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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5156 N 45th Place Phoenix, AZ 85018

$4,850,000 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Camelback Sierra, Phoenix
Open House
$4,850,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,496 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753530
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this exquisite 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom estate, boasting 4,496 square feet of luxurious living space on a sprawling 0.56-acre lot. This architectural masterpiece, completely rebuilt in 2024, with interiors by Joel Contreras Design, offers unparalleled elegance and comfort. The expansive great room, over 2,000 square feet with 16-foot ceilings, seamlessly blends the living, dining, and family areas and features stunning views of Camelback Mountain, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for entertaining and relaxation. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring Thermador appliances, Vadara Quartz countertops, Shinnoki cabinetry, a 15.5-foot island, and a convenient pot filler. A versatile bedroom suite on the south side serves as an excellent second primary suite or guest retreat. The primary bedroom includes an en-suite bath, custom closet, and direct access to the stunning heated pool. The front yard features a large pool, outdoor kitchen, and dual gas fireplaces, while the backyard offers a more intimate setting with a private patio and a glimpse of Piestewa Peak. Additional features include a temperature-controlled 4-car garage with epoxy flooring, a well-appointed laundry room with dual washers and dryers, and custom Arcadia commercial-grade sliders throughout. The exterior and interior T&G details showcase durable, medium-textured Red Grandis wood, enhancing the home's timeless appeal.

4414 E Vermont Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

$4,839,999
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,299 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745148
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover Modern Desert living in this luxurious home located in the heart of Phoenix's Camelback Corridor. Built in 2021. This contemporary home has 4 bedrooms 4.5 baths, and 2 dedicated offices within its split floor plan. The great room and hallways feature impressive 13.5'-0'' ceilings, creating an expansive and open atmosphere. The chef's Kitchen is perfect for entertaining with top-of-the-line appliances and ample counter space. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the convenience of the four-car garage, while great room and rooftop deck offers breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain. The exposed block work adds architectural charm to the design blending seamlessly with the natural desert landscape. This home offers quick and easy access to explore all that the vibrant city of Phoenix.

4949 E Lincoln Drive Unit 34 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,800,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,540 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770188
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into MONTELUCIA RESORT VILLA 34, a breathtaking masterpiece designed by the visionary TADDEY KARLIN OF BEVERLY HILLS, where every detail has been meticulously curated to deliver a living experience like no other. Nestled on the LARGEST ULTRA- PREMIUM LOT in the exclusive Montelucia Resort, this villa is a one-of-a-kind sanctuary that blends TIMELESS ELEGANCE with CONTEMPORARY LUXURY. From the moment you walk through the doors, you are greeted by UNRIVALED VIEWS of the majestic Camelback Mountain. The villa's design harmonizes beauty and functionality, with a focus on delivering both EXTREME PRIVACY and IMMERSIVE COMFORT. The CUSTOM CURATED FURNISHINGS can offer a truly TURNKEY EXPERIENCE where luxury and sophistication come together effortlessly. Indulge in world-class amenities from GOURMET ROOM SERVICE to THREE EXQUISITE POOLS, and the RENOWNED REJUVINATING SPA, all at your fingertips. Whether entertaining or unwinding, this villa elevates every moment, making it more than just a home  it's a retreat where your lifestyle reaches new heights. Perfect for discerning buyers who seek a harmonious blend of resort-style living and privacy, Montelucia Resort Villa 34 is the ultimate expression of REFINED LIVING in the heart of PARADISE VALLEY.

9504 N Desert Wash Trail Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$4,800,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,607 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774104
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gurczak Luxury Development is proud to present this New Construction Formal Mediterranean Spec Home in the Exclusive Guard Gated Community of Firerock Country Club. This 5,607 Sq. Ft. Home Features 4 Bedrooms w/ ensuite bathrooms, a separate powder room which includes an infrared sauna + a separate Den/Game Room. Each room contains a custom ceiling design - Coffered Ceilings, Floating Ceilings & Ceiling Bands. Oversized 4 Car Garage has ample space for all your toys and includes a bonus storage & workshop area. Estimated completion of January/February 2025.

