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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20252 W Catalina Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$589,990
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,510
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747909
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 Jade floor plan with 3 bedrooms + study, 3 baths and 3 car garage. 12'x8 sliding glass door off the great room. Large walk in shower at owner's bath. Stainless steel gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop, wall oven, and canopy hood. Additional kitchen cabinets in Sonoma Maple Linen -off white cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers and pull out trash drawer. AZT Tawny Evening gray quartz countertops in kitchen. Upgrade flooring includes SHW Cedar Grove carpet and Beaumont Olmo 7x24 plan tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. Upgrade 5'' baseboards with 3 1/4'' door casings. Dual sinks at bath 3, soft water loop, gas stub for future BBQ and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent . Thank you!
14904 N 56th Drive
Glendale, AZ 85306
$589,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,288
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6699889
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
4 Bedroom + Loft, 3 Baths, 2 Car Garage. KITCHEN: Benton Birch Natural cabinets, Quartz Denali countertops in kitchen, Gas GE Gourmet appliances, Tile backsplash. FLOORING: 6'' x 24'' Wood-look tile, upgraded carpet and pad., mission stair rail Surround sound in great room and loft. Washer dryer and refrigerator
9316 W Sandstone Mountain Drive
Casa Grande, AZ 85194
$589,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,350
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769018
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Introducing a brand-new 2024 home, featuring 4 bedrooms and 2 baths, nestled on a full acre in an ideal location just minutes from I-10. The spacious and thoughtfully designed floor plan offers vaulted ceilings for an extra sense of openness. The primary suite includes a double-sink vanity, while the bright, open-concept kitchen showcases elegant white quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, including a stove, dishwasher, and microwave. Enjoy the latest wood plank tile flooring throughout, with cozy carpeting in the bedrooms. Step outside to a large, covered back patio and a fully fenced yard with block walls. The property also features a 3-car garage, and the HOA permits RVs, boats, and other recreational vehicles. Estimated completion: Ready for immediate occupany Large, covered patio and a fully fenced yard with block walls. The property also features a 3-car garage and the HOA permits RV's, Boats an other recreational vehicles. Ready for immediate occupancy.
21333 W Roanoke Avenue
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$589,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,141
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766980
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the highly sought-after Sienna Hills community at the base of the White Tank Mountains, this brand-new, upgraded home offers modern luxury and breathtaking views. Enjoy picturesque vistas of Verrado's custom million-dollar homes and the majestic White Tanks right from your front porch. The backyard is a serene retreat with no neighbors behind, a peaceful hill framed by a view fence, a double gate, and plenty of space for a pool. Inside, the home impresses with white granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, elegant white shaker cabinets, and a stunning walk-in shower. The spacious four-bedroom layout includes a private en-suite, ideal for multi-generational living. Near Odyssey Elementary, Sienna Hills offers a community pool, scenic trails, and a friendly vibe.
16462 W Lava Drive
Surprise, AZ 85374
$589,900
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,870
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767563
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this popular Palo Verde model nestled on the 7th green of Granite Falls South Golf Course, offering breathtaking views of the course and White Tank Mountains. The home features a spacious 3-car garage with fresh paint and garage floor. Enjoy natural light streaming through bay windows in the kitchen and primary bedroom. This meticulously maintained residence boasts recent updates, including freshly painted interior and garage 2024 a new A/C system installed in 2018 and fresh exterior paint in 2022. Relax and soak in the stunning views from the back patio. The Grand is a premier age-restricted community for those 45 and older, offering a variety of amenities such as golf, pools, spas, pickleball, tennis, and more.
16182 W Casa Bonita Court
Surprise, AZ 85374
$589,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,529
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768602
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome Home! This Cordova Model Features New Roof 2024, HVAC Replaced in 2021, Exterior Painted 2021, 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, Electric Stove/Oven, Newer Microwave, Black Slate Whirlpool Refrigerator, RO, Inside Laundry with Cabinets, 3 Car Garage with Sink, Recirculating Hot Water, Lots of Storage, Exit to Rear Yard, on Large cul-de-sac, Extended Front Courtyard, Extended Rear Patio Partially Fence,
1382 W Chillingham Road
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143
$589,900
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,679
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775708
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning beauty in the gated neighborhood of Magnolia Circle. This incredible home features four bedrooms, three and half bathrooms and multiple living areas for a large family! The breathtaking kitchen features a large open concept for a chef and entertainer's dream. Step to the backyard and discover a newly constructed play pool! This home truly has it all at a price that will not last.
