers IMMEDIATE full Club membership, providing you with access to a wealth of exclusive amenities. Step onto the pavered, circular drive, and you'll be greeted by a private garden courtyard with lush landscapes, setting the tone for the remarkable lifestyle that awaits. This home underwent a remarkable $6 million total re-imagination in 2019, resulting in a smart, transitional luxury masterpiece. Every detail meticulously curated, and no expense spared to create this stunning residence. Inside the main home, you'll find an array of sophisticated spaces, perfect for hosting large gatherings, as well as comfortable, light-filled areas for casual everyday living. The state-of-the-art features and top-of-the-line finishes make this home truly exceptional. A remarkable value, priced well below pre-listing appraisal. The first level of the main home boasts a formal living room, elegant dining room, four of the five en suite bedrooms, a spacious office, media room, and not one, but two wine cellars. The fifth guest ensuite (on the 2nd level) opens to a private deck featuring down valley views. The chef's kitchen is a delight with upgraded appliances, oversized Sub Zero refrigerator, a Wolf range with six burners and multiple ovens. And let's not forget the Miele built-in plumbed coffee system to kickstart your day in the best way possible. The custom furniture grade cabinetry is not only abundant but exquisitely topped with gorgeous Matterhorn granite, adding to the allure of the kitchen. From the kitchen, you'll find seamless transitions to the light and airy breakfast room and inviting family room, with telescoping glass sliding doors leading to multiple extended covered patios and private gardens, offering magnificent views from every angle. As you explore further, you'll discover the private primary suite, occupying the south wing of the main level. This luxurious oasis features a relaxing sitting area, direct patio access to the pool and spa, and a resort-inspired bath retreat with mesmerizing mountain views from the spectacular blue marble topped jetted tub. Dual custom vanities, water closets, and a generously sized shower with multiple heads complete this lavish bathroom, along with dual custom walk-in closets. On the other side of the home, beyond the 50' gallery, Desert Highlands #1 offers a large and spacious casita. Thoughtfully designed with privacy in mins, its single-level layout ensures easy accessibility for those who prefer a step-free environment. The casita features its own private courtyard entrance, allowing guests to come and go as they please without intruding on the main living areas. The well-appointed guest casita offers tranquil living space, a full Wolf/Sub Zero kitchen, two en suite bedrooms with personal patios, private laundry room and an attached garage. Beyond the diving pool, a true entertainer's paradise awaits with a 2,576 square foot fun-filled cabana. This vibrant space boasts a full-sized kitchen, a massive wet bar, four wall-mounted TVs, and game room . The cabana opens up to the pool area with automated telescoping sliding windows, overlooking the swim-up bar. And for a unique experience, the Dive-In movie screen is stored above the swim-up bar, allowing you to enjoy your favorite films while relaxing in the pool. The primary home, guest casita, cabana, and ramada seamlessly encircle the backyard retreat, creating a completely private oasis. The outdoor living space is unlike any other, featuring an expansive heated pool, spa, three gas fire pits, two waterfalls, misters under the ramada for added comfort, a water slide, custom outdoor kitchen and a swim-up bar! You can also indulge in a huge conditioned gymnastics space, complete with a trampoline, tumble track, and foam pit, complemented by a convenient full bathroom. The home is fully automated with Control 4 technology, offering modern convenience in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. For the car enthusiasts, there is a possibility of 12+ parking to accommodate your prized collection. Desert Highlands Golf Club, a private guard-gated community, provides an idyllic setting for this exceptional estate. As a resident, you'll have access to an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature course, a Gary Panks designed 18-hole putting course, a 7,700 sq. ft. state-of-the-art fitness center, 13 tennis courts with various surfaces, pickle ball courts, fishing pond, dog park, and a meandering walking/biking path throughout the community. After enjoying these amenities, unwind at Jack's Pub or indulge in formal dining at the Ventana Dining room. Welcome to your new home at Desert Highlands #1, where the possibilities for luxury living and unforgettable experiences are endless.

