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.
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3408 W Via Del Deserto --
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$639,500
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,011
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763352
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Pride of ownership shows in this beautiful home located in the desirable Tramonto subdivision. This home sits on a premium lot with common area to the East and North. One of the 4 bedrooms is on the lower level making a great office, guest suite or playroom. The large loft works also works great for those work-from-home individuals. The exterior of the home has a fresh coat of paint, and the entire home has been meticulously maintained by the original owners. Location in the community is perfect and in walking distance to school for your k-8th graders. You don't want to miss this great opportunity!!
8338 N 180th Drive
Waddell, AZ 85355
$639,500
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,594
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6788916
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this gorgeous home in White Tank Foothills! As you pull up you will love the charming curb appeal with a gated front courtyard, a 3-car garage, and a perfectly manicured front yard. This split floorplan is well-thought-out with 4 bedrooms, an office, and 3 FULL bathrooms. This stylish kitchen boasts sleek granite countertops and backsplash, stainless steel wall appliances, and pendant lighting illuminating the peninsula breakfast bar, creating a perfect blend of elegance and functionality. Enjoy surround sound in the family room! The primary suite is spacious with a bay window and a lavish ensuite with a soaking tub, a separate shower, a dual sink vanity, and a custom walk-in closet with built-in cabinets and shelves. The remaining bedrooms are move-in ready! Escape to your private backyard oasis with White Tank Mountain views, featuring a sparkling pool surrounded by elegant travertine pavers that seamlessly flow to the expansive covered patio, complete with dual ceiling fans for year-round comfort. Mature fruit trees and a manicured grassy lawn provides a serene retreat perfect for relaxation or entertaining. Additional features in the garage include epoxy floors, cabinets, and a sink. Do not miss out on this well-maintained home! White Tank Foothills is a desirable community nestled near the breathtaking White Tank Mountain Regional Park, offering outdoor adventures close by like hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking amidst stunning desert landscapes. Located just a short drive from Hidden Lake, residents can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, and vibrant live music events, blending tranquility and recreation in one ideal setting.
18861 E Blue Sky Drive
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$639,500
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,380
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6702241
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This home is beautiful! Located in the highly sought after, Tonto Verde Country Club-Gated Community (2 Courses). Home features: 12-foot ceilings, impressive (Iron) front entry door, SS appliances, white cabinets and granite counter tops throughout home, large island w/ a breakfast bar, farm sink, open kitchen/dining and living room, split bedrooms, light paint colors, beautiful tile floors, additional storage (laundry room) and even parking for your Golf Cart! The backyard boasts a large travertine (Paver'd) patio, newly installed patio sunshade, a view fence overlooking the golf course. A true Arizona lifestyle, the backyard is beautifully landscaped and is close to Tonto National Forest. Move right in and enjoy! TURN-KEY! Quick close possible.
1906 W Lariat Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85085
$639,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,567
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761420
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous home looking for a new owner! Welcoming great room with abundant natural light, wood-style tile floors, a powder room, and modern light fixtures. The open-concept kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, popular white cabinets, an island with a breakfast bar, and granite counters. Continue upstairs to find a spacious loft for entertainment and 3-sizable bedrooms! The main retreat has a bathroom with a glass enclosure shower, dual sink vanity w/makeup area, and a walk-in closet. Outside, relax under the covered patio or lovely front porch. Don't miss the 2-car rear garage. Light tree-lined streets, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and a recreation center with a resort-style pool, kiddie pool, gathering areas, etc. A must-see property!
7718 W Crabapple Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$639,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,982
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6741362
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6741362 Ready Now! Completion! The Iris is a 1-story floor plan that comes standard with 1,982 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2-car garage, and a flex room. The only single-story floor plan at Aloravita South Discovery, this home is sure to please. The foyer brings you to a hallway with the secondary bedrooms and a full bathroom. As you continue through the home, you are taken to the open kitchen, casual dining, great room area and the flex room. Enjoy the beautiful Arizona weather from your private covered patio. The primary suite has a private bathroom with double sinks and an expansive walk-in closet and will be the perfect retreat.
