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.
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3011 E Morrison Ranch Parkway
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$2,455,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,015
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772744
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning 5-bedroom + loft + den + office, 4.5-bath residence in the highly sought-after Morrison Ranch Community, located on the tree lined street of Higley Estates. Set on a rare residential acre of land at nearly a full acre. This home combines luxury and functionality with expansive resort style outdoor living. Inside, the layout offers flexibility and space, including a main-level bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, perfect for guests or multigenerational living. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a spacious island with 2-way cabinetry, double ovens, gas cooktop and a butler's pantry that opens to a large dining room. The impressive laundry room has custom cabinetry, a built-in sonic ice maker, and extensive storage for convenience. The master bathroom offers expansive elbow room and luxury finishes Throughout the home, enjoy smart technology, enabling remote control of the security system... garage, pool, and A/C, plus the added convenience of a central vacuum system and integrated security features. The backyard oasis is a true highlight with a heated pool and spa that offer vast features including a portable safety fence, travertine and an outdoor shower, misters, waterfalls, and a pergola complete with a wood-burning/gas fireplace for cozy gatherings. Enjoy a chicken coop and garden, each with self-watering systems, a sport court with a remote lighting system, a dedicated area for an in-ground trampoline, and a built-in BBQ setup with a side burner, sink, and fridge. Bistro light poles for entertaining, with mature landscaping, and a mix of faux turf and seeded grass adds to the ambiance, along with an abundance of citrus and fruit trees. Parking and storage are plentiful, with a 2.5-car garage featuring a mini-split for comfort, custom cabinetry, overhead shelving, and an additional side carport area tucked behind the RV gate. This home offers an exceptional blend of spacious interior living, an outdoor retreat, and smart home technology designed for modern convenience, with far too many features to list. Don't miss buying a home on one of the largest lots on the iconic Morrison Ranch Parkway in the heart of Gilbert AZ!!!
6922 E 1st Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$2,450,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,638
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6657708
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Nestled in Arizona's most sought-after city, The NINES are a new collection of residences in Old Town Scottsdale brought to you by Two Hawks Design and Development. This custom home offers 2,638 SF of living space, 2 bed (3rd bedroom option available), 2.5 bath, loft a 2-car garage, and NO HOA FEES!!! Sleek modern architecture opens to three light-filled levels of refined interior luxury. This home offers expansive windows, a private backyard, a rooftop terrace, 2 additional outdoor patios, and bespoke details and finishes. This custom contemporary home invokes a simple refined style of living with unbeatable proximity to Scottsdale's premier lifestyle amenities. Discover fine dining, high end retail, and the Scottsdale Arts District just steps from your door.
6930 E 1st Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$2,450,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,638
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6657702
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Nestled in Arizona's most sought-after city, The NINES are a new collection of residences in Old Town Scottsdale brought to you by Two Hawks Design and Development. This custom home offers 2,638 SF of living space, 2 bed (3rd bedroom upgrade option available), 2.5 bath, Loft, a 2-car garage, and NO HOA FEES!!! Sleek modern architecture opens to three light-filled levels of refined interior luxury. This home offers expansive windows, a private backyard, a rooftop terrace, 2 additional outdoor patios, and bespoke details and finishes. This custom contemporary home invokes a simple refined style of living with unbeatable proximity to Scottsdale's premier lifestyle amenities. Discover fine dining, high end retail, and the Scottsdale Arts District just steps from your door.
9917 E Filaree Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,450,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,800
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6683190
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover luxury in this beautifully remodeled contemporary home, set amidst pristine grounds. Remodel recently completed by The Phil Nichols Company. All new appliances, fixtures, plumbing and roof. Custom architectural details enhance its elegance, while south-facing patios with extensive glass invite natural light and offer views of the resort-like backyard. The open floor plan, high ceilings, and modern finishes create a refined living space. The kitchen features state-of-the-art appliances and custom cabinetry. The master suite is a private sanctuary with a spa-like bathroom and ample closet space. Additional bedrooms offer comfort and privacy. This home is a testament to design and craftsmanship, providing a perfect blend of style and luxury. No Membership Available with this home.
