Last week’s economic reports included readings on new and existing home sales, a speech by Fed Chair Janet Yellen, and a report on consumer sentiment. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released.
New Home Sales Rise in July as Pre-Owned Home Sales Fall
Sales of new homes jumped in July to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 654,000 sales, which surpassed expectations of 579,000 sales and June’s downwardly-revised reading of 582,000 sales. This was the highest reading for new home sales since 2008 and represented a 31.30 percent increase since July 2015.
Builders were seen by analysts as addressing the need for more affordable homes; this trend contributes to a healthy housing market by supplying homes for a wider range of buyers. First-time buyers play a vital part in housing markets as their purchases enable current homeowners to buy larger homes or relocate.
Sales of pre-owned homes fell 3.20 percent to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.39 million sales as compared to expectations of 5.59 million sales and June’s reading of 5.57 million sales. Year-over-year, sales were 1.60 percent lower. Limited inventories of available pre-owned homes have narrowed buyer options; increasing prices and narrow choices were seen as factors contributing to lower sales. There was a 4.60 month supply of available homes in July. Real estate pros typically consider a six months a normal reading for homes on the market.
Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors®, noted that a slowdown in home appraisals may have contributed to July’s lower sales reading for pre-owned homes. Low mortgage rates prompted a surge in refinancing which created a backlog in home appraisals. While low mortgage rates may entice home buyers, stricter mortgage requirements can also keep prospective buyers at bay.
Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen indicated that the stage could be set for a federal rate increase as early as next month. If the Fed hikes its target federal funds rate, interest rates for consumer credit and mortgages can be expected to rise.
Mortgage Rates Hold Steady; New Jobless Claims Fall
Freddie Mac reported that fixed mortgage rates for 30 and 15-year loans were unchanged at 3.43 and 2.74 percent respectively. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage was one basis point lower at 2.75 percent. Discount points averaged 0.60, 0.50 and 0.40 percent.
New jobless claims were lower last week. 261,000 new jobless claims were filed against expectations of 264,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 262,000 new claims filed. Declining jobless claims can indicate strengthening labor markets, but can also indicate that workers are leaving the labor markets.
Consumer sentiment declined slightly in August due to concerns over the upcoming presidential election. Analysts expected a reading of 91.0 for August, but the reading for August was revised from 90.4 to 89.80.
What’s Ahead
Next week’s scheduled economic news includes reports on pending home sales, inflation, construction spending and consumer confidence. National unemployment, non-farm payrolls and ADP payrolls are also scheduled.
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
7326 W Villa Hermosa --
Glendale, AZ 85310
$639,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,057
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766305
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, perfectly located in a cul-de-sac in North Glendale. This home boasts vaulted ceilings, creating an open and airy feel, and a spacious floor plan ideal for comfortable living. With a 3-car garage and an RV gate, there's plenty of room for parking and storage. The backyard is an oasis, featuring a sparkling pool and plenty of space for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. Whether you're hosting summer gatherings or enjoying a quiet evening by the pool, this backyard offers endless possibilities. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, entertainment, and with easy access to the freeway, this home provides both tranquility and convenience. *BONUS Pre-paid Tesla Solar Lease*
445 W Grant Avenue
Williams, AZ 86046
$639,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,332
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770424
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
*Owner willing to carry!* Welcome to 445 W Grant Ave. One of the largest, custom homes you'll find this close to downtown Williams! Situated perfectly on a corner lot, the grand entrance ushers you in to 9ft ceilings, a grand, great room with an open kitchen and dining room. The kitchen features a gas range, an oversized island, and an abundance of custom cabinets. Step into the capacious Primary bedroom with an en-suite bath. Primary room features grand, walk-in closets and private access to the back patio. Attached bath include dual sinks, a soaking tub and a custom, oversized shower. The home also presents two additional large bedrooms, a full bath and a partial bath for all your guest needs. This house does not lack in space or storage! With multiple, oversized storage closets, abundance in cabinets and the two separate, attached, oversized garages gives you all the storage you could need. The backyard is poised perfectly for low maintenance with space to enjoy the cool mountain county. This home would make an excellent short term rental with close access to downtown Williams, or a second home for easy lock and leave!
