The ‘REAL’ News about Housing Affordability

The 'REAL' News about Housing Affordability | Simplifying The Market

Some industry experts are claiming that the housing market may be headed for a slowdown as we proceed through 2017, based on rising home prices and a potential jump in mortgage interest rates. One of the data points they use is the Housing Affordability Index, as reported by the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

Here is how NAR defines the index:

“The Housing Affordability Index measures whether or not a typical family earns enough income to qualify for a mortgage loan on a typical home at the national level based on the most recent price and income data.”

Basically, a value of 100 means a family earning the median income earns enough to qualify for a mortgage on a median-priced home, based on the price and mortgage interest rates at the time. Anything above 100 means the family has more than enough to qualify.

The higher the index, the easier it is to afford a home.

Why the concern?

The index has been declining over the last several years as home values increased. Some are concerned that too many buyers could be priced out of the market.

But, wait a minute…

Though the index skyrocketed from 2009 through 2013, we must realize that during that time, the housing crisis left the market with an overabundance of distressed properties (foreclosures and short sales). All prices dropped dramatically and distressed properties sold at major discounts. Then, mortgage rates fell like a rock.

The market is recovering, and values are coming back nicely. That has caused the index to fall.

However, let’s remove the crisis years (shaded in gray) and look at the current index as compared to the index from 1990 – 2008:

The 'REAL' News about Housing Affordability | Simplifying The Market

Though prices and rates appear to be increasing, we must realize that affordability is composed of three ingredients: home prices, interest rates, and income. And, incomes are finally rising.

ATTOM Data Solutions recently released their Q1 2017 U.S. Home Affordability Index. The report explained:

“Stronger wage growth is the silver lining in this report, outpacing home price growth in more than half of the markets for the first time since Q1 2012, when median home prices were still falling nationwide. If that pattern continues, it will help turn the tide in the eroding home affordability trend.”

Bottom Line

Compared to historic norms, it is still a great time to buy from an affordability standpoint.  Give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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20226 N 101st Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$5,000,000 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Silverleaf, Scottsdale
Open House
$5,000,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,746 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6737164
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 4,746sf home features 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms and exudes a cool, modern beach vibe. Highlights include vaulted beamed ceilings in the great room and principal bedroom, light hardwood floors, and abundant windows. The kitchen is equipped with both marble and leathered granite countertops, white cabinets, 2 dishwashers and a European cooktop. Designed for seamless indoor/outdoor living, the home offers pocket doors opening to a front courtyard with a spool, fireplace, synthetic grass, and soothing park views. Additional features include an interior courtyard with a 2nd outdoor fireplace, BBQ, and pizza oven. The upstairs bonus room adds versatility to this meticulously crafted residence. Every detail, from plantation shutters to updated mechanicals, reflects exceptional ... attention to detail. Price includes furniture and furnishings with a small exclusion list.

12140 N 106th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$4,997,000
7 Beds
6.5 Baths
6,063 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6596266
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW CONSTRUCTION - permits ready and we are set to break ground on this exceptionally designed Modern Luxury Estate brought to you by Blue Sky Homes. Boasting roughly 5226 SF this home is an entertainer's dream, with open kitchen, large sliding door system to the backyard and a split bedroom floor plan and with 10'+ ceilings. Guest will feel welcomed in the spacious 800+ SF casita overlooking resort style backyard. This amazing home is located in the popular Cactus/Shea corridor close to shopping, dining, as well as hiking trails. Don't miss out on the opportunity to semi customize this desert gem before it's too late. *Pictures used to reflect floor pan, not actual property. This property is located on Lot B of the site.

