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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5255 N Peach Lane
Pine, AZ 85544
$550,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,426
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6781018
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Tucked away among the whispering pines, this charming cabin invites you into its warm embrace with a delightful covered patio. Every corner of this beautifully reimagined retreat exudes comfort, from the inviting indoor spaces to the serene outdoor living areas. You'll find hickory floors sweeping gracefully throughout, while the living room captivates with its elegant stack-stone fireplace, cozy window seat, and soaring vaulted tongue-and-groove ceiling. The kitchen beckons with granite counters and a handy pantry for all your culinary needs. Venture upstairs to discover a snug loft, perfect for leisurely afternoons or perhaps an additional sleeping nook. The main level houses a quaint bedroom and bath, while the upper level offers a second bedroom and bath for added privacy. Have delightful gatherings or simply unwind on the spacious, wrap-around Trex deck, enveloped in nature. A chain-link fenced yard ensures a safe haven for kids and pets to play, while a garden area, fruit trees, two storage sheds, a dog run, and RV hook-ups cater to your every need. The oversized two-car garage not only accommodates your vehicles but also features a workbench, laundry hook-ups, and a convenient half-bath. With central heating and AC, this cozy haven promises year-round comfort and tranquility.
12610 N 45th Drive
Glendale, AZ 85304
$550,000
5
Beds
2
Baths
2,697
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6785080
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home, where modern upgrades meet timeless comfort. Boasting 5 bedrooms, a versatile den, and 2 bathrooms, this property offers the space and functionality you've been searching for. Step inside to discover a thoughtfully designed layout, perfect for families or hosting guests. Recent upgrades enhance the charm and convenience of the interior, creating a move-in-ready haven. Outside, the resort-style backyard steals the show. Dive into relaxation in the updated pool, surrounded by a stunning travertine pool deck that exudes elegance and durability. The low-maintenance synthetic grass ensures you spend more time enjoying the yard and less time working on it. Gather under the gorgeous gazebo, complete with an outdoor kitchen. New roof 2022 + a plethora of more updates are listed in the documents tab.
9254 E Milagro Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85209
$550,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,924
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780804
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and style in this beautifully remodeled home with extensive landscaping ideally situated on an oversized lot. Citrus trees and privacy hedges create a beautiful and quiet oasis. The home features newer wood-look tile and carpeting throughout. The modern kitchen features sleek white cabinets with stylish hardware, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances, making it a chef's dream. Enjoy the spacious owner's bath, complete with a separate shower and tub for your relaxation. The expansive covered patio is perfect for entertaining, featuring a beautiful Pebble-Tec pool, recently remodeled with tile and travertine that promises endless summer fun. The yard offers plenty of space for outdoor activities, with a gate for your convenience.... Located within the vibrant community of Augusta Ranch, you'll have easy access to the golf course and an elementary school right within the subdivision. Don't miss the chance to own this exceptional property that combines elegance with outdoor living at its finest!
4107 S 109th Avenue
Tolleson, AZ 85353
$550,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,649
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767165
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Must see large single story, Next Gen home! Versatile floor plan has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Three car garage. Attached casita for varies uses, this home is only a year old, beautiful home inside and out with many modern amenities. This home is conveniently located near schools, stores, shopping, gas stations, restaurants, highways and much more. Open concept floor plan with oversized master suite and split bedrooms for individual privacy.
4314 E Oak Street
Phoenix, AZ 85008
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,895
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781205
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**BUYER DID NOT PERFORM**FIXER UPPER OPPORTUNITY, ORIGINAL CONDITION - PRICED ACCORDINGLY. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in Phoenix, offering 1,895 sq.ft. is located in the highly sought-after Arcadia Lite area. Step inside to an open and airy floorplan where natural light flows effortlessly through the home. The spacious eat-in kitchen features plenty of cabinet space for storage and a gas stove range for cooking enthusiasts. The primary bedroom boasts a spacious closet and an en-suite bath for added privacy. Two additional well-sized bedrooms share a full second bath, ensuring comfort for everyone. Stepping outside, you'll be delighted by the huge backyard, which offers a covered patio ideal for outdoor dining and relaxation. The fenced sparkling pool invites you to unwind and enjoy on a sunny Arizona days. In addition to the beautiful pool area, there's a spacious storage room/workshop, perfect for extra storage or as a hobby space. This home is located in a peaceful and friendly community, offering easy access to local amenities, schools, and parks. Whether you're enjoying the serene backyard or exploring the neighborhood, 4314 E Oak St offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and outdoor living. Don't miss out on this wonderful home!
3237 W Glenrosa Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85017
$550,000
6
Beds
3
Baths
2,928
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787792
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This unique block single story open floor plan home that showcases 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms sits on an unbelievable 19,602 square foot lot is ready for all your decorating and remodel ideas. This is a terrific opportunity for investors or buyers looking to create their perfect home. The home an unheard of size lot for the area and has many mature citrus trees and huge grass backyard with RV gates and driveway to store all your entertainment toys!
3869 S Dew Drop Lane
Gilbert, AZ 85297
$550,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,163
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785765
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Highly Updated in Power Ranch! - You Will Fall in Love with this 4BR 2.5BA + Loft - All Newer: Flooring, Kitchen, Baths, Quartz Countertops, Interior Paint, Stainless Steel Appliances, Water Softener, Water Heater, R/O System - The Master Bedroom is Downstairs - Great Gilbert Schools - The Community Includes: Fishing Lakes, Community Pools, Parks Throughout, Basketball Courts, Playgrounds, Trails, Clubhouse, & MUCH MORE!! Power Ranch is One of THE Premiere Neighborhoods in Gilbert/ East Valley! See This Beauty Soon!!
18627 E Superstition Drive
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$550,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,913
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779260
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this delightful 4 bed/ 2 bath home in the beautiful community of Cortina just around the corner from the community park & Cortina elementary school! This home offers a spacious floor-plan with a formal living/dining room, tile and vinyl floors in all the right places, neutral custom paint, & window shutters. The kitchen is spacious & features Corian counters, Island & pantry. The master bedroom boasts a large retreat along with a remodeled en-suite that includes separate tub & shower, dual sinks, private toilet room & walk in closet! Love entertaining? The backyard is perfect for just that! Relax under the extended patio & enjoy relaxing in the low maintenance backyard! Community boasts a children's playground and large pool/spa and clubhouse for family entertainment!
2486 W Dapple Gray Court
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$550,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,211
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780694
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Incredible opportunity to own a stunning home. Owner added almost $100,000 towards upgrades above comparables, 2024 NEW HVAC Lennox with variable speed, NEW gas Pool Heater, NEW gas water heater, NEW OWNED 22 panel Solar. New EV plug in garage, NEW insulated garage door (with all new hardware) and NEW wifi garage door opener. Heated pool with pop-up cleaners, variable speed pump, artificial turf. In the backyard, along with bull nosed travertine decking! This house is turnkey! POOL FENCE and EV Charger included in sale. Your Arizona Lifestyle rear grounds are complete with an oversized patio with a wall mounted television and kitchen design complete with outdoor refrigerator/sink/BBQ Area. Spend warm summer nights in your sparkling pool with ambient lighting. Spend your winters by the fire feature with a cozy heated pool! Conservative additional $80,000 in back yard landscaping alone! Designer kitchen and bbq island complete with plumbed water/drains for sink, electric, and natural gas for the BBQ.
17302 E Oro Grande Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,493
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750848
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A beautiful, well-kept home in a highly sought after areas of Fountain Hills. The inside has been very nicely updated. Enjoy the family area with beautiful flooring and a fireplace. The master bathroom has been redone to be handicap friendly. Enjoy spectacular mountain views from your kitchen window, the master bdrm and the patio/Arizona room. You can even see four peaks from the huge backyard. The landscaping is done. The back is on a partial watering system. There are native Desert Willows that thrive even in drought and cold and Meyer Lemon Trees. There is no HOA. There is an RV gate and lots of room out back for an RV, boat or whatever you like. The home is in a highly rated school district with plenty of shopping nearby. You won't be disappoint
4936 E Coronado Road
Phoenix, AZ 85008
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,821
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784981
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2- bathroom home! This property boasts a spacious front and backyard, complete with citrus trees and green plants, a 2-car garage, an RV gate, and a covered patio for outdoor enjoyment. Inside, you'll find tile flooring throughout, with a family room featuring laminate flooring perfect for entertaining guest. The freshly painted interior complements the kitchen's cream-colored cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and an island ideal for enjoying meals. Both bathrooms have been fully remodeled with modern tile backsplashes, glass doors, and sleek black faucets and shower heads, Conveniently located near freeway access, shopping centers, the Phoenix Zoo, and Papago Park, this home offers both comfort and accessibility.