10023 E Filaree Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,800,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,411 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785079
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf Membership Available- We are thrilled to announce the commencement of construction on this extraordinary custom home. Receive your full golf membership immediately and enjoy the opportunity to make your selections on finishes —move-in ready in just nine months. Crafted by esteemed builders, Black Stone Development, in collaboration with Graffin Design, this residence promises to be a contemporary masterpiece within the prestigious Desert Mountain community. Highlighted features of the main home include a spacious great room seamlessly connected to a formal dining area, an opulent chef's kitchen, 4 bedrooms, and 4 ½ baths. Ascending to the second level, you'll find a versatile study/lounge, a flex exercise room (with closet space, doubling as a potential 5th bedroom), and an expansive roof deck off. Additionally, a separate casita with a full bath ensures privacy for both homeowners and guests alike. Step into the ultimate outdoor retreat, complete with a magnificent pool and spa, multiple fire pits, serene water features, an outdoor kitchen, and charming patios that perfectly encapsulate the quintessential Arizona lifestyle. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the four-car garage, supplemented with ample storage space. Every detail of this home has been meticulously planned to enhance your living experience. Early buyers will have the unique opportunity to provide input on customization and select interior finishes to tailor the home to their preferences. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to own a piece of Desert Mountain luxury living. Golf membership available at increased price.

44030 N Cottonwood Canyon Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$4,800,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
5,079 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6656613
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FANTASTIC NEW PRICE 9/24 NEW MOUNTAINSIDE LUXURY HOME IN THE HILLS OF CAVE CREEK - 10+ ACRES - MESMERIZING CITY LIGHT VIEWS - PRISTINE AND UNOBSTRUCTED DESERT / SAGUARO CACTI / CANYON / MOUNTAIN VIEWS! Nestled near Elephant Mountain and minutes to the incredible Spur Cross Recreation / Conservation Area, this newly constructed 5,079 sq ft luxury custom home has some of the best views in the Valley of the Sun. Rare to find almost 11 acres of pristine natural desert so close to the city! Situated behind both community and private custom driveway gates, this home features 5 ensuite bedrooms, a 5 car garage and is the privacy and quiet that you have been searching for. Careful attention was given to home placement for the jaw-dropping views, sunsets and sun / light exposure. (Continued. . . ) Entering the home through a beautiful 10 ft. iron and glass door, you are immediately hit with views of the hundreds of saguaro cacti, the surrounding desert mountains and downtown Phoenix in the distance. Continue past the enclosed outdoor courtyard to find yourself in the 28 foot tall cathedral ceiling of the barn style great room with giant wood beams and an oversized 60 fireplace with a 100 year old barn wood floor accent wall, creating a gorgeous everyday living and entertaining area. The chef's entertaining kitchen boasts two oversized islands with custom cabinets, beautiful quartz waterfall countertops, Wolf 60 professional double oven range with custom designed hood, SubZero side by side 72 refrigerator / freezer, SubZero wine refrigerator, 2 Cove dishwashers, a Wolf built-in microwave, and oversized farmhouse sink. An impressive butler's pantry with custom shelving, sink, additional refrigerator and Scotsman ice maker, a separate walk-in storage pantry make this kitchen and great room space perfect for gatherings of any size. Open the expansive 35+ feet of sliding glass pocket doors in the great room and kitchen area creating an amazing indoor / outdoor living and entertaining space like no other. The 2,000 sq ft of covered patio wraps around the back and eastern side of the home, giving you endless views and seating areas. From the built-in barbeque that feels like an extension of the kitchen to the two sided, resort style fireplace, pizza oven, and built-in bar area, outdoor entertaining couldn't be easier. The owner's suite is split from the other bedrooms and includes fantastic city light, desert, and mountain views. The suite boasts five large windows, a fireplace with warm floor-to-ceiling wood surround, and an ensuite bathroom with emphasis on a beautiful oversized, glass framed stand alone shower and deep, soaking tub. Passing through to the large, walk-in closet, there is custom built-in cabinetry and a pocket door leading to the laundry room. The laundry room offers plenty of storage and countertop space with two LG front load washers, two LG dryers, built-in collapsible stainless steel drying racks, a dog wash shower, and deep soaking sink. Also in the laundry is an iron Dutch door. Located near the front door and courtyard is an office with a custom, wall length, built-in bookcase. Across the foyer from the office are the four additional bedrooms. They are situated surrounding a common game / bonus room, also featuring an iron Dutch door with access to the back covered patio. Each of the four oversized bedrooms offer beautiful desert, saguaro cacti or mountain views. Walk-in closets with custom shelving, and en suite bathrooms with custom tiled showers with glass enclosures make each bedroom a private suite. The garage can easily accommodate 5 vehicles and currently offers three high speed Tesla charging stations, a water purification system, two tankless smart gas water heaters, a salt system, built-in storage cabinets, and workshop area. The garage floor has custom epoxy coating throughout. The home features a new, private well with a 2,500 gallon underground storage tank and brand new septic system. The well equipment is protected from the elements in its own well house, designed to blend in with the surrounding desert. There is a large, professionally graded lower pad that is perfect for anything you can dream of - a horse barn and arena / turn out, a future casita or in-law suite, sports courts, a resort style pool, extended playground, or car collector and RV garage. Pre-wried for all of the surround sound and smart home features you could want. And not to be missed is the attention to detail in this beautiful home - from the chandeliers and copper lighting fixtures, to the custom barn doors throughout the home and to the highest quality fixtures. It will be hard for you to not get lost in the beauty and tranquility that this home has to offer.

