US Housing Market Continues the Move into ‘Buy Territory’!

US Housing Market Continues the Move into ‘Buy Territory’! | Simplifying The Market

According to the Beracha, Hardin & Johnson Buy vs. Rent (BH&J) Index, the U.S. housing market has continued to move deeper into buy territory, supporting the belief that housing markets across the country remain a sound investment.

The BH&J Index is a quarterly report that attempts to answer the question:

In today’s housing market, is it better to rent or buy a home?

The index examines the entire US housing market and then isolates 23 major cities for comparison. The researchers “measure the relationship between purchasing property and building wealth through a buildup in equity versus renting a comparable property and investing in a portfolio of stocks and bonds.” 

While most of the metropolitan markets examined moved further into buy territory (15 of the 23), markets like Dallas, Denver, and Houston are currently deep into rent territory. In these three markets, it is estimated that renting will top homeownership 7 out of 10 times.

Due to a lack of inventory, the home prices in the Dallas, Denver, and Houston, areas have increased by 13%, 11.4%, and 7.3% respectively. Home prices in these areas will begin to return to more normal levels once residents realize that renting is not the best option, therefore bringing home affordability back as well.

Bottom Line

The majority of the country is strongly in buy territory. Buying a home makes sense socially and financially, as rents are predicted to increase substantially in the next year. Protect yourself from rising rents by locking in your housing cost with a mortgage payment now. 

To Find Out More About the Study: The BH&J Index and other FAU real estate activities are sponsored by Investments Limited of Boca Raton. The BH&J Index is published quarterly and is available online at http://business.fau.edu/buyvsrent.

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9203 E Brahma Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$7,450,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
9,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777297
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the epitome of luxury and seclusion in this award-winning Spanish Santa Barbara estate, nestled on 12.86 acres of pristine desert land with stunning panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert and surrounding mountains. This breathtaking home, honored with the prestigious Vision Design Award for Best Outdoor Shading in 2022, seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living with a 36-foot movable glass wall leading to a private backyard retreat. From the dramatic stone fireplace in the great room to the vaulted wood-beamed ceilings and elegant stone walls, every detail speaks of timeless sophistication. The chef's kitchen is equipped with top-of-the-line Viking appliances, including four wine and beverage refrigerators, while the wine cellar and custom cabinetry offer an exceptional setting for entertaining.With 9,000 square feet of living space, all on one level with no interior steps, this 5-bedroom, 7-bath estate is designed for ultimate comfort and privacy. The luxurious master suite features a Cantera stone fireplace and dual his-and-her baths with separate showers, water closets, and vanities. An attached guest suite provides ample space with its own kitchen, family room, and two fireplaces. Outdoors, the estate continues to impress with a 35 thousand gallon negative edge pool, spa, fire pit, and multiple patios that capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Additional amenities include a media room with a wet bar, a full-size pickleball court in the garage, with space for up to 8 vehicles and a circular motor court. Enhancing the home's efficiency, it features an Avena Solar system, significantly reducing energy costs and promoting sustainable living. Enjoy the private trail leading to the wash, this home seamlessly combines elegance, tranquility, and peace of mind.

5245 N 21st Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

$7,399,000 - 6Br/6Ba -  for Sale in West Bartlett Estates Lot 9-24, Phoenix
Open House
$7,399,000
6 Beds
6 Baths
6,656 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783348
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This luxury home on just under 2 acres in Bartlett Estates has been featured in multiple magazines (see supplemental information for links). Custom features and finishes from Willows Fine Goods and Design are second to none, including Santa Barbara-style house with reclaimed barn wood floors throughout, custom steel wine room, original refurbished exposed beams, huge primary closet and bathroom, and deluxe kitchen with marble countertops and top of the line appliances. The backyard is an entertainers dream home. Irrigated lot provides mature landscaping surrounding a tennis court (striped for two pickle ball courts), a large pool, spa, sauna, outdoor shower, and a peaceful garden surrounding a putting green. Large guest house has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, full laundry and kitchen Phoenix Home and Garden Issue 1 - https://indd.adobe.com/view/70493c07-faec-4f17-aa9c-ca96cb82ca6b Phoenix Home and Garden Issue 2 - https://indd.adobe.com/view/a78873d5-3f86-4c75-9567-aaa812b09e4d

