Last week’s economic reports were in short supply due to the Christmas holiday. Events reported included Case-Shiller home price indices, pending home sales and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. Consumer confidence was also released.
Case–Shiller Readings Indicate No Slowdown in Home Price Gains
Case-Shiller’s October readings for its home price indices showed continued growth in home prices. In spite of rising home prices and mortgage rates, high demand for homes and slim supplies of homes for sale continued to fuel higher home prices.
According to Case-Shiller’s national home price index for October, home prices rose 5.60 percent on an annual basis as compared to September’s reading of 5.40 percent. The 20-city home price index rose to 5.10 percent from September’s reading of 5.00 percent. Case-Shiller’s 10-city index also gained 0.10 percent in October with a reading of 4.30 percent year-over-year.
Seattle, Washington, Portland, Oregon and Denver, Colorado had the highest year-over-year home price gains in October with readings of 10.70, 10.30 and 8.30 percent respectively. David M. Blitzer, Managing Director and Chairman of the S&P Indices Committee, said that “Home prices and the economy are both enjoying robust numbers,” but he also cautioned that rising mortgage rates and home prices growing faster than wages continue to pose obstacles for some home buyers. The Federal Reserve is expected to raise its federal funds rate in 2017, which is expected to prompt rising mortgage rates.
Mortgage Rates Mixed, Pending Home Sales Fall
Pending home sales fell 2.50 percent in November. Analysts said that post-election reaction helped to drive mortgage rates higher, which made homes less affordable for first-time and moderate-income buyers; Sellers and buyers may have postponed decisions to sell or buy as they waited for volatile post-election responses to ease.
According to the National Association of Realtors®, pending home sales fell to their lowest level in almost a year with an index reading of 107.30 in November. September’s reading was 110.00. The holiday season and rising mortgage rates were seen as contributing to fewer pending home sales.
Freddie Mac reported the ninth consecutive week that fixed rate mortgages rose. In the final mortgage rates survey for 2016, the average rate for a 30-year mortgage rose two basis points to 4.32 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was three basis points higher at 3.55 percent. 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rates averaged 3.30 percent, which was two basis points lower than the prior week. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for all three mortgage types.
New jobless claims were lower last week with a reading of 265,000 new claims filed. Analysts had expected 270,000 new claims filed based on the prior week’s reading of 275,000 new claims filed.
In spite of rising home prices and mortgage rates, consumer sentiment was higher than expected in December with a reading of 113.70 as compared to expectations of 110.00 and November’s reading of 109.40.
What‘s Ahead
Next week’s scheduled economic reports include Labor Department releases on Non-Farm Payrolls, and the national unemployment rate. ADP payrolls and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will also be released. Financial markets are closed today in observance of New Year’s Day.
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3520 E Pearl Circle
Mesa, AZ 85213
$1,700,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,839
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771344
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
LUXURY LIVING AT ITS FINEST! This stunning custom-built home offers over 4,839 square feet of refined elegance in the prestigious Montana Dorada community. Nestled on a premium cul-de-sac lot, this 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath masterpiece boasts spectacular mountain and city light views from every room! Step through the impressive iron and glass entry doors into a world of sophistication, where high-end finishes and custom details abound. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring built-in fridge, double ovens, gas range, granite countertops, a vegetable sink, and exquisite cabinetry. Enjoy indoor-outdoor living with surround-sound wiring, perfect for entertaining inside or by the resort-style heated pool and spa, complete with a waterfall, built-in table, and patio fireplace. The opulent master retreat includes a cozy fireplace, sitting area with built-in desk and mini fridge, and a spa-like bath with a large Jacuzzi tub and a walk-in shower with six showerheads. Step out onto your private balcony to take in breathtaking views or unwind in your own serene space. The exterior has been freshly repainted, and the home is equipped with three new A/C units (2024), two water heaters, and an air-conditioned workroom in the garage. With luxury upgrades too numerous to list, this home truly has it all, including an inviting backyard oasis with a fireplace and lush green lawn. MOTIVATED SELLER bring all reasonable offers! Don't miss your chance to own this one-of-a-kind property in a prestigious location!
36511 N Porta Nuova Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,700,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,061
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781694
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to 36511 N Porta Nuova Road, an exquisite Scottsdale retreat blending modern elegance with Southwest charm, perfect for snowbirds or anyone seeking year-round desert warmth. Nestled in a prime Scottsdale location, this luxurious home places you minutes from world-class dining, upscale shopping, championship golf, and scenic hiking. Bask in panoramic views of the Sonoran Desert, where mountains, vibrant flora, and stunning sunsets surround you. Inside, the home offers grand spaces with soaring ceilings, sophisticated finishes, and a gourmet kitchen featuring premium appliances and custom cabinetry. Resort-style amenities abound, including a sparkling pool, spa, and lush gardens that make every day feel like a vacation. The primary suite provides a private oasis with a spa-like bath and a balcony capturing breathtaking desert vistas. Escape to Scottsdale's tranquil beauty and mild wintersschedule your private tour today and experience luxury desert living at its finest.
