As 2017 winds down, analysts are forecasting economic developments for 2017. Forbes identified three indicators that the U.S. housing market has recovered. Mortgage rates rose again last week; jobless claims fell and consumer sentiment jumped rose five points. The details:
Housing Market Recovery Complete: Forbes
Three conditions were cited by Forbes as evidence that the housing market has recovered:
Analysts said that homeowners are putting their homes on the market after years of waiting for home prices to peak. On the flip side, mortgage rates are expected to rise further and home buyers may be taking a “now or never” plunge into buying homes before market conditions and mortgage rates combine to make home prices unaffordable.
The Federal Reserve reported that U.S. mortgage debt increased by 1.90 percent in Q3 2016; this was the highest growth rate for mortgage debt since Q3 2008. While population growth and household formation are lower, the overall ratio of mortgage debt to disposable income is near historically low levels. Stricter mortgage qualification standards are keeping home buyers from borrowing mortgage loans that they can’t repay.
After years of high demand for short supplies of available homes, home builders are ramping up construction. Housing starts rose by 25 percent in October and matched construction rates not seen since mid-2007.
Mortgage Rates Rise, New Jobless Claims Dip
Freddie Mac reported higher mortgage rates last week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose five basis points to 4.13 percent. The average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was two basis points higher at 3.36 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage also rose by two basis points to 3.17 percent.
New jobless claims fell last week to 258,000 new claims, which matched expectations and was lower than the prior week’s reading of 268,000 new claims. Job openings held steady in October with a reading of 5.50 million.
What’s Ahead
Next week’s economic calendar includes readings on retail sales and inflation along with the Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee Statement and a press conference by Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen. The National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index will be released in addition to Commerce Department reports on housing starts and building permits issued. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will also be released.
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37520 W Padilla Street
Maricopa, AZ 85138
$639,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,240
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6695735
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Rancho Mirage 23 offers new single-family luxury homes in the fast-growing city of Maricopa, with access to neighborhood parks, walking paths and a community fishing lake. This incredible single-story home features 3,240 square feet, a tandem 3-car garage and 10' ceilings. The kitchen is decked out with stacked cabinetry, gourmet appliances and quartz countertops. The split floorplan is perfect for a family with 3 of the bedrooms adjacent to the Activity Room. Ready for immediate move-in! ^^Up to 6% of Base Price can be applied towards closing cost and/or short-long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.
37565 W Padilla Street
Maricopa, AZ 85138
$639,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,240
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6699191
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to luxury, Maricopa! It's time we embrace the magnificence of new home construction previously seen in Scottsdale and the East Valley. Introducing the captivating Sedona floorplan, offering both a flexible activity room and a media room to suit your lifestyle. Your expansive gourmet kitchen is adorned with stacked cabinetry, buffet-style lowers, a gas cooktop, and double ovens. Retreat to your indulgent Ultra Spa Shower, entertain on the patio, or access your recreational gear from the THREE CAR GARAGE! Ready for immediate Move-In! ^^Up to 6% of Base Price can be applied towards closing cost and/or short-long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.
37627 W Padilla Street
Maricopa, AZ 85138
$639,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,240
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6704039
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Introducing luxury living, Maricopa! Step into the allure of this Sedona floorplan, offering both a versatile activity room and a convenient home office. Your expansive gourmet kitchen boasts stacked cabinetry, buffet-style lowers, a gas cooktop, and double ovens for culinary perfection. Unwind in your luxurious freestanding tub, entertain on the patio, or store your belongings in the spacious THREE CAR GARAGE! Discover why K. Hovnanian stands as the epitome of Lasting Value in homebuilding. Don't miss your chance to move into this home now! Up to 6% of Base Price can be applied towards closing cost and/or short-long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.
18956 W Ocotillo Road
Waddell, AZ 85355
$639,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,561
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6739341
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the very popular Cinnabar floor plan with 4 bedrooms + study, 3.5 baths and a 3 car tandem garage. Multi slide door off the great room. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. 8' gate on garage side of home. Kitchen upgrades includes - stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop and canopy hood. Sonoma Linen-off white cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers. DT White Ice G238 granite countertop with enhanced kitchen island, undermount single bowl kitchen sink. Flooring includes 7x 24 plank tile in all areas of the home except beds/baths. 5'' baseboards throughout and 3 1/4'' door casings. Dual sink at bath 2, soft water loop, garage service door that leads out to the backyard and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!
18938 W Ocotillo Road
Waddell, AZ 85355
$639,990
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,561
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6739870
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the very popular Cinnabar with 4 bedrooms + study, formal dining, 2.5 baths. This home is stunning with a multi slide door off the great room that leads out to the covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop, wall oven, microwave and hood. Barnett maple Boulder-gray cabinets with 42 kitchen uppers. Pull out trash drawer with two bins. Stainless steel undermount single bowl sink. AZT Hana Sky quartz countertops in kitchen and owner's bath. Upgrade flooring includes DT Broxburn Gray 6x24 plank tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. 5'' baseboards and 3 1/4'' baseboards. Dual sinks at bath 2 and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!
7593 W Smoketree Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$639,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,150
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767735
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand new community in North Peoria! This stunning single story home offers 2,150 sq ft of functional living space. It features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, den, and a 3-car tandem garage. The open concept kitchen is perfect for entertaining and features a large Island, walk-in pantry and stainless steel appliances with gas range. It also offers our Timeless Palette which includes white painted 42'' cabinets, ivory quartz kitchen countertops, arctic white kitchen backsplash, and 6x24 wood looking plank tile in all the common areas. The great room offers a 4-panel center sliding glass door so you can step out into your covered patio to enjoy indoor/outdoor living in your backyard with friends and family. Great location close to dining, freeways, parks, and entertainment!
913 W Juanita Avenue
Gilbert, AZ 85233
$639,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,232
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787659
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A wonderful family home in an extremely desirable Gilbert's Cooper Ranch family friendly neighborhood! The conveniences of Gilbert's excellent schools, restaurants, shopping, entertainment and access to freeways are unmatched and close by - Open, bright and light with tile throughout - Soaring ceilngs in the living areas - A private office/den downstairs - 4 Bed/3 BA/3 Car Garage - Large and private mature backyard with a patio - Landscaped, lush and green yards - Awesome curb appeal!
6061 S Oxley --
Mesa, AZ 85212
$639,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,071
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6719560
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
''Have you ever walked through a model home and wished you could buy it exactly as is? Well, here is your chance, our stunning Aster MODEL HOME is now available for your purchase! Imagine yourself living in a beautiful, sun-kissed retreat, where every detail has been carefully crafted to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our stunning model home is a true masterpiece, boasting 2071 square feet of luxurious living space. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by the warmth of rich tile flooring, perfectly complemented by the plush carpet in the bedrooms and den. The elegant 42'''' white shaker cabinets with matte black hardware add a touch of sophistication, while the expansive windows allow natural light to pour in and illuminate the space. With its sleek panel center slide and breathtaking views, this outdoor oasis is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. This home is also situated on a perfect lot location facing the greenbelt to soak in all the stunning Arizona sunsets! d. This incredible home includes all the upgrades you've been dreaming of, including a washer, dryer, and a refrigerator! It's truly move-in ready! Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise.
5196 E Desert Forest Trail
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$639,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,368
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6706259
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Energy Star Certified, 4 bedrooms, + Loft, 3 bath home on an incredible cul-de-sac homesite with Mountain Views, and open green space! THIS 2019 BUILT HOME feels new with a modern great room plan, large bedrooms, walk in closets, and 5-year-old mechanicals- today's tech. Recent updates include a custom master shower, new tile surrounds in two bathrooms, Quartz Bathroom counter tops, fixtures, and 2022 carpet on the second floor. The high-end finishes include 42'' Glazed cabinets, Granite countertops, and Subway Backsplash. 1st Floor has Wood Plank tile flooring. No need to renovate, this is move in ready! Enjoy the convenience of a bedroom, and shower on the first floor. The large 15x8 foot glass slider allows plenty of light. HOA includes front land scaping maint. Street parking OK
17139 W Hackamore Drive
Surprise, AZ 85387
$639,945
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,660
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771863
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6771863 January Completion! Experience the perfect blend of multigenerational living in this thoughtfully designed home. Step through the inviting porch and into the foyer, where you'll find a separate wing featuring three bedrooms, a private multi-gen living area, two bathrooms, and a one-car garage with its own dedicated entry. As you move further inside, a formal dining room sits across from a powder room and a laundry area, along with access to the two-car garage. At the heart of the home, the open-concept design showcases a spacious great room seamlessly connected to a kitchen with an island, casual dining space, and covered outdoor living. The primary suite is tucked away for privacy complete with a spa-inspired bathroom and a generous walk-in closet. Structural options include: paver front porch, garage service door, interior door at multi gen living suite, tile super shower at primary bath, and gourmet kitchen.
7387 W Cactus Wren Way
Florence, AZ 85132
$639,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,530
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6788280
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MAKE A SPLASH! Enjoy the tour of this stunning, nearly new 3 bedroom ''Journey'' model in the highly sought after community of Sun City Anthem at Merrill Ranch. Your new home offers an abundance of upgrades that include a chefs kitchen with beautiful upgraded granite counters, stainless appliances, roll-out trays, pendant lighting, butlers pantry, large island, gorgeous tile and hardwood flooring and soaring 10' ceilings. Additional upgrades include ceiling fans, tankless water heater, laundry cabinets w/utility sink, 4ft garage extension and golf cart garage. The outdoor living space offers private entertaining with a gorgeous swimming pool and sheer descent water feature, extended paver patio and walkways, power sun shade and privacy walls with common area to the West. A MUST SEE HOME!! Take advantage of the Anthem Grille, The Poston Butte Golf Club, a learning center and all the festivities, activities and amenities a Sun City community has to offer. Remember you are buying a lifestyle that goes beyond the homes property lines.
20815 W Canyon Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$639,900
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,125
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743163
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Discover one of the most pristine golf course villas in the Vallarta neighborhood of Verrado, perfectly situated at the base of the White Tank Mountains along the 5th fairway of the Verrado Golf Club Founders Course. This stunning residence offers breathtaking panoramic views of the golf course and mountains. Nestled within a picturesque gated community, this villa provides access to exclusive amenities, including a pool, spa, and BBQ area, in addition to the full range of facilities available to all Verrado residents. Impeccably designed with exceptional attention to detail, this home is upgraded with features that cater to the most discerning buyers. The backyard retreat is truly extraordinary with an extended covered patio, travertine decking, private pool and fire pit— a perfect setting for entertaining friends and family year-round. Don't miss the chance to experience this extraordinary property. Schedule your private tour today!