9237 E Sector Drive
Mesa, AZ 85212
$639,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,224
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774308
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
FORMER MODEL HOME! Ready for Quick Move-In. 4 BR + Loft / 3 BA. The home features a gourmet kitchen with white cabinets, black pulls throughout, quartz counter tops in the kitchen and a 'Mosaic Ripple' 2x8 brickwork stacked backsplash. This home features upgraded wood tile flooring throughout the downstairs and carpet flooring in the bedrooms. This home comes included with a Tankless Water Heater, REME Halo Whole House Air Purifying System and a Apple Pod Smart Home Kit.
5909 E Crocus Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$639,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,416
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6702362
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Location location location in the MAGIC 85254 zip code. This single story popular Monterey model, block constructed Crane home is located within minutes of the Kierland corridor. Features include: light/bright ceramic tile, newer roof(2023), newer AC(2020), N/S facing, low maintenance landscape, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, partially updated baths and lighting, oversized laundry, plenty of storage, private patios and no HOA. Opportunity is knocking...welcome home!
1415 E Monterey Street
Chandler, AZ 85225
$639,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,321
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6763096
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This great 4 BR/3 Bath home is located in Superstition Ranch/AshleyPark community. It is surrounded by single level homes for privacy and has the desirable N/S exposure. The newly remodeled backyard & heated pool has artificial turf and a fun mural on the wall! New roof in 2024. New AC in 2022. Interior special features of this home are; crown molding, gas fireplace, surround sound, shutters, ceiling fans, skylight, 3 remodeled baths in 2019, water softener, RO, and stainless steel appliances.
318 N Washington Street
Chandler, AZ 85225
$639,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,675
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6759421
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Walking Distance to Thriving Downtown Chandler In Silk Stocking Historic Neighborhood, Many opportunities for this Updated Duplex on a 7,449 Sqft Lot Across AZ Ave from Historic Chandler High School and Chandler Center of the Arts. Currently One Unit is MTM at $1950. The other is Ready For either Long Term Market Rents, Owner/User With Income. Both Units are 2 Bed 1 Bath/Tubs with Laundry, The back Unit has An Extra 450 sf Room with Its Own Outside Entry Door That Can Be Used for a Third Bedroom, Office Or Workshop with Air. Laminated Flooring in all living and Bedrooms with Tile in Kitchens and Baths. Security on All Doors and Keyless entry pads on Front Doors. All Facts and Figures are Approximate, Buyer to Verify to their own Satisfaction
2604 E Joan D Arc Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$639,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,015
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6760734
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your mountainside retreat! This beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home boasts 2,015 sq. ft. of stylish living space, nestled on nearly half an acre. Enjoy breathtaking mountain/valley views from every angle, offering a serene backdrop to your daily life. Step inside to discover tastefully done finishes that seamlessly blend comfort and elegance. The heart of the home features a cozy flagstone fireplace, perfect for those chilly evenings. The open-concept layout flows effortlessly from the living area to the kitchen, ideal for entertaining family and friends. PVUSD schools. Seller Financing Available. Buyer to verify all facts and figures
23081 E Camina Buena Vista
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$639,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,308
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6765773
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
SEE THE BEST HOME ON TOUR! Over $100k in today's value for upgrades w/ pool, spa, turf, corner lot, fireplace, wine bar, & much more! This 4-BR, 3 Bath SS popular floor plan has easy access to Meridian Rd & the 24. Wainscoting accent walls take you to the immediate views of the pool with rock waterfall located through the huge multi-slide door! Great room & Kitchen features custom built ins, wine bar, huge island w/ front storage, back splash, & upgraded 42'' upper cabinets with lighting. gas stove, & all stainless appliances. Large owner suite includes a barn door, large walk-in shower, double sinks, and huge closet. Split floor plan has 1 BR near full bath and 2 other BRs separated by den and full bath. RO, H2O Softener, driveway extension, tankless H2O heater. Highly desired community!
