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.
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
2925 W Lynx Drive
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$610,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,357
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782690
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful, newer home in the desirable Promenade by Fulton Homes! This spacious 3-bedroom + office features an open floor plan, ideal for modern living. The kitchen is a standout with sleek finishes and ample storage, while the built-in fireplace adds warmth and charm to the living space. Enjoy the convenience of a built-in mudroom area, keeping your home organized. The 4-car tandem garage offers plenty of room for vehicles and storage. With no front yard neighbors, you'll enjoy added privacy. Community amenities include a pool, parks, volleyball, basketball, and pickle ball courts, plus you're close to hiking, shopping, and the new Pecan Lake Entertainment. This home offers the perfect balance of comfort and convenience!
20750 N 87th Street Unit 2142
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$610,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,356
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785238
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Prestigious Encore at Grayhawk 2-bedroom, 2-bath with 2 car garage overlooking lush open space with mature trees. Beautiful cul-de-sac location in center of community. Great room floor plan with gas fireplace, open to kitchen with stainless appliances, gas range, granite countertops, spacious pantry and breakfast bar. Master suite has own balcony, large walk-in closet, double sink vanity, garden tub and shower. Private and tranquil on both balconies. Washer, dryer and all appliances included. 2 car garage directly below unit with direct access. Lightly lived in and in excellent condition. Close to community pool, fitness center, clubhouse, Grayhawk Golf Club, Isabella's Restaurant, MoJo's, Quill Creek Restaurant, DC Ranch Market Street, and more. See Floor Plan in Photos.
2412 W Crimson Terrace
Phoenix, AZ 85085
$610,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,131
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785687
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the charm of this exquisite 2,131 sq ft home in the desirable Carefree Crossings community. Ideally located just 5 miles from the TSMC Semiconductor plant, it offers the perfect balance of work and relaxation. Enjoy panoramic mountain views, stunning sunsets, and star-gazing under clear desert skies, free from city lights. In spring, watch hot air balloons drift by. The resort-style backyard features a sparkling pool with pencil jet waterfalls, ideal for entertaining or relaxing. With easy access to Sedona and Flagstaff, weekend getaways are shorter drive, saving you time for the adventures you love. Perfect for both peaceful retreats and lively gatherings!
1914 N San Luis Circle
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
$610,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,965
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6784470
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the Hexagon Home, an unique Pearl Certified SIP Home (Structural Insulated Panels) with 8'' layered external walls. Three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, plus a large bonus room. The home has a living area of 2,965 sqft surrounding a 2,700 sqft enclosed courtyard, with a total of 6,150 sqft of everything between the exterior walls. Features include a two car attached garage with RV port, 6' deep pool with water feature, Trex Decking and water capturing system in courtyard, handmade redwood doors, indirect and recessed lighting throughout the home, gourmet kitchen with leathered granite, 36'' oven and stove vent with heat rack, red oak cabinets, 10' and 18' ceilings, glazed dual pane windows, German Blackout rolling shutters, rustic chestnut Pergo floors and gas fireplace There are two new furnaces and AC units, two new 40 gallon water heaters, walk in jetted jacuzzi tub, stained glass window coverings in a cathedral style third bedroom, amazing views of Fort Huachuca and five named mountain ranges. This is a one of a kind enchanting home, see it today!
16005 W Shaw Butte Drive
Surprise, AZ 85379
$610,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,977
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778086
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning model home featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a den/office, a loft, and a spacious 3-car garage. This energy-efficient residence boasts an open floor plan, a formal family room, and prewired surround sound. Enjoy an abundance of cabinets with crown molding, elegant quartz countertops, a gas cooktop, and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. The wood-like tile flooring runs throughout, complemented by plantation shutters. The master suite includes dual sinks, a walk-in closet, and a luxurious walk-in shower. Outside, you'll find beautifully manicured landscaping and an inviting exterior fireplace, perfect for relaxing Arizona evenings. Spacious backyard awaits, complete w/a covered patio and an exterior fireplace. Don't miss it!
