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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41644 N 277th Avenue
Morristown, AZ 85342
$645,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,700
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780700
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Newly remodeled 3-bed, 2-bath home on 3.4 picturesque acres with 360 mountain and Hassayampa River views! This 2,700+/- sq ft residence features a new kitchen with quartz countertops, new modern bathrooms, new flooring, appliances, fresh paint, and a new roof. The guest bath offers a soaking tub by the fireplace, while the primary suite exudes charm with wainscoting on the walls and a custom walk in shower. Ideal for horse enthusiasts, the land includes an existing corral and a huge level area for a future arena. The land is surveyed for a 5-parcel split. There is a storage shed with bathroom and a covered carport. Located 25 minutes from Loop 303 & Surprise, and 15 minutes from Wickenburg. Country living at its best with easy quick access to the city. Can sell with more areage.
7813 E Cypress Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
$645,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,548
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6788901
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
You don't want to miss out on this gem of a home in the heart of South Scottsdale. It has charm from ceiling to floor. The first thing you'll appreciate is the great curb appeal and attractive landscaping. Step inside to a large living room and kitchen areas with wood-like tile flooring. You will spend a lot of time in the fantastic backyard offering covered patio and sparkling swimming pool. Fantastic location on a cul de sac and minutes from downtown Scottsdale, the 101, 202, Tempe Marketplace, Sky Harbor airport, great schools, and more. This one won't last long so hurry and come take a look.
8350 W Mary Ann Drive
Peoria, AZ 85382
$645,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,634
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773644
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous Fletcher Heights Fulton home* brand new roof 2024* brand new solar panels 2024- seller paid $35k for solar panels* sparkling pebble tech play pool* cozy mid west style front porch* 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms* 2634 sq ft* 2 car garage* beautiful remodeled white kitchen cabinets w? brushed nickel hardware* all stainless steel kitchen appliances* newer stainless steel Bosch dishwasher and refrigerator* freshly painted exterior pop outs* remodeled white linen and laundry cabinets* freshly painted white custom baseboards* new lighting fixtures and brushed nickel door handles* remodeled owners suite master bathroom w/ beautiful custom walk in shower* gas heat* gas fireplace in family room* full length cozy back patio* custom pavers in backyard, front yard and side yard* beautiful synthetic green grass front and back* open views on the full length walk out balcony right outside the master bedroom* just resurfaced pool deck* gas water heater* added insulation in attic* raised block backyard wall a couple of feet for added privacy* nice backyard golf putting green* spectacular backyard for entertaining & enjoyment* highly desirable Fletcher Heights community* top rated Peoria schools* close to A+ Rated Sunrise Mountain High School* close to shopping* restaurants* schools* golf* Arrowhead Mall* the 101 and much more* fantastic home!
18518 W Acacia Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85338
$645,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,430
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784388
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Enjoy ultimate energy efficiency with a FULLY PAID SOLAR SYSTEM! This stunning 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom with a den, offers an open-concept space perfect for modern living. Located in the tranquil 'Inspire' neighborhood of Estrella Mountain Ranch, the home features a spacious interior that seamlessly flows from room to room. The backyard offers a quiet, private retreat perfect for relaxing under the pergola or entertaining. Enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance landscaped yard with plenty of space; this home combines indoor and outdoor living.
10013 E Trent Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$645,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,550
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784732
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning home offers all the modern upgrades of a nearly new build, designed with an inviting open floor plan that blends style and functionality. The bright and airy kitchen is a true centerpiece, featuring sleek marble countertops, state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances, and plenty of space for culinary creativity. With five spacious bedrooms, a versatile loft, an additional game/living room, and sliding glass doors that fill the space with natural light, there's room for everyone to relax and enjoy. The low-maintenance backyard is perfect for entertaining, complete with a gazebo that creates the ideal spot for grilling, dining, and unwinding outdoors. This resort-style community truly has it all! Enjoy amenities like a sparkling community pool, tennis and basketball courts, a scenic bike path, a playground, a community center, a fully equipped gym, and a dog park. Conveniently located near major freeways, shopping, the Legacy Sports Complex, and Mesa Airport, this is the perfect place to call home. Don't miss the chance to make this dream home yours!
1276 N Vulture Mine Road
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
$645,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,672
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786201
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Million Dollar View! Sit on your back patio or in the spa enjoying the big views of Vulture Peak and starry skies. NO HOA!! Within minutes to championship golf!! Beautiful home with open concept living space. Kitchen remodled with Kropf custom cabinets; Brazilian Quartzsite countertops; under cabinet lighting; stainless appliances, including top-of-the-line Bosch dishwasher; and an island with breakfast bar. Roomy dining area and living room with wood beams, Santa Fe fireplace, and a wall with built in shelving. There is also an ensuite bath with shower featuring floor to ceiling tile. Seller installed new windows in 2022. Well pump was also replaced in 2022.
3774 E Shannon Street
Gilbert, AZ 85295
$645,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,011
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6767226
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
3774 E SHANNON ST, Gilbert, AZ 85295 - beautiful interior corner lot with extensive upgrades over past 5 years, new quartz countertops, new windows, wall to wall laminate flooring, gas range, RO system, Trane AC unit, garage split AC unit for exercise room/man cave, amazing oversized master tiled shower, new ceiling fans, window coverings and lighting throughout, surround sound, Owned solar - save $ on electric bill, new waterfall feature at heated pebble tec play pool and new pavers front and back. You can not replicate this home for the purchase price!
1924 E Rockwood Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85024
$645,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,528
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6777756
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful, fully remodeled home on a corner lot with an RV gate and no HOA. The interior features an open floor plan with lots of natural light, a white kitchen with quartz counters and stainless appliances. Primary suite has a cozy fireplace, walk-out deck, an extra sitting room that is currently set up with a desk, gorgeous bathroom with quartz counters, dual vanity, stand-alone bathtub and a large frameless shower. The low maintenance backyard has a heated pool, spa and artificial turf. Great family neighborhood conveniently located with easy access to freeways, excellent schools and premier shopping and dining. *New roof in 2023*
12170 W Eagle Ridge Lane
Peoria, AZ 85383
$645,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,908
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6777974
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautifully appointed single story with a split floorplan is waiting for your creative ingenuity and unique vision! Some of the upgrades include crown molding, plantation shutters, higher end appliances and knotty alder cabinetry. Perfect multi-generational living! Bring your eclectic style to this wonderful home situated in Vistancia, a master planned community that includes tennis courts, hiking trails, and a swimming pool. Enjoy nearby attractions - just a15 minute drive from Lake Pleasant Regional Park and only 20 minutes from the Peoria Sports Complex, the spring training home of the Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres.
231 W Denton Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85013
$645,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,964
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6781050
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
STOP THE SEARCH THIS IS THE ONE!! THIS FULLY DETACHED PATIO HOME IS LOCATED ONLY STEPS FROM ALL THAT NORTH CENTRAL PHOENIX HAS TO OFFER. THIS HOME FEATURES 2 BEDROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS AND A HUGE OFFICE SPACE THAT COULD EASILY BE CONVERTED INTO A 3RD BEDROOM. THE NEWLY RENOVATED KITCHEN IS A CHEFS DREAM WITH A HUGE CENTER ISLAND AND MODERN FINISHES. THE MAIN LIVING SPACE HAS TOWERING CEILINGS AND TONS OF NATURAL LIGHT FROM AN ATRIUM VISIBLE FROM NEARLY EVERY ROOM. STEP OUT TO THE LOW MAINTENANCE AND PRIVATE BACKYARD WITH MATURE FICUS TREES. NEW A/C IN 2023 AND A NEW ROOF IN 2024. THIS PROPERTY WOULD BE PERFECT AS A FULL-TIME RESIDENCE OR A LOCK AND LEAVE FOR SEASONAL RESIDENTS. HOA FEE IS ONLY $100 PER MONTH. BETTER HURRY, THIS ONE WILL BE GONE QUICK! WELCOME HOME!!
2018 E Aspen Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$645,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,886
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6775579
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
You'll always feel on vacation upon entering the private gate of this Tempe home. The desert botanical-like courtyard hugs the Spanish style home that is brimming with natural sunlight through vaulted ceilings and intentionally placed windows. The home features a custom, unique flare of a dine-in booth in addition to the adjacent dining room dripping with ambience, a spacious master suite, a guest bedroom ready for hosting and an office with a special surprise (Peloton room? Wine cellar?). Grocery stores of the finest: Trader Joe's, Whole Foods and Sprouts to name a few. With hot restaurants, Tempe Town Lake and the Cubs stadium, Arizona State University and Shalimar Golf Course all within a couple of miles, this perfectly placed abode is also accessible to the 101, 202 & 60 interchanges.
18936 E Amethyst Drive
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$645,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,015
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6745521
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Corner unit townhome in a quiet setting. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Den/Office- currently set up as an art studio with barn doors. Primary Suite has dual vanities, walk in shower, linen storage, large closet. Guest room currently set up as an office w/ walk in closet and hardwood floor. Guest bath with single vanity and new Kohler therapeutic walk- in tub/jacuzzi/shower. Great room adjacent to kitchen with patio access. Gourmet kitchen with desirable 6 burner Gas Range with dual ovens, warming drawer, microwave, Bosch fridge, appliance garage, granite counters. Casual dining area. Laundry room w/ sink & built in desk. Covered patio with extension for plenty of outdoor seating & entertaining. Lush landscaping. 2 car plus golf cart garage. Whole house water filtration system. Come , see, buy