9820 E Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 841 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$7,325,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,159 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6829482
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the ultimate in Arizona living with this hacienda-style home, located on the best canyon lot in the exclusive Country Club at DC Ranch. This stunning custom Spanish home sits on approximately five (5) acres of preserved land and offers a rare combination of breathtaking mountain views, unrivaled privacy, and exceptional craftsmanship. The build-able site is 1.35 acres, with additional land available to build an expansive guest house or expand the current home. Built by renowned Nance Construction, this home is a true sanctuary, offering an expansive floor plan that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. The primary suite is a standout feature of this home, offering an exceptional layout with a private patio, charming views, and bathroom with his and her vanities, closets, and toilets, providing ultimate convenience. Additionally, the home includes his and her offices, a thoughtful design that promotes a balanced lifestyle, where both partners can enjoy their own personal space while still being surrounded by the elegance and comfort of the home. This classic estate feels much bigger than its 6,159 square feet, with an additional 2,200 square feet of outdoor living under roof, affording unobstructed and dramatic canyon views. Inspired by the timeless charm of the Hermosa Inn, this residence offers a resort-like feel, making it the perfect escape from the everyday, like your very own private retreat, with unparalleled seclusion and tranquility. Whether you're enjoying the spectacular mountain vistas, relaxing by the pool, or entertaining in the meticulously designed spaces, this home is an oasis that offers the best of Scottsdale living. Indulge in the luxury, privacy, and exclusivity of your own private haciendawhere every day feels like a vacation. A home in this location rarely comes on the market, you must see it in person to appreciate it.

28805 N 114th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$7,250,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,389 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753068
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Completed January 2025. Introducing this breathtaking, newly constructed estate located in the desirable Goldie Brown Ranch in North Scottsdale, just moments from the Four Seasons Resort and renowned Scottsdale National Golf Club. Designed by the acclaimed Swaback Architects and built by Sonora West Development, this sophisticated and contemporary single-level home embodies the pinnacle of modern luxury. Offering an expansive 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom layout, plus an office, this home offers the perfect blend of elegance and functionality. The open-concept great room serves as the heart of the home, seamlessly connecting to the gourmet kitchen and dining spaces. With meticulous attention to detail, every room is designed to take full advantage of the extraordinary surroundings. Set on nearly 5 acres of pristine desert land, this estate provides unobstructed, panoramic 360-degree views of iconic landmarks, including Tom's Thumb, the McDowell Mountain Preserve, Pinnacle Peak, and Four Peaks. Whether you're enjoying vibrant sunsets or the sparkling city lights below, this home offers unparalleled vistas that create a serene, private retreat. Additional highlights include a large 4-car garage and a spacious guest casita, perfect for hosting family and friends in luxury and style. Experience the ultimate in Arizona living with this exceptional property where every detail reflects sophisticated craftsmanship and a commitment to refined, modern living. Furnishings available via separate bill of sale.

11987 E Buckskin Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$7,250,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,505 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759737
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Lot is in escrow and the home availability is contingent on the Lot closing escrow #6651879. FULLY APPROVED Plans and ready to break ground immediately on this stunning desert modern prairie estate designed in collaboration with renowned architect Cosan Studio and brought to life by luxury builder Desert Sky Development. Situated on a 2.26 acre cul-de-sac lot in the exclusive gated Troon Canyon Estates, featuring just 11 homesites and unobstructed views. This To Be Built project gives you an opportunity to work directly with the design team to make your custom selections throughout the process. Arrive through your auto-court to your 4 car garage, including an additional full size RV Garage/showroom at the front of property. Featuring 6,505 sq.ft of single-story living, the main residence offers an expansive kitchen and great room with floor to ceiling windows overlooking your resort style backyard and the natural desert beauty and distant mountain views. A wet bar with a retractable glass wall, ample covered patio space with fireplace and outdoor kitchen and BBQ make indoor/outdoor entertainment seamless and the ultimate in luxury living. A private trail leads to a totally secluded 2 bedroom guest casita with full kitchen and living room for any visitors to enjoy their own space away from the main house. Wolf & SubZero appliance package will be included throughout.