39115 N 99th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,450,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,960
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755921
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Completely remodeled stand-alone home, situated on a corner lot with stunning mountain views and picturesque sunrises and sunsets. This home offers the luxury of a Five-Star resort, featuring beautiful wood floors throughout, sleek modern cabinetry in the kitchen and bar area (with a wine fridge), quartzite waterfall countertops, and an elegant backsplash. The primary bathroom is designed for a spa-like experience, with a freestanding tub and newly installed windows. The inviting patio, complete with a pebble tech spa and gas barbecue, provides the perfect space to unwind after a busy day. The home also includes a two-car garage with epoxy flooring and new patio railings. Home is being offered turnkey with gorgeous artwork.
7462 S Mccormick Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$2,450,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,158
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6758272
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience luxury living in this stylishly upgraded 5 bedroom/4.5 bath home set on a spacious ¾-acre lot within the highly coveted community of San Tan Lakeside Estates community. Prepare to be impressed by the home's sophisticated design elements, customized wallpaper, exquisite light features & ceiling beams, all complemented by SMART TECHNOLOGY throughout. The chef's kitchen combines elegance with practicality inclusive of an oversized granite island, high-end appliances, 6-burner gas stove w/ pot filler. Enjoy the convenience of both formal and casual dining areas, providing flexibility for various occasions and moods. The primary master retreat offers an inviting foyer entrance, a private exit to the backyard, an oversized walk-in shower, a stand-alone tub, dual sinks, bonus room & an expansive walk-in closet. The floorplan is thoughtfully designed to showcase the outdoor living spaces, three ensuites and is situated on a generous ¾ acre lot. The original owners have transformed the backyard into an entertainer's paradise, featuring a sparkling lap pool/spa/built-in table/bench perfect for relaxing evenings and lively weekends. Enhance your leisure time with a five-hole putting green for practicing your short game or enjoying friendly competitions. The entertaining backyard is adorned with breathtaking mountain views, lemon and lime trees, and mature landscaping. Whether you're unwinding at the outdoor BBQ/bar area, sitting by the built-in fire pit, or soaking in the hot tub, there's something magical about admiring the majestic mountains from the comfort of your own home. Be sure to check out the document section for additional details on home. This property is truly a must-see!
4549 E Marion Way
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$2,450,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,650
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778240
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
4549 East Marion Way in the idyllic neighborhood of Arcadia and on the west face of Camelback Mountain offers four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Beautiful, open, and light-filled; this carbon-negative home was sustainably remodeled in 2010. Featuring seller owned solar panels, Low E windows, energy star appliances, low allergenic American Clay wall treatment, and natural stone and tile flooring throughout. Outside is a desert oasis and bird refuge with a multi-zone, automated drip system to maintain mature desert landscaping. Enjoy year-round, spectacular sunset views and the downtown Phoenix skyline, as well as sightings a variety of rare birds, including rosy-faced lovebirds and great horned owls. Served by quality schools, Hopi Elementary and Arcadia High, this home is within an easy walk to neighborhood hotspots like the Global Ambassador Hotel and Steak 44 dining; you cannot live in a better location. Also within walking distance is The Village at Camelback with all of its offerings, including tennis, pickleball, swimming, and fitness. The Echo Canyon Trail of iconic Camelback Mountain is in your backyard, as are miles of hiking and biking trails along the Arizona Canal System. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to go green and own a peaceful and healing mountain retreat.
37200 N Cave Creek Road Unit 1126
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,450,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,453
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775900
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Discover this beautifully updated designer townhome in the Retreat at Desert Mountain with an inviting courtyard entrance and enticing spa. This home features a harmonious palette of soft greens, warm browns, and striking blacks. The chef's kitchen is a dream with Wolf and Subzero appliances. Nestled along the 6th fairway of the par 54, Seven Golf Course, at Desert Mountain. This first-floor unit offers a fantastic covered patio that provides breathtaking views of the golf course, surrounding mountains, and stunning sunsets. With an immediate Golf Membership available, for transfer through escrow, you can easily immerse yourself in the Desert Mountain lifestyle after a simple 30-day approval process. This is a rare chance to own a slice of paradise in a serene and luxurious setting.