9810 N 57th Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$6,799,000
6 Beds
5.5 Baths
7,379 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771812
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Ivy Manor—a 7,379 sq ft brand-new construction masterpiece by UR Development's in-house team THIS HOME WILL BE COMPLETED IN TWO WEEKS!! COME SEE THE HOME! Inspired by Old World design with contemporary finishes, this luxurious estate is nestled in the highly sought-after Paradise Valley. With a spacious, usable lot, there's ample room for an elegant courtyard or even a tennis court. This stunning home features six bedrooms, five and a half baths, and a guest house for ultimate privacy. High-quality appliances and premium materials, including stone finishes and engineered hardwood floors, elevate the quality of living. The master bedroom offers complete seclusion with a split floor plan, blending traditional elegance with modern luxury throughout.

7568 N Mockingbird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$6,790,000
6 Beds
7 Baths
7,625 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725714
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Priced to sell! Mediterranean style home in a highly coveted part of Paradise Valley. Mother in law suite includes its own washer dryer and kitchen along with its own exit to the patio and garage. You're going to love spending time in this oversized master bedroom with spacious sitting area and coffee counter with refrigerator built in making for more convenient mornings. Master bathroom includes makeup area as well as free standing tub with beautiful views into your private backyard. Gorgeous resort style backyard includes gas fireplace that has never been used. Private office with wall to wall built in cabinets and shelves. Sound system has been installed in master, formal living area as well as formal dining area and family room! Pool and spa with roof deck makes sunset/mountain views in your backyard hard to resist. Home includes pantry/prep kitchen and movie theatre as well. House includes an additional room that can be used for flex, gym or yoga depending on your preference. Faux wood beams in the family room as well as dining area. Tesla Solar plus Tesla pack make for an energy efficient and easy to charge home. Too many additional features to list.

6515 E Stallion Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$6,775,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
6,236 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775896
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning, meticulously upgraded home featuring 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms across 6,236 square feet of luxurious living space. With a brand-new tile roof and seamless hardwood floors throughout, this residence offers an elegant and inviting atmosphere. The spacious split floor plan includes king-sized en suites, each equipped with walk-in closets, ensuring ample privacy and comfort for family and guests. As you enter, you'll be greeted by a beautifully remodeled entrance with keyless access and a Ring doorbell, setting the tone for modern convenience. The heart of the home is a chef's dream kitchen, featuring beautiful cabinetry, marble countertops, and high-end Viking and Wolf appliances, including a Subzero fridge and dual dishwashers. A butler's pantry and an apron sink enhance functionality, while the adjacent family room features accordion slider doors that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. The primary suite is a true retreat, complete with his and her walk-in closets, a safe room, and a luxurious bathroom featuring a tranquil tub with garden views. The living areas are designed for both relaxation and entertainment, featuring surround sound, a formal dining room, and inviting fireplaces. Step outside to a beautifully landscaped backyard, where you'll find a mosaic-tiled pool, an inset Jacuzzi, and an outdoor shower, all framed by mountain views. With RV parking and mature fruit trees, this private oasis is perfect for outdoor enjoyment. Additional highlights include a spacious laundry room, an epoxy-floored garage with ample storage, and a flex room that can serve as a home gym or theater. This home is truly a masterpiece, offering the perfect blend of sophistication and modern amenities. Don't miss your chance to make it yours.

4000 E Granite Dells Road Payson, AZ 85541

$6,750,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
5,340 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773310
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the ultimate getaway on 80 acres of breathtaking beauty; this majestic land offers endless possibilities. Surrounded by National Forest on all 4 sides, solitude and beauty abound with mountains and lush, tree-lined areas. A serene escape perfect for outdoor fun and adventure, yet only a short drive to the center of Payson, or a mile walk to The Rim Club. All utilities in place, including a private well, APS switching station and multiple transformers for future residential development. Special use permits could be obtained for events like weddings or corporate retreats. Forest access, abundant wildlife, internal trail system combine secluded tranquility. Includes a detached clubhouse/garage for storing toys and entertaining. Inside is also a recreational bunk house. The home is designed by popular architect Jack DeBartolo with modern architecture as to incorporate the home into the beauty of the property. Pool house and work barn are additional structures with added value depending on desired use. Pool house can be converted to single family home. Other notables: Roughly 25 acres of very flat land. Years ago, this property was designed for 38 custom lots as part of a high end equestrian facility. Massive infrastructure upgrades include but aren't limited to: Private well with 5,000 gallon storage tank and multiple pressure tanks. Water has been piped over ½ mile to both ends of property. APS switching station with multiple transformers for possibility of over 15 homes. Road system created within entire property Extensive grading and drainage to minimize the effects of seasonal runoff and erosion. Internal trail system Solo access to Forest Service gate on Granite Dells Road. Extensive front wall and gate on West entry of property.

