Housing news was boosted by the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index, which posted its highest readings since July of 2002. In other news, the Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee voted to raise the federal funds rate and Fed Chair Janet Yellen gave a press conference. Mortgage rates rose and weekly jobless claims fell.
Home Builder Confidence Highest in 14 Years, Home Construction Lags
According to the National Association of Home Builders, builder confidence in housing market conditions reached its highest rate since 2002 in December. The NAHB Housing Market Index reading topped out at 70 as compared to November’s reading of 63. Analysts said that December’s high reading resulted from a post-election bump in builder confidence. While high builder confidence could bode well for supplies of new homes, construction rates continued to lag strong economic indicators such as low unemployment and high demand for homes. While builders gained confidence in current and projected housing market conditions, they continued to face shortages of labor and buildable lots.
Fed Raises Rate
The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve announced it would raise the federal funds range by 0.25 percent to 0.50 to 0.75 percent. FOMC said strengthening job markets, lower unemployment and rising household spending supported the decision to raise the federal funds rate. Inflation, while below the Fed’s target of 2.00 percent, is gradually moving toward the Fed’s medium term goal. FOMC’s statement indicated that the Fed’s monetary policy would remain accommodative.
Fed Chair Janet Yellen held a press conference and cited “considerable progress” toward the Fed’s dual mandate of maximum employment and price stability as factors supporting the decision to raise the target federal funds range. Labor markets continue to improve; Chair Yellen said that the economy has added 180,000 jobs per month over the last three months. 15 million jobs have been added in the past seven years. Inflation is growing gradually, and the Fed expects to achieve its target inflation rate of 2.00 percent over the next two years.
Month-to-month consumer spending readings held steady at 0.20 percent growth. Core consumer price index data, which excludes volatile food and energy sectors, rose from 0.10 percent to 0.20 percent in November.
Mortgage Rates, Weekly Jobless Claims
Mortgage rates were higher last week, but Freddie Mac said that its survey data was collected before FOMC raised the federal funds rate. Analysts at Freddie Mac suggested a wait-and see position on rate forecasts due to the changing political climate. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was three basis points higher at 4.16 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage rose one basis point to 2.37 percent and the average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was two basis points higher at 3.19 percent. Average discount points for fixed rate mortgages held steady at 0.50 percent and dipped to 0.40 percent for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage.
New jobless claims were lower last week at 254,000 claims filed. Analysts had expected a reading of 250,000 new claims based on the prior week’s reading of 258,000 new claims filed. Volatility in weekly readings for new jobless claims can be expected due to seasonal hiring and layoffs.
What‘s Ahead
Next week’s economic releases include readings on new and previously-owned home sales, inflation and consumer sentiment. Readings for mortgage rates and new jobless claims will also be released.
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
1653 W Zion Place
Chandler, AZ 85248
$1,950,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,474
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780777
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning waterfront property located in the exclusive Embarcadero gated community. Situated on a spacious 1/2 acre cul-de-sac lot, this 4BR, 3BA home offers the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility. Prime location with easy access to major freeways (101, 202, 10) and close to Intel. Spacious design with split floor plan with soaring 12-foot ceilings, creating an open and airy atmosphere. Outdoor oasis, heated pool and a tranquil backyard featuring a fire pit overlooking the serene waterfront. Elegant living space immaculately maintained, with a gourmet kitchen, spacious living areas, and a luxurious primary suite. Enjoy the lifestyle you've always dreamed of in the highly sought-after Ocotillo area. Don't miss the opportunity to own this beautiful waterfront retreat!
3959 S Summit Trail
Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
$1,950,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
4,349
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787333
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This 4,349 sq. ft. home in the gated El Mirador at Superstition Mountain community captures stunning mountain views from a private, elevated, cul-de-sac lot. The resort-style backyard offers a solar and gas heated pool, spa, shaded lounge areas, artistic landscaping, and outdoor cooking area perfect for entertaining/relaxing. Inside, energy efficient construction meets elegant design with roller shield and wood shutters, game room, and a spacious office. The main suite serves as a tranquil retreat, while the flexible layout adapts to various lifestyle needs. The 1,003 sq. ft. garage provides ample space for vehicles/storage. Priced at $1,950,000, this home blends luxury, beauty, and functionality in a highly desirable location with nearby walking trails and a serene Gold Canyon setting!
