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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4530 W Fox Glove Lane Show Low, AZ 85901

$1,275,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,077 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756548
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FULLY Furnished Beautiful and PRIVATE location in Trailhead at Torreon, this custom-built residence promises an unparalleled living experience. Spanning a generous 4000+ square feet on a .62 acre lot, the home boasts four bedrooms and 4.5 baths, each designed with comfort in mind. The heart of the home is the open great room with HUGE windows, bathed in natural light from expansive windows that offer views of the majestic pines. An elegant rock fireplace stands ready to warm chilly evenings, while the flowing hardwood floors add a touch of sophistication. The built-in entertainment center and formal dining area are perfect for hosting, complemented by an oversized granite island. READ MORE Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the chef's kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line stainless appliances. The opulence extends to the large master suite, featuring a soaker tub, tiled shower, and spacious walk-in closet. A second master suite provides additional luxury, and guests are accommodated with ample bedroom space and private bathroom. Entertainment options abound with a finished basement that includes a Rec Room with a bathroom of over 1,000 sq ft, leading out to an impressive 2,000 sq ft of outdoor decking. Here, a 6-person hot tub and gas firepit create the perfect ambiance for relaxation or social gatherings. There is an upper deck off of the guest bedroom for extreme enjoyment! This exquisitely fully furnished home is ready for you - just bring your toothbrush. The seller is taking their art and decor, so you can accessorize it to your taste. This home is TOP of the line - no detail untouched. Come feel the magic! This home has never been rented - it has extreme pride of ownership. Sellers have added a beautiful paver driveway and back paver area with a natural gas fireplace for enchanting evening under the stars. Furnishings are included; NO artwork, decor, or lamps to Convey - NOTHING in the garage conveys. Don't miss this piece of MAGIC. The community of Torreon has it ALL. Imagine breathing in the crisp mountain air while enjoying the 36 hole championship golf course, swimming pool, work out facility, tennis, volleyball, basketball, outdoor amphitheater and an equestrian center! In addition, Torreon has a 10 acre family center that will appear magical to the kids with games and crafts galore, plus a fishing pond for catch and release, plus childcare options. In addition to all that Torreon has to offer, the White Mountains has even more! Fools Hollow lake is just a short distance away. Imagine living in the White Mountains of Arizona where you have 4 beautiful seasons and where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the 40 lakes and over 600 miles of rivers and streams. In addition to the amazing fishing, this area has one of the most extensive trail systems in the southwest for hiking, biking, horseback riding, quadding and more. Sunrise Ski Resort is also just 60 minutes away with 3 beautiful mountains to ski, snow board or sled. If shopping is your interest, you will love the antique stores and the multitude of arts and craft shows that happen in the summer. The music festivals have something to fit everyone's enjoyment. Do you love to golf? There are 7 amazing golf courses, 3 that are public. The White Mountains, where this home/cabin is the best kept secret of Arizona! Come and explore and enhance your living! Pinetop-Lakeside AREA was also voted 'Best Cabin Region in the U.S... Embrace the MAGIC!

15500 N Talking Rock Ranch Road Prescott, AZ 86305

$1,275,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,639 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769193
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this stunning single-level custom home nestled off the 12th tee box and common area. The split floor plan features hickory hardwood floors, 8' alder doors, and leather-finished granite countertops. Enjoy high-end appliances, pull-outs in kitchen cabinets, and a spacious butler's pantry. The bar area is a highlight, complete with glass cabinetry, a wine bottle cabinet, and a wine fridge. The luxurious master bathroom features his and hers vanities, while the second bedroom offers a large walk-in closet or potential ensuite bath. Oversized insulated three-car garage featuring a dedicated workspace. The spacious back patio includes both covered and uncovered areas, perfect for enjoying outdoor living. Talking Rock is a 24-hour staffed gated private community for members only. Amenities include our award-winning Jay Morrish designed Golf Course, Fitness Barn, Ranch House Restaurant and Bar, Coop's Coffee House, Racquet Sports Courts, Dog Park, Community Garden, and over 14 miles of hiking and biking trails.

