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.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

19301 N Ponderosa Court Surprise, AZ 85387

$934,975 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Sun City Grand, Surprise
Open House
$934,975
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,865 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750699
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning HAMPTON expanded to 2863 SF home with 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths! The entire interior was just painted! This home features a heated resort style pool and spa surrounded by a very large covered patio. The relaxing setting includes a firepit, built in grill with a counter and seating along with patio misting system and orange trees. Large kitchen with nook and island featuring upgraded cabinets with slideouts, water softener recently replaced, new oven, and shutters t/o. Large great room for entertaining plus a separate dining room. A true four bedroom home as the library/den was upgraded as a builder option. Full 3 car garage with four feet extension. Epoxy garage floors, and new furnace/ AC 2018. Also enjoy all the amenities that Sun City Grand offers! Many additional features including prime location, security doors, water softener, central vac, gas cooktop, reverse osmosis, expanded guest bedroom and much more.

19360 N 73rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$934,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,637 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6772942
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Belgravia Group presents Atavia, a private gated community featuring a collection of 88 luxury condominiums coming soon to North Scottsdale. Atavia blends the breathability of single-family living, featuring private entries and attached two-car garages, with the carefree convenience of condominium ownership. Designed by award-winning international architecture firm KTGY, Atavia redefines modern luxury living and includes a clubhouse inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic Taliesin West. Atavia is perfectly situated at the Loop 101 and Scottsdale Road and within the One Scottsdale masterplan development. Each exceptional home features a spacious outdoor terrace, Italian kitchen cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, 1 ¼'' quartz counters, and wood floors throughout main living areas.

19360 N 73rd Street Unit 1076 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$934,000 - 2Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Atavia Condominiums, Scottsdale
New
$934,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,637 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784729
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Belgravia Group presents Atavia, a private gated community featuring a collection of 88 luxury condominiums coming soon to North Scottsdale. Atavia blends the breathability of single-family living, featuring private entries and attached two-car garages, with the carefree convenience of condominium ownership. Designed by award-winning international architecture firm KTGY, Atavia redefines modern luxury living and includes a clubhouse inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic Taliesin West. Atavia is perfectly situated at the Loop 101 and Scottsdale Road and within the One Scottsdale masterplan development. Each exceptional home features a spacious outdoor terrace, Italian kitchen cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, 1 ¼'' quartz counters, and wood floors throughout main living areas.

1261 E Cambridge Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85006

$932,999
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,618 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743054
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning 4-bedroom residence located in Phoenix is a dream come true! Fall in love w/an exquisite interior adorned with sleek tile flooring, a fresh soothing palette, dazzling light fixtures, a unique-style wine cellar, & plenty of natural light. Enjoy spending chilly evenings at home by the cozy fireplace in the family room! The gorgeous kitchen showcases granite counters, built-in appliances, a pantry, a stylish tile backsplash, modern white cabinets, & a large center island equipped w/a breakfast bar. The main retreat offers private outdoor access, a lavish ensuite w/dual vessel sinks, a delightful soaking tub, & a walk-in closet. Host fun gatherings in the fabulous backyard, featuring an open patio w/manicured landscape, built-in BBQ, & a charming firepit! This gem won't disappoint!

18211 W Sequoia Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$932,500
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,570 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757941
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Prepare to be impressed by this spectacular single-level TurnKey mostly Furnished home nestled on almost a 1/4 acre golf course lot at Estrella Mountain Ranch! This beauty showcases an exquisite façade with stone accents & desert vegetation. The elegant & sophisticated interior boasts a large, open floor plan complemented by tall ceilings, ceramic tile floors, stylish chandeliers, recessed lighting, and plantation shutters. The captivating living room comes with a built-in entertainment center equipped with a wall-mounted fireplace, the dining room allows unobstructed views of the backyard oasis, and the gourmet kitchen features staggered off-white cabinetry with crown molding, custom mosaic tile backsplash, black granite counters, SS appliances, and an oversized island with breakfast bar The primary suite has access to the back patio and hosts a lavish ensuite retreat comprised of a dual vanity, a sep-sin shower, and a bountiful walk-in closet. This spectacular layout includes a sizable den and an attached guest's quarter with a living room & a private bathroom. The stunning backyard is an entertainer's dream, offering a desert paradise with travertine flooring, an extended covered patio with a retractable lighted awning, a built-in grill, a meticulously maintained landscape with artificial turf, and a fabulous pool with a rain curtain. This gem is a rare find that won't last. Act now!

19042 E Tonto Trail Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$932,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,892 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6774283
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning Home with 180 degree view from Sunrise to Sunset with Mountain, Golf Course, and Desert Views. Welcome to your private dream retreat in Rio Verde's sought-after active adult community. Walking into this spacious open concept home, your eyes are drawn to the floor to ceiling windows, with million dollar view, large patio and heated salt water pool. A lovely southwestern charm home, saltillo flooring in kitchen, living, and dining, beautiful kitchen with custom Alder cabinets, two pantries with oversized island. Primary suite has two walk-in closets and a large walk-in shower. Guest suite has large walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. Tonto Verde golf membership is available for purchase. Owner Agent

3020 E Wethersfield Road Phoenix, AZ 85032

$931,999
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,549 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6766358
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning mid-century modern home features over $150k in recent upgrades and sits on an oversized lot. Floor-to-ceiling and clerestory windows provide natural light and privacy. The open floor plan includes generous sized bedrooms and bonus spaces including a shop. The backyard is an entertainer's dream with new turf, concrete, massive diving pool, and a grand patio that are perfect for hosting. The completely remodeled 700 sq ft pool house with its own full bath and kitchenette can be used as a guest suite or additional income as it already has its own STR permit. Additional features include an expansive paved carport with an automatic gate, circular driveway, solar panels, ambient lighting throughout, and an EV charger. Don't miss the opportunity to own this unique resort-like home!

