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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1384 N Alexis Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$625,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,108
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787092
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Modern Elegance Meets Relaxing Retreat in Superstition Meadows! Discover your dream home in the heart of Gilbert's coveted Superstition Meadows subdivision! This beautifully remodeled single-family home boasts 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 luxurious bathrooms, and a versatile den perfect for a home office or playroom. Step inside to an open floorplan bathed in natural light, featuring modern finishes throughout. The newly remodeled kitchen gleams with sleek cabinetry, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances, seamlessly connecting to a welcoming living space designed for entertaining or quiet evenings at home. Outside, the tranquil backyard is an entertainer's paradise. Enjoy Arizona living under the expansive covered patio or custom pergola, gather around the cozy fire pit, or relax on the lush turf surrounded by established, low-maintenance landscaping. The new roof provides peace of mind, ensuring this home is move-in ready. Located near top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and easy freeway access, this stunning home offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience.
15225 N 6th Circle
Phoenix, AZ 85023
$625,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,684
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777789
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing Moon Valley location! Well-cared for 3 Bedroom/3 Bath tucked in a cul-de-sac. Huge bonus room could be craft room, storage, home business or workshop! Enter into formal living room with double-sided fireplace. Family room leading to updated kitchen. Formal dining room. Primary bedroom with French doors. 2 spacious secondary bedrooms, one with office built-ins. E-facing patio with view fencing. Beautiful HOA-maintained grounds with community pools. Solar Lease has been PAID forward! No neighbors behind! Walking distance to Moon Valley Park, convenient to shopping, freeways, schools and more!
48039 N Kelley Road
New River, AZ 85087
$625,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,954
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776384
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this single-level home with breathtaking mountain views on a vast 5-acre lot! Enjoy carport parking and a large front porch, perfect for sipping morning coffee while soaking in the scenery. Inside, the spacious Arizona room is ideal for gatherings or relaxation. The open living and dining area is filled with natural light and cozy carpet. The kitchen offers storage shelves for easy organization. Each bedroom provides a peaceful retreat, with the primary bedroom featuring exposed ceiling beams, tile flooring, and a private bathroom. Plus, a fabulous casita awaits as a fantastic bonus! Massive backyard displays a covered patio, gazebo, and storage shed. Don't miss this gem!
925 W Heatherbrae Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85013
$625,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,284
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6779789
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to a rare find in the heart of the Woodlea Historic District—a classic English Tudor on one of the most iconic streets, complete with a charming guest house and nestled on a lush, irrigated lot. From the moment you arrive, this storybook home enchants with its curb appeal: mature shade trees, a paver walkway, and a sunny front porch that invites you to step inside. Enter through the beautiful paned glass front door and fall in love with the spacious living room, where original wood floors, coved ceilings, built-in bookshelves, and a stunning plaster fireplace create a timeless ambiance that's both cozy and elegant. The kitchen has been thoughtfully updated with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, ample shaker cabinets, and stylish tile flooring, seamlessly blending modern convenience with historic charm. The primary suite is a luxurious retreat, featuring a sitting area, an updated ensuite bath, walk-in closet, and a private exit to the lush backyard. The home's second bedroom (currently used as a dining room) and the fully updated guest bath make hosting a delight, while the dedicated indoor laundry space adds extra ease to daily life. Step into the backyard and discover the charming guest house with a half bath, perfect for visitors, a home office, art studio, or anything your heart desires. Surrounding outdoor spaces provide private, tranquil areas to unwind and enjoy Arizona's beautiful weather. Located just a short stroll from the vibrant shops and restaurants of Melrose, this home is as ideal as its neighborhood. Don't miss your chance to own this classic Tudor- rarely does a home this special come to the market. (Main home is 1080 sqft with 2 bed/2bath, guest is 204 sqft with 1/2 bath)
22769 E Orion Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$625,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,635
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727430
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Wait for the Builder? No need with this upgraded ready to go beauty! 4 bedroom 3 bath home with tandem 3 car garage, finished backyard with artificial turf and great landscape. Home is highly upgraded and move in ready now! 12x8 sliding glass door that leads out to the extended covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry, garage service door and an 8' garage door. Stainless steel gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop/canopy hood. Tahoe Cherry slate cabinets through out with 42'' upper kitchen cabinets with 4-1/4'' crown. AZT Della Terra Quartz ''Linen-Off white'' quartz countertops. Upgrade floor includes Aura Cream 20x20 tile and Neutral color carpet. White Matte 4x12 ceramic tile at the shower/tub surrounds in owner's bath. Water softener and gas stub finish off the perfect home.
