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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17025 E De Anza Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$585,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,868
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784186
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Bring your best ideas to make this home yours. Excellent floor plan with an A/C vented Arizona Room. Double Door Entry leads to Living and Dining Rooms with vaulted ceilings and a view of the well vegetated & enticing back yard. Your choice, to bedrooms on the right or the Kitchen activity area on the left. A spacious open kitchen/breakfast space/family room with fireplace will be your family gathering place. Laundry & 2 car garage (w/Evap cabinets & exterior door) complete the busy side of the home. From the entry to the right will find a spacious main bedroom with walk-in closet & bath with double sinks, separate shower/ tub and private toilet area. BD 2 offers its own door to the guest bath. BD 3 is located at the front of home. Corner lot, front steps w/ rail + handicap acces
9845 E Pampa Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$585,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,170
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784380
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Situated on an interior n/s lot featuring 4 bedrooms with separate living, family, and formal dining rooms, brand new interior accent paint throughout, updated fans, fixtures and door hardware, Vaulted Ceilings, New Carpet/Pad and Lots of Laminate flooring. Spacious kitchen features an island/breakfast bar, solid surface counter tops, walk-in pantry and stainless steel appliances. Reverse osmosis. Additional cabinets in laundry room. Large owners suite with vaulted ceilings and separate exit to patio. Oversized secondary bedrooms. Step outback to the extended covered patio overlooking a large backyard with pebble-tec pool with new Kool decking, citrus trees and synthetic grass area. RV Gate and 3 car garage with service door. Clean and move-in ready. Elementary school in subdivision.
7216 W Judy Lynn Lane
Peoria, AZ 85382
$585,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,287
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772487
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This inviting 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom, 2-story home features recent updates and owned solar with loan assumption! With a family room, great room, and loft, this 2,287 sqft home offers ample living space. Updates include a fully remodeled kitchen in 2024, new flooring in 2021, new A/C and water heater unit in 2022, and fresh exterior paint in 2022, ensuring a move-in-ready experience. The bright and airy interior features tall ceilings and dual-pane windows. The split primary bedroom is conveniently located downstairs and includes a full ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet. The kitchen boasts a walk-in pantry, stunning quartz countertops and an island with a breakfast bar. The backyard has been transformed into an outdoor oasis, complete with a newly built BBQ with a bar, and a gorgeous pool with a waterfall feature and new pool equipment including pool filter (2020), pool pump (2020) and pool vacuum (2021). Don't miss out on this impeccable home!
6027 N 10th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85014
$585,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,570
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787004
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
he perfect lock up and go home tucked into the perfect location. If you like to travel or just don't want the hassle of yard maintenance, this home has it all; a two car secure garage, a generous rear patