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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13463 N Stone View Trail Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$3,250,000 - 4Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Adero Canyon Parcel 1, Fountain Hills
Open House
$3,250,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,760 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774845
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Turnkey gated Fountain Hills home in the Adero Canyon community. This modern lock and leave features open concept living with 15' ceilings in the great room with a fireplace, stunning chandelier over the dining area, and expansive kitchen. Chef's kitchen includes stainless steel Sub-zero and Wolf appliances, multiple ovens, and kitchen island. Primary suite features mountain views with freestanding bathtub, oversized shower, dual sinks, enclosed toilet, and walk-in closet with custom storage and vanity. Open the expansive sliding glass doors to experience the best of Arizona's indoor/outdoor living. Bask in soaring mountain views while entertaining family and friends in your backyard with a separate guest house, custom pebbletec pool with Baja shelf, travertine decking, covered patio, and desert low maintenance landscaping and turf. This privately gated quiet community has gorgeous views and biking, jogging, and hiking trails to enjoy year-round.

20485 N 93rd Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,250,000 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Dc Ranch Parcel 2.13/2.14 Lots 114,115 & 116 Repla, Scottsdale
Open House
New
$3,250,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
4,207 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775471
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into a residence where every detail has been meticulously curated to create the perfect fusion of elegance, comfort, & cutting-edge design. Thoughtfully elevated features enhance style, convenience, & modern living of this like-new 5-bed, 5-bath, 4,207 SF masterpiece. Completely transformed through comprehensive remodel, this home offers unparalleled luxury & craftsmanship, tailored for sophisticated living. Michelin chef's kitchen is a culinary delight, boasting Wolfe 6-burner stove & oven + 4 SubZero appliances including full 30-inch refrigerator, full 30-inch freezer, beverage fridge, & garage refrigerator/freezer. Fully-renovated primary suite provides spa-like escape w/ custom standalone tub, floor-to-ceiling tiled shower feat. multiple showerheads, & elegant floating cabinets w/ Carrera marble countertops. Smart capabilities throughout enhance everyday life, allowing mobile control of lights, thermostats, garage doors, pool fountains, & front door lock - all from your smartphone. Backyard oasis is designed for entertaining, w/ completely refinished pool feat. pebble tech tile & striking 4-foot-wide water feature. Perfect for hosting, outdoor space includes new 6-foot travertine fire pit, brand-new built-in BBQ, beverage cooler, dishwasher, & sink. 8-foot panoramic accordion-style kitchen window opens vertically & a new 4-panel sliding door create a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. 2 beautifully updated fireplaces & handpicked, top-notch light fixtures. From the illuminated Glacier White Cristallo Quartzite slab in the downstairs bath to the hand-carved white tile brick floor upon entry, this home exudes luxury in every corner. New A/C, smart home music system, custom tree lighting, & brushed satin brass accents throughout complete this picture-perfect residence. Located in the prestigious DC Ranch community, this home offers access to a wealth of amenities including parks, hiking trails, community centers, pickleball courts, & golf courses. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exceptional home in DC Ranch your own. An absolute must-see!

39402 N 67th Place Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$3,249,000
4 Beds
6 Baths
5,312 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775546
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your ultimate desert oasis, a quiet, peaceful, and luxurious 5,312 sq ft retreat surrounded by iconic saguaros and endless desert vistas. Set on 2.1 meticulously landscaped acres, this stunning home was fully rebuilt and expanded in 2020, featuring modern upgrades like plumbing, electrical systems, and state-of-the-art amenities. With two owned water softeners, a propane tank, RO system, and ADT security, every detail has been considered. Step into elegance with four ensuite bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms and 2 half baths, and masterful craftsmanship throughout. A wall of Fleetwood thermopane windows greets you upon entry, revealing breathtaking views. The open-concept gourmet kitchen and great room is an entertainer's dream, boasting leathered granite countertops, a Miele range, and Dacor column fridge and freezer, built-in Miele coffee maker, and custom cabinetry. The expansive U-shaped island, with seating for eight, is perfect for gatherings. A spacious walk-in pantry, complete with washer/dryer hookups and floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, offers ample storage. Relax by the three-sided gas fireplace, whether you're dining or enjoying one of the two cozy living areas. Automated shades provide comfort and privacy at the touch of a button. Retreat upstairs to your luxurious primary suite, featuring a tranquil sitting area, unique granite accent wall, custom furniture, a private balcony with panoramic views and direct access to the pool area. The spa-like bathroom includes custom cabinets, quartzite and marble finishes, and a two-person digital steam shower with body sprays. The large split two-sided closet, complete with washer/dryer hookups, makes the space entirely self-sufficient. On the main floor, you'll find an office and additional bedrooms, including a second primary suite with a wood-burning fireplace, walk-in closet, and a bathroom overlooking a beautiful painted courtyard. There's also a flexible space ideal for a gym or second office. High-end finishes abound, including designer lighting fixtures, custom Italian doors, and intricate steelwork. Outside, the resort-style backyard awaits with a Pebble Tec diving pool, cascading waterfalls, and a shaded ramada. The outdoor kitchen includes space for a BBQ set up and a granite island with a sink and fridge. Enjoy evenings around the custom gas fire pit or unwind in the private hot tub, surrounded by lush gardens and a courtyard adorned with a hand-painted mural. This home also features a four-car, temperature-controlled garage with epoxy floors, a horse corral, tack room, and ample land for future expansionswhether you're dreaming of a guest house, sports courts, or additional horse facilities. This Arizona paradise offers unmatched luxury and endless possibilities.

35203 W Indian School Road Tonopah, AZ 85354

$3,240,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
5,760 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742751
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Lot 1,2,3,and 5 are a total of 37.83 level acres of land being split from 504-10-003-B with a 3 bedrooms and 2 bathroom home, private well and room to expand! There is a large enclosed hall that can be used for gatherings, storage and more. The covered storage area offers its own possibilities for an income producing venue with the start of 9 individual rooms and three bathrooms along with one large central space that could be a centralized kitchen or living space. Private well and three separate septic tanks make the possibilities of this property endless! Near the future Belmont Master Planned Community and soon to break ground Desert Studios. 20 min to Buckeye Equestrian Center, 35 min to Wickenburg, Stone's throw from Teravalis, Desert Whisper, Tartesso etc. Easy access to Interstate I-10, MC-85, Loop 202 & 303. Close to the proposed I-11 freeway, connecting Arizona, Nevada & California. Early-stage planning efforts for I-11 to become a trade route connecting Canada & Mexico. Providing Arizona with access to regional & international markets, jobs & economic growth. Possible seller carry back with large down payment. You won't want to miss out on this property and all that it offers!

4849 N Camelback Ridge Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$3,225,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
2,594 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6681503
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Tucked at the base of revered Camelback Mountain, Ascent is a new, private residential enclave adjacent to The Phoenician Resort - one of Arizona's premier luxury resort destination. This community incorporates the Sonoran Desert landscape directly into its design, at the most enviable location in Scottsdale. Ascent offer views overlooking the Valley & Camelback Mountain. Home designs feature contemporary architecture integrating warm, natural materials, expansive windows, and large outdoor patios. Thoughtfully designed by Nelsen Architects and Vallone Interior Design. Luxury finishes include exquisite Bulthaup Kitchens, Provenza wood floors, Sub Zero Wolf appliances & 10' ceilings.

5434 E Lincoln Drive Unit 34 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,215,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,490 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6759618
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This newly built lock and leave in the 24/7 guard gated community of Colonia Miramonte at the JW Marriott Camelback Inn offers 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a separate office, and an open concept floor plan, great for entertaining. This quintessential neighborhood where very few homes come available, offers stunning views of Camelback and Mummy Mountain, all in the exclusively located town of Paradise Valley. The stunning kitchen features brand new appliances, leathered waterfall edge countertops, and great storage throughout, as well as a large walk-in pantry! This single level, split floor plan offers 2 full ensuites on one end and the spacious primary suite on the other with a gorgeous bathroom, walk-in closet and private patio. Within walking distance to the historic Camelback Inn and El Chorro, this exceptional location and home cannot be beat!

875 Rim Drive Pinedale, AZ 85934

$3,200,000
16 Beds
8.5 Baths
10,823 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732458
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Once in a lifetime opportunity! Located in the White Mountains and surrounded by USFS property, this 60-acre property has everything you are looking for. Adorned with mature ponderosa pines, fruit trees, pastures, and Pinedale Wash running through. Currently used as a Family retreat, there are many possibilities from company retreat, dude ranch, rentals, and much more. The property has been well cared for over the years and has many upgrades. The picturesque views from every home, lawns, playground, fire pit, are just a few of the things you'll fall in love with. With 4 separate houses, one of which is duplex, there's plenty of room for everyone. The main house has 5 bedrooms and 3 baths with an open floor plan. The large living room is great for gatherings and the kitchen is perfect for entertaining and making memories with friends and family. The Guest house has 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, and an extra-large kitchen and great room: a perfect place for family gatherings. The Caretaker's home and the duplex add an additional 7 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. In addition, there is also a 2200 square foot stable with a fenced in corral. Pastures are fenced in to allow for grazing, and a variety of equipment is available. The private well provides plenty of fresh water for all the homes and additional water lines running through the property.

1575 S 155th Street Gilbert, AZ 85296

$3,200,000 - 5Br/7Ba -  for Sale in Ray Road & 154th Place, Gilbert
Open House
$3,200,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
5,667 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754626
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxurious newly built & professionally designed masterpiece! This stunning home offers 5 generously sized bedrooms & 7 exquisite bathrooms, including a unique bedroom w/ a private outside entrance, perfect for guests/extended family. The state-of-the-art kitchen is a culinary dream, featuring top-of-the-line Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances, complemented by elegant finishes & ample counter space. A dedicated teen room adds versatility, while foam insulation ensures exceptional energy efficiency. Step outside to your own private oasis, complete w/ two sophisticated firepits, a sprawling pool & a rejuvenating spa. The meticulously landscaped front & back yards create a seamless blend of beauty & functionality. Located near major roads & highways, this home offers easy access to key amenities. Enjoy proximity to vibrant downtown Gilbert, renowned for its dining, shopping & entertainment options. Additionally, nearby facilities include top-rated schools, scenic parks & recreational areas. This residence combines opulence w/ convenience, making it the ultimate retreat for both entertaining & relaxing.

26782 N Donna Place San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$3,200,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,577 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6679447
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Some properties have to be seen to be believed. Welcome to The Arthouse, the Valley's best kept secret. Having operated as a luxury destination wedding venue in recent years, this home presents an exceedingly rare opportunity to enjoy modern living among natural, undisturbed desert. Winding desert roads scattered with saguaro cacti and picturesque mountain views lead you through San Tan Mountain Regional Park, to a property where peace, calm and serenity envelop all who enter. At this one-of-a-kind retreat, the current stewards have lovingly and carefully crafted every inch of this property's 3.3+ acres to maximize desert dwelling in a secluded setting surrounded by untouched state park land - offering privacy that no other property in the Phoenix metro area can come close to. Each evening, painted skies abound for you to enjoy sunset from the wraparound deck - this property has been designed for those who simply cannot compromise on the joys of outdoor living. The interior of the home is the ideal blend of comfort and cozy with a South Western twist. Prepare meals in the gourmet kitchen - complete with butcher block island, modern cabinetry and farmhouse-style sink. The exclusive owner's retreat will rejuvenate your soul - gas fireplace and soaking tub. In addition to the main home, don't miss the separate suite plumbed for a bathroom with it's own private entrance, which has in recent history served as a bridal suite. You will not find a home that soothes you in a way that The Arthouse does, while offering all the indulgences of modern living.

25505 N 114th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$3,200,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,113 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6565469
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New custom coming in Troon Mountain Estates! This gorgeous, soft contemporary home to-be-built has approximately 4113 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, including a 679 square foot one bedroom/one bath separate casita, plus an open kitchen with butler's pantry, a great room, game room/den and walls of glass overlooking spectacular views of the McDowells, 4 Peaks and city lights from the top of a 20,000+ sf lot in gated Troon Mountain Estates. The main house is all on one level/no stairs, including the 3 car garage, except for steps down to the casita, infinity pool and spa.

5593 E Edward Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,200,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,620 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755781
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Camelback View. Enjoy resort living w/ full amenities at adjacent Mountain Shadows resort combined with distinct architectural designs. Enjoy views from 800+ sq. ft. outdoor deck. This Villa has 20 ft. high entry foyer with private elevator/stairs to living level. Luxurious designer features include, Wolf combo dual fuel range oven and microwave, Sub Zero refrigerator, Asko dishwasher, Zephyr hood,10 ft. high ceilings, 9 ft. bi-fold doors to deck, 9 ft. bi-fold from primary suite to deck, indoor/outdoor fireplaces, Crestron smart home, Lutron lighting, motorized shades, surround sound, 24 hr guarded entry, & more! Includes membership in Citizen's Club at Mountain Shadows - fitness center, classes, signing privileges, golf, discounts on all retail services, including food, rooms, golf.

30424 N 148th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,200,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,904 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776961
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning Equestrian Estate with Guest House nestled on a sprawling 10 Acre property in the serene landscape a short distance from the Tonto National Forest. This property offers an exceptional blend of modern comfort, views, and exceptional Equestrian facilities. This 3bedroom, 2.5 bath home with open floorplan, showcases a chef's kitchen featuring a gas range, granite counters, custom cabinetry, newer microwave and dishwasher. Master split to one side with direct access to rear patio, two additional spacious bedrooms. Large Greatroom with Gas Fireplace and walls of glass opening up to the beautifully landscaped green rear yard. Enjoy the Outdoor beauty of Arizona year round with the deep wraparound covered patio looking east towards the iconic Four Peaks. Large Heated play pool with Boulder Water feature. Separate above ground spa. Back yard is surrounded by block wall covered in white rose vine creating a private oasis. The views are unobstructed and panoramic of the mountain ranges to the east as the land gently falls away. Four Peaks, Weavers Needle, Bartlett Dam all in full view. The separate Guest House features 2BR, 2BA with full kitchen and large living space. In addition the owners created unique lodging converting a container into a charming guest suite with outdoor shower and toilet. If you have an RV or friends coming to stay there is one RV full hookup with electric, water, and sewer. Top Notch Professionally Designed and Built Equestrian Facilities with 7 stall shed row style Block barn with deep overhang. Each stall is fitted with rubber mats, fan, mister and fly control system, and excellent lighting. Runs off back of each stall if you prefer them going in and out or you can shut the back door to keep them inside. Large Airconditioned tack room with built in saddle and bridle racks and storage. Mud room can double as grain/feed room with deep sink, refrigerator, storage cabinets and plumbed for washer/dryer. Outside wash rack with hot water piped in. The entire 10 acres is perimeter fenced with Rustic oil pipe fencing. Your horses will love the 8-pipe fenced turn out paddocks with shades with room to add more. Large steel container to store hay. Dressage size arena with rubber/sand footing and an additional large, cleared area if you need something a bit larger, plenty of room and lot coverage left to build a large Covered Arena. Round pen with sand footing. You will love the direct access out your gate to miles of trails with soft decomposed granite footing NO ROCKS! Just a short 10-minute trail ride to Tonto National Forest for scenic trail riding. Do you love gardening and fruit trees? Wonderful Herb Garden and talk about trees! Fruit trees planted include Lemon, Lime, Peach, Apple, Guava, Fig, Kumquat, Grapefruit, Blood Oranges, Pomegranate all on drip system and not just any drip system this system has automated fertilizer system added so trees are slow fertilized in spring and fall with the watering system and they are thriving! Utility rates are on the rise, so problem has been solved with Solar Panels (owned) that keep those bills at or under $300 a month. Located in Maricopa County where property taxes are low, Scottsdale Mailing address, and a good producing Private well with newer pump installed this property has it all. Perfect for any equestrian or outdoor enthusiast your perfect oasis in the desert.