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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8532 W Rancho Drive
Glendale, AZ 85305
$624,950
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,871
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6734484
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
GORGEOUS 5BDRM/3BATH HOME IN MINT CONDITION W/UPGRADES GALORE!! SOARING CEILINGS & EXTENSIVE USE OF PLANK FLOORING GREET YOU AS YOU ENTER THIS OPEN & SPACIOUS FLOORPLAN! BEAUTIFUL GOURMET KITCHEN W/42' CABINETRY & QUARTZ CNTRTOPS W/LRG WATERFALL ISLAND/BRKFAST BAR - UPGRADED SS APPL, DBL OVEN, HOODED STOVE & PENDANT LIGHTING - LRG MSTR SUITE W/GLASS WALK-IN TILED SHOWER - FIBER OPTIC INTERNET - PAVERED DRIVE & WALK-WAY, COVERED PATIO + HOME CLOSE TO THE NEW MATTEL ADVENTURE PARK, CARDINALS STADIUM, SHOPPING, RESTAURANTS, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE!! A MUST SEE!!
16213 N 9th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85022
$624,950
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,910
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6745175
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
BLACK FRIDAY BLOW OUT PROMOTION!! Submit the Black Friday Coupon in the documents tab with your offer to receive $7,500 off the listed price!! All written offers must be submitted with the coupon by 11:59 pm on Sunday, December 1st to receive this promotion. NO EXCEPTIONS! BUYER COULD NOT PERFORM-BACK ON MARKET!!! Brand new roof!! Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch-style home at 16213 N 9th Place! Located in a peaceful cul-de-sac, this 1,910 sq. ft. home features an open concept living space with a split floor plan, luxury vinyl plank wood-look floors, a custom kitchen with a large island, coffee bar, and white cabinets that complement sleek silver appliances. The dual shower primary bathroom with elegant double sinks add a touch of luxury. Outside, enjoy the covered patio, oversized backyard, RV parking, and desert landscaping. The community offers a private park, playground, and green belt, and it's just minutes from Lookout Mountain with easy access to the I-17 and 51 freeways. This home has it all!
31006 W 213th Lane
Wittmann, AZ 85361
$624,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,100
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727483
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
60 DAYS & DONE - You don't want to miss this turnkey single-level home offering a 3-car Tandum and a Full RV Garage! Get an up-close look to discover a captivating open floor design filled with bountiful natural light, high ceilings, lovely flooring, soothing palette, recessed lighting, a cozy fireplace, and sliding glass doors to the patio. Prepare gourmet meals in the impeccable kitchen boasting shaker cabinetry with crown molding, beautiful counters, a convenient pantry, and a large island w/a breakfast bar. Owner's suite is a true retreat, providing a private bathroom and a sizable walk-in closet. The secondary bedroom enjoys a walk-in closet too. Sit back & relax under the covered patio while drinking your favorite drink! Contract now and put your personal touch on your new home
2055 W Edgemont Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85009
$624,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,061
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764540
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exquisitely updated 3 bedroom 2 bathroom private gated backyard and garage access corner lot. beautiful timeless finishes and well maintained property., no maintenance backyard with artificial turn and putting green
9023 S Dean Road
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$624,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,148
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762884
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Stunning, Custom 4BD/2BA plus office/den Home features 2,148 sq ft of Gorgeous, living space situated on a Huge lot! Enjoy the breakfast bar, ample, custom cabinetry w/lots of counter space in this Amazing, chef's kitchen, w/custom stone backsplash & under-mount cabinet lighting. Luxurious LED fixtures enhance the home's ambiance, while the Luxury, Spa-like bathroom features custom tile, a rain shower head, & water jets! Eco-friendly w/paid-off solar panels! & a sediment filtration system! this home is stylish & sustainable. The wood-like, tile flooring throughout and with no HOA, you have freedom & flexibility. Spacious 3-car, side-entry garage & dedicated, fenced-in dog run, complete this perfect modern oasis in the desert! You have to see this one to believe it!
936 N Roadrunner Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$624,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,592
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6778347
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this beautifully updated and meticulously maintained home on a spacious 1.25-acre lot, featuring breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains! As you enter, you'll be welcomed by soaring wood-beamed ceilings, creating a grand sense of space. The bright Great Room, complete with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, seamlessly flows into an open-concept kitchen - perfect for gatherings and relaxation. The kitchen is a showstopper with stunning quartz countertops, designer cabinetry, and sleek stainless steel appliances. Unwind on the serene covered patio, designed for ultimate comfort and enjoyment. Additional upgrades include smart shades, a smart thermostat, a CCTV security system, and a separate mini-split heating and cooling unit for the back room. Ideal for RV enthusiasts, the property also features a large covered parking structure. This home is truly a rare find!
12810 S 209th Lane
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$624,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,983
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6778549
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Very well kept 2017 home on 1 ac of ready to bring the horses & toys fenced property with no HOA! Interior updates include large rooms, tile flooring, kitchen bay window, granite counters & island, R/O & water softener, ceiling fans, newer blinds & carpet in bedrooms, surround sound wiring in LR & Patio. Exterior security doors, extended back covered patio & fenced newer play pool with travertine & water feature. Back grass area with timed sprinklers, large 3 car garage with cabinets & parking slabs. Even a horse arena & open-air shade structure with 5 covered horse pens & room for hay, 3 RV gates, trailer parking & 50 amp RV plug. Back area includes large top-rail pipe fencing. Riding trails are less than 1/2 mile away, don't miss this great home!