1111 N High Point Drive
Prescott, AZ 86305
$639,000
1
Bed
1
Bath
960
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776096
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Escape to this beautifully remodeled cabin in the serene pine setting of Highland Pines, where tranquility awaits. This charming one-bedroom, one-bath retreat offers an open floor plan, making the most of its cozy footprint. Inside, you'll find the tongue and groove beamed ceiling complemented by new wood flooring throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The top-of-the-line chef's kitchen includes quartz counters, built-in shelf microwave and a professional KUCHT range with double ovens and. The great room opens to the deck through three glass folding doors, allowing natural light to pour in. The bathroom, completely renovated with a new bidet featured toilet and high-end marble subway-tile wainscotting and shower surround. The expansive deck provides amazing, sweeping views. The unobstructed views of the Prescott National Forest and Thumb Butte, offers the perfect spot for outdoor relaxation and entertaining. The home also boasts a newer roof for added peace of mind. A major bonus is the newly installed alternate septic system, which is designed to accommodate an additional two bedrooms and another bath. Whether you choose to expand with a single-level addition or explore a split-level or multi-level design, the spacious homesite offers flexible options for future growth. This property is easily accessible via paved roads and is served by a private water company, eliminating any concerns about water supply. For the right buyer, this is an incredible opportunity to own a piece of paradise with endless potential to make it your own.
4010 S Big Horn Place
Chandler, AZ 85249
$639,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,569
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777912
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
If you're in search of a home that combines a fantastic location inside the beautiful tree lined community of Old Stone Ranch, you're in luck! This loved home features 4 beds 3 full baths,+ den w/glass French doors. Cozy upstairs loft (w/full bed & bath up). Inviting kitchen opens to great rm Newer Samsung refrigerator, large island with granite counters and tons of storage through out. The oversized laundry rm has both upper and lower cabinets & even space for crafting. Low maintenance desert landscape front yard, private backyard backing greenbelt boasts artificial lawn, mature trees offer evening shade + sitting area. Equal distance to downtown Chandler and Gilbert with quick access to the 202 San tan freeway & outdoor shopping mall. Welcome home to your sanctuary!
1903 E Ayden Court
Payson, AZ 85541
$639,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,610
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6757095
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the highly sought-after, newer subdivision of Chaparral Vista, in a peaceful cul de sac located off Tyler Parkway. This stunning brand-new all electric home boasts 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 luxurious bathrooms, designed with modern elegance and functionality in mind with too many upgrades to list here. To see a full list see documents. The wrap-around deck is a standout feature, providing an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining or simply relaxing while enjoying the serene surroundings. Inside, every detail has been meticulously curated with high-end upgrades that elevate the living experience. The open-concept floor plan seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating a perfect space for both everyday living and special gatherings. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring state-of-the-art KitchenAid appliances, sleek quartz countertops, and custom cabinetry. The master suite is a tranquil retreat, complete with a beautifully appointed en-suite bathroom featuring premium fixtures and finishes. The additional bedrooms are generously sized, offering comfort and versatility for family, guests, or a home office. With its blend of contemporary design, thoughtful upgrades, and a picturesque wrap-around deck, this home in Chaparral Vista offers an exceptional living experience. Buyer to verify property taxes with Gila County.
