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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9204 E Grapevine Pass Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$9,996,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
7,718 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6608449
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
DESERT MOUNTAIN GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE-Modern Mediterranean Luxury Living meets Fantastical Fun on one of the highest elevated estate sites in the premier community of Desert Mountain. Situated atop all of Desert Mountain on 12.2 acres with views of the entire valley. Entering the estate through the privately gated drive gives you the first sight of prominent elegance. The stone exterior with Cantera stone arches and accents, the forged metal details and limestone pavered entry greet you upon arrival. The 9 X 12 arched rain glass and iron scrolling door open to a brick mosaic lined rotunda with dazzling crystal chandelier. The elegant livability is instantly felt with the open and light great room split floor plan that blends seamlessly through the pocketing telescoping glass glass doors to the outdoor living space with linear spa and firepit offering unimaginable vistas in every direction. The Gourmet kitchen with large island, Alder wood cabinets, premium appliances and oversized walk-in pantry is every chefs dream. For the finest dining experience step through the circular entry defined by scrolled iron work, into the dining room with spectacular elevated views. The decadent Master Suite is well appointed with a stone wall backdrop, Cantera fireplace, dry sauna, spa like bath with glass tile shower, heated floors, free standing tub and designer closets. The Office, Guest Suite, Powder and Laundry each are statements in design and functionality. In the mood for some fun head downstairs to the whimsical bonus room with semi circular bar, work out room, home theater, and 2 additional guest bedrooms. The fanciful decor; bright colors, unique tile and fun finishes will make you smile. Head outside for more fun, relaxing and all your AZ outdoor entertainment needs; multi leveled patios, putting green, boulder waterfall cascading into the negative edge pool, sunning patios, outdoor kitchen and alfresco dining, Outdoor living room with fireplace, pool bath and outdoor shower. The separate entrance Casita charms every guest with the private patio, fireplace and unstoppable views. Car lovers will be astounded over the impeccably finished 5-car garage with garage vacuums, hot and cold water faucets, shoe closets and extra storage. The finest of organic finishes are throughout the home: wood and stone floors, wood, stone and tile wall details, brick mosaic and wood beam truss accented vaulted ceilings, stone counters and vanities, metal hand made iron work and the impressive steel great room grand fireplace. Additional details include smart home with Control 4 system, 44 solar panels, tankless water heaters, 2-inch water lines, 50 amp RV service and so much more! Ideal south facing backyard capturing maximum winter sun on the patio areas, along with tremendous sunsets, city lights and surrounding mountain views by day and mountain silhouettes by night. Bike or hike from your home to the nearby Desert Mountain Trails with over 20 miles of multi-use trails. Chiricahua and Cochise Geronimo Clubhouses are nearby for quick access to dining and golf. Sonoran Fitness center located within a short drive from this home. Golf Membership to the Desert Mountain Club available.

7305 E Royal Palm Road Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$9,995,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
7,907 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751861
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This exquisite Santa Barbara-style estate, nestled in the prestigious Paradise Valley Farms community of Scottsdale, redefines luxury living with its seamless blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Fully remodeled in 2017, the architectural design and enhancements were guided by Jeff Doubet, a renowned expert in authentic Santa Barbara-style architecture. The result is this 7,907 sq/ft masterpiece, set on an acre of land, embodying timeless elegance and meticulous craftsmanship. Boasting 5 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, 2 powder rooms, an office, and a game room, this home combines the allure of classic design, with the finest modern finishes and gives any family ultimate flexibility in how the home is utilized. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a soaring foyer that leads to an open-concept living space. With solid wood flooring crafted from a historic Gin Mill dating back to the late 1800s. As you step into the family room you will be greeted by reclaimed wood beams from a barn in Quebec, Canada, along with an antique Limestone Fireplace surround. Culinary enthusiasts will adore the gourmet kitchen enriched with custom Desert Cove Cabinetry and equipped with top-of-the-line appliances including two Asko dishwashers, Scotsman nugget ice maker, 60 Wolf gas range with double griddle and electric double ovens, a Wolf steam oven, Wolf microwave, and a Miele built-in coffee maker with its own water fill. The centerpiece is an expansive marble island over 9 feet long, featuring maximum storage capacity and custom pull-out shelving inside cabinets. Additional features include built-in storage for baking ingredients, two Subzero refrigerators, four Subzero freezer drawers, and hand-forged hinges and pulls on the refrigerators to create a vintage icebox design. The double farm sink looks out to a quaint courtyard with a wood-burning fireplace and fountain that are designed with antique limestone that was reclaimed from France adding to the home's timeless appeal. The main floor offers 4 bedrooms, 2 that are en-suite and 2 that share a Jack and Jill bathroom, game room, formal dining room, spacious family room area with a custom bar for entertaining, 2 powder baths, and a laundry room with 2 washers, 2 dryers, and a dog washing station. Rounding out the exquisite main level is a custom wine cellar that holds up to 650 bottles, adorned with barrel ceilings and a custom iron door, and an expansive 4-car garage with a commercial pressure washer and ample storage for all your tools and toys. As you make your way up the stairs, the entire second floor is dedicated to the Primary Suite and his/her office. This private sanctuary features a gas fireplace, a beamed ceiling, and a spa-like bathroom adorned in custom marble with a remote-controlled jacuzzi clawfoot tub. Waterworks fixtures, dual shower heads, a marble bench in the shower, and a Mr. Steam steam shower are a few of the other appointments the bathroom offers. The oversized walk-in closet features custom built-in cabinetry, exquisite lighting, and a built-in washer and dryer for added convenience. The estate's outdoor features are equally impressive. The outdoor kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring a built-in Wolf BBQ, Wolf fryer, Green Egg smoker, built-in pizza oven, and a TV for entertaining all your guests, along with a wood-burning fireplace made from the same reclaimed Chicago brick that adorns all the patio flooring. The outdoor space also includes a built-in bar and a secret garden dining terrace. The luxurious limestone pool deck and Jacuzzi are designed for ultimate relaxation. A tennis court with an adjustable half-court basketball hoop, complete with a ball return, offers recreational opportunities for all ages and enhances the estate's grounds, leaving even the most discerning buyer wanting nothing more. This extraordinary estate is a masterful blend of historic charm and modern amenities, designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Whether entertaining guests or enjoying quiet family moments.

8412 N Golf Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,950,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,372 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773398
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on a serene, private street in the highly sought-after Camelback Country Club, this stunning single-level home, newly constructed by the RafterHouse, offers a luxurious blend of elegance and comfort. Designed by the acclaimed Blochberger Design, this residence boasts breathtaking views of the 17th hole and an expansive lake. The home is filled with natural light, thanks to oversized windows and sliders, perfectly complemented by the exquisite landscaping from Roots First. Featuring six spacious ensuite bedrooms, each designed to comfortably accommodate a king-size bed, the home offers privacy and luxury for every occupant. A separate, oversized game room provides additional space for entertainment or relaxation. The backyard is a true oasis, ideal for indoor-outdoor living with a custom-designed pool and spa, complete with a stunning fire feature that spans nearly the entire length of the pool. The oversized four-car garage offers ample space for vehicles and storage, making this home as functional as it is beautiful. Whether you're hosting gatherings or seeking a peaceful retreat, this property delivers the ultimate luxury living experience in a quiet, private setting.

5226 E Desert Vista Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,950,000
6 Beds
6 Baths
8,137 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769287
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
At the intersection of stylish elegance and unrivaled luxury you've discovered this breathtaking assignment by '555 Angel Designs'; situated in one of the most sought-after and private blue-chip corridors in Paradise Valley. With iconic Mummy Mountain as your backdrop and walking distance to the prestigious Paradise Valley Country Club, this 6,513 SqFt main residence and 1,624 SqFt guest house were masterfully crafted by world renowned architect Candelaria Design perfectly blends timeless architecture, elegant interiors and versatile spaces; with exquisite custom finishes and attention to detail throughout. Curated for entertaining and effortless day-to-day living, the home lives harmoniously with the gorgeous outdoors, allowing for seamless access to the sprawling covered patio... ,pool, spa, ramada, and a large yard; all while capturing stunning view corridors. The Chef's dream kitchen is the heart of the home and boasts high-end appliances, a large center island and opens to a comfortable main living space with an abundance of natural light, overlooking the resort backyard. A generously sized secondary living area off of the kitchen allows for flexibility and can be utilized as a more casual or formal space. The primary retreat is luxurious and spacious, boasting a spa-like bath with easy access to the outdoor space. 4 well-appointed guest bedrooms, one of which is currently being utilized as a gorgeous office, complete the main home. The 1,624 sq ft guest house features an additional bedroom, a kitchenette, as well as a private gated drive with its own garage for guests. The tranquil outdoor oasis boasts privacy, a large elevated covered patio, a sparkling pool, spa, BBQ Area, and a beautiful ramada with seating to soak in the mountain vistas. Away from road traffic and noise, yet just minutes to fine dining, and luxury shops, this estate checks all of the boxes for Paradise Valley living at its finest. See MOTION VIDEO

5500 S Four Cross Ranch Road Skull Valley, AZ 86338

$9,900,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,289 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781357
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Historic & picturesque Four Cross Ranch, located 20 miles SW of Prescott & 2 hours from Phoenix. Ranch spans a total of 1,576 deeded acres, w/additional 4,033 acres of BLM & State Land grazing leases, making it ideal for ranching, recreation & hunting. Perched on a hill, the main residence offers panoramic views of rolling pastures & distant mountains, creating a serene vantage point, along with 4 more homes for guests and ranch hands. Ranch is efficiently watered by multiple wells & offers top-notch facilities for cattle & horses, including a 14-stall enclosed barn, a two-stall shedrow barn w/spacious outdoor runs & an open-air barn with W panels. Complete w/tack room, office, round pen & cutting and roping arenas. Multiple workshops and equipment sheds provide ample space for all ranching activities. The large shop features three-phase electric power. Historically significant, the ranch was once partially owned by Virgil and Elvira Earp during the Territory of Arizona era. Scattered throughout the land, you may stumble upon ancient petroglyphs. Whether you're drawn to its rich history, exceptional livestock facilities, or the serene beauty of its surroundings, Four Cross Ranch is a legacy of excellence waiting to be explored. Main Residence 4289 sq/ft (3bed/3.5bath) Modular Home 1900 sq/ft (3bed/2bath) Modular Home 1900 sq/ft (3bed/2bath) Guest House 1806 sq/ft (2bed/2bed) Guest House 3574 sq/ft (3bed/2bed)

8302 N Mockingbird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,750,000
6 Beds
7 Baths
8,210 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777816
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A property that unveils itself from day to night, from private and intimate, to full blown entertaining with friends and family. This home has it all! At 8210 sq ft and situated on a private 1.2 acre lot the residence epitomizes modern elegance and thoughtful design. With stunning Mummy Mountain and Phoenix Mountain Preserve views enhanced by floor to ceiling pocket window doors that give new meaning to indoor/outdoor living. Highlights include: a stunning primary suite, five additional en-suite bedrooms, a private one-bedroom guest residence with separate entry, beautifully designed office, home theatre room and exercise room with infrared sauna. The open-concept chef's quality kitchen complemented by a spacious butler's pantry with additional dishwasher, refrigerator/freezer, wine refrigerator and abundant storage is a wow. The living and dining areas with full bar seamlessly integrate with the central courtyard and outdoor spaces. With custom heated pool and spa, sunken fire pit, gas fireplace and full outdoor kitchen that will be the envy of anyone who loves to entertain. Tennis, pickle ball anyone? We have you covered. The laundry room boasts a dry-cleaning/steamer appliance, dual washer/dryers and the four-car garage includes an electric vehicle charging station and convenient dog wash. The home is also designed for future solar panel integration. The team of Aspen Dev Co., The Ranch Mine and Boxwell Homes have designed and built a one of a kind Paradise Valley retreat. Come and see what makes this property so special...and once you feel it, you'll want to call it home.

26446 N 119th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$9,750,000
6 Beds
7.5 Baths
8,299 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6767018
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Just completed and ready for occupancy! Located in the highly coveted Troon area of North Scottsdale, in the exclusive luxury gated community of Cantabrica Estates, award winning architect Craig Wickersham, in collaboration with luxury home builder DWD Homes, has given careful consideration to the design and layout of this newly built home to create a striking modern silhouette set against the dramatic high Sonoran Desert landscape that maximizes views and privacy. From pristine, design-forward finishes to vast expanses of glass that usher in the Arizona sunshine, the uniquely designed interior blends contemporary elegance with touches of warming finishes. The main house offers 6494 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms and 2 half baths. The The great room, with its floor to ceiling automated and pocketing glass doors by Fleetwood, showcases direct views of Troon Mountain. Flowing into the formal dining area, highlighted by a glassed front wine room and opening to a private patio area, guests will enjoy views of the Mazatzal Mountain range to the east, in addition to views of Troon Mountain to the west. For more relaxed entertaining, the casual dining area offers a bar area with four refrigerated beverage drawers, a Scottsman ice maker, and floor to ceiling, corner opening, glass doors that give access to the outdoor kitchen and patio areas. Along with a chef inspired kitchen, for both additional storage and use as a service kitchen, the architect added a Butler's Pantry with dishwasher, sink and refrigerator. Additional rooms include an office, the wine room that holds approximately 700 bottles of your favorite wines, a large entertainment/media room with direct access to the outdoor area, and a gym with cork flooring and its own private patio. The guest house has 1805 square feet with an expansive upper balcony to enjoy the surrounding mountain views, two ensuite bedrooms, a full size kitchen, very large separate living room, and a laundry room, giving a total of 8299 square feet to this home. Highlighted are 6.5 oversized garage spaces with room to add 2 additional garages, if needed. For those with a discerning taste in creativity, artistry and fine materials, this residence harmoniously balances its contemporary design with timeless earthy textures and soothing hues to create a serene environment. Along with showcasing the latest in efficiencies and technology, designer selected expanses of Eurostyle Rift cut Walnut and French White Oak cabinetry in the chef's kitchen and throughout the home are highlighted. Finishes and fixtures include top of the line kitchen appliances like Wolf, SubZero and Miele. Dornbracht, La Cava, Toto and Waterstone are a few examples of plumbing fixtures. Along with large format ratified limestone porcelain tile flooring and various Quartzite counter tops, extraordinary decorative lighting by Holly Hunt, Hammerton Forge & others is featured. An abundance of natural sunlight filters throughout the home with Fleetwood's system of windows and the retractable glass door system in the main living space that opens to patios. With the doors and walls of glass throughout the home, there is a wonderful and seamless emersion between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The outdoor living areas provide entertaining drama. Enhanced by views of Troon Mountain and the McDowell Mountain range, the expansive under cover patio with its outdoor kitchen, the pool and spa, and the large ramada with its multiple areas for seating and dining, the fireplace and the oversized TV niche, all create a wonderful outdoor lifestyle. Looking beyond this incredible home with its many unique and quality driven details, you will see what makes it and Cantabrica Estates so special--the endless and pristine beauty of the area showcased by the surrounding McDowell and Mazatzal Mountain ranges, Troon Mountain and Sonoran Desert views. While just a short distance from all the city has to offer, the community of Cantabrica Estates is about tranquility and open space. For outdoor activities, close by are miles and miles of scenic hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, lakes for boating and fishing, as well as many world class golf courses. Easy access to the 101 Freeway allows you to reach various destinations around the valley quickly. Phoenix Sky Harbor can be reached in approximated 35 minutes and Scottsdale's private airport is about a 20 minute ride. While there are many outstanding doctors, clinics and hospitals in the valley, The Mayo Clinic is also a short drive away. Looking for more? Scottsdale is known for its art and culture and offers an incredible mix of museums, shopping, restaurants, galleries and nightlife, along with a wide range of performing arts and special events such as baseball's spring training, Barrett-Jackson car auction, the Arabian horse show and the Waste Management Phoenix Open Golf Tournament. Click on Documents tab for additional information about this home.

