Last week’s economic news included readings on consumer spending, core inflation new home sales and regularly scheduled readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.
Consumer Spending Dips in November
Commerce Department reports on consumer spending in November indicated that consumer spending was lower in November with 0.20 percent growth as compared to October’s reading of 0.40 percent growth. November’s reading for core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy sectors, was flat as compared to expectations of 0.10 percent growth and October’s reading of 0.10 percent growth.
New Jobless Claims Rise to 6–Month High
New jobless claims jumped to 275,000 last week as compared to an expected reading of 258,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 254,000 new claims. New claims typically rise during the holiday season due to school and other workplace closures.
There was good news as new jobless claims remained below the benchmark of 300,000 new claims for 94 consecutive weeks. This streak of new claims below 300,000 new claims is the longest since 1970. Increasing numbers of “contingent” workers contributed to volatility in employment; The Rand Corporation reported that 10.10 percent of the workforce was contingent workers in 2005; the percentage of contingent workers increased to 15.80 percent of the U.S. workforce in 2015.
Mortgage Rates, New Home Sales Rise
Freddie Mac reported a jump in mortgage rates last week; the average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was 14 basis points higher at 4.30 percent. The average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was 15 basis points higher at 3.52 percent; the average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rose 13 basis points to 3.32 percent. Analysts said that the 10-year Treasury rate rose 10 basis points in response to the Fed raising its target funds rate. New home sales gained in November with a seasonally adjusted annualized reading of 582,000 sales as compared to 285,000 expected sales and October’s annual rate of 563,000 sales of new homes. This was the second highest reading for new home sales since early 2008. Builders will be watching mortgage rates and new home sales in the New Year to determine how rising mortgage rates will impact new home sales.
What‘s Ahead
Next week’s scheduled economic news includes Case-Shiller Home Price Index reports, pending home sales and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. U.S. Financial markets are closed today in observance of the Christmas holiday.
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8128 E Greythorn Drive
Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
$1,290,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,488
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6789435
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spectacular Superstition Mountain views and golf course frontage are just the icing on the cake for this perfect Villa in desireable Greythorn Village. 36 Hole Jack Nicklaus Golf Course, work out facility, pickleball, pool, tennis, bocce, clubhouse and active social scene. Secluded detached Villa with HOA maintainance. Covered patio provides evenings with unobstructed 360 degree views of Superstion Sunsets. 3 bedrooms all with ensuite bathrooms, one of which is a casita with a separate entrance. 9 foot ceilings throughout, 8 foot solid Alder doors and Viking appliances are just a few of the components reflecting the high quality workmanship in this Lyle Anderson construction. Furniture available on a separate bill of sale. Buyer to verify all pertinent facts. ACT FAST THIS IS UNIQU
9255 W Buckskin Trail
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,290,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,089
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6708890
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your custom retreat on 1.2 acres in Peoria, ideally located near Lake Pleasant and featuring an impressive 1900 SF RV/Boat Garage. This home offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, providing ample room for your multi-generations. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with high-end appliances and finishes, and flows seamlessly into a great room with a breakfast bar, cozy breakfast nook, and formal dining area. Entertain effortlessly in the indoor/outdoor living spaces, which include a putting green, basketball hoop, covered patio, BBQ area, spa, and a sparkling pool that invites relaxation and enjoyment. The spacious layout also features a large workout room with an adjoining steam room, perfect for maintaining your fitness routine. For those who need extra storage or workspace, the property includes a 1900 SF detached RV garage with a large garage doors, one for your RV and the other to store your beautiful boat to take to Lake Pleasant. This garage has ample storage, a workshop, and can accommodate up to 4 additional cars, making it ideal for car collectors or hobbyists. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional property that combines luxury, functionality, and ample space for all your needs.
17518 E Whitethorn Drive
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$1,290,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,651
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6735190
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled on a peaceful road among breathtaking mountain vistas, this home offers unparalleled resort-style living in serene Rio Verde. A thoughtfully designed split floor plan allows for privacy with the primary bedroom split to one wing, away from the other 2 bedrooms in the main house. An attached 1bed/1bath casita is accessible from the back patio. Entertain effortlessly in the great room with a cozy fireplace, a huge built-in entertainment center, a sophisticated built-in bar, and game room with space for a pool table. Adjacent is the chef's kitchen with a large island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a walk-in pantry. Versailles pattern travertine & engineered wood floors as well as other beautiful finishes throughout the home. The deluxe master has an oversized bath suite with an adjoining room that can be used as an office, workout space, or an extra closet. Stunning views of the Tonto National Forest serve as a picturesque backdrop while you're relaxing in the sparkling pool or in the new above ground hot tub among beautiful landscaping and wide-open skies. Additional upgrades in addition to the new hot tub include 2 new A/C units in 2022, an RV Hookup with it's own separate breaker, and an extensive critter fence installed around the perimeter. Don't miss this invitation to luxurious living here in Rio Verde!
27832 N Silverado Ranch Road
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,290,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,532
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6752926
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the tranquility of mountain vistas and the Sonoran Desert with this stunning home! This highly sought-after Whistler plan by Taylor Morrison is nestled in the esteemed Northlands community of North Peoria. Revel in nearby hiking and ATV trails, nearby Lake Pleasant, and breathtaking sunsets. Located in the prestigious Summit Section, this home backs onto the magnificent Calderwood Butte, offering sweeping panoramic views. With exceptional curb appeal, this home is bathed in natural light. The gourmet kitchen boasts upgraded quartzite waterfall countertops, white pinstriped cabinets, and stainless steel appliances, flowing seamlessly into a coffee/wine sitting area looking out to the amazing view. *BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE* The kitchen is open to the spacious family room with a large built-in entertainment center. The generous primary bedroom features a custom closet with ample storage. With three additional bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, there's plenty of space for family and guests. Unwind under the extra-wide pergola, savor the views, enjoy a cocktail, and listen to the soothing sounds of your pool's waterfalls. Whether you love hiking, spending a day at the lake, or simply enjoying the tranquility of your surroundings, this remarkable home offers it all. Don't miss out - come see it today!!
9344 E Via De Vaquero Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,290,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,769
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727480
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Located in the highly sought-after DC Ranch community, this move-in ready Terraces West home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, with the master bedroom conveniently on the ground floor. The open floor plan, complete with separate living, dining, and family rooms, is perfect for entertaining. Situated on a north/south cul-de-sac lot with no homes across the street, this home provides stunning views of the McDowell Mountains. If you're looking for a DC Ranch property in The Terraces, this is the perfect opportunity to make it yours!
2521 W Pumpkin Ridge Drive
Anthem, AZ 85086
$1,289,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,290
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780784
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious Anthem Country Club! This stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom Sonoma model sits on an elevated lot, offering sweeping views of the 17th hole of the Persimmon Golf Course, lush desert, majestic mountains, and twinkling evening lights. The spacious 3,290 sq ft layout includes a versatile den and a 3-car garage, all set on a serene 0.254-acre lot. Inside, a gourmet kitchen awaits with gleaming granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and rich dark wood cabinetry. The open-concept layout flows seamlessly into the cozy family room and dining spaces, perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying the view. The owner's suite is a true retreat, featuring a luxurious tile walk-in shower and ample space for relaxation. Step...CONTINUE READING... ...outside to the backyard oasis where you'll find an expansive patio with an outdoor BBQ/bar area under a pergolaideal for al fresco dining. Unwind in the negative edge spool, heating up to 104°, with a tranquil cascading water feature. Whether you're soaking in the vibrant sunsets or hosting friends, this low-maintenance, meticulously landscaped yard offers the best of Arizona outdoor living. Experience resort-style elegance every day in this breathtaking Anthem Country Club home!
16779 W Holly Street
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$1,287,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,134
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773405
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful Cristall 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers 3,134 sq ft of luxurious living space with golf course view. The home features a stacked stone exterior, a beautiful custom front door and front courtyard. The resort-style backyard is perfect for entertaining with an extended covered patio, lighted pergola, lounging areas with Tiki torches, a built-in BBQ island, 2 firepits, a water feature, and above-ground spa—all overlooking the 14th hole of Tuscany West. The gourmet kitchen is ideal for hosting, featuring a large island, upgraded cabinets, granite countertops, GE Monogram stainless steel appliances, a butler's pantry, and walk-in pantry. The spacious great room offers a stone fireplace and custom media center, with views from the great room, dining area, and main and bedroom. Off the kitchen is a cozy morning room that provides a perfect spot to relax. The primary bedroom offers a serene retreat with an ensuite bathroom featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub, walk-in shower, and large walk-in closet. A second bedroom includes a private bath, while the third bedroom near the front could double as a den or office. Additional features include a 3-car garage, owner-owned 34 solar panels, and a spacious laundry room. Located in the PebbleCreek active adult community, enjoy golf, swimming pools, pickleball, tennis, fitness center, and more.
22633 N Clubhouse Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,286,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,582
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6627247
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This significant golf property located in the highly desirable Pinnacle Peak Country Club in North Scottsdale overlooks the 11th fairway with a spectacular view of Pinnacle Peak. The property is ideal for those looking for an easy-care full-time residence or a lock-and-leave vacation home. All on one level this open flowing floor plan has been updated with new paint, new tile and low-pile carpet floors, kitchen and bath remodels and much more. Using today's modern finishes, this discerning home imparts the move-in-ready aspect. The home is entered from a stone pavered walk-way with room for front patio seating. Through the double door steel framed glass doors, the great room impresses with a vaulted beamed ceiling, iron chandelier, floor to ceiling tiled fireplace, wet bar, and glass sliders that lead to the patio. To the south the chef's kitchen is fully equipped with new granite countertops and appliances, a spacious island with a waterfall side, pendant lights and bar seating. The adjacent casual dining area extends convenience and outdoor access. The serene primary suite, in the North side of the home, features a double door entry, sitting space and patio access. Enjoy the ensuite bath with new double sink vanity, walk-in shower with floor to ceiling tile surround and a walk-in closet. For guests the sizeable second bedroom ensuite opens to the guest bath with tub and shower combination, also opening to the hall. The den or office, off the great room, has a double barn door entry and can easily be used as a third bedroom. The outdoor patio is delightful with views of the golf course and the actual Pinnacle Peak. The vaulted with beams covered patio space mimics the design of the great room inside. An outdoor fireplace, dining ramada, and beautiful mature desert landscape, including citrus trees creates the sought after outdoor Arizona casual lifestyle. Overall, this updated golf property is an excellent opportunity to own a prime location in North Scottsdale's Pinnacle Peak Country Club.