17410 N Country Club Drive
Sun City, AZ 85373
$639,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,527
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776222
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Absolutely stunning home located on Union Hills Golf Course! Private front courtyard leads to double entry doors with views of the course and best of all: a water view! Enjoy your new carefree Sun City lifestyle in this home packed with updates! Newer kitchen, windows, master bath and owned solar! Commanding views of the golf course will inspire you to relax and entertain on your custom patio with outdoor kitchen. Enjoy the chill of the evening while chatting with your guest around the custom firepit patio table. The expansive living space indoors features a unique open concept design yet caters to those that are desiring smaller more intimate spaces. Updated custom kitchen with beautiful finishing detail! Master suite will wow with immense walk in closet & doors to patio! Don't miss this List of improvements: Outdoor Kokomo Kitchen, Island and Patio cover $24,000 Complete remodel of Master Bath & Closet $26,000 Ceiling Fans throughout home $2,000 New Dining Room lighting $2,000 Added Temperature control (AC) in Garage $800 Extended Patio Pavers $4,000 Expanded concrete driveway $4,500 Kitchen Remodel, New Countertops & backsplash $8,400 New Vinyl Flooring throughout $15,000 Expanded openings & doorways $2,500 Interior painted in 2024 $3,200 Fenced in backyard (metal) $4,200 New pavers in front courtyard $8,000 _________ Total $104,600 Features: Fully owned and paid up Solar (39 Solar Panels) -Banking Credits during Fall, Winter, Spring. Avg APS bill $10.00 Golf Course lot between 12th Green & 13th Tee on Union Hills Golf Course Updated windows, Stucco, New Roof (2021) Private Patio in front and privacy on Back Patio with Golf Course Views and Plenty of mature trees. Spa on front patio negotiable Back Yard Xeriscaping - does not require water Updated front watering system
10757 N 74th Street Unit 2012
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$639,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,932
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6707453
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Over 100k in upgrades, listed below market value!! Complete remodel. Recent comp in same complex sold July 2024 for 691k with no upgrades. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage in the perfect location. Newly updated with new plank and tile floors, new cabinets with soft close doors and drawers, all new light fixtures including LED can lights, new faucets, new sinks, updated showers with glass doors, new freestanding tub. This is a master bedroom split floorpan, open kitchen with dining area, great room with electric fireplace and electrical on wall for your flat screen TV. New 18 bottle wine fridge in kitchen, large island with navy cabinets with gold hardware, extra storage and waterfall countertops. Click for more. 2 car garage has upgraded metallic epoxy floors. New paint everywhere. Large bedrooms to fit king beds and furniture. Big fans in each bedroom with remote controls. Each bedroom has a walk-in closet with shelves, the master has and drawers with locks. Each bathroom has new cabinets, new light fixtures with new black framed mirrors. White wood shutters on the dual pane insulated windows along with insulated walls for dramatically sound reduction. There is a separate large laundry room with front load washer and dryer with new cabinets and more storage behind the door. There are 2 balconies, one is a large covered balcony big enough for a comfortable patio seating set and the other balcony is uncovered. Close to the 101 freeway, great restaurants, grocery stores and entertainment. Townhome is north south exposure. You'll love this! Community has a private community pool and common areas are always clean. Please come see and enjoy. open to offers Recent comps 6712827, no upgrades for $691k at $358.22 per sqft. 6761912, no upgrades for $550k at $388.97 per sqft.
10498 E Cochise Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$639,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,781
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6735402
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
This 55+ neighborhood is in a fantastic location with proximity to Via Linda Senior Center, Scottsdale Ranch Park Tennis Club, 101 and shopping! This 2 bedroom 2.5 bath home has vaulted ceilings and skylights everywhere! There is so much natural light! The totally split floorplan makes it great for guests and the additional room could be converted to a third bedroom! There is a large inside laundry with room for folding and two car garage with built -in cabinets for your collectibles! The community has two beautiful pools and tennis courts for your enjoyment. This home is priced to sell and ready for all your personal touches. Come see this home today!
2801 E Osborn Road
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$639,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,110
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761770
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This cute home is located in the vibrant Arcadia Lite neighborhood of Phoenix! This property sits on a large lot with ample on-site parking behind a secure remote-controlled gate. Inside, the home feels cozy and inviting with a large living room, featuring an updated kitchen with modern finishes and convenient bar seating, perfect for casual dining or entertaining guests. The extended garage has AC & includes a built-in workbench area, ideal for car enthusiasts or hobbyists. Enjoy the convenience of being in the heart of Arcadia Lite, just minutes from popular dining, shopping, and entertainment. This property offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and prime location!