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.
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
1511 E Luminous Lane
Queen Creek, AZ 85140
$649,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,282
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6716533
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
$$ ALERT $$ This exact model just went pending on golf & asking $1,249,000. What a bargain at this price. Add your own updates and be well under value with a one-of-a-kind just over 12,000 sq. ft. Step outside past the double rolling walls of glass and enjoy the private backyard with mature trees. You'll find stone pavers, built in BBQ, fire pit and turf grass. Inside the home you will find the perfect space to entertain. Step into the primary suite and relax in the sitting room with a good book and glass of wine. Front guest bedroom allows privacy for anyone visiting. The home also offers a ''smart space'' in the laundry room for additional work space and cabinets. The golf cart garage provides more storage as well.
4226 E Everett Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$649,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,267
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750491
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this tastefully remodeled and well cared for home in a desirable neighborhood. The flooring in the great room ties together the living room, dining area and a kitchen that features quartz counters and a brand new complete appliance package. Both the primary and hall bathrooms have been completely remodeled with upscale finishes. The 2-car garage has epoxy flooring, and the walls and attic rafters have been foam insulated for improved energy efficiency. The front yard is nicely landscaped and the walled-in backyard has a large natural grass area with plenty of room for the future addition of a swimming pool. The neighborhood is located less than 2.5-miles from the reimagined PV dining, entertainment, and retail experiences. Come discover your new home.
22706 N 17th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85024
$649,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,181
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738561
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spacious 2-Story Home: 4 Bbds, 2.5 Bths, Office and Enormous Loft! This stunning home has space for everything you need! Step inside to discover a versatile office or flex space, perfect for a home office or playroom w/ beautiful laminate flooring. The open-concept kitchen and dining area create an inviting atmosphere for both everyday living and entertaining. The primary bedroom is conveniently situated on the main level, featuring laminate flooring, an en-suite with a shower and tub, and a huge walk-in closet. New carpeting throughout! Upstairs, you'll be amazed with The Giant Loft! Option to build a 5th bedroom. A sizable laundry room with shelving storage. Three Large Bedrooms, all with walk-in closets. Backyard has a view fence and no neighbors behind, giving you ultimate privacy! Living in the Eagle Bluff community means you have access to top-notch education just a short walk or bike ride away to the nearby schools. The location is unbeatable. Enjoy outdoor activities at the Reach 11 Park or the Cave Buttes Recreation Area. Shopping proximity to Desert Ridge and the Shops at Norterra. You're also moments away from major highways like Loop 101, the 51, and I-17, making commuting a breeze. Plus, Costco is just a few minutes south! Don't miss your chance to make this dream home your reality!
7007 S Sipapu Court
Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
$649,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,839
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742466
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your patience has paid off! This is the one! This beautiful 2,839 sq/ft home is located in the coveted subdivision of Hermosa Hills in the prestigious Gold Canyon! Tucked away on a massive1/3 acre lot in a very quiet culdesac and backs to State Trust Land so no backyard neighbors! HOA only $54 A YEAR! Talk about pride of ownership...The current homeowners left no stone unturned! 2 brand new 55 gallon water heaters. Enjoy the 5 bedroom PLUS loft. Downstairs bedroom off the garage entrance. The primary bedroom has an outdoor patio that overlooks the mesmerizing and priceless views of the beautiful Superstition Mountains. Tranquility and Peace at its finest! Just minutes away from local shopping, entertainment, multiple award winning golf courses and so much more! This home is true gem!
7710 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 133
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$649,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
978
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747694
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Updated ground floor unit with fantastic patio and no steps! This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhouse boasts an oversized patio perfect for entertaining or relaxation. Located on the first level with a garage, this home is situated in the serene community of The Courts at Gainey Ranch. Just steps away from the newly renovated Estate Club at Gainey Ranch, enjoy the lifestyle of tennis, pickleball, a workout facility, two heated pools and spas, and an events center. HOA includes almost everything!
902 E Goldenrod Street
Phoenix, AZ 85048
$649,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,927
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6748472
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss your chance to own in this highly sought after community. This freshly polished gem is nestled at the base of South Mountain, offering resort-like views and a private backyard perfect for sunsets and stargazing. Recent upgrades include a refreshed pool, kitchen and bathroom updates and new flooring throughout. Located in the top-ranked Kyrene School District, this home is just steps from playgrounds and park concerts. This home checks all the boxes.