3817 E Irma Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85050
$639,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,782
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743565
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Explore your dream home in Wildcat Ridge with this 4-bedroom gem that backs onto an open, unobstructed area. This property features vaulted ceilings, wood and tile floors, and plantation shutters. The spacious living room and bright great room offer perfect spaces for relaxation and entertainment. The kitchen is a chef's delight with white cabinetry, built-in appliances, a pantry, sleek granite counters, and a center island with a breakfast bar. The main suite provides a serene retreat with a private bathroom boasting dual sinks, a soothing tub, and a walk-in closet. Added convenience comes from a laundry room with extra storage. Outdoors, enjoy a covered patio, paver patio, and ample space for gatherings. It won't disappoint! Experience this captivating abode yourself! Easy access to Desert Ridge Marketplace, High Street, Marriott, Golf, American Express, Mayo Hospital and ASU medical campus. Then jump on the 101 for easy access to Scottsdale, Spring training, airport and more.
17667 N 54th Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85308
$639,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,596
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783835
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in the highly sought-after Touchstone Community! This inviting 4-bedroom residence w/a 3-car garage is perfect for entertaining & creating lasting memories. Discover the bright & airy living room, raised formal dining room, & a sizable family room. A blend of tile & wood-look flooring, soaring vaulted ceilings, & ceiling fans are worth mentioning. Well-appointed kitchen offers recessed lighting, built-in appliances, a handy pantry, granite counters, a center island w/a breakfast bar, abundant cabinetry topped w/crown moulding, & a breakfast nook. You'll LOVE the carpeted primary retreat, featuring an ensuite w/dual sinks, make-up desk, & a walk-in closet. Additionally, this haven includes a den/office & bonus room ideal for an extra bedroom or recreation center. Serene backyard will impress you w/a covered patio, exterior fireplace, play area, & a refreshing pool. This gem is sure to sell fast!
11256 E Ulysses Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$639,900
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,063
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786059
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this Gorgeous 5BRs/4.5 Baths, plus Loft, 3058 Sq. feet Gem. There is a Full BR/with an Attached Bathroom downstairs for your convenience along with a Powder Bath. The Flooring consists of the Upgraded Tile in all the Right areas. Stunning Kitchen comes with Granite Countertops, White Shaker Cabinets, Stainless Steel Appliances, and a Spacious Island. Going Upstairs, you are immediately greeted with the Can't miss-Oversized Loft. All the Rooms upstairs have Walk-In Closets. The Laundry provides plenty of space for all of your Use. The Larger than Life Backyard has been given a Makeover with the addition of Artificial Turf with Plenty of Room for more Ideas. Front Drive way Pavers have been extended all the way out to the Side gate for extra comfort. Home has been extremely well cared for. Why Buy Brand New when you can have a Gently used one with all the Added Updates Minus the Extra expense.
18321 E Spring Valley Court
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$639,854
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,678
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765037
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful home in the Resort Collection at Trilogy at Verde River. The Valletta offers a well-thought-out layout with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an open office. The great room has a multi-slide glass door. You will love the Gourmet Chef kitchen with stainless steel wall appliances. The back patio is expansive with pavers and an extended patio. The primary suite has a lavish ensuite with a huge tiled shower and walk-in closet. Do not miss out on this home The amenities at Verde River are World Class with Tom Lehman inspired eighteen-hole Golf course, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and bocce ball, heated lap pool and Resort style swimming pool, hot tub, Afterburn fitness center, Helen's demonstration Kitchen for cooking classes and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual poolside dining at Eddy's Diner and gourmet dining at award-winning Needle Rock Kitchen and Tap, Alvea Spa with full-service Salon and Spa amenities, Art Loft and events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails.