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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406 N Pine Island Drive Payson, AZ 85541

$849,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,720 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6710709
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICE ADJUSTED! WONDERFUL !What a fabulous way to own at Chaparral Pines, premier guarded/gated luxury golf course community AND this section provides lock and leave low maintenance! This home has been beautifully updated and lovingly maintained for true move in condition. Walk in the great room space with soaring tongue and groove ceiling, dramatice floor to ceiling stone fp, cooks kitchen, all new stainless appliances and access to the back deck. Dine, relax and enjoy the wind in the tall pines overlooking Pine Island pond/waterfall! Home has 3 ample bedrooms, organized closets and 2 sizable baths (one completely reimagined) plus solid knotty alder doors thruout. Main bedroom opens to the back deck. Upgrades in documents. OVERSIZED GARAGE FOR TRUCKS, GOLF CARTS! Ahh listen to the pines!

13282 W Golden Puma Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

$849,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,414 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6721607
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacular views from every angle of this oversized 9000 sqft elevated lot located in a cut-de-sac. Stunning 22' David Weekly single story home featuring 4 bed 3 full baths open floorplan 12' ceilings in Living room & Kitchen private en-suite open bonus room natural lighting throughout. Chef's kitchen is designed w/ stainless appliances, oversized cabinets, granite w/ a large island. Well designed & spacious master-suite offers a super sized walk-in shower, dual shower heads, dual sinks + oversized walk-in closet. Breathtaking outdoors whether you are out back or enjoying your views of the valley from the private courtyard. 360' views from this unique lot in the Northpointe Community. State of the art community center offers many amenities to incl. pool, playground + more.

29224 N 146th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$849,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,389 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730322
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP! Immaculate & peaceful North Scottsdale horse property w/ tons of natural light on 1.25 acres w/ pool, incredible mountain views & high producing shared well. This nearly 2400 sq ft home features an open floor plan w/ 4 bedrooms, 2 upgraded baths, plantation shutters throughout, stone gas fireplace, gourmet kitchen w/ granite countertops, stainless steel appliances & kitchen island, large master bedroom w/ beautifully upgraded master bath including tiled shower, soaking tub & dual vanities, highly upgraded second bath w/ tile shower and tub & large secondary bedroom w/ dual closets. Exterior features include large garage with plenty of storage, covered front patio and extended covered back patio, pool w/ incredible views and horse set up including riding arena & stall

25037 S Ribbonwood Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$849,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,631 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732045
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GORGEOUSLY REMODELED, CUSTOM Borgata model (3 Bedroom PLUS DEN & 2 Bath) w/ PHENOMENAL GOLF COURSE VIEWS in the GATED, ADULT COMMUNITY OF IRONWOOD! You'll be delighted with all of the LUXURIOUS UPGRADES throughout this home like: Wood-Look tile, designer lighting, plantation shutters, neutral colors, NEWER HVAC SYSTEMS & 2-car plus GOLF CART GARAGE. The GREAT ROOM is open to the Chef's kitchen w/ QUATRZ, MASSIVE ISLAND, NEW APPLIANCES & HUGE WALK-IN PANTRY. The AMAZING MASTER SUITE has a SITTING ROOM & HUGE WALK-IN CLOSET. BOTH BATHROOMS ARE REMODELED! 2 OVERSIZED GUEST BEDROOMS & A DEN TOO! EXPANSIVE PAVER PATIO W/ GREAT GOLF COURSE VIEW & LOW MAINTENANCE LANDSCAPING. ALL OF THIS & Community amenities like: golf, tennis, pickleball, pools/spas, fitness center, clubs & restaurants!

2522 W Brisa Drive Phoenix, AZ 85085

$849,900
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,536 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738844
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath home with a recent price reduction is a rare opportunity! Situated on the largest lot in the subdivision, it provides exceptional value, size, and functionality, perfect for family living and entertaining. The home features easy access to I-17 and the 303 corridor. The spacious primary suite is located downstairs and includes dual walk-in closets, a large shower, garden tub, and separate vanities. For remote work, there's a dedicated office complete with quartz countertops and built-in cabinets. Comes with a washer & dryer upstairs and an additional hook-up in the garage for added convenience. Outdoors, enjoy a low-maintenance pool with water features and smartphone controls, alongside a vast entertainer's backyard with a covered patio and ample room for gatherings. A 70-foot concrete utility pad with gated access provides extra parking for a boat, UTV or utility trailer. The 12KW owned solar system ensures low utility bills, complemented by a whole-house humidifier, water softener, and reverse osmosis system. Don't miss the chance to make this beautiful home yours!

16611 S 9th Street Phoenix, AZ 85048

$849,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,969 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749591
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning Model Home in Ahwatukee's newest gated community of Palma Brisa awaits new owners! With every added detail and upgrade you will love the design and layout of this bright, open home. This beautiful 3 bed, 3 bath home has top of the line stainless steel appliances, a large island and living room, custom finishes throughout with a split floor plan and a convertible space to add an office or bonus room. With quick freeway access this property sits just 15 minutes from Sky Harbor Airport, Phoenix Premium Outlet Mall, Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Chandler Village, and so much more. With nearby hiking trails and bike paths and close proximity to both Foothills Golf Club & Whirlwind Golf Club you will love the lifestyle this home provides!

4055 Miners Spring Way Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$849,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,365 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753327
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience desert living at its finest in this exquisite 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with a 3-car garage, nestled in the serene oasis of Wickenburg. The stunning curb appeal is enhanced by brand new landscaping, welcoming you into a home that is a true canvas for your dreams. Situated on a spacious 1/2 acre lot, there's ample room to add an RV garage, pool, or even a casita. The outdoor kitchen is perfect for entertaining as you enjoy breathtaking sunsets and mountain views. Inside, the kitchen is a chef's delight with satin-finished granite countertops, soft-close cabinets and drawers, a gourmet cooktop, and a chimney hood. Additional features include an owned security system and a water softening system. As a resident of Wickenburg Ranch, you'll also enjoy access to a wide range of resort- style amenities including clubhouse, 2 golf courses, 3 restaurants, 14 miles of paths and trails, fishing, salon and classrooms. Property backs to land preserve owned by Wickenburg Ranch. Another plus! Sellers have paid for exterior painting to be completed in November and landscaping has been pre-paid through December 2024. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!

28352 N 124th Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$849,900
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,438 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752527
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICED TO SELL! Welcome to Luxury Living with OWNED SOLAR on an oversized CORNER LOT boasting 2 bedrooms plus den, 2.5 bathrooms and 2,430+ sq. ft. Featuring 10ft ceilings and PLANTATION SHUTTERS throughout. A chef's dream kitchen featuring stainless-steel appliances, dual kitchen islands, GAS COOKTOP and under cabinet lighting! Benefit from 34 fully OWNED SOLAR panels. HUGE PRIMARY SUITE with access to back patio, bath w/dual sinks, shower, soaking tub, and 2 WALK-IN CLOSETS. The backyard is truly a PRIVATE OASIS with neighbors only on 1 side. Soak in your PRIVATE POOL and enjoy the mature landscaping. Sip your morning coffee on the pergola covered courtyard and experience beautiful sunsets on the large, covered patio with sensor motorized sunscreens. The 3-car tandem garage provides ample space for vehicles, with built-in storage cabinets. This home has been meticulously maintained, a MUST SEE! All of this is located within the award-winning 55+ Community of Trilogy at Vistancia, that offers resort style living at its finest.

5650 S Feliz -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$849,900
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,040 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757009
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home! This stunning Toll Brothers home nestled in the desirable Cadence master-planned community. This exquisite property sits on a premium lot directly across from a park and offers five spacious bedrooms, a versatile den, a loft, and 3.5 bathrooms. Step inside to find high ceilings, elegant LPV flooring, and designer touches throughout. The open-concept great room seamlessly connects to the dining area and covered patio through retractable glass doors, creating a perfect setting for indoor-outdoor entertaining. The gourmet kitchen features beautiful cabinetry, high-end appliances, quartz countertops, and gas cooking. Enjoy resort-style living with access to Cadence's impressive amenities, including a pool, fitness center, clubhouse, sports courts, playgrounds and a resort pool.

5508 N 83rd Drive Glendale, AZ 85305

$849,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
4,253 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761122
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Find your peace in the center of the action in Glendale, AZ! This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence spans over 4,253 sq. ft. on an expansive 18,350 sq. ft. lot, within the security of a cul-de-sac. The exterior has it all! Enjoy the private courtyard off the main entrance, a sparkling pool, and tranquil koi pond. Entertain with the built in grill, fire pit, and massive backyard. Then move inside to the Great Room with an oversized kitchen island, granite countertops, gas cooktop, and plenty of room for seating. For movie lovers, the dedicated home theater comes complete with a Klipsch surround sound system and projector, offering an immersive cinematic experience. The spacious primary suite includes a private balcony, en-suite bathroom, and 2 walk-in closets. This large, unique home also comes with a central vacuum to make everyday maintenance a breeze. Located near parks, shopping, and dining, this home perfectly combines luxury, comfort, and convenience - truly an oasis waiting for you!

16155 E Links Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$849,900
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,736 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773766
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Experience resort-style living in this updated golf villa on the 11th hole of Firerock Country Club, offering 180-degree views of the 10th Green and McDowell Mountains. This 2,736 square foot home features three bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a spacious family room, and a living room, ideal for zoned living. Enjoy new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main floor and fresh carpeting in the upper and lower bedrooms and stairs. All rooms and ceilings are freshly painted, with updated light fixtures, ceiling fans, and a stunning 24-foot stone fireplace. The kitchen is adorned with granite countertops, painted cabinets, and new hardware. Recent upgrades include a 5-ton HVAC system (July 2024), water softener (June 2024), water heater (June 2024), and water pressure valve (July 2024). Additional features include plantation shutters, an oversized two-car garage, private patios, security gates, and access to a community pool. Embrace the exceptional golf course lifestyle in this magnificent villa!

319 E Forest Hills Drive Phoenix, AZ 85022

$849,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,600 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6763602
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled down the street from Moon Valley Country Club, this home's exclusive location offers prime access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Own with confidence as the hard work has been done and the home has been beautifully maintained and updated with modern finishes throughout. Extensive upgrading between 2018 and 2022 includes (but is not limited to): new roof; wood tile flooring; full kitchen remodel; master bathroom renovation; new exterior paint; California cabinets in master closet; expanded laundry room; new Tuff shed; and complete pool renovation with resurfaced decking, new pebbletec and new equipment! Last but not least, the nearly 15,000 sq ft lot provides ample space for outdoor living and features a garage, 26 foot RV pad/gate and privacy for your own desert sanctuary!