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
2220 W Chisum Trail
Phoenix, AZ 85085
$599,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,846
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786825
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Located across from Heirloom Park, welcome to this beautifully designed Papago plan, offering 1,846 square feet of luxurious living space. With its charming Craftsman exterior elevation and inviting covered entry paved with elegant pavers, this home is designed for both style and comfort. The heart of this home is the stunning kitchen, featuring stainless steel GE Cafe appliances which compliment the white painted shaker cabinetry on perimeter and on the kitchen island. All is accented by stylish champagne bronze cabinet hardware which perfectly complements the 42'' upper cabinets and 3'' crown molding. Enjoy the beauty of Hana Sky colored Della Terra Pilar countertops, and a contemporary white mosaic backsplash. The large single basin stainless steel sink, paired with a Moen Align matte black kitchen faucet, adds both functionality and style. Retreat to the luxurious bathrooms featuring white painted shaker cabinets, white cultured marble countertops with rectangular sinks and Moen Gibson matte black premium 8 widespread faucets. Upgraded Meridian brass vanity lights illuminate your space. The Dal Tile Vicinity 6x36 Natural wood look tile flows seamlessly throughout the downstairs and into bath 2 and the laundry room upstairs. The primary bathroom showcases exquisite Paros Whie Hex 14x16 tile, providing a spa-like experience. Upstairs, a tasteful paint grade mission stair rail and is complimented by plush Shaw Kennfield carpet in the shade Ecru adding warmth and comfort, all trimmed with upgraded 4 ¼ baseboards. Throughout, the 8' interior doors adorned with matte black door hardware throughout, adding a touch of sophistication. The side yard is perfect for entertaining, featuring a convenient gas stub for a BBQ, making outdoor gatherings a breeze. This home also includes a soft water loop and electric car charger package for added convenience. Located in Union Park at Norterra this home offers not just a living space, but a lifestyle. Don't miss the opportunity to make this your forever home! Tree-lined streets, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and a 5,500 sf recreation center with resort style pool an kiddie pool, shaded ramadas, parks, gathering areas, pickelball courts and basketball. Close to I-17, 101 and 303. Walking distance to restaurants, movies, entertainment and shopping.
11450 E Utopia Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$599,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,800
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785998
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
''Welcome to this stunning 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home with 2 dens located in the East Valley's newest community, Destination at Gateway! Step into the spacious home with 10-foot ceilings, adorned with elegant 8-foot interior doors and 4 1/4 inch baseboards. The home boasts 6 x 36'''' wood look tile in main areas, exuding a sense of luxury and warmth. Prepare exquisite meals in the gourmet kitchen, featuring a 36-inch gas cooktop and canopy hood, complemented by beautiful 42-inch white shaker cabinets with cabinet hardware. The kitchen dazzles with quartz countertops, a stylish kitchen backsplash, an Undermount sink, and a sleek matte black faucet. The bedrooms offer a peaceful retreat, while the bathrooms showcase upgraded lights and elegant matte black faucets. This home is a testament to modern elegance and attention to detail, offering a harmonious blend of style and functionality.
2991 N 200th Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$599,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,598
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783432
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Ask about special financing with preferred lender. This single-level home features an attached private suite with its own entrance, living room, kitchenette, bedroom, bathroom and garage. The main home offers a den off the foyer, an open living area and two bedrooms, including the lavish owner's suite with a spa-inspired bathroom and walk-in closet. Photos are renderings of a model home, not the actual home. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.
3035 W Thurman Drive
Laveen, AZ 85339
$599,990
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,628
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742953
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautifully upgraded single-story home offers 9-ft. ceilings and an open concept, split floor plan. The modern kitchen features 42-in. upper cabinets, a large center island with pendant light pre-wiring and sleek quartz countertops, a walk-in pantry, and Whirlpool® appliances - including built-in microwave, electric range, and French-door refrigerator. You'll find stunning vinyl plank flooring throughout common areas and plush carpet in the bedrooms. The private primary suite includes an oversized closet, and the primary bath boasts a walk-in shower, dual-sink vanity with modern square sinks, and an enclosed water closet. This home also includes a 40-gal. gas water heater and A/C unit with Wi-Fi-connected ecobee smart thermostat.
7617 W Smoketree Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$599,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,953
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6751349
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand new community in North Peoria! This stunning single story home offers 1,953 sq ft of functional living space. It features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, den, and a 2 car garage. The open concept kitchen is perfect for entertaining and features an Island, a walk-in pantry and stainless steel appliances. It also offers our Harmony Palette which includes gray painted 42'' cabinets, slate gray quartz kitchen countertops, 4x8 kitchen backsplash, and 6x24 wood looking plank tile in all the common areas. The great room offers a 4-panel center sliding glass door so you can step out into your covered patio to enjoy indoor/outdoor living in your backyard with friends and family. The primary suite has a spacious walk-in closet, double sinks, walk-in shower, and an additional linen closet for extra storage. This home also features a paver driveway, 8 foot interior doors, soft water loop and much more! Great location close to dining, freeways, parks, and entertainment!