24351 N 97th Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$4,997,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
6,843 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769072
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning, one-of-a-kind modern masterpiece nestled in the heart of Peoria, Arizona. This luxurious 4-bedroom residence boasts an extraordinary design that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living, reminiscent of the vibrant style found in Miami. As you approach the home, you're greeted by sleek lines and a contemporary façade that sets the tone for the elegance within. Step inside to an expansive open floor plan, where high ceilings and an abundance of glass windows and doors flood the space with natural light. The living area effortlessly flows into a state-of-the-art kitchen, featuring top-of-the-line appliances, quartz countertops, and a spacious island perfect for entertaining. Each of the four bedrooms offers a private retreat, with generous closet space and en-suite bathrooms that showcase modern fixtures and finishes. The highlight of the property is the large casita, ideal for guests or as a private office, providing versatility to suit your lifestyle. Step outside into your own paradise: the outdoor kitchen is a chef's dream, complete with a built-in grill and ample seating, perfect for hosting unforgettable gatherings. The 966 sq ft pool and hot tub invite relaxation and rejuvenation, surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds that enhance the home's serene ambiance. With expansive covered patios that blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, this home is designed for the ultimate Arizona lifestyle. Whether you're lounging by the pool, entertaining guests, or simply enjoying a sunset, this property offers a unique blend of luxury and comfort that truly feels like a desert escape. Don't miss the opportunity to own this extraordinary modern home in Peoriawhere sophistication meets style in perfect harmony.

7022 E Paradise Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$4,995,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,200 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764263
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream resort! A breathtaking contemporary new build by renowned Design Tank architect, Tyler Kuenzi. This property combines modern elegance with unparalleled comfort. Spanning 5200 sq ft, this exquisite custom built residence features 5 spacious bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bath featuring stunning, fixtures, plus an additional powder room for guests. As you enter, you're greeted by an airy open-concept living space flooded with natural light. The state-of-the-art kitchen boasts Subzero/Wolf/Cove appliances, Shinnoki cabinetry, and a generous Taj Mahal quartz island perfect for entertaining. The adjoining dining area flows seamlessly into the inviting living room, highlighted by a stylish fireplace and large Western brand windows that showcase picturesque view. The master suite is a true retreat, complete with a luxurious spa-like bathroom featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. Each additional bedroom offers ample closet space and beautifully designed baths, ensuring comfort and privacy for everyone. Step outside to the beautifully landscaped resort-style backyard, including a private pickle ball court, ideal for alfresco dining or simply relaxing in your private oasis. Additional highlights include a large pantry, atrium, a spacious laundry room, and a four-car garage. Located in a desirable 85254, this home is just minutes away from top-rated schools, parks, and vibrant shopping and dining options.

36421 N 105th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,995,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,208 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6620771
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Framing is done, home completion Spring 2025! Right sized at 5208 feet, three bedrooms plus guest house and lots of covered outdoor patio area for modern desert living at Mirabel. Great room with soaring 16´ceilings, looking through retractable glass wall to pool/spa and a view of Pinnacle Peak. South facing rear yard is perfect exposure for AZ living. Double oversized 2-car garages fit four luxury vehicles (or your expensive toys on lifts!) comfortably. Light and bright throughout, Wolf/Subzero gourmet kitchen, full wet bar with pocketing windows out to patio, his and hers water closets in owner's suite. Flex room for gym, second office, workspace, or storage. Two secondary ensuite bedrooms and den. Free-standing guest house makes having guests more fun! CW's Touchpoint Home Management program will help you take care of your home; you've worked hard enough already! Complete specifications available, hurry while there's still time to customize and make it yours! Images are intended to convey overall design direction for this home but final specifications are subject to change. Contact Calvis Wyant Luxury Homes for up to date details. Please call Listing Agents to show, thank you!

5113 W Arrowhead Lakes Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$4,995,000
6 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783773
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Arrowhead Manor Estates, where luxury meets tranquility in the NW Valley's most exclusive hillside community. This expansive 6,500 sqft masterpiece offers 6 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, and is situated on a sprawling 2-ACRE, mostly flat, mountainside lot with panoramic city and mountain views that create a breathtaking backdrop from sunrise to sunset. Designed with entertaining in mind, the outdoor spaces are unrivaled. Enjoy Arizona's sunny climate on the full-size sport court for, pickleball, tennis or hoops! Take a dip in the infinity-edge pool overlooking the Valley, or unwind by the firepit under the stars. A fully equipped outdoor kitchen and multiple lounging areas make this home a true oasis for gatherings both intimate and grand. Step inside to discover soaring beamed ceilings a warm and inviting living space, and a gourmet kitchen equipped with high-end appliances and ample counter space. The home theater promises memorable movie nights, while the detached casita offers privacy and comfort for guests or multi-generational living. This estate is also powered by a fully owned solar system, blending eco-conscious efficiency with luxury living. Nestled within a private, gated community of multi-million-dollar estates, this property offers a rare opportunity to experience exclusive, serene living without sacrificing convenience. Originally, these were two separate acre lots and they can be subdivided again to build a second home!