5518 E Sanna Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,800,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,559 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762015
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come check out this GORGEOUS home that is located on the golf course in the coveted Camelback Country Estates! This exquisite 5559 square ft home offers so much! From the gourmet kitchen with 2 Wolf ovens, Wolf cooktop, 2 Asko dishwashers, Subzero Frig/Freezer, custom cabinetry and quartz countertops to the abundance of amenities in this phenomenal home. The highest level of craftsmanship and detail can be found in every inch of this home. Entering the oasis like backyard through the new 16ft sliding glass doors, you're going to feel like you're at a resort. The picturesque surroundings include a stunning new pergola (which has built-in heaters for those chilly Az nights), a sprawling patio, a beautiful pool, a built in fireplace and incredible views. Your buyers won't want to leave!

4796 E Charles Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,800,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,904 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6622192
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Designed by award-winning FAIA architect Eddie Jones of Jones Studio and fabricated by premier builder The Construction Zone, the artful fusion of modern materials, integrated into the pristine Sonoran desert is an inspired vision brought to life. Unwind with expanded mountain views and city lights to rejuvenate your soul every day throughout the years! The unmistakable inspiration of Frank Lloyd Wright and the Modernism of Jones Studio are perfectly expressed in this fine residence positioned hillside above Tatum Blvd. Facing sweeping vistas on the eastern horizon, floor to ceiling glass captures superlative views of the McDowell Mountains! The many details of the home are reminiscent of the fit and finish of a luxury yacht and yearn to be experienced for full appreciation. Surrounded by views, the home is set on 1.76 acres for privacy and has been substantially upgraded since 2019. Superbly crafted with a unique blend of masonry, steel, wood and glass: the quality of the build is evident throughout. Your epicurean kitchen is equipped with a full array of the finest Miele appliances and caters to the foodie and connoisseur alike. Top-of-the-line major systems of the home include: recently upgraded and customizable Crestron security system for complete convenience, automated window shades, variable-speed HVAC, highly upgraded EV charging over-sized 3 car air-conditioned garage, recently installed premium whole house water system, recirculating tank-less gas fired water heaters, added floor level heated vents in primary bath, lighted vanity mirrors, organizational electric plug drawers, luxurious towel warmer, elegant control systems, built in shower trays for flow and continuity. LED lighting through-out, pre-wired for sound, recent new pool system equipment installed, conversation area warming fire and so much more. A list of designer furniture will be sold with the home. The primary bedroom has been transformed with deluxe closet cabinetry, dressers, side tables, designer pulls and low-profile ambience lighting and a customized complete king bed system beyond compare. Luxury extras you expect in a fine property have also been added to the primary bath. There is a music/reading room also on the main floor. Completely redesigned, the laundry/pantry area is now an upscale, highly-functional favorite workspace. The lower level has 3 en-suite bedrooms with beautiful views, a fitness/yoga room and a media lounge space with patio access. The largest en-suite bedroom also has a separate patio entrance and could be a second primary. Panoramic mountain vistas with hanging clouds, picturesque skies and the most gorgeous sunrises, this is truly an inspirational property to be experienced.