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 1040 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,750,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
5,209 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787160
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Views, views and more views! Spectacular custom home nestled high in the Hillside Villas enclave of Desert Highlands. Enjoy sparkling city lights to the south, the purple glow of Troon Mtn. to the east & the majesty of Pinnacle Peak in your backyard. Interior space blends seamlessly into exterior through 4 sets of telescoping doors, each framing a stunning visual picture. Completely re-mastered in 2023, the new design has successfully integrated the art of entertaining with the ease of livability. Exquisite custom finishes and fixtures, promising no detail left to chance. Desert Highlands invites you to enjoy the World Class amenities & lifestyle that offers an unparalleled country club experience. This is a rare opportunity to own one of the highest lots located in Desert Highlands!

23216 N 95th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$6,750,000 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Pinnacle Peak Vistas, Scottsdale
Open House
$6,750,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,517 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6695412
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Introducing a 6,100+ square foot modern masterpiece designed by Graffin Design Architects, nestled on nearly an acre of land boasting breathtaking mountain and city light views just north of DC Ranch. This home's allure begins with a paver driveway leading to a 3-car garage (with EV charger and dog wash station!), courtyard entry, and a grand pivoting front door. Inside the residence exudes sophistication and functionality, featuring a sleek split floor plan with 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths on the main level, including a separate principal suite and an attached casita with its own living space. The great room, featuring a large drop down screen and projector, seamlessly flows into the kitchen and dining area, with glass walls that invite abundant natural light and panoramic views. Upstairs, a versatile space awaits, offering a sitting room/bar area, a 5th bedroom/exercise room with a full bath, and a separate view deck with a lounge area, perfect for entertaining. Throughout the home, premium finishes abound, including hardwood and tile floors, a full Wolf Sub Zero appliance package, custom cabinets, porcelain countertops, 8' solid doors, exposed masonry block, and chrome hardware fixtures all enhanced by LED lighting and controlled remotely via Control 4 smart home system. Enhancing the living experience is the seamless integration of indoor-outdoor spaces, where the backyard oasis beckons with a pebble-tec pool and spa, synthetic turf yard with custom xeriscape, and a full outdoor kitchen with built-in barbecue and pizza oven, multiple fireplaces and stunning city light and mountain views. There is also a large enclosed private dog park that could be converted into a play area or golf simulator or whatever dream project you envision! Additional features include a central vac system, owned solar panels, outdoor shower, multiple water features, auto covers for the pool and spa, and a built-in ionized water station in the fitness room. Truly there are too many extras to list here! Discover unparalleled luxury living in this meticulously crafted residence, where every detail reflects the epitome of high-end sophistication and style.

2437 Wren Cove Way Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406

$6,700,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,998 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781604
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the world-class, guard-gated community of Riviera, this extraordinary lock-and-leave, lakeside estate—brand new construction—offers an unparalleled living experience. Boasting 4 expansive bedrooms and 4.5 luxurious bathrooms, this home is a true escape to paradise, where sophisticated design meets exceptional craftsmanship. The expansive great room, highlighted by soaring 14-foot vaulted ceilings, effortlessly flows into a gourmet kitchen featuring top-of-the-line Miele appliances, custom cabinetry, and a glass-enclosed wine room with capacity for 500 bottles. Throughout the estate, exquisite touches abound—rift-cut oak walls, Italian porcelain flooring, and handcrafted solid oak interior doors add a layer of refinement to every space. The opulent master suite is a... private retreat, complete with a steam shower and dry sauna for ultimate relaxation. Equipped with a state-of-the-art Crestron home automation system, this home offers convenience and modern luxury at your fingertips. Designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, the home features expansive sliding glass walls that open to an outdoor sanctuary, complete with a pool, spa, and panoramic vistas. With every detail meticulously curated, this architectural masterpiece offers the perfect fusion of elegance, comfort, and breathtaking natural beauty.