1646 N Chestnut Circle
Mesa, AZ 85213
$610,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,769
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786978
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your Dream Home Awaits in Mesa, Arizona! Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac on a spacious .3-acre fenced lot, this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom ranch style home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and outdoor living. Spanning 2,769 square feet, every corner of this home invites you to relax and unwind. Step inside to discover the open canvas for your personal style. You'll find fresh paint throughout the home and garage, and professionally cleaned tile and carpet. Envision yourself in this open-concept spacious kitchen with stainless steel appliances and an abundance of cabinet space, perfect for culinary adventures and entertaining. The remodeled master suite shower brings a touch of luxury for you to relax after a long day. Outside, a backyard oasis awaits! Dive into the in-ground diving pool, or host memorable gatherings in your Arizona room, looking over the beautifully landscaped and fenced yardideal for outdoor dining, lounging, and even extra parking on the extended drive in the back. The expansive yard offers endless possibilities for play, pets, and gardening. Located in a highly desirable neighborhood in Mesa, this home is close to great schools, parks, and shopping, with easy access to everything the city has to offer. Don't miss this rare gem!
15409 W Corrine Drive
Surprise, AZ 85379
$610,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,990
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767241
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spacious 4-bed, 2.5-bath, 2-story home on a corner lot in the desirable community of Marley Park! This home features a wrap-around balcony and porch, large rear patio with built in BBQ perfect for enjoying outdoor living. Inside, you'll find a generous loft upstairs, while the primary suite is conveniently located on the first floor, complete with a separate den/office for added privacy. The backyard boasts a sparkling pool, ideal for relaxation and entertaining. With a 2-car garage and leased solar panels for energy efficiency, this home offers both style and sustainability. Don't miss out on this beautiful property!
1419 California Drive
Chino Valley, AZ 86323
$610,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,937
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6651628
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning single-level home in the Chino Valley is a hidden treasure, surpassing the allure of new constructions. Its flawless design and meticulous layout make it a true gem. Boasting 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage, this spacious abode offers everything you need. As you step inside, the open and airy ambiance, created by the high-volume ceilings, instantly embraces you, making you feel right at home. In summary, this single-level home surpasses expectations with its impeccable design, thoughtful layout, and luxurious features. It is a haven of comfort and elegance, offering a true sense of home. This remarkable home goes above and beyond with its thoughtful features and attention to detail. Each of the 3 bedrooms boasts its own spacious closet, ensuring ample storage
1023 E Fairmont Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$610,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,761
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6673927
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Near ASU and downtown Tempe this charming 4-bedroom, 2-bath home featuring a 2-car garage and RV gated/storage area that is covered with access from front and back. This residence boasts a perfectly flowing layout showcasing tile and wood vinyl flooring, soothing color palette and plantation shutters. The kitchen connects to the living and dining areas with oak cabinetry, a mosaic backsplash, stainless steel appliances, induction oven, modern track lighting and sleek quartz counters. A/C unit is 3 yrs old. French doors lead to a covered patio. Entertaining will be a breeze on the patio with rope lighting or near the fire pit. Home includes security doors and roller shields in rear. New sewer lines in past few yrs.
930 Leisure World --
Mesa, AZ 85206
$610,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,330
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749579
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautifully updated, one-owner home in the highly desirable Leisure World community, celebrated for its exceptional amenities. Since 2004, this home has undergone extensive updates, including new LVP flooring in the kitchen, all new carpet, and paint both inside and out, and a newer roof. Both bathrooms and the kitchen have been stylishly renovated, featuring custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and modern appliances. The master bath offers a zero-step shower and grab bars for ease of access. The home is ADA compliant. Enjoy the large front patio with a rose garden, pergola, and travertine pavers—perfect for entertaining. Plus, it's equipped with surround sound and wiring for data and security systems. Among the lowest HOA fees in the neighborhood.
19618 N 19th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85024
$610,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,005
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6717356
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
New Roof, recently updated AC, Beautiful family home in a tranquil community located on a premium oversized cul-de-sac lot that backs up to a mountain preserve. Property boasts views from the front and the back decks of the valley lights and night stars; 4 bedrooms all upstairs, fireplace downstairs. Beautiful granite countertops and wood cabinets; RV gate with large concrete pad for RV or boat storage or future pool; backyard is an oasis for relaxing, fire pits, desert plants and several fruit trees and private view of the mountain preserve. Close to shopping and 101 access.
899 S Roanoke Street
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$610,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,892
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6723501
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in a prime Gilbert neighborhood, offering an exceptional blend of modern luxury and serene surroundings. This meticulously maintained property offers the perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor tranquility, making it an ideal choice for discerning buyers. Bathed in natural light, this home boasts extensive remodeling with attention to detail. Featuring waterfall countertops, the kitchen is both stylish and functional, catering to culinary enthusiasts. Custom accent walls in the living room and primary bedroom add character and charm. Experience luxury in the spa-like primary bathroom, offering a retreat within your own home. Enjoy a large, private backyard adorned with fruit trees and a sparkling pool, ideal for relaxation and entertaining. New roof in 2021.