31953 N 117th Avenue
Peoria, AZ 85383
$599,990
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,921
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755502
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
It's the beautiful Clover in the beautiful community of Mystic. 3 bedrooms + flex space to use as you wish. Multi slide door that leads out to the covered patio. Large walk-in shower at owner's bath with tile. Stainless steel gas appliance package with 36'' cooktop, wall oven, microwave, glass canopy hood. Barnett Maple Latte cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers, pull out trash drawer. AZT Ripieno quartz countertops in kitchen and both baths. Mohawk REV wood laminate Casita court in all areas except beds/closets. Amenity Rich Mystic includes a Resort Style community pool, Rec center with year-round events, Hiking paths & community parks. The perfect location- close to shopping, restaurants, golf, Lake pleasant and the loop. PICTURES ARE FROM THE CLOVER MODEL HOME.
11465 E Utopia Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$599,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,506
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776944
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
''Stunning 3 bedroom home with seperate Den and 2.5 Baths, located in the East Valley's newest community, Destination at Gateway. Discover this inviting home featuring a 4 Panel Center siding glass door off the great room, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor living. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, including a 36-inch gas cooktop, built-in wall oven and microwave, along with gray shaker cabinets adorned with stainless steel hardware and a convenient trash pull-out. The quartz countertops and stunning kitchen backsplash add a touch of elegance to the space. Throughout the home, 8-foot interior doors with upgraded satin nickel door hardware create a modern, cohesive feel. The main areas are adorned with 6x 36'' wood-look tile and 4 1/4-inch baseboards, providing a stylish foundation for the home. Bathrooms feature upgraded vanity lights and brushed nickel bath faucets, while the primary bathroom offers an enlarged shower and a separate soaking tub for relaxation. With 10-foot ceilings, an oversized laundry room, a separate valet area at the garage entrance, and a paver driveway, this home is designed to offer both luxury and practicality, providing a comfortable and stylish living space for you and your family.
6765 W Molly Lane
Peoria, AZ 85383
$599,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,051
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773969
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
North/South Exposure with scenic views! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'El Dorado' floorplan features 3 full bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes White Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 9' ceilings, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, Desert Backyard Landscaping and Smart Home Technology. Home is now complete and ready to call home, photos of actual home!
5831 E Rose Garden Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85054
$599,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,743
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6725515
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
IGNORE DAYS ON MARKET HOMES ARE ALMOST DONE PICTURES COMING SOON! Like the beaches in Hawaii, this home will ruin all other homes for you with how gorgeous it is. With no neighbors behind and a North/South facing orientation you will be able to enjoy the beautiful sunrises and sunsets every day. But let's not forget about the interior! 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths with a spacious loft upstairs makes this house a home!! Quartz countertops, white cabinets and wood-like flooring only add to its allure. This home is estimated to be completed in September so do not hesitate! Actual Home photos coming soon
16355 W Desert Mirage Drive
Surprise, AZ 85388
$599,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,623
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6710584
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the Topaz - with 4 bedrooms + study and 3 full baths. Multi slide door that leads out to the extended covered patio. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Stainless steel gas appliance with 30'' built in cooktop and wall oven. Tahoe Maple Boulder cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers and a pull out trash drawer. AZT Hana Sky quartz countertops in kitchen with stainless steel under mount single bowl sink. 8' tall interior doors. Upgrade flooring includes DT Broxburn Gray 6x24 plank tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. 5'' base boards and 3 1/4'' door casings throughout. 8' tall garage door for those high profile vehicles with garage door opener and much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!
16411 W Desert Mirage Drive
Surprise, AZ 85388
$599,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,224
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784447
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! Crimson floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a 3 car garage. North/South exposure and no two story homes on either side and landscaped behind. Barnett maple boulder -gray cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers. AZT Hana Sky quartz countertops in kitchen and both full baths. EMS 2x6 tiled backsplash in kitchen. Stainless steel gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop and wall oven for the cook in the family. 5'' base boards and 3 1 /4'' door casings throughout the home. Upgrade flooring includes DT Broxburn gray 6x24 plank tile in all areas of the home except for bedrooms and closets. Interior two tone paint ''Whiskers'' and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!
1471 W Saddle Run
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$599,990
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,027
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750829
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender plus additional 2% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available to be used toward closing costs, pre-paids, rate buy downs, and/or price adjustments. The Prato floor plan is an elegant two-story home featuring five bedrooms, an upstairs loft, and a spacious flex area perfect for an office, TV room, or study. Complete with front yard landscaping, this home will be ready for occupancy by October or November. It is conveniently located near community parks, grocery stores, and restaurants.