6310 E Ludlow Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,286,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,448
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786546
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Located minutes from Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and top-rated schools, with no HOA, this home offers convenience and peace of mind. From the moment you enter through the striking custom pivot door, you'll sense the refinement that awaits inside. The open-concept floor plan blends comfort and style, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere, bathed in natural light that highlights the vaulted ceilings and exposed beams. The heart of the home is the grand kitchen, boasting brand-new cabinetry, stunning quartz countertops, a sprawling 10-foot island, and top-tier stainless-steel appliances. Throughout the home, timeless oak plank flooring and premium finishes—including Delta eco-friendly fixtures, Bedrosians tile, designer light fixtures, and soft cashmere paint finishes The primary suite offers a serene retreat with dual vanities and his-and-hers showers for a spa-like experience. Set on a desirable corner lot, the property offers beautiful curb appeal, generous parking for vehicles, boats, or RVs, and an expansive backyard oasis. The outdoor space is impeccable, with lush landscaping, ambient lighting, and an efficient irrigation system. A paver patio, enhanced pool area, and charming gazebo create the perfect setting for serene evenings or outdoor entertaining. A detailed list of upgrades and warranties s available in the documents. Schedule your private showing today to experience a haven of cozy, modern living at its finest.
26720 N 156th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,285,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,633
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773995
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Tucked in off the main roads sits this beautifully maintained home on 2.26+ acres w/ lush desert foliage. So many flora colors & different plants feels like a desert oasis. Bring your toys & horses & enjoy the temperature-controlled man cave/shop/extra garage, 2-stall mare motel w/ good sized arena. Lots of room to give you extra privacy & room to add more features. Relax on the patio & enjoy the peacefulness of the desert, watch the sunrise over Four Peaks & take a dip in the gated pebble tec pool w/ waterfall for that unmatched AZ experience. Great open kitchen w/ plenty of room for the chef to entertain guests. Generous cabinets/countertop space & eat-in kitchen along w/ a nicely sized formal dining space. A final bonus: a timed-irrigation raised bed layout for that gardener who.... loves home-grown vegetables & flowers. If you're looking for a spacious desert retreat that's also very quiet & private, this one is a must-see.
4710 N 65th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$1,285,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,630
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6788121
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This is a gorgeous 2 BR/2 BA luxury Villa in Phoenician East. Located on the Phoenician golf course, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the renowned Camelback Mountain. The residence features soaring 12' ceilings, fireplace, large back patio with gate to the golf course. The two master suites have their own bathrooms and large walk-in closets. The kitchen features upgraded Jenn Air Appliances. This is a perfect home for enjoying a lock and leave life. This ideal ultra convenient location is near world class shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square. Plus, dozens of dining options from fine dining to casual dining spots within a 2 mile radius.
30407 N 54th Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,285,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,884
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6686219
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This luxury Toll Brothers home in the highly sought after gated community of Montevista in Cave Creek is just a short walk from the community park, with sport courts and a children's playground! An exquisite 5 bdrm, 3.5 bath residence with professionally designed landscaping, Travertine pathways & a grand courtyard entry! The turreted entry opens to the formal dining room & large media room with a 135-inch movie screen. The core of the home lies in the spacious great room which provides gorgeous backyard views and ample space for all social gatherings. The chef's kitchen is warm and welcoming and features stainless steel appliances, granite counters, dining area, breakfast bar, and a convenient desk area for studying or office work. The split primary suite is located downstairs and is a retreat that boasts soft carpet, a lavish ensuite w/dual vanities, large 6-ft soaking tub, oversized shower, and a spacious walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms are also downstairs, currently being used as offices, and share an updated Jack-and-Jill bathroom. That's not all! There are two more bedrooms and another updated bathroom upstairs, with a cozy loft area. That backyard oasis is a dream, featuring a refreshing 8-ft deep Pebble Tec pool with water feature, paved covered patio and low maintenance landscaping, including mature citrus trees! Close to highly rated Cave Creek schools and short drive to shopping/dining in Old Town Cave Creek and Carefree to the north and Desert Ridge Marketplace to the south.