23188 N 79th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,950,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,445
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781540
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your quiet custom 30 home gated community of Sonoran Hills, modest estates spread out to give you the upmost privacy! This property is situated toward the end of a cul-de-sac on over 1.2 acres, and is the best value in all of 85255! There are 3 bedrooms, plus an office, and plenty of indoor public areas for entertaining your friends and family. Upon entering, you will notice the soaring ceilings, which will also draw you toward the backyard where you will notice a massive BBQ kitchen in addition to the main kitchen, perfect for both indoor and outdoor cooking to have the ultimate barbecue for all of your friends and family while the cook can still stay where all the action is happening. Enjoy the sparkling pool, or head to the community tennis courts and playground!
41327 N 106th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,950,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6613965
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully reimagined in 2023, this home looks and feels like a brand new build. Tastefully remodeled under the watchful eye of Laura Weaver of Weaver Interiors, this now all en suite, three bedroom, three and a half bath home features a stunning array of premium quality features and upgrades. The lot orientation offers an ideal southwest exposure, showcasing city lights and sunsets from the generous outdoor living space. The gorgeous new kitchen has custom crafted walnut cabinetry, quartz countertops and backsplash, a quartzite eat in kitchen island and Wolf/Sub Zero appliance package. Two main living areas boast new fireplaces and each provide dining spaces with distinctly different feels and ambiance. New Carrier HVAC units and Sonos audio system. New opportunities for immediate temporary Lifestyle/Seven membership to the Desert Mountain Club for approved applicants.
14830 E Rhoads Court
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$1,950,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,185
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6641512
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
'''Artistic Seclusion'' a Frank Lloyd Wright inspired contemporary estate, tucked in the west end of Sunridge Canyon and backed on two sides by public land, Offers first-class privacy and luxury living. This property is double gated and has a private long driveway from the cul-de-sac to the main building. The modern fusion of steel and glass creates a striking contemporary impression. The main entrance features an artistic 18-foot iron/glass door and the garage entrance is equipped with an electric lift to the open space grand room which, with extra high ceilings, features a hidden TV behind artistic metal panels over the fireplace and high walls of glass all covered with motorized blinds. The chef's kitchen boasts imported Italian cabinets, luxury Gaggenau and Thermador appliances and stainless countertops, dual raised bars, and more. All rooms are built in a circle around a central courtyard with artistically designed two-tier waterfalls, rocks and plants. The glass walled corridors around the courtyard are equipped with gallery grade picture hanging tracks and spotlights to present the owner's art collections. All guest rooms are as spacious as the master bedroom and each has its own in-suite bath and patio. The estate is surrounded by lush foliage. The backyard oasis includes a sparkling pool with motorized pool cover, heated spa, firepit and an outdoor kitchen. The estate is adjacent to Sunridge Canyon golf course and The Club at Adero, and is 10 minutes to Mayo Clinic.
13459 E Wethersfield Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$1,950,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,701
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775588
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Resort living inside & out of this updated stunner with the views you have been searching for! Located in 24/7 Guard Gated Scottsdale Mountain, this spacious home combines indoor and outdoor living with surrounded glass doors and full length windows all around. Open floorplan, 4 bedrooms & 4.5 baths plus a separate Home Office and Bonus Room. Chef's style kitchen features updated cabinets, granite counters, SS appliances, brand new double oven, and walk-in pantry. Entertain and admire PANORAMIC VIEWS from your Outdoor Oasis! Enjoy Kiva Fireplace, putting green fire pit, built-in BBQ, newly redone pebbletec pool, 3 Separate Sitting view areas and the natural beauty of desert open space and privacy. No imposing houses! Many updates in 2024 (click more!) including interior and exterior paint, pool, roof, floors, water heaters bathrooms and RO system. Check out the feature list in the documents tab and schedule a showing today!