5549 E Saguaro Vista Drive
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,700,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,124
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6735458
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the Sedona, a contemporary open-concept design to be built. Car collectors and RVers will appreciate the storage, featuring an oversized 3-car tandem garage plus a 49' deep RV garage. The home includes 4 bedrooms, office, 4.5 bathrooms, island kitchen, and a guest suite with a private living room. The owner's suite boasts a free-standing tub, a walk-through shower, and an oversized walk-in closet. Enjoy quality finishes such as 90/10 smooth walls, 8' doors, quartz countertops, and 12' ceilings in the great room and kitchen. The build is enhanced by energy-efficient spray foam insulation, 2x6 framed exterior, fully sheathed construction, and a post-tension foundation. Pictures are from a model home w/ available options. Buyer to verify all facts and specs.
8642 E Camino Real --
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,700,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,569
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767390
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Check out this amazing opportunity in the heart of Pinnacle Peak! Nestled on over 2 acres, this is one of the rare gems available in the beautiful GATED community of Pinnacle Paradise. Tucked away at the back of the neighborhood, this quiet & private property features a huge fenced backyard, just waiting for your vision. There is an abundance of space in this 5 bedrooms & 4.5 bathrooms home, 4 bedrooms equipped with its own ensuite. The split floor plan includes a spacious primary suite with a bonus room that's perfect for an office or workout space. If you're looking to live or invest in the Pinnacle Peak area, this is your chance! You'll be just minutes away from DC Ranch, Kierland, Scottsdale Quarter, & TPC Scottsdale, with plenty of shopping & dining options nearby. Don't miss out!
23430 N 84th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,700,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,896
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784263
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Outstanding residence on a 1-acre lot with impressive mountains, sunsets, & sunrise views! You will love the natural desert landscaping & oversized courtyard with synthetic grass. The 3-car garage, extra long driveway, & RV gate allow you to bring your toys, cars, & trucks. Inside, be welcomed by a delightful living room & a family room with a fireplace. High wood beamed ceilings, clerestory windows, stone floors, neutral palette, French doors, pre-wired surround sound, & arched doorways. Architecturally & aesthetically pleasing! Chef's kitchen showcases granite counters, a plethora of cabinets w/crown moulding, tile backsplash, & stainless steel appliances, including a pot filler. The main retreat offers a lavish bathroom with a garden tub, a dual sink vanity, a floor-to-ceiling tiled shower, & a walk-in closet. Host fun gatherings in the huge backyard comprised of a built-in BBQ, outdoor pizza oven, fireplace, large covered patio, artificial turf, outdoor shower & a sparkling pool. You don't want to miss this excellent property!
15618 E Centipede Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$1,699,999
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,369
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742123
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This fully renovated 3 level modern Pueblo home boasts unique layouts, the primary bed perched atop, while kitchen & living occupy the middle level. Also available with furnishings! Dive into luxury with pool access from bottom level or side of the property. Enjoy an acre of privacy, with no HOA! Nestled against the protected McDowell Mountain Regional Park, your views remain pristine! With impressive curb appeal, pull into a private drive & experience desert landscaping. The kitchen features top-of-the-line SS KitchenAid appliances & quartz countertops, with a living/dining area perfect for entertaining & admiring views through massive windows spanning the entire width of the main-level. The primary bedroom offers the perfect spot to bask in the beauty of your surrounding the primary bathroom features dual-sinks, and a separate soaking tub to relax and unwind. Downstairs has a guest bedroom, bonus room, two private entrances off of the pool area, and a full bath offering added seclusion for your guests. Ideal as a mother-in-law suite or for a teenager looking for their own space. Step outside to the pebble tec salt water pool and hot tub where you will experience unmatched peace and serenity, along with the beautiful and unspoiled scenery. This home features a freshly epoxied 3 car garage with custom cabinetry to store all of your toys and tools. If privacy, views, curb appeal, and a beautifully renovated desert retreat are on your wish list, look no further!
12620 E Troon Vista Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,699,995
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,580
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6663184
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Desert Contemporary style architecture! This open 3bdr/3bth floor plan offers ample space for entertaining. Views of Troon Mountain and close proximity to the Mountain House Lodge Community Amenity. The Caullins' welcoming covered entry and inviting foyer lead to the spacious great room and dining room, with views of the large covered patio beyond. The well-designed kitchen is equipped with a large center island with breakfast bar, plenty of counter and cabinet space, and ample dual pantries. The beautiful primary bedroom suite is highlighted by a huge walk-in closet and deluxe primary bath with dual-sink vanity, large soaking tub, luxe glass-enclosed shower with seat, and private water closet. Designer appointed finishes throughout.