6302 E Turquoise Avenue Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$7,250,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,280 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786149
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Pre-Construction Pricing! Now is the time to customize your finishes. Nestled in the heart of Paradise Valley, this luxurious 6,280-square-foot sanctuary blends elegant living with the serene ambiance of a tropical retreat. The home features four spacious bedroom suites—with the option of a fifth by converting the gym—a separate casita complete with a full kitchen and living amenities, and sophisticated interiors highlighted by a great room with a two-sided fireplace, natural stone countertops, and custom cabinetry. Designed for both relaxation and entertainment, it offers smart home technology, a media room, formal dining with a wine room, and an outdoor oasis boasting a pool, built-in BBQ, and a ramada with its own fireplace and tv. This residence embodies the epitome of indoor/outdoor living where every corner invites tranquility and every space fosters a connection with the beauty of nature. Main House: 5,480SF, Guest House: 800SF.

7000 E Horseshoe Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$7,250,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,299 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783344
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to MDF Development and Jewel Box Home's latest extraordinary residence in prime Paradise Valley, where luxury and timeless design converge. Situated on a sprawling and flat lot, this single-level, 5 bedroom home with a split floorplan offers high end design coupled with incredible landscape executed by Refine Gardens. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, featuring top-of-the-line Sub Zero appliances and an exquisite European-inspired Ilve oven. With 5 ensuite bedrooms and 5.5 baths, each designed with meticulous attention to detail, this home provides the ultimate in privacy and convenience. The attached casita, complete with a small kitchenette, offers a private retreat for guests or could serve as a perfect in-law suite. As you explore further you'll discover a captivating family/game room with a bar and walk in wine room creating an ideal setting for entertaining. The possibilities are boundless with a vast lot that accommodates your vision for a pool house, tennis court, pickleball courts, or even a show garage. Whether you're dreaming of hosting grand events or seeking a tranquil escape, this residence invites you to turn your vision into reality. In the heart of Paradise Valley, this home seamlessly combines elegance and opportunity, creating a haven where luxury living meets your unique aspirations. Don't wait to see the endless potential and unmatched beauty of this remarkable property.

Paradise Valley AZ 85253

$7,211,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,561 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6801270
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Nestled in the heart of Paradise Valley, the Ritz-Carlton Penthouse Villa epitomizes refined luxury and sophistication. This exclusive residence offers sweeping panoramic views of Camelback and Mummy Mountains, blending modern elegance with timeless design. This Villa features soaring ceiling, floor to ceiling windows and open concept layout, maximizing stunning mountain views. High end finishes include custom cabinetry, hardwood flooring, & imported marble accents. This state of the art kitchen is outfitted with Sub-Zero Wolf Cover appliances and spacious island. Exclusive Ritz-Carlton services include concierge service, in Villa dining, & unparalleled living experience. This penthouse Villa is an ultimate expression of desert luxury living,

27951 N 96th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$7,150,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,252 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6816348
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The award winning team of Salcito Custom Homes and Dale Gardon Design collaborated to create a modern masterpiece in Estancia * This architectural gem is sited on a dramatic lot with unique boulder outcroppings and has commanding views of Pinnacle Peak, creating a true desert oasis * Only the finest materials and finishes were chosen: Bulthaup cabinetry, white oak wood floors, marble slab surfaces, custom lighting, a multitude of Wolf & Sub Zero appliances, home automation system, and natural stone accents throughout * The modern floor plan is light and bright with a massive, open great room and floor-to-ceiling windows and pocket doors * Design details include a dedicated office, media room, elevator to the 2nd level suite, private/separate entrance casita, and an indoor/outdoor bar * The back patio is a seamless extension of the home with living and dining spaces, in-ceiling heaters, multiple fire features and TV * 3-car Garage with lift opportunities *

15 Biltmore Estates Drive Phoenix, AZ 85016

$7,150,000
7 Beds
10 Baths
13,366 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6636402
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This world-class 1-Owner residence at the Arizona Biltmore Estates was designed by Vernon Swaback, Architect/apprentice to Frank Lloyd Wright and is located on a 1.67 AC view lot on the Estates Course/formerly Adobe. The majestic and timeless home on its resort-like grounds features an extraordinary 2,100+ SF Great Room, recessed wet bar, Kitchen created for event catering, custom limestone columns and surfaces, copper details throughout, 2-powder rooms, Brazilian hand-scraped cherry floors, exceptional millwork, an outstanding Master Suite & spa room, wonderful study, workout room, tv/game. Meticulously built of metal stud walls, steel, topped with a distinctive copper roof and includes a live-in/nanny wing. Main house / 12,503 SF, Guest house / 863 SF or Total living area of 13,366 SF.