4509 S Banning Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85297
$1,950,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,283
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774609
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into your dream home in the prestigious gated community of Weston Ranch—featuring a home of the perfect blend of luxury and modern upgrades with a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle. This home features a Mediterranean-inspired courtyard, setting a resort-like tone from the moment you enter. Perfect for entertaining, the expansive living spaces flow effortlessly, highlighted by an upgraded gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances and a large island, ice machine, and coffee and beverage bar ideal for hosting gatherings. A teen or flex space creates an inviting atmosphere and opens to the courtyard. A separate guest house provides privacy and flexibility for visitors or extended family. The den is naturally lit for perfect inspiration of working at home or starting your next business venture. Enjoy Arizona outdoor living with a travertine-surrounded pool, cabana with an outdoor kitchen, gas fireplace, and easy-care desert landscaping and new artificial turf. Take a stroll on the peaceful walking path or if pickle ball is your game, there is plenty of space to add a court on the property. If you are looking for a home with style, sophistication and a peaceful retreat with ample storage and a 4 car garage, you've found your home and it's located in one of Gilbert's most exclusive communities.
2759 E Portola Valley Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85297
$1,950,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
4,190
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774053
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Dreaming of moving but bummed about missing out on those historically low interest rates? Good news—this incredible luxury home offers an assumable low interest rate! This stunning home blends comfort & convenience backing to a private park! Minutes from SanTan Mall, enjoy easy access to premier dining, shopping, & more. Through the iron front door is a spacious interior featuring five en-suite bedrooms with extra half bath. The 16' sliding glass door connects the indoors to your resort-style backyard. Luxuriate in the jacuzzi & pool or bounce on the inground trampoline. Oversized pergola w/ firepit & BBQ w/ sink makes outdoor entertaining easy. Upgrades abound throughout this home! The over-sized primary boasts custom closets and separate shower & tub. The indoor/outdoor audio system ensures you never miss a beat while the lighting system provides accents for security, favorite team colors or holiday fun! Perfect for entertainers or to simply relax in style, this property blends luxury w/ functionality. Gated community, stocked pond, ramada's & pickleball/tennis court.
11547 E Cavedale Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,950,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,869
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6754980
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
200,000. price adjustment. Owner invested over 500,000. in this flawless 2023 remodel including a full roof replacement. Find privacy and tranquility at the elite gated enclave of Desert Summit. Perfectly nestled on a generous .713-acre lot presenting unparalleled mountain vistas. A sanctuary of comfort and elegance, this home is luxuriously designed with impeccable attention to detail. Enter through the large private courtyard, the grand welcoming foyer is flanked by a substantially sized living room and a splendidly designed formal dining room. This bespoke home features 3869 sq. ft., 4 generously sized bedrooms, office/den, 4.5 bathrooms and a private Casita. The graceful primary suite is designated as your posh sanctuary, indulge and pamper yourself in this lavish spa like setting. Perfectly appointed Chef's kitchen, equipped to satisfy the needs of a professional Chef, an outstanding oversized dramatic black Quartz island, extensive black Quartz countertops, full height tile backsplash, magnificent cabinetry. Ultra deluxe Jenn Air appliances, custom crafted range hood, Italian porcelain flooring and more. An entertainer's dream is the idyllically positioned chic wine tasting area with controlled storage for 300 bottles of wine. The exquisite great room perfectly accommodates large gatherings or intimate family events, boasting a custom fireplace, abundant windows exhibiting sensational panoramic views. Revel in your private Arizona Style backyard Oasis highlighting a large covered patio, extensive travertine pavers. Al-fresco dining and seating, an impressive pool and waterfall, alluring spa, putting green, ultimate outdoor grill-island and an amazing tiered view deck to enjoy magnificent sunrise to sunset views of coveted Troon Mountain and Pinnacle Peak.
