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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6840 N 13th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85014
$1,335,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,543
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763871
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Assumable VA loan available! Modern living meets luxury upgrades in this 4/2.5 home located in North Central Phoenix. Built in 2019, this property offers a seamless blend of contemporary design and eco-conscious features, all without the burden of an HOA. The open floor plan highlights clean lines and modern finishes, including finished concrete floors, euro-style cabinets, a redesigned kitchen island with new countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a natural gas cooktop. Expanding on the eco-conscious theme, the property features beautifully designed xeriscape landscaping, complemented by a custom vegetable and herb garden, creating your own personal oasis in both the front and back yards. Sun-blocking window shades and owned solar panels ensure year-round energy efficiency The house boasts 2 beautiful patios, one in front and back, along with a custom veggie/herb garden to round out your outdoor oasis'. Conveniently located near the Midtown Corridor, Arcadia, Biltmore Fashion Square, and Downtown Phoenix, this home offers easy access to top shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as major highways for quick commutes. Don't miss the chance to own this thoughtfully designed, move-in-ready home.
9622 W Villa Chula Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,335,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,194
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772702
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Highly Desirable Home in the Meadows Community built by Toll brothers.This stunning home has been upgraded with attention to every detail.. The backyard is a resort-style retreat, offering a walk-in pool, a beautiful Ramada, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen. Sliding doors open to this spectacular outdoor space, creating seamless indoor-outdoor living.The state-of-the-art kitchen includes upgraded lighting fixtures, premium countertops, and a wine cellar, making it a chef's dream. This move-in-ready home features vaulted ceilings 4 bedrooms,2.5 bathrooms ,office a versatile media or gym room and amazing lighting .Designed by the owner, a talented designer, every wall reflects love, care, and elegance throughout the house. The furniture and artwork for sale also. A MUST SEE HOME
261 E Bracciano Avenue
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
$1,335,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,242
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692640
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning elegance, breathtaking expansive elevated golf course views, 3 CAR OVERSIZED GARAGE and this could all be yours... live in the East Valley's premier private golf course community of Encanterra CC. This incredible Create floor plan offers open concept living with 2 primary suites, walk in closets and gorgeous quartz and stone upgrades abound! Luxury vinyl plank flooring, throughout. Separate office, (or can easily convert to 3rd bedroom),open great room with chef's delight, Island kitchen, SS appliances, B/I Sub Zero refrigerator. Automatic shades, triple panels wall of glass allows for indoor/outdoor living!. Enjoy the serene back patio and yard overlooking the #16 tee box and fairway! This is one of Encanterra's premier golf locations!
7466 E Thorntree Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,335,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,787
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738319
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Soft contemporary desert home located on a serene cul-de-sac in The Boulders, featuring sweeping views of Black Mountain. Highly sought after floorplan with several entertaining options, soaring ceilings, zero interior steps throughout. Living spaces are open, bright and spacious featuring hardwood & flagstone flooring. Kitchen with Sub Zero refrigerator flows beautifully into family room with gas fireplace. Primary suite is oversized, offering multiple closets and generous bath. 2 additional guest rooms, one currently being used as an office, round out to property to a full three bedroom, three bath. Lot feels oversized and is adjacent to open space, desert vistas abound as well as patio space for dining al fresco. Sophisticated, imbibed with natural light, this home is a distinct find.
22455 N 55th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85054
$1,330,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,529
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767304
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
VIEWS!! Better than photos can capture. ALL recent major system updates: HVAC, paint inside & out, gas water heater, whole home H2O filtration, all patios resurfaced, recirculation pump, and new large trees planted. Meticulously maintained home flooded with loads of natural light. Inviting floor plan, separate game room, split primary bedroom includes dual vanities, dual closets & patio access to relax & enjoy colorful sunsets. Unwind in the peaceful backyard w/extended patio which offers built in BBQ and an outdoor dining area. A rare lot with mountain AND golf course views create a resort style experience in your very own backyard.
2524 W Joy Ranch Road
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$1,329,900
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,808
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6727091
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this pristine 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home, barely lived in for four months since its construction, yet enhanced with over $110,000 in luxurious upgrades since move-in. The residence boasts a sprawling 47'x19' RV garage that seamlessly connects to an additional 4-car garage, offering ample space for vehicles and storage. Enjoy the convenience of fully paved access to the property, including an oversized concrete driveway. The property benefits greatly from its location directly across the street from miles of state trust land, which enhances its already amazing views. Inside, the home exudes modern elegance with wood-like tile plank flooring, soaring ceilings, and an open-concept layout ideal for comfortable living. An electric fireplace creates a cozy focal point in the spacious living room, while the large kitchen island invites gatherings with its abundant seating and plenty of cabinet space. A versatile nook provides flexibility for a coffee bar, breakfast area, or window bench. The masterfully designed laundry room includes a practical mudroom area, adding to the home's functionality. Outside, the fully landscaped backyard is a retreat with extensive pavers, artificial turf, and a generously sized covered patio, perfect for outdoor entertaining or relaxation. Privacy is assured by a block wall enclosing the backyard. Conveniently situated directly across from state land, the home offers breathtaking mountain views and easy access to hiking and riding trails. Quick connectivity to the I-17 ensures effortless commuting and access to amenities. This home is perfect for those seeking a move-in ready property.
5837 E Paradise Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,329,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,421
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780762
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
COMING SOON...one of the best remodels in North Scottsdale with an expected completion date of 11/20/2024. Everything is being remodeled. New flooring, beam through kitchen and living room, kitchen, quartzite countertops, white GE Cafe appliance package, 2 tone cabinets with lighting, all new windows throughout with sliding doors (off kitchen and primary bedroom), lighted bathroom mirrors and custom primary walk-in closet, new interior and exterior paint, new custom garage door, pebbletec pool and cool decking finishing, all new front and back landscaping (artificial grass, rock), built-in outdoor kitchen, wine bar with 2 wine fridges, tiled living room wall with electric fireplace.
7180 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 312
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,329,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,461
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747905
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Experience modern luxury living in this stunning 2-bed, 2-bath unit in Optima Kierland Condominium! Home exudes elegance with recessed lighting, a neutral palette, wood-look tile flooring in common areas, and Berber carpet in bedrooms. The large open layout creates an inviting and spacious atmosphere, ideal for everyday living & entertaining! The gourmet kitchen is a cook's delight, featuring granite counters, flat-panel cabinetry, a prep island w/breakfast bar, and high-end SS appliances w/cooktop gas. Split floor plan adds extra privacy! Oversized main bedroom has a cozy sitting area and an ensuite with dual sinks & a walk-in closet. Secondary bedroom also includes its own walk-in closet & private bathroom. The east-facing orientation captures the breathtaking sunrises and the McDowell Mountains' iconic purple hues at sunset. The Optima Kierland lifestyle offers unparalleled living with premier access to world-class dining, shopping, and golfing. Enjoy exceptional amenities like a rooftop oasis with 360-degree views, a pool, spa, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, sauna, and more. Additional perks include a fitness center, pickleball courts, golf simulator, basketball, yoga studios, and a rooftop running deck. Don't miss this rare opportunity!
8073 N Harmony Lane
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
$1,325,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,969
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756276
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
To be built. New larger floor plan offering 2969 sqft! Plans semi-customizable. This luxurious home will be built on one acre at the base of the San Francisco Peaks. Almost instant access to Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort and world-class hiking/biking trails, yet only minutes from downtown Flagstaff. Pictures featured are from a previously completed home. They are provided as an example of amenities available. Exact amenities and buyer selections will vary. This open floor plan features a gourmet kitchen, a great room that transitions seamlessly to outdoor living with spectacular views of the peaks. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths with a pull-through RV garage!! Homes by this builder completed on adjacent lots. Pictures & additional info available upon request.
1902 E Cloud Road
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$1,325,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,810
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6740641
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss out on this beautiful new construction home, to be built. Contract now and pick your finishes and upgrades. Spacious pull through RV garage that is connected to an additional 4 car garage. Wood-like tile plank flooring and high-ceilings throughout the home. Open concept living space with a split bedroom floor plan. Large kitchen island with space for counter seating, lots of cabinet space for storage, and a nook to be used for so many possibilities, such as a coffee bar, breakfast table, or even a window bench. Block wall enclosing the backyard for privacy (photos taken before wall was complete). This home is located across from state land, no dirt roads and great views. *PHOTOS are of previously build same floor plan.
8507 E VÃa De La Escuela --
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$1,325,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,270
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761140
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Timeless and fully renovated in McCormick Ranch! Home underwent a complete renovation in 2021. Light, bright and open with a custom marble waterfall island and butcher block peninsula. Black metal doors open to a stunning front courtyard for outdoor grilling, dining or relaxing in the evenings underneath the bistro lights in front of an outdoor gas fireplace. A 12-foot wall of black metal doors opens fully to reveal a charming and private back yard featuring a diving pool, cactus garden, and artificial turf. The floorpan has been opened up for seamless indoor/outdoor living and features a vaulted great room, chef's kitchen, dining room and breakfast nook. The primary suite was expanded for a generous walk in closet and has a fireplace with french doors leading to the rear covered patio.
3739 E Sagebrush Street
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$1,325,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,461
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6714172
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful 4-bedroom residence nestled in the Lakeview Trails Community! Prepare to be impressed by a spacious open layout showcasing tile flooring, a fresh soothing palette, recessed lighting, and high 12ft ceilings in Living room and Kitchen . The remarkable Gourment kitchen features light gray cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, a chic mosaic herringbone pattern backsplash, double wall oven, a walk-in pantry, and a large center island including a breakfast bar. Discover the main retreat comprised of soft carpet in all the right places, a walk-in closet, and an immaculate ensuite for added comfort. Host memorable gatherings in the fabulous backyard, offering covered and open patios! What's not to like? Make this heaven yours!