15770 E Palomino Boulevard Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,275,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,564 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781772
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Views, Views and more Views! Stunning panoramic mountain and desert views from both inside and out! If you are looking for unparalleled views this is the property for you! Kitchen, dining, living and primary rooms all look out to the majestic mountains! Tucked away and private location backing to a desert arroyo. Spacious gourmet kitchen with great room concept. Casual or formal dining area. Large living room w/ entertainment area. Split floor plan. Primary bedroom features a huge walk in closet with custom organizers, vanity w/dual sinks and separate tub, oversized shower and toilet area. Bonus room downstairs perfect for an office or 2nd entertaining spot. Tranquil backyard features amazing views with plenty of room for entertaining, BBQs or resort style relaxation.

11705 W Red Hawk Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,275,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,882 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778407
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning, heavily upgraded Toll Brothers Blackstone Collection home is located in a guard gated community and minutes to Blackstone Country Club. The Spanish contemporary style, one-level home is in immaculate condition and is at the end of a private cul-de-sac. Featuring 3 bedrooms with a flex 4th bedroom option. The gourmet kitchen includes floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, high-end Kitchen Aid appliances and a large island counter. Elegance is redefined with a spacious master bedroom retreat with a super-sized shower and double closets. The great room includes a gas fireplace and a 15ft pocket slider door that opens up to a gorgeous resort style pool surrounded by lush landscaping and a brick pizza oven - so get ready to hone your Neapolitan pizza making skills. Your dream home awaits! Full upgrades include: Resort style pool, water softener/filtration system (Kinetico), wood shutters, fireplace stone, artificial turf (front and backyard), outdoor built-in BBQ and brick pizza oven, Tesla solar, Tesla charging station, irrigation, and much more.

103 W Tanya Road Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,275,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,650 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778446
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare opportunity for a custom built home in Desert Hills! With 1.25 usable flat acreage, this home has been beautifully remodeled with over $150k in upgrades in the last 12 months, including a new water heater, new windows and new AC's. The large open floor plan features a spacious kitchen with an oversized island with room for seating, marble countertops and knotty alder cabinets. The split Master suite has a huge walk in closet, double sinks, walk-in shower, and french doors to the back patio. The extensive fully enclosed backyard has a wrap around covered patio, sparkling pool with limestone/travertine decking, 2 sheds, and an outdoor kitchen. Custom security doors and custom RV gate. Multiple hook ups for your toys, with a 50amp, 30 amp and oversized 3 and a half car garage

2308 E Dry Wood Road Phoenix, AZ 85024

$1,275,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,865 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778483
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into this dramatic 4-bedroom home with a private office, where luxury and modern design meet in perfect harmony. Freshly painted inside and out, the home features a spacious 4-car garage with smart doors and sleek epoxy floors, offering the ultimate convenience. The exposed aggregate driveway and beautiful Travertine courtyard create an inviting first impression, setting the tone for the elegance within. In the backyard, you'll find your own private resort. A sparkling pool, surrounded by fire pits, a tranquil waterfall, and commercial-grade misters, invites relaxation and effortless entertaining. Inside, the great room is a showstopper, with soaring 12-foot ceilings and the latest designer colors, creating a modern yet refined atmosphere.