3535 E Covina Street
Mesa, AZ 85213
$625,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,584
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769474
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**AMAZING TRI-LEVEL with GORGEOUS CURB APPEAL** Be impressed with the lush lawn and fragrant roses as you step into this updated Mesa home. Sunlight, vaulted ceilings & neutral paint give this home an airy feel. The main level features a large great room & formal dining area with views of the spacious backyard filled with grass, trees & garden! The updated eat-in kitchen boasts 2 large pantries, granite counters, gas range, stainless appliances & French door refrigerator. Upstairs you'll find the owners suite with double vanity, tile shower, garden tub & walk-in closet. There are two more bedrooms & bath upstairs. The downstairs family room makes a perfect game room, play room or media space. Two bedrooms & bath complete the downstairs. You'll love.... ...the storage of the spacious 3 car garage. There is a soft water system, R/O system too. Located across the street from green space, its like having your own park! Come and see this beautiful home today!
2920 S 96th Street
Mesa, AZ 85212
$625,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,334
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6780421
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Check out this gorgeous home in the highly sought after Mesquite Canyon Community. Plenty of parks, play areas & Gilbert Schools! This home has 4 bedrooms 2 baths and a large office space that can be converted into a 5th bedroom. The updates are breathtaking! Quartz countertops, a large kitchen island, tile in every room, recess lighting and fresh custom paint are just some of things you will love. The gorgeous master and guest bathrooms are a must see! The master bedroom has a private backyard entrance for a convenient access to the new pebble tech pool! New AC was just installed. Close to shopping, dining, freeways and entertainment!
4046 E Del Rio Street
Gilbert, AZ 85295
$625,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,268
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766936
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning single-level home built by Shea Homes, featuring a desirable split floor plan with 4 spacious bedrooms and a versatile bonus room perfect for a home office, workout space, or even a mother-in-law suite. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting custom cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances. With tile flooring throughout, a recently replaced roof, AC and a brand-new water heater, this home is move-in ready.. Step outside to your serene, private backyard complete with flagstone walkways, and enjoy the convenience of an RV gate. Located near the 202 freeway and close to local favorites like Joe's Farm Grill, you'll never be far from great dining and shopping. This home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience!
9618 E Monterey Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85209
$625,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,389
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787044
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This gorgeous two story home with 4 beds & 2.5 baths offers mature landscaping and 3 car garage. Inside a bright foyer welcomes you upon entry; formal living room, dining, and large family room are some attributes that can't be left unsaid. Lovely kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, large 42' oak cabinets, solid surface counters, island, breakfast bar, pantry, and breakfast room. Office/Den space & powder room on 1st level. Upstairs you will find a loft & a large bonus room ideal for an entertainment area. Master suite has vaulted ceiling that add to the spacious feel, full bath with dual vanity, separate tub/shower, and walk-in closet. Stunning backyard boasts covered patio and fabulous pool.
2132 Quail Court
Page, AZ 86040
$625,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
2,358
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6699099
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home! This charming Santa Fe-style abode boasts 4 beds and 4 baths, perfect for your family's comfort. With a spacious two-story layout, every corner exudes warmth and character. Hard flooring throughout ensures easy maintenance, while granite countertops elevate the kitchen and bathrooms with timeless elegance. Embrace the Southwest vibes and make cherished memories in this inviting sanctuary.
1873 E Mcnair Drive
Tempe, AZ 85283
$625,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,138
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6663148
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing location in Tempe! Welcome home by Oasis Anozira lake subdivision, with community walking path around the nearby lake. This home features 4 bed. , 2.5 baths, Family room opens to the kitchen w/ island & dining area , Formal Living Room & Dining Room w/ Vaulted Ceiling , From Master Bed. you can exit to the beautiful, huge balcony & enjoy the outdoors. The Master bath features double sinks, separate shower, bath tub, toilet room & walking closet. Garage includes built in cabinets, front entrance with tile & lash landscaping, the extended back patio has newer ceiling, neutral tile, the walkway along the house. Enjoy the beautiful landscaped yard with large grassy area. House has new A/C (installed Jan. 2024) and great location, close to major freeway, shopping, dining..
17750 W Pershing Street
Surprise, AZ 85388
$625,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,526
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6696333
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous Single Level 3 bedroom plus an Office/Den or 4th Bedroom One full bathroom and one full deluxe bathroom. Kitchen plus Nook Lot Size: Almost 1/4 acre. ''Huge back yard'' Extra driveway added with 2 RV Gates. Open floor Plan. Lrg Family Room. Formal Living & Dining Room. Lrg Laundry Room. Large private pool (10k Gal) and Hot tub. Cobble stone driveway & 2nd RV gate added. 5+ Parking Spaces, plus Security/Motion lighting added,(Front and Back). Minutes to golfing, Walmart and more. Easy access to 303 hwy. New Recreation Center coming in 2025, three mins away.