4301 E Taurus Place
Chandler, AZ 85249
$2,450,000
5
Beds
6
Baths
5,994
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782437
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exceptionally Detailed custom home in Vasaro Citrus Preserve of South Chandler. 5 bedrooms 6 bathrooms. Gated Court yard with beautiful Iron/glass custom front door. This spectacular home displays amazing craftsmanship that is second to none. Beautiful stone accents on the ceilings throughout the home. The flooring is tumbled travertine and Imported Italian porcelain tile that looks like real wood planks. Formal living room has a Cantera fireplace. Gourmet kitchen has alder cabinets and granite countertops. Dual islands and GE Monogram appliances with a six-burner gas range. Open great room with a huge Cantera arch and pillars. Built in cabinets and an 80-inch TV. Go to the movies at home, in a custom designed Home Theater screening room. Primary suite with built in entertainment system. Primary closets with custom cabinets and a washer/dryer. Walk thru shower. Backyard is an entertainer's delight custom BBQ center large, covered patio, and enjoy a dip in the pool or spa. In the evenings you can enjoy a cozy warm fire and swap stories with your friends. Large over-height 4 Car Garage with epoxy flooring, all new AC units in 2017, Wow what more can you ask for! Come on by and see your new home, it's waiting just for you!
6130 E Via Estrella Avenue
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$2,450,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,312
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784042
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to an exquisite ranch-style estate in the coveted Paradise Valley, where elegance and comfort meet. This stunning 3,312 sq ft residence offers a spacious layout featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a dedicated office, and a versatile game room. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's haven, fully equipped with top-tier stainless steel appliances, including a 6-burner Wolf stove, double ovens, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, a 30+ bottle wine cooler, and a separate ice maker. Granite countertops, custom cabinetry, and an expansive island make it ideal for both cooking and entertaining. A charming breakfast nook overlooks the pool, adding a serene touch to your mornings. The inviting living room, complete with a grand fireplace, custom built-ins, and vaulted ceilings, opens to the patio and backyard, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces. The luxurious primary suite is a true retreat, boasting a spa-like soaking tub, a spacious walk-in closet, and a private patio. Every bedroom offers generous living and closet space, while large windows with classic wooden shutters add timeless elegance to this Spanish-inspired estate. The backyard is an outdoor sanctuary with a pristine diving pool, a putting green, and a sun-drenched terrace perfect for gatherings. Nestled within the prestigious Scottsdale Unified School District, this home offers tranquility and accessibility. A grand circular driveway, a 2-car garage, and a fully fenced backyard with double gates provide ample space for a guest house, sports court, or RV parking. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a piece of Paradise Valley with substantial equity potential. Experience luxury living at its finest!
9290 E Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 257
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,450,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,742
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6770797
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the prestigious guard-gated community of DC Ranch, this stunning home is perfectly situated on a serene golf course lot at the end of a cul-de-sac. This home boasts a desirable split floor plan featuring 4 bedrooms (one versatile as a den/office) and 4 bathrooms. A gourmet kitchen, and open living spaces make this home ideal for entertaining. Step into the tranquil backyard, complete with a heated spool and built-in BBQ, offering the perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor dining.
414 Peace Garden Path
Clarkdale, AZ 86324
$2,450,000
5
Beds
5
Baths
3,787
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6737569
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your serene and modern retreat with five well-appointed apartment suites nestled in the heart of Clarkdale and within walking distance of the charming shops and restaurants of Old Town Cottonwood. This exquisite five-acre property offers breathtaking views of the Verde River and the stunning red rocks of Sycamore Canyon, providing a picturesque backdrop for an unparalleled living experience. Step outside onto the expansive portico and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, while enjoying outdoor living at its finest. Host unforgettable evenings under the starlit sky with friends and family, or take a leisurely walk down the trail to the river.