9898 E Legacy Lane Unit 3686 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,995,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,415 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6784430
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the serene enclave of Arcadia at Silverleaf, this exquisite custom 4415 square foot, single-level residence combines the size, style and quality in such high demand today. Designed and built by Dale Gardon and Salcito Custom Homes, the quality of construction and finishes are exactly what you'd expect, providing both modern comfort and timeless elegance. It's park location and curb appeal set the stage and the lush landscaping enhances and preserves the total privacy. Enter the home through a large foyer into a fantastic great room filled with an abundance of natural light. A large pocket door system leads to an expansive covered patio, pool, ramada and BBQ center, creating an ideal space for indoor-outdoor living, perfect for gatherings of all kinds.

9203 E Happy Hollow Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,995,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
7,308 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6617612
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the epitome of luxury living in this exquisite Desert Mountain home designed by award winning builder Peter Magee, offered with a rare Golf Membership. The Family Room is an entertainer's dream and opens to the well-appointed and tastefully designed kitchen offering upgraded appliances, two islands and Brazilian soapstone countertops. The Great Room boasts an elegant wet bar and multiple lounging areas. A private and inviting owner's wing includes a spa like ensuite, oversized walk-in closet and separate laundry room. An abundance of natural light fills the home by day and cool evenings draw you to the expansive outdoor living spaces which include alfresco dining and a heated pool & spa to capture sunset, golf course, mountain & city light views. A true contemporary masterpiece

7291 N 71st Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,995,000
6 Beds
8 Baths
8,412 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6635976
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The best priced property, in one of the most prestigious neighborhoods of Paradise Valley, this home is a must see... The quiet & peaceful lot features an outstanding 8,412 SqFt residence in the exclusive Cheney Place (only 20 private homes in the community) boasts impeccable craftsmanship & artistry enhanced by lush landscaping and a captivating central fountain. This masterpiece includes a FULLY-FURNISHED family chapel, as well as a FULLY-FURNISHED 2 bedroom Guest House equipped with a full kitchen, a fireplace, a jetted tub, its own 2-car garage, and a seating area with a grill. Ideal for in-laws or extended family. The main house showcases 4 bedrooms, a sitting room, an office, a movie theater and a 3-car garage (5 total garage spaces including guest house garage). Access through the grand entrance to experience sheer beauty & custom details throughout (backyard furnishings also included). Abundant natural light graces every corner, from the formal living room to the large dining room that overlooks the front yard and the massive family room with a fireplace & a wet bar. This beauty features soaring tray ceilings, elegant chandeliers, an intercom, rounded archways, refined tile flooring, classical pillars, artful niches, plantation shutters, a central vacuum, and recessed lighting. The striking kitchen is a testament to culinary perfection! Hand-carved wood detailing, granite countertops, a large peninsula, a central island, and NEW Viking appliances demonstrate unparalleled luxury. The laundry room also features brand NEW spare appliances such as an all new double oven and even a new washer & dryer set! Relish morning views in the sunlit breakfast nook or indulge in the exceptional wine cellar that can fit up to 868 bottles. The opulent master retreat has a fireplace & a generous sitting room with private access. The lavish en-suite bath comes with dual vanities, a make-up vanity, a jetted tub with a glass block wall allowing abundant natural light in, and a bountiful walk-in closet. This impressive home has a second master bedroom with its own bathroom & a jetted tub. There is more! Work from home in the sizable office or enjoy unlimited movie nights in the spectacular home theater, which is soundproof & has a brand-new projector & receiver. The awe-inspiring backyard is a complete paradise offering al fresco dining areas, an outdoor kitchen, serene fountains, a resort-style heated pool & spa, a fire pit with built-in seating, re-coated flooring, and an entertainer's game room with a fireplace & a wet bar. 3-car garage attached to main house for added convenience. Don't forget about the cozy billiard area under the Pavilion in the backyard, the perfect area for joyful gatherings with family & friends. This magnificent value is a statement!! The pool has also been completely re-tiled/re-chipped & new pebble added as of 9/13/24! The exclusive Cheney Place gated community only has 20 lots. Words alone cannot capture its essence. Don't miss out on this opportunity to own this gem before it's too late!

6044 E Calle Del Paisano -- Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$4,995,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
5,235 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6721789
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This quintessential Arcadia residence is located on a quiet, cul-de-sac street with no through traffic and offers the ideal lifestyle in a highly desirable neighborhood. Newly constructed in 2023 by Bolte Homes and ticking all the boxes, from the moment you enter the charming front courtyard you know something special lies ahead. The layout is ideal with a total 5235 sq ft. 3484 sq ft on the main level, which features a stunning great room, gourmet kitchen with butlers pantry, spacious primary suite and separate wellness room. The 1751 sq ft basement features two bedrooms, one and half baths, game room, wet bar and theatre room. The backyard and outdoor space is a dream and features a sparkling pool with swim up bar, spa and huge covered ramada with grill with lounge seating. Simply put, you'll never want to leave. Thoughtful design, attention to detail and custom finishes throughout. With gorgeous views of Camelback Mountain to top it off - this incredible home has it all.

10207 E Diamond Rim Drive Unit 2121 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,995,000 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Silverleaf At Dc Ranch, Scottsdale
Open House
$4,995,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
5,660 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753179
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Situated on a rare 1/2 acre corner lot, you'll enjoy privacy, and plenty of lush, mature landscaping, and the ease of hopping in a golf cart to get to Silverleaf Country Club. A private courtyard entrance will lead you to the entry as you meander through the meticulously maintained rose gardens, a bubbling fountain and large blue tiled swimming pool, and spa. The open great room has a grand feel as it's accented with a Cantera stone arch, soaring ceilings with hand-hewn beams, and telescoping doors that open up to the covered patio, and additional center courtyard with charming stone fireplace to add to the ambiance while entertaining. No additional expenses needed on this home, as the owner has recently completed a renovation to include, new lighting throughout, fully remodeled bathrooms with designer tiles, and plumbing fixtures. The kitchen is a dream to cook in as it has a large center island adorned with South American Quartzite and Cristallo translucent Quartzite, Wolf 6 burner gas range with griddle, Wolf double ovens, coffee bar, and 3 tall sub-zero wine refrigerators. Exterior was renovated with new landscaping, new landscape lighting, and Rhinosheild paint. The main house features three spacious guest bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms that any guest will enjoy. An elevator leads to the primary suite with a large sitting room, spacious his/hers custom closets, and luxurious bathroom with dual vanities, make- up vanity soaking tub, and over-sized shower. The office has lovely built-ins and french doors that lead to a secret garden with a stone fireplace. Retreat to the detached, 462 sq ft Casita, to enjoy an afternoon of sewing, gaming, or fitness. The Crestron system is the brains of the home, and has been fully updated in 2023, along with 7 new HVAC units for the home. This home also features a 3 car garage and plenty of storage space.

40660 N 109th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,995,000 - 4Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Desert Mountain, Scottsdale
Open House
$4,995,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
6,875 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6649794
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to 40660 N 109th Place, a Desert Contemporary masterpiece originally designed by renowned architect David J. Wade, a native Arizonian. This extraordinary home has undergone a complete renovation, resulting in a harmonious blend of modern luxury and natural beauty. Nestled within the breathtaking high desert landscape, the home boasts strategically placed picture windows that frame the majestic mountain views from every vantage point. Situated on two spacious lots within the prestigious Desert Mountain Country Club, this residence offers a level of exclusivity and privacy that is truly unparalleled. The meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout the property, featuring grand coffered ceilings, exquisite French oak floors, elegant limestone fireplaces, and precast exposed concrete block walls that pay homage to the iconic designs of Frank Lloyd Wright. Immerse yourself in the sheer magnificence of this architectural masterpiece by touring the home in person. Prepare to be captivated by the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces, the finest craftsmanship, and the awe-inspiring natural surroundings. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a true desert sanctuary that embodies the essence of luxury living.

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