8861 W Hatfield Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,275,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,513 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754452
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wow, just WOW! Incredible property with breathtaking mountain views! Be greeted by a great curb appeal w/manicured desert landscape, ample courtyard w/welcoming iron gate, and a sided 4-car garage w/paver driveway. Home exudes elegance throughout showcasing pre-wired surround sound, abundant natural light, a designer palette, and tasteful flooring - tile & wood in all the right places. Discover the thoughtfully laid-out open floor plan, making entertaining a bliss! The gourmet kitchen is a cook's delighting, featuring high-end SS appliances w/cooktop gas, beautiful staggered cabinetry, recessed & pendant lighting, a pantry, glass tile backsplash, and a big island with a breakfast bar. You'll love the separate family room paired with a fireplace, dry bar, & multi-sliding doors to the back Enter the large main bedroom to find outdoor access and a lavish ensuite that boasts dual granite sinks, a soaking tub, a shower w/dry-off area, & a walk-in closet w/built-ins. One secondary has its own bathroom for added comfort. But the true highlight is the spacious, RESORT-STYLE backyard! The space is an entertainer's dream, featuring a covered patio, well-lavers, putting green, play area, Pergola, misting system, gas fire pit, mature trees, horseshoe pit, and a sparkling pool w/spa combo for year-round enjoyment. This gem is a RARE find! Luxurious living at its finest!

36580 N Conestoga Trail Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,275,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,462 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6779055
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on a picturesque hillside in Cave Creek, this luxury retreat sits on a sprawling 1.195-acre lot, offering a serene blend of privacy and charming elegance with direct views of Black Mountain to the East. A custom-designed decorative entry gate welcomes you, leading to an impressive paver driveway. Every detail of this home has been carefully crafted, from the front entry patio and metal and glass entry door to the inviting backyard, which opens seamlessly to the indoors for an entertainer's paradise. Here, a covered patio, artificial turf, built-in BBQ with seating, outdoor refrigerator, and an oversized fire pit with built-in seating provide an ideal space to enjoy the Arizona evenings. The chef's kitchen is a culinary delight, equipped with premium features such as a gas cooktop, a wall oven with regular and convection baking, a built-in Sub-Zero refrigerator with glass doors, freezer drawers in the island, and granite counters with peninsula bar seating. A spacious walk-in pantry adds convenience, while the kitchen's open flow enhances the entertainment experience. This home's thoughtful design extends to each room, where breathtaking mountain views create a constant connection with the natural surroundings. Inside, the main living spaces are graced with travertine stone floors, while hardwood warms the bedrooms. The open-concept great room features custom shelving, designer lighting, and a stone fireplace. The split floor plan includes a secluded primary suite that overlooks the tranquil backyard and mountain vistas. The luxurious en-suite bath is complete with dual vanities, a walk-in shower with dual shower-heads, a private toilet room, and a custom-designed walk-in closet. Additional amenities include a private office off the entry with an adjacent powder bath, a spacious laundry room with garage access, sink and extra cabinetry, and a three-car garage with glass doors, tall ceilings, and epoxy floors. Built in 2013, this home has been recently updated with exterior electric blinds, a new block wall along the north end, and extensive landscaping that enhances both privacy and curb appeal. With no HOA, and city water and sewer amenities, this residence offers both freedom and convenience for luxurious living in a prime location. Located just steps from hiking trails, this hillside gem provides an extraordinary lifestyle for those seeking elegance, privacy, and the beauty of Cave Creek's mountain landscapes.

5770 E Roundup Street Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$1,275,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,616 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6696539
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW ADJUSTED PRICE on this amazing fully renovated custom home in Apache Junction with acreage, no HOA, breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains, sweeping views of the Valley below, a massive 2400sf masonry temperature controlled outbuilding with RV garage, workshop and an attached 1-bedroom casita with kitchenette, bath and laundry. With Flat Iron as its towering backdrop, the main home was taken down to its exterior studs and completely reimagined with new floor plan, all new electrical, plumbing, hvac units and ductwork, windows, doors, finishes and fixtures. The main level has an expansive great room with defined living, dining, kitchen with breakfast nook, laundry room, guest bath, primary suite with soaking tub, walk-in shower with glass enclosure, his and her closets, and private entrance to the rear yard and patio deck. There is also an additional bedroom off the great room with amazing Valley views. The Chef's kitchen features an oversized waterfall central island with tons of storage cabinets and drawers, quartz counters and backsplash, and stainless appliances including two ovens and walk-in pantry. The second level has another family room/kid zone, two large bedrooms with walk-in closets, a full bath and half bath for guests, as well as a large laundry room with sink and a large utility/storage room. Two-car, insulated garage with direct access to the home - and a separate room with built-in dog wash/grooming station. A block fence was added to the entire property with pedestrian and RV gates to the back yard with plenty of room to create an entertainer's paradise with a pool and whatever else your imagination dreams up. The lot has been leveled and graded for your toys or bring your horses and enjoy ranch living. So many options with this property - enjoy the fruits of this Seller's labors and move right in!