16814 S 37th Way
Phoenix, AZ 85048
$624,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,458
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6777415
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Come check out this beautiful Spanish style home, with a southwestern flare lies in the desirable LAKEWOOD area of Ahwatukee. Near highly rated schools, as well as dining/shopping and freeway close makes this a winner before you even step inside! Once inside you'll notice so many great features like high and vaulted ceilings, a rare wood burning fireplace, fireplace in spacious primary bedroom, enclosed sun room addition (permitted), tons of storage and so much more. Fun fact...this was one of the original model homes, which is why it has such a large lot! Speaking of lot, the inviting backyard has a sparkling pool, mature trees, turf and the perfect environment for entertaining. Come tour this unique beauty today!
6750 W Via Montoya Drive
Glendale, AZ 85310
$624,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,539
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756139
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with over 2,500 sqft of living space! This inviting property boasts a generous floor plan featuring tile and wood flooring in high-traffic areas. The chef's kitchen is a culinary enthusiast's dream, offering abundant cabinet space, a large island with pendant lighting, high ceilings, stainless steel appliances, and large pantry int laundry room. The primary bedroom provides ample room with an en suite featuring dual sinks, a separate stand-in shower, and a walk-in closet. Vaulted ceilings and a great room add to the home's open, airy feel. Step outside to a covered patio, ample backyard space with cozy seating areas, and an outdoor fireplace perfect for entertaining. Plus, enjoy the convenience of a 3-car garage. Don't miss out on this gem!
2099 S Mountain View Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$624,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,940
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787145
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Views Views Views! This home sits at the base of the Superstition Mountains and has unobstructed views. Amazing home on over an acre. Vaulted ceilings in the main living room. Chefs kitchen with a custom built hood over the range. Master bedroom has mountain views from the windows. Updated bathrooms with new cabinets, flooring and fixtures. Master bedroom has a private exit out to the backyard to the spa. The possibilities are endless with this vast open space, providing room for all your toys, boats, trucks, and RVs. Conveniently located a mile from the freeway! Come see this one of a kind property.
23625 N Bridle Way
Florence, AZ 85132
$624,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,556
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6715194
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into this breathtaking semi-custom home situated on a sprawling 1-acre lot with horse privileges and an impressive 30'W x 48'L shop, ideally located in a sought-after NO HOA community. Boasting 4 bedrooms and 2 ½ baths, this residence exudes elegance with its vaulted ceilings, inviting fireplace, and a generous open concept living/dining area adorned with plantation shutters. The expansive gourmet kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, featuring white cabinets, stunning black blizzard granite countertops, a pantry, and a spectator bar with seating. Sleek black fingerprint-resistant stainless steel appliances and ambient under-cabinet and over-cabinet lighting complete the kitchen's allure. Two luxurious primary bedroom suites offer comfort and space, while one suite features features an oversized ceiling fan for added relaxation. A dedicated laundry room includes a front-load washer and dryer for convenience. Outdoors, indulge in the 12' x 67' covered patio and an extended 3-car garage with on-slab parking for 6+ vehicles. Enjoy year-round comfort with sunscreens, security doors, and ceiling fans throughout. For seamless outdoor entertaining, discover a detached 28' x 20' covered patio equipped with a built-in BBQ grill, sink, and refrigerator. Access to the property is secured by two sets of double gates and a walk gate from the street, with an additional walk gate along the back fence leading to a natural wash bordered by lush foliage, ensuring unparalleled privacy. This remarkable property epitomizes space, privacy, and convenience in a desirable community without HOA restrictions. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity!
1728 N 156th Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$624,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,916
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6729548
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover Your Dream Home in Palm Valley! Professional home inspection already completed!!!! Welcome to your new haven! This stunning, highly upgraded home in Palm Valley is a true gem, offering over $160k in luxurious enhancements. Perfectly situated close to all the vibrant attractions the Goodyear area has to offer, this home is designed for those who seek both comfort and sophistication. Key Features: Spacious Living: With 4 bedrooms and an additional 12x18' (approximate) flex room, this home offers ample living space. The large flex room with custom barn doors is perfect for an office, media room, or playroom. Elegant Interiors: Enjoy the beauty of 12x24'' plank tile flooring and 10' ceilings throughout the home. MORE ... Gourmet Kitchen: The heart of the home features oversized granite countertops, double ovens, a gas cooktop, abundant cabinet space, a walk-in pantry, and stainless steel appliances (including a new dishwasher, disposal, and microwave). The large dining nook with padded bench seating for 12 is perfect for entertaining or large gatherings. Luxurious Master Suite: The master retreat boasts bay windows, a master bath with a tiled shower, a double full-mirrored door to the closet, an oversized tub, granite counters with double sinks, and a custom-designed walk-in closet. Thoughtful Layout: A split floor plan ensures privacy with 2 additional bedrooms featuring walk-in closets and a connected Jack & Jill full bath. Functional Spaces: The laundry room offers ample counter space and cabinetry. Two solar skylight tubes brighten the front entry and living space. A metal security front door adds an extra layer of safety. Garage & Driveway: The garage includes a 2-foot extension, epoxy flooring, ceiling storage racks, an extended paver driveway, and custom cabinetry. Desert oasis on an Expansive Lot: Nestled on a large 10,000+ square foot fully landscaped corner lot in a cul-de-sac, across from a large park. Backyard Paradise: Ideal for entertaining, the backyard features an above-ground hot tub, a spacious covered patio, travertine decking, paver sidewalks, a raised garden area, gas stub, solar and custom lighting, an oversized gate, and a two steel cactus including a saguaro cactus that light up at night. This home is meticulously designed to pamper its new owners both inside and out. Some furnishings may be available for purchase outside of closing. Don't miss the chance to make this exquisite property your own. Step into your dream home today!