5114 N Casa Blanca Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,745,000
6 Beds
7 Baths
7,493 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6667094
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't miss the newest masterpiece developed by Irvine Asset Group and Vasbinder Development. The Arizona 5 C's Residence is conceived as an intimate experience for both homeowner and guests, choreographed around a series of private vegetated courtyards. The meditative east garden greets visitors, while the active west court enjoys expansive iconic Camelback Mountain views; the great room engages both environments. Acting as the main material, creamy colored brick is composed to create texture and shadow through a series of perforated screens of filtered light. Warm woods, soft porcelain tile, and expansive glazing, paired with arid-appropriate vegetation, blur the boundary between exterior and interior—to offer ideal desert living. The home boasts a large open floor plan great room with fireplace and 13' operable multi-slide doors, dining and kitchen with large walk-in butler's pantry; a wine room; private primary bedroom and ensuite; 3 additional bedrooms with ensuite baths; office with mountain views; private guest quarters; rec/theater room; gym/bonus room; detached studio with small kitchenette and bath; 5 car garage; and 1,700SF of outdoor livable terrace with BBQ, pool, hot tub, and movie lawn. With custom fluted wood millwork and copper flecked concrete counters, a citrus tree grove, a beautiful resort-style backyard enjoying Arizona's climate all year round, soft luminous cotton drapery, and leather pulls throughout--the home revels in Arizona's celebrated five C's: copper, citrus, climate, cotton, and cattle.

7120 N 46th Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,595,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
7,253 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764563
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the epitome of luxury at this gated 2-acre Paradise Valley estate, where breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain and sparkling city lights take center stage through expansive floor-to-ceiling glass walls. The home features a chef's gourmet kitchen, a sleek bar and an oversized wine room, creating the ultimate setting for entertaining. Additional highlights include a media room, a fitness /spa room, a thoughtfully designed split floor plan with a bonus room and a full casita for visiting guests. Step outside to your personal oasis, complete with a beach-entry negative-edge heated pool and spa, a sports court, a zip line, and a putting green. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the 6-car climate-controlled garage with an elevator. Home is all one level excluding the garage.

5555 N Camino Del Contento -- Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,500,000
5 Beds
7.5 Baths
7,400 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784428
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A SIGNATURE contemporary estate in the heart of Paradise Valley, this architecturally significant property blends rich organic elements w/ monolithic 24-inch rammed earth walls, floor-to-ceiling glass, steel, copper-clad exterior, finished concrete floors & warm Douglas Fir ceilings. Designed + built by The Construction Zone, this 2.5-acre compound, secured by dual-gated entry, offers a 3-car garage & an add'l 8+ car, temp-controlled SHOWROOM garage! Ascend the floating staircase to the primary suite, lofty lounge area, offices, & balconies showcasing city + Cmblk Mtn views. A secondary wing is home to 3 bdrms & exercise room, w/ ensuite bathrooms, family/media room, & private patio. This TIMELESS estate offers mesmerizing views of Cmblk Mtn, spacious guest casita & golf simulator room!

6554 N 40th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,390,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6613811
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this 7,500 sq ft private estate, a masterpiece by UR Development's in-house team. Enter through dramatic glass doors into a stunning open-concept design with 95% of the living space on one level. Enjoy six ensuite bedrooms, an office, powder room, and four-car garage. The versatile casita overlooks the pool, and the chef's kitchen boasts dual islands, custom cabinetry, and Wolf/Sub-Zero appliances. Entertain in style with a custom wood wine cellar and handcrafted bar. Outdoor features include desert landscaping, an infinity-edge pool, an eight-person spa, a fireplace, and a fire pit. Revel in panoramic views of Camelback and Piestewa Peak, with a C4 smart home system and more. Ideally located minutes from Arcadia, Scottsdale Waterfront, and Biltmore.

6879 E Palma Vita Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,195,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
5,480 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719626
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The Estates Homes are created by celebrated architect, C.P. Drewett of Drewett Works and award-winning Designer, Claire Ownby of Ownby Design. The floor plan offers gracious space spanning a main and lower level with astonishing views of Camelback Mountain. Future owner can choose from 3 architecturally styles. Each Estate is serviced and branded by The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley. Owners have full access to private amenities, hotel amenities, a wide variety of homeowner services, and hotel privileges. The Estate are built by luxury home builders, Starwood Custom Homes and GS Fries Construction. The owners have a very personalized experience with the entire team and involved in every step and progression of their semi-custom home. Please note Estate #6 is not built.