21601 W Mariposa Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$931,496
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,261 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780228
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW single level 4 bed, 3.5 bath plus study and tv room with 4 car garage; gourmet kitchen with waterfall island, upgraded shaker cabinets in white and buckskin; custom tiled backsplash, GE Monogram appliances, quartz countertops in kitchen and bath, upgraded plank tile flooring, owner's bath with super shower and huge walk-in closet with direct entry to utility room; entertainment size backyard with large covered patio; 2x6 constuction and EXTENSIVE NEW HOME WARRANTY

22820 S 204th Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$931,202
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,517 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749738
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6749738 Ready Now!! The Acadia is a spacious 2-story floor plan offering 4,517 sq. ft. with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a 3-car split garage, dining room, study, and game room. As the largest floor plan in the Ellsworth Ranch Voyage Collection, it's designed to be your perfect home. The foyer is the central hub, leading to the dining room, study, laundry, winding staircase, and the open-concept gathering room, kitchen, and casual dining area. The main-level primary suite features dual vanity sinks and his-and-hers walk-in closets. Upstairs, find secondary bedrooms and a versatile media room.

6801 N 4th Place Phoenix, AZ 85012

$930,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,502 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769159
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Tucked away in the sought-after Villa Tercera Community, this beautifully remodeled home serves as a serene retreat while being conveniently close to local amenities. Highlights include a stunning high wood beam ceiling, charming arched windows, and a cozy beehive fireplace in the family room. The renovated eat-in kitchen boasts quartz countertops, shaker cabinets, an island with seating, and stainless steel appliances, complemented by stylish modern bathrooms. Additional updating includes newer windows and doors, skylights, a new A/C system with an added mini-split, fresh carpet in the bedrooms, and a resurfaced pool with a new pump, all set against an extended bricked patio area. This exquisite home combines an ideal location with exceptional features. And the backyard? It's perfect for for entertaining, whether you're soaking up the sun or enjoying a magical evening under the stars. The delicious Ruby Red Grapefruit tree out front will be a hit too. Could this be the one? Come and see for yourself. This is what the owners have to say about the home: This home offers a great balance of space and comfort. The light-filled great room with vaulted ceilings is ideal for gatherings, with easy access to the backyard patio for additional space when entertaining. We've hosted many events here, and the layout always feels open and welcoming. The living room is perfect for relaxing or catching up with friends, and the kitchen is well-designed for two people to cook together comfortably. The island also works as a casual spot for conversation while cooking. When the kids were still here, they had plenty of space in their bedrooms. With the east facing windows, they always feel light and bright. We've upgraded the master and living room closets, as well as the laundry room, to improve both functionality and appearance. The quiet and secure environment of the gated community adds a layer of peace and privacy. The location is convenient, with grocery stores, a gym, and restaurants close by. It's easy to support local businesses with everything you need just around the corner.

6827 N 4th Place Phoenix, AZ 85012

$930,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,488 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6779658
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This exceptional Santa Fe style home in the gated Villa Tercera community offers a truly unique living experience. Step through the handcrafted gate into an enchanting botanical garden, complete with an infinity water feature by Ten Eyck Landscape Architects. Inside, you'll be greeted by a spacious great room with high ceilings and abundant natural light. The gourmet kitchen, designed by Sandra Evans of Knoell & Quidort, is a chef's dream, featuring top-of-the-line appliances and custom cabinetry. Both bathrooms have been tastefully updated with modern fixtures and finishes. This meticulously maintained home also boasts numerous upgrades, including a new roof, HVAC system, and water heater. Enjoy the prime location, just moments from Central Avenue's vibrant dining and entertainment

146 S La Barge Road Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$930,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Custom Home W/ Mountain Views & No Hoa, Apache Junction
New
$930,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,061 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784519
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Become the proud owner of this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence on a sprawling 1-acre lot! Fantastic curb appeal boasting a charming circular driveway, a 3-car garage, a convenient RV gate, tasteful desert landscape, an inviting porch, and breathtaking mountain views. The serene living room features high ceilings, an earth-tone palette, classic plantation shutters, wood-look flooring, and a cozy fireplace for intimate evenings. Cook delicious meals in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with granite counters, custom wood cabinetry with crown moulding, pendant/recessed lighting, sleek stainless steel appliances, and an island with a breakfast bar for casual meals. The sizeable main bedroom includes a lavish ensuite with double sinks, a jetted tub, and a convenient walk-in closet. Enjoy majestic sunsets in the vast backyard, complete with a covered patio, stylish pavers, a sunken gazebo with a bar, a sparkling pool, and panoramic views. Make this gem yours!