11324 E Mariposa Grande Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,950,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,676
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774753
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning property in a gated Troon community is situated on a north-south lot w/surrounding views of Troon Mtn & the McDowells. The perfect blend of natural beauty and southwestern charm, the home features a large living room w/soaring ceilings & 2-way fireplace as well as a cozy family room w/walkup bar & fireplace. The updated kitchen includes a large center island, gourmet stainless steel appliances, fireplace & breakfast nook. A formal dining room located off the kitchen is perfect for entertaining! The primary suite offers a 2-way fireplace and separate sitting area. The upstairs office opens onto a private balcony, offering lofty mountain views. Outdoor amenities capture the essence of Arizona living with pool, patios and mountain views.
10743 E Monument Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,950,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,434
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6768122
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this exquisite single level 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath residence in the beautiful community of Candlewood Estates at Troon North.This is a perfect retreat for those seeking luxury & comfort in a vibrant community. As you step inside, you are greeted by a spacious open-concept living area, illuminated by large windows that allow for abundant natural light. The design features high ceilings & updated stylish finishes, making it an ideal space for both relaxation & entertaining.The living room, with its cozy fireplace, flows effortlessly into the dining area and the spacious kitchen boasts state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, & a large center island for gathering!The expansive primary suite offers large windows with beautiful plantation shutters that allow a beautiful view of the pool and spa, and private patio. The primary bath offers a large walk in shower, soaking tub , his and hers vanities and generous walk in closet. There is a designated main home office/den space with beautiful mountain views that could be another bedroom and finished room off the garage for a mother in law bedroom or its current off use as an office with beautiful view of the desert. The movie theatre has been remodeled and offers a great space for family movie nights. The back patio includes a private pool and spa, outdoor cook station and leads to the stairs of an upper level deck that you can enjoy 360 mountain views, gorgeous Arizona sunsets and star gazing. This home is also located in a quiet cul de sac & offers a 3 car garage with EV charger.
34651 N 49th Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,949,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
4,608
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6627038
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
TWO SEPARATE HOMES: PRIVATE stunning 2.5 Acre Estate with TWO fully Remodeled Homes and a Luxurious Pool & Outdoor Kitchen Oasis. PERFECT for extended family or short/ longer term investment opportunity. Welcome to your private paradise! This exceptional 2.5-acre estate boasts not one but two beautifully remodeled homes and a sparkling pool, making it the perfect retreat for multi-generational living, an income-generating property, or a serene haven for those who desire space and luxury. Main Features: - 2.5 acres of ample space for recreation, horses, or business ventures. - Two exquisitely remodeled homes offer a combined living space that's perfect for a large family or multiple households. - Outdoor pool oasis with kitchen and court yard, offering endless entertainment. First Home: 2 Bedrooms/ 2 Baths & an Office (2263 sq feet) Step inside the main residence, where elegance meets modern comfort: -Expansive living spaces with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light create a welcoming atmosphere. - Brand new electrical wiring. -Gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and a center island for culinary adventures. -The master suite is a true retreat, featuring a spa-like ensuite shower and a walk-in closet. -The guest bedrooms and bathroom provides ample space for family and guests. -The office/ multi-purpose room upstairs is the perfect place to soak up expansive mountain views. Second Home: 2 Bedrooms/ 2 Baths (2345 sq feet) The second home is equally impressive, making it perfect for extended family, guests, or rental income: - Spacious living and dining areas, along with a fully equipped kitchen, make this a self-sufficient living space. -Two bedrooms and two bathrooms provide comfort and privacy for residents. -Access to a private patio and outdoor spaces allows for outdoor relaxation and enjoyment. Outdoor Space: -The beautifully landscaped grounds feature a variety of mature trees, and areas for outdoor dining and recreation. Winter grass has currently been seeded and expecting an appearance any day! -A covered outdoor kitchen with a built-in BBQ area is perfect for dining and entertaining. -The potential for gardening, horse facilities, or additional development awaits in the vast acreage. Location: This estate is situated in a peaceful and upscale neighborhood, offering the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. It's just minutes from local schools, shopping, dining, and recreational amenities. Don't miss the opportunity to own this magnificent 2.5-acre estate with two remodeled homes. Whether you're looking for a multi-generational haven, a rental property, or a personal sanctuary, this property offers the best of Western living. Your dream home is waiting!