Tbd San Rafael Valley Road Patagonia, AZ 85624

$7,000,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
1,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781316
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is arguably the most beautiful ranch in Arizona in one of the most scenic, coveted ranching locations in the American West. Covering 6,066 +/- acres in the heart of the spectacular San Rafael Valley in southeast Arizona. The Lazy J2 Ranch is a working cattle ranch with a carrying capacity of 200 head year round. The ranch consist of 954 +/- deeded acres with six large pastures, several smaller pastures & a charming ranch home. It also includes the 5,112 +/- acre A-Bar Draw USFS allotment with five large pastures. The deeded & leased land are very well watered with multiple wells, tanks, water lines & fences are in very good condition. Entering this very private, heavenly valley is a truly a breath taking event every time. VERY ATTRACTIVE SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE!! The flowing grasslands surrounded by the blue & lavender mountains create a site that is easy to fall in love with. It lies between the Patagonia Mountains west, Huachuca Mountains east and the Canelo Hills north. The San Rafael is an uncommon, sequestered hidden valley unknown to many native Arizonans, yet is the location for over 50 feature films including OKLAHOMA. It is an extraordinarily unique piece of the American West, steeped in history as the western entry point for the Europeans into what is now the United States in 1539, to the Apaches and Buffalo Soldiers in the 1800s. The San Rafael Valley has been a successful ranching landscape for generations of many families for hundreds of years. Perfectly situated between 4,800 and 6,000 feet elevation, the climate is mild and pleasant year round. Temperatures range from the 80s to 90s in the summers and 50s to 60s in the winter. Annual rainfall is typically 17 to 20 inches. It is the one of the last intact short grass prairies left in the western United States. The headwaters of the Santa Cruz River originate in this valley and is adjacent to the ranch. The San Rafael and these estate parcels are blessed with a collection of gorgeous, sweeping rolling hills with a myriad of native grasses, scattered Oak trees and towering Cottonwoods in the meandering creek beds that run seasonally. Eighty percent of the San Rafael Valley, including the Lazy J2 Ranch Estates, have been placed under Conservation Easements by private property owners to protect the unparalleled beauty and pristine environment. The building envelopes have been discretely placed out-of-site to preserve the sweeping landscape vistas and magnificent view shed. J2 South has a building site of 17.8 acres and J2 North has a building envelope of 20 acres. Underground power and telephone run through the valley and are available to both sites. The Conservation Easements are held by the Arizona Land and Water Trust. This is an amazingly rare opportunity and maybe a once in a lifetime chance to own a part of this very special valley. Normally the ranches here are passed along by families from one generation to the next. Come and visit and see for yourself the remarkable property that is the Lazy J2 Ranch Estates. Parcels start at $3,225,000 with excellent seller financing possible for both remaining parcels. Seller's successful San Rafael Valley Grass-Fed Beef business available.

3282 E Palo Verde Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$7,000,000
7 Beds
6 Baths
6,724 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6807667
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous one-of-a-kind Desert Contemporary Estate. This is an entertainers dream situated on 1 acre mountainside with stunning Camelback, city light, sunset & mountain views! This home was originally custom-designed by John T. Pela and built with steel & masonry block and is fireproof! The 21 foot ceilings create a dramatic museum feel in the open great room with a custom wet bar looking up to the upstairs loft. Unbelievable sunset views-The builder designed to home around the beautigul AZ sunsets. The home features a courtyard entry multiple patios & balconies, a full size tennis court and detached casita. First floor master with his & her walk-in closets. NO HOA! Less than five minutes to great shopping at Biltmore Fashion Park & some of the best hiking trails in Phoenix. Pool to come

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