5917 E North Lane
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$1,699,935
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,250
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6706610
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Escape to your dream home, where luxury living awaits! From the moment you arrive, you'll be awe-inspired by the designer touches throughout this custom home, which has recently undergone nearly $400,000 worth of renovations. This style embraces the ideals of living with a mix of natural design elements: mixes of wood, metals, and natural stone create true modern simplicity. From the distinctive ambiance of the custom ''Polished Simplicity'' fireplace to the open-concept kitchen with waterfall quartz island that easily seats 6, dual-toned sleek cabinetry, high-end stainless-steel appliances, including a Column fridge, Induction range, Kraus workforce sink with designer two-toned faucet... you are transported into true luxury. The primary bedroom is a haven for relaxation The primary bedroom is a haven for relaxation, boasting exceptional finishes, a double entry door, an extended walk-in closet, an aesthetic designer wall, and an impressive spa-like bathroom suite: a floor-to-ceiling glass-enclosed free-standing soaker tub/a separate shower, a double-sink modern vanity with a private toilet room, and a slatted niche. The backyard is an oasis of peace and tranquility, with complete privacy as it backs a natural area of open space. The yard boasts a pebble-tech pool with a substantial paved patiothe covered patio with a tongue and groove ceiling has a dramatic concrete floor-to-ceiling fireplace. There's even a convenient outdoor bathroom! This home is truly one of a kind! Take advantage of this opportunity to own a slice of paradise..before it's gone!
1624 Gettysvue Way
Prescott, AZ 86301
$1,699,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
5,232
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760907
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Elegant 5232sf home in The Dells at Prescott Lakes! Grand entry foyer, open great room w/ gas fireplace, huge kitchen with double island, formal dining room and private breakfast nook. Wraparound entry porch, expansive rear deck with outdoor fireplace and built-in barbecue, and a private courtyard patio with a koi pond and water feature--and the list goes on. The entire 2nd floor is a majestic master suite! Enter from a loft/sitting area with sweeping views of the granite dells to a large parlor, grand bedroom, enormous walk-in closet, and luxurious master bathroom w/ walk-in steam shower/sauna, PLUS a den w/ wet bar and fireplace; 2 separate private decks, 2 staircases and an elevator! Large, landscaped lot, 3 car garage and more! Chandeliers in nook and dining room do not convey.
25219 S 194th Street
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$1,699,900
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,032
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777980
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Wow! If you're searching for a new, custom-dream home, look no further! This outstanding masterpiece is the one! Nestled on a desirable corner lot, it displays a 3-car side garage, pool, built-in bbq & lounge are, RV gate, mature landscape, & a spacious front porch. Discover a sophisticated, contemporary interior boasting high-end finishes & meticulous attention to detail. Engineered hardwood floors, HUGE open floor plan adorned w/exposed ceiling beams is ready for entertaining! Magazine-cover kitchen is a chef's paradise, fully equipped w/a plethora of elegant cabinets & cupboards, recessed lighting, top-of-the-line built-in appliances, a walk-in pantry, quartz counters & backsplash, & a waterfall island w/a breakfast bar. Office and game room finishes out this remarkable home. Double doors reveal the owner's retreat, complete w/direct outdoor access & a modern ensuite comprised of dual sinks, garden tub, large enclosed glass shower, & a walk-in closet. PLUS! Versatile den offers space for an office, extra bedroom, or gym. You'll LOVE the oversized backyard, showcasing a covered patio, built-in BBQ, grassy area, & a crystal-clear pool. This gem has it all!
2223 E Tonto Place
Chandler, AZ 85249
$1,699,100
7
Beds
5.5
Baths
4,809
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6730103
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW! Stunning South Chandler single-level home with a 2023-new Guest House/Casita! Highest-quality construction and finishes throughout with almost 5,000 sq.ft. total, and a total of 7 bedrooms and 5.5 baths. Enormous gourmet kitchen with two islands, quartzite countertops, dual wall ovens, gas cooktop, and built-in refrigerator. Main house has a spacious primary bedroom, an en-suite mini-master, and a Jack-and-Jill bathroom; guest house has 2 bedrooms/2 baths. Resort-style background with huge sparkling pool, outdoor kitchen, and firepit for entertaining. 2023 Guest House has the finest and newest finishes and upgrades; must be seen to appreciate! Few opportunities like this with a Guest House come on the market in this extremely popular location in Chandler; simply a must-see property!
3310 S Horizon Place
Chandler, AZ 85248
$1,699,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
4,039
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6736199
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious, gated golf and lake community of The Vistas at Ocotillo. This breathtaking 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom residence offers an unparalleled living experience with stunning waterfront views and luxurious amenities. As you step into this gorgeous home, you'll immediately be struck by the expansive, open-concept design and soaring ceilings that create a sense of grandeur and space. The heart of the home is a chef's delight, featuring a spacious kitchen with ample cabinet space, a massive island, and high-end finishes. The kitchen seamlessly flows into the large family room, where oversized windows frame picturesque views of the serene lake. Step outside to your own personal oasis, where the covered patio and built-in BBQ invite you to enjoy al fresco dining. The heated, negative edge pool with its stunning boulder waterfall is a focal point, offering a luxurious retreat right in your backyard. The home also boasts a 3-car garage with an epoxied floor and built-in cabinets, providing ample storage and organization. The owner's suite, conveniently located on the first floor, offers a private sanctuary with direct access to the picturesque outdoor space. Additionally, the first-floor also features a 5th bedroom that can be used as an office, providing flexibility for your needs. Experience the ultimate in luxury living with this exquisite home, where every detail has been thoughtfully designed for your comfort and enjoyment. Don't miss the opportunity to make this spectacular property yours.