914 E Osborn Road Unit 201
Phoenix, AZ 85014
$649,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,708
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775211
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Experience New York Loft Living in the Heart of Phoenix! This exceptional home features sleek polished concrete floors, a striking fireplace wall, a floating wood staircase, and artistic touches throughout, making it a true architectural masterpiece. The chef-inspired kitchen boasts modern flat-panel black European cabinetry, elegant quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator and a Fisher & Paykel oven with an induction cooktop—perfect for crafting gourmet meals. Ideal for entertaining, the kitchen seamlessly flows into the dining area and great room, while two walk-out balconies provide stunning sunset views and a front-row seat to Phoenix's 4th of July fireworks. Each bathroom is meticulously designed with a stylish blend of natural wood and chic tile finishes, balancing modern elegance with timeless charm. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious walk-in closet with custom cabinetry, glass doors, integrated lighting, and ample storage space for all your belongings. This home also includes a spacious laundry room with cabinets for extra storage and a tankless water heater for added convenience. With three designated parking spots in the garage, this loft offers urban sophistication paired with practical desert living truly one of a kind!
20364 N 52nd Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85308
$649,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,532
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762638
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream retreat! This stunning single-level home features an inviting open concept design, highlighted by new paint, new light fixtures, new carpeting in the great room and elegant bamboo flooring in the bedrooms. The expansive 15-foot sliding glass doors effortlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, leading to a sparkling heated self-cleaning pool with breathtaking views of the tranquil lake and majestic mountains.Nestled in a serene cul-de-sac, this home offers direct trail access for outdoor enthusiasts and a brand new dock perfect for canoeing, kayaking, catch and release fishing and relaxing by the water. The spacious primary bedroom boasts a huge closet, providing ample storage, while the beautifully remodeled bathrooms feature luxurious finishes, including seamless glass showers and a jetted tub for ultimate relaxation. Additional highlights include exquisite marble flooring, plantation shutters throughout for added privacy, and a recently replaced HVAC system ensuring comfort year-round. With easy freeway access and proximity to Scottsdale and Westgate, this home truly embodies the perfect oasis for those seeking both convenience and tranquility. Don't miss your chance to make this remarkable property your own!
11214 W Sunflower Place
Avondale, AZ 85392
$649,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,382
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763884
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
GARDEN LAKES! Do you want a house with some character on the lake? Enjoy the comforts of this single story, lake front home with low Maintenace landscape and private deck to dock the peddle boat along with outdoor furniture (INCLUDED) to enjoy the outdoor wildlife and or catch and release fishing. Large spacious rooms with vaulted ceilings with wood beams and lots of natural light and expansive lake views. New A/C unit 2yrs old, with a Nest Thermostat, Newer Roof 4yrs old, updated kitchen, updated main bedroom bath, and other custom features. New carpet to be installed or credit to buyer for flooring. Motivated Sellers so all respectable offers considered. Owners relocating so they are selling personal items also. (separate transaction) This is a must see!
1251 E Parkview Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85295
$649,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,237
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765501
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOWZA! Newly remodeled, fantastic home in Spectrum has everything! Offering 4 beds, 2.5 baths, 3 garage spaces including tandem, & a manicured landscape. Inviting interior showcases tons of natural light, designer paint, & wood-look flooring t/out. W/a large living/dining room & an open-concept family room, you have spaces for relaxation & gathering. The impressive kitchen boasts SS appliances, granite counters, a pantry, ample cabinetry, track lighting, & a 2-tier peninsula w/breakfast bar. The master bedroom is downstairs! It features an ensuite w/two vanities, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Secondary bedrooms & a versatile loft await upstairs. Enjoy the spacious entertainer's PRIVATE backyard with a covered patio, built-in BBQ, synthetic & natural lawns, and a sparkling pool!
8373 W Andrea Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$649,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,682
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767297
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Explore this stunning 2-story gem in Peoria, complete with a spacious 3-car garage. You'll be captivated by its warm wood-look flooring, soaring ceilings, and the generously sized living room, perfect for relaxing. A formal dining area is ideal for memorable gatherings, while the chic kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, granite counters, a pantry, white cabinetry, and a breakfast bar. The primary suite offers a tranquil retreat with a bay window, dual sinks, a soothing tub, and a walk-in closet. A huge bonus room provides flexibility as a media center or additional bedroom. Step outside to the lush backyard oasis featuring a covered patio, paver sitting area, built-in BBQ, gorgeous mountain views, and a sparkling pool. You'll want to see this beauty in person! Don't miss out!
8520 E Highland Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$649,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,576
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775687
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Great opportunity for investors or end users to remodel or build new in the heart of Scottsdale!Located on a highly desirable street within walking distance to Old Town where renovated homes are selling for over $2 million.Property features:4 bdrms,2 baths, great room layout w/ a stacked stone wood-burning fireplace.The kitchen has stainless steel appliances & new wood countertop on peninsula. 4th bdrm w/ a separate entrance is perfect for a home office.Large backyard w/ a blank canvas, plenty of room for a pool & new block wall replaced wood fence. Additional features include inside laundry & large storage shed.Close to downtown Scottsdale,101 freeway, & Scottsdale Community College, this family home is zoned for Saguaro High School & offers great potential!