4305 E Osborn Road Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,275,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,239 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718073
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Completely rebuilt in 2022 with no expense spared! While most builders are having to cut corners, this house has gone above and beyond with its quality and craftsmanship. Oak floors through out, vaulted ceilings and designer finishes. This 4 bedroom, 3 bath organic modern home is a breath of fresh air. Spacious kitchen with oversized quartz waterfall countertop, gas range and wine fridge. Minimal maintenance landscape with high quality turf both front and back plus mature trees on the perimeter. Newly installed costume fence and shade coverings. Quiet and walkable neighborhood with tons of neighborhood hotspots surrounding. Won't last long!

8874 E Flathorn Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,275,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,003 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6729431
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW PRICE!!!Highly desirable DC Ranch location! Wonderful single level patio home in gated community, surrounded by open space & beautiful homes w/all the great DC Ranch amenities! Recently refreshed w/new paint & wood floors in bedrooms. You'll love the great rm floor plan/totally open to kitchen & dining rms. High ceilings add to the openness of this home. You'll love the kitchen w/it's huge island/granite counters & gorgeous custom alder cabinets/gas range/wall oven & microwave/sub zero fridge & walk in pantry! 3 split bedrms / lg master suite w/exit to yard/double vanity & 2 walk in closets/separate tub & shower/Murphy bed in 2nd bdrm/Built in desk in hallway/ nice laundry room w/sinks & lots of storage/ Solid alder doors/Private yard W/spa &/water feature./Built in BBQ/2 car garage. HOA fee includes access to the DC Ranch amenities.

5713 W Rowel Road Phoenix, AZ 85083

$1,275,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,796 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6729792
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious Stetson Valley! This spectacular hillside residence boasts breathtaking views of Ludden Mountain and offers privacy, making it an oasis in the desert. Outside, indulge in resort-style living with a sparkling heated pool with a large, covered patio. Built-in misters ensure comfort on sunny days. The motorized solar shades and an electric awning expand your outdoor entertainment options. A convenient full bathroom with exterior access completes the poolside amenities. The large front patio, paved in travertine, features built in misters and is gated for your privacy. Step inside to discover a beautifully appointed interior featuring a spacious dining room with a butler's pantry, perfect for hosting your family and friends. see more.. Step inside to discover a beautifully appointed interior featuring a spacious dining room with a butler's pantry, perfect for hosting your family and friends. The large kitchen, with a walk-in pantry and huge island, opens to the great room, which is highlighted by a stacked stone fireplace. Upstairs, the expansive owner's suite beckons with a private sitting area overlooking Ludden Mountain. Recently renovated, the ensuite bathroom is a sanctuary with a free-standing tub, his and her vanities, and spacious closets. A large loft area offers additional living space, while a full-size laundry room with cabinetry adds convenience. Four additional bedrooms include a jack-and-jill bathroom, ideal for family or guests, and a fourth and fifth bedroom split by the spacious loft, overlooking the city lights, near an office nook for added flexibility. Don't forget to watch the hot air balloons from front balcony! The 3 car garages are split car and feature epoxy floors, extended length, built-in storage and EV charger. You will also find the 75 gallon water heater and whole house filtration. This home is not just about luxury, but also functionality with modern upgrades including an EV charger, solar system, exterior ceramic paint for energy efficiency, solar shades, and updated AC. Recently refreshed interiors with fresh paint complete the picture of this well-maintained property. Experience the pinnacle of Arizona living in this home, where every detail has been carefully considered for comfort, convenience, and style. Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional residence in one of Phoenix's most desirable neighborhoods.