6383 Old Forest Trail
Show Low, AZ 85901
$589,900
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,852
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779519
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
THIS HOME IS LISTED UNDER RECENT APPRAISED VALUE! Main home is 2084 sq Ft and features a separate casita above garage that is 768 sq ft. This charming site-built home sits on 1.01 acres with two driveways. Home, as well as the casita have been recently painted inside and out, new flooring installed throughout the home and has an animal pen with closed shed and metal cover. Main home is 2 bed, 2 bath and a den/potential bedroom, full utility room, large 768 sq ft 3 car garage with storage room, vaulted ceilings, covered patio front and back. Main bedroom has its own balcony with screened door. Guest casita has a separate entrance through garage, full bathroom, wood burning stove, and is large enough for a bedroom section as well as a sitting area, and provides its own hot water heater.
6501 W Molly Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85083
$589,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,078
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6771053
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This rare, one-story gem sits on a corner lot & backs directly to a serene mountain preserve, providing both views/sunsets & total PRIVACY! Step inside to find a bright, open-concept great room. Newly updated kitchen showcases modern stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop, charming farmhouse sink, upgraded faucet, pendant lighting & more! Primary BR is spacious with fully remodeled bathroom and stand alone soaking tub, quartz double vanity. Other features inc: Water Softener, R/O, Garage Floor Epoxy, professional paint throughout, replaced outlets, door hardware, ceiling fans, Ring security, yearly A/C tune ups, replaced Garage Rollers, New Thermostat, surround sound, etc. Don't miss this opportunity to own a truly unique property w/peaceful setting, modern conveniences at a great value
2300 E Campbell Avenue Unit 314
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$589,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,345
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764225
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Luxurious living awaits in this Exclusive Biltmore condo with sweeping pool deck views.An expansive open floor plan boasts engineered wood in living areas and tile in bedrooms, blending elegance and practicality. Modern comforts include a Jack and Jill bathroom, a glass shower with seating, Nest thermostat, and electric roller shades. Culinary excellence meets design with Bosch appliances and a KitchenAid fridge. Savor sunset views from the patio, or unwind in serene, concrete-walled rooms. With 5 owned parking spaces (perfect for a truck parking or rental income), an electric charging station, and the largest private storage unit fully enclosed, this residence delivers unmatched convenience. Concierge service and upscale amenities complete this refined lifestyle at Biltmore Contour Condo
2059 W Desert Hollow Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85085
$589,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,940
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787793
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Original owner is ready to pass the baton of home ownership. Built by Ashton Woods in the heart of Union Park at Norterra, this gorgeous and spacious home is an open floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and 2 car attached garage. The main level is perfect for lounging or entertaining. The kitchen has plenty of storage space with 42 inch upper cabinets, an island with seating area, and walk in pantry. Modern granite counters and stainless steel appliances (including gas range) compliment the cabinet colors (white and blue). The dining area is near the sliding glass door to outdoor yard. Owner customized the yard with pavers, low maintenance desert plants, and a beautiful water feature. A main floor powder room is a convenience for guests and has beautiful mosaic tile. . floors, as do the upstairs bathrooms. A beautiful metal and wood stair rail leads the way to the upstairs 3 bedrooms. Owner suite is very spacious and has an ensuite with dual sinks, tub, and walk in shower. Owner closet (with attached safe) has access to the laundry room (front load washer and dryer included). Two other bedrooms and bathroom are split from owner suite.
3915 E Kimberly Way
Phoenix, AZ 85050
$589,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,924
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787117
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your new home! Perfectly situated near Highway 51 and Union Hills Road for easy commuting, this beautifully updated property is located in the coveted Paradise Valley School District. Step inside and be captivated by the space and the modern upgrades throughout. With soaring ceilings and an open layout, this home is has a place for everyone! The large master suite is a true retreat, offering abundant natural light, a vaulted ceiling, and a stunning, spa-like bathroom (updated in 2023), that features double sinks and lighted mirrors. The spacious walk-in closet is another fantastic feature!! Don't miss the spacious kitchen, with plentiful storage and granite counters. The dining/living room on the main floor, and the loft upstairs are both perfect spaces for flexible needs, such as a home office, crafting, or play area. This home has been meticulously maintained with major updates including a roof restack (2021), furnace and A/C (2023), fresh exterior paint (2021), and new hot water tank (2021). Additional upgrades include a remodeled main bath (2024), new carpet (2020), and a Level 2 EV charger in the garageideal for the environmentally conscious. Some windows have also been replaced. The garage is equipped with built-in storage cabinets, and, for the workout enthusiast, multiple mirrors, creating the perfect setting for a home gym. Enjoy Arizona living at its best in your private backyard oasis complete with a sparkling pool, updated pool equipment (2023), and a covered patio perfect for outdoor gatherings. Take the opportunity to own this move-in-ready home that combines convenience, style, and thoughtful updates.