9030 N 48th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,799,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
8,420 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6722994
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Set in a quiet cul de sac in the coveted 3C's school district, this impressively remodeled PV estate boasts 6 generously sized en suite bedrooms & 6.5 baths, including attached casita with full kitchen and sep entrance + attached LL guest suite with lounge and fitness room, ideal for multi-generational living! Upon entering, guests are greeted by soaring 20 ft ceilings, a formal living room, a central kitchen bathed in natural light, an office, multiple dens for relaxing movie watching, and an immense great room for large scale entertaining! Mountain Views abound in the stunning backyard w/pool, spa, outdoor kitchen, firepit and many gracious conversation patios. Car enthusiasts will love the massive 5-car garage space (2 w/hvac) . One of the LOWEST priced remodeled homes per sq ft in Paradise Valley, priced well below appraised value! This home offers the perfect blend of expansive, upscale, yet comfortable living!

19946 N 103rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,795,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,972 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758590
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SILVERLEAF CLUB GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE! Nestled next to the tranquil waters of the private lake at Desert Springs Park, this home in Silverleaf embodies the timeless allure of Spanish Colonial architecture, offering a perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and charm for discerning homeowners seeking a sanctuary in the heart of Scottsdale's most exclusive community. As you approach from the private, tree lined street, your first glimpse of the home is nothing short of captivating, exuding curb appeal with its stately presence and lush, meticulously manicured landscaping. Step inside and you are delighted by interior spaces that are designed to be both welcoming and intimate, with cozy alcoves for quiet moments and larger gathering areas perfect for entertaining.

4754 E Valley Vista Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,795,000 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Camelhead Estates Unit 2, Paradise Valley
Open House
$4,795,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
5,129 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6735878
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Arizona living at its finest. An artistically inspired estate with gated privacy and iconic Camelback Mountain views. Showcasing botanical specimens and a variety of mature trees, the resort backyard, lush setting and huggable mountain views, make for an unparalleled Paradise Valley experience. Two master suites, two guest rooms, an office and separate enclaves make for relaxed living throughout the home. The artistic attention to detail is unsurpassed. Antique hand carved doors in both the interior and exterior, exemplary painted touches throughout and a flowing floor plan make this a truly signature home. The private approach & secondary entrance highlight the cobble stone circular driveway and water features. This unique home and its stellar setting form an entertainer's delight. Photography to be updated to reflect current changes in home.

12297 E Troon Vista Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,789,995
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,958 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6647257
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Turn Key Home will be completed fall of 2024. Starting with an entertainers dream kitchen, including SS Wolf 48'' dual fuel Smart Range, Pro Hood, 30'' Wolf Microwave and Single Wall oven, Cove Dishwasher and a 60'' Subzero Fridge/Freezer as well as a 36'' Sub Zero Glass door fridge in the prep kitchen. Two islands and a prep kitchen complete this entertaining space. two 20' pocket doors from the kitchen/great room area lead to a large covered patio with a detached casita with a living room/bedroom. Back in the main house enjoy time in your oversized primary suite with bath and spacious WIC as well as three en-suite bedrooms with WIC closets. Flex space and a den flank the foyer when you enter this show stopping home. Full Landscaping and pool included.