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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10633 S 44th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85044
$599,800
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,849
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738373
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in the highly desirable neighborhood of Ahwatukee. This stunning, modernized residence offers a spacious great room floor plan, perfect for both entertaining and comfortable living. With numerous recent upgrades, this home is move-in ready and boasts high-end finishes throughout. Step inside to find luxurious vinyl tile flooring that is not only stylish but also waterproof and scratch-proof, providing worry-free living for families and pet owners alike. The expanded and remodeled kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring custom white cabinetry, sparkling black quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. Enjoy the abundance of natural light that fills the home, thanks to gorgeous Anderson High Performance windows and a sleek sliding glass
9214 W Kerry Lane
Peoria, AZ 85382
$599,700
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,258
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757552
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Golf course gem fully renovated with nicest touch of art and harmony. 2258 square feet, 3 bed 2.5 bath gorgeous home backing to golf course with infinite beautiful views. This home has 2 car garge, room for golf cart storage, covered patio, fireplace. It's been loved from top to bottom.
20637 W Rancho Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$599,590
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,528
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753670
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Ready for move in by end of year!! Experience the epitome of Mountainside living with our Turnberry design. A welcoming open courtyard offers stunning views of the White Tank Mountains and year-round sunsets. Welcome to your new oasis! This 1,528 sq. ft. single-story stunner features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms of pure luxury. Experience top-tier comfort with spray foam insulation, while recessed LED lighting casts a modern glow throughout. The impressive 12' sliding glass wall effortlessly merges indoor and outdoor living, and 8' doors paired with 10' ceilings create an open, airy atmosphere. Complete with a paver driveway and walkway, this home combines sleek design with sophisticated functionality. Your perfect blend of elegance and practicality awaits!
807 Co Rd 3144 --
Vernon, AZ 85940
$599,500
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,300
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6699527
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful horse property offers breathtaking views and a range of amenities for horse enthusiasts. This property is less than a mile off the main hwy with paved access all the way. The property includes a well-maintained barn with two horse stalls, a tack room, storage room and an arena for training and riding. The spacious two-acre parcel is fully fenced and crossed fenced, providing a safe and secure environment for the horses and any other pets. Access to the property is through a gated entrance with a charming, treed circle driveway. The main residence is a spacious three-bedroom, two-bathroom home, featuring a wood burning stove, and a large master suite with two additional rooms off the master that can be used as a nursery, home gym, or office. The home boasts a large dining room and a back covered porch, both of which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you are a horse enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, this property is sure to impress. Schedule your showing today.
40721 W Georgia Avenue
Tonopah, AZ 85354
$599,500
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,192
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754914
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful custom home is almost ready for a family to live in this peaceful area north of I-10. It features an RV garage, modern style double front door, matching modern garage doors, 10' ceilings, open floor plan, neutral warm colors, tile flooring and carpet in all the right places, with 6'' base boards. Kitchen will feature wood expresso color cabinets, granite or quartz counter tops, oven range, hood, plus wall oven and microwave, ss appliances and refrigerator. Split floor plan has 3 bedrooms with custom shelving and 1 of the bedrooms has a large walking closet, 1 bathroom has a large garden tub/shower with double sinks. Master bedroom has large walk-in closet, custom tile shower, and double sinks. Energy efficient home with dual pane windows, 2x6 framing, spray foam insulated ceilings and exterior walls, along with batted insulated walls. RV garage and garage are fully spray foam insulated, along with 220 amp in RV garage for a mini split ac system, lift master garage door openers, 220 amp in the 2 car garage for a future electric car charging plug. A 2000 septic tank to accommodate a future guest house. 3 share wells altogether. Must see!
15551 N 179th Drive
Surprise, AZ 85388
$599,500
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,300
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784550
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your new spacious 3,300 sq. ft. Surprise Farms gem! This fantastic five-bedroom, three-bathroom home features a sparkling pool and three-car garage! The main floor showcases stylish vinyl plank flooring, while the kitchen shines with stainless steel appliances and brand-new granite countertops, ideal for hosting gatherings and/or family meals. With a light, bright and flexible layout this home is designed to adapt effortlessly to your lifestyle. The expansive primary suite offers a luxurious en suite, creating the ultimate relaxing retreat. Step outside to your private backyard oasis with a covered patio, lush grass lawn, and an inviting pool—perfect for warm days and serene evenings. Nestled on a large corner lot with no neighbor to the south, this home truly has it all! Great location close to community parks and fields with EZ access to the Loop 303!
8855 W Northview Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85305
$599,500
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,545
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779939
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautifully maintained home in the desirable Rovey Farm Estates is a true gem! With 5 spacious bedrooms, including a convenient downstairs bedroom, it offers plenty of room for the whole family. Featuring large Kitchen with granite countertops, a center island, and stainless steel appliances — perfect for the home chef! Open-concept living with a cozy family room, ideal for entertaining. Fresh interior paint and tile flooring throughout the entire first floor for a clean low-maintenance look. Expansive master suite with a private walk-out balcony, offering serene views of the greenbelt behind the home. Spacious, well-sized bedrooms ensuring comfort and privacy. Sparkling private pool, paved backyard, and plenty of space for lounging and dining, making it a perfect outdoor retreat! Minutes from Westgate District, where you can shop, dine and entertain!
1110 E Phoenix Street
Payson, AZ 85541
$599,500
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,044
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6711716
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful one of a kind custom built 4 bedroom home in the highly desirable Rim View Heights Estates. Perfect for full time living or for a family getaway - there is plenty of room for everyone! It has a Great Room concept with vaulted ceilings, there is a family room as well as a formal living room. One bathroom has a walk in tub with jacuzzi jets. The home boasts 2 en-suite bedrooms with bathrooms. There is a large deck and patio to sit and enjoy the cool mountain evenings. Tall pine trees on the lot and wonderful views. Come see the brand new flooring throughout the entire house! The roof is only 5 years old. This is a lot of house for the money!
21033 W Skinner Road
Wittmann, AZ 85361
$599,500
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,001
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6726891
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in Wittmann, AZ! This 2023 Grote new build is a testament to quality construction and thoughtful upgrades throughout. Step inside and be captivated by the elegance that surrounds you, from the beautiful granite countertops to the upgraded bathrooms and stunning tile work. The spacious and well-designed floor plan welcomes you, offering both comfort and style. Imagine entertaining guests in the heart of your home, the upgraded kitchen, where culinary creations come to life amidst the luxurious granite surfaces. Bathrooms have been meticulously designed, offering a blend of functionality and sophistication, perfect for your daily retreats. But the beauty of this home isn't confined to its interior. Outside, on your 1.3 acre, spacious lot, you'll witness beautiful views and room for growth. Paved road access ensures convenience and less wear on your vehicles. Zoned for horses and plenty of room for corrals and trailer parking. Property will be fully fenced with two large gates making it easy to pull trailers in and out. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exquisite new build in Wittman, AZ, your forever home.
156 E Leverenz Avenue
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
$599,500
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,770
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6734411
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This two-bedroom, two-bath home, plus DEN, offers everything you could want in a gated community. The community provides incredible amenities, including TWO resort clubs, pools, restaurants, golfing, and a variety of activities, athletics, and classes. The kitchen boasts ample space with granite countertops, perfect for cooking and entertaining. Adjacent to the kitchen, the utility room includes a washer and dryer, with additional space that can be used as a workroom or for extra storage. The garage also features built-in cabinets for even more storage options. The large, covered patio provides plenty of space to relax or barbecue while enjoying beautiful Arizona sunsets. Experience comfort and convenience in this wonderful home and the vibrant community. *One year warranty included.
1945 E Behrend Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85024
$599,500
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,960
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6760080
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Charming Fmly hm with Bonus Flex Rm! Ft security screen door! Open floorplan! Beautiful Tile floors, vaulted ceilings & arched doorway. Bright Kitchen has refinished cabinets, breakfast bar & secondary pantry storage-great for kitchen appliances! Mstr Bdrm has vaulted ceilings and plant decorator shelf. Private exit with security screen door leads to cozy patio & Inviting Salt Water Pebbletech Pool. Formal Dining Area has new Sliding Glass Doors leading to E facing 30-ft covd patio with Pull Down Sun Screens & Grill Pad. Great for Entertaining! Incredible ''Flex Room'' has vaulted ceiling, closet and private exit. Could easily convert to Income generating Guest Quarters, Mother In Law Suite or Game Rm. SOLAR! Side yd has Plum, Pomegranate & Kumquat trees! 5-Ton A/C installed in 2021. WO
15418 W Big Sky Drive
Surprise, AZ 85374
$599,500
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,318
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760536
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the Adult Community of The Grand! Discover the Mission model home, displaying a desert front yard and a 2-car garage. The immaculate interior features a spacious living/dining room, pre-wired surround sound, plantation shutters, tile flooring, a media niche, and a cozy fireplace. The kitchen is fully equipped with a gas cooktop, a wall oven, recessed lighting, solid surface counters, rich wood cabinetry, an island with a breakfast bar, and a dining area with a bay window. Don't miss the sizable den with built-in cabinets & Murphy bed. and a desk! Primary retreat has plush carpeting, a pristine ensuite, a walk-in closet, and outdoor access. Enjoy delightful BBQs in the peaceful backyard, showcasing a covered patio, seating area, and built-in BBQ. This gem will impress!! Indoor gas fireplace Ceiling fans in all rooms Dimmable lighting switches, Tile throughout main house, berber carpet in bedrooms and office Cesarstone counters and cabinets with pull-out shelving throughout Gourmet kitchen with updated stainless-steel appliances Upgraded sink with a no-touch faucet Kitchen island with shelving Breakfast bar Extended dining area with bay windows Soft water system R/o system Washer and dryer with gas or electric option Lots of storage/pullouts in laundry rm along with cesarstone countertop Utility sink in the laundry room Two car garage with coated flooring Storage cabinets and work bench in garage Updated water heater Hot water recirculation system Updated trane air conditioning units (2019) Office/bedroom custom office desk with a murphy bed Extended master bedroom with bay windows Upgraded closet shelving in master Extended second bedroom with bay windows Custom closet shelving in second bedroom Plantation shutters throughout Custom front walkway with flagstone and lighting Back patio has two ceiling fans Built in custom natural gas bbq, patio lighting, and bench seating area with lighting accents, finished with flagstone Exterior of home painted in 2020 Front and back drip system with a timer Transferrable termite treatment (expires in 2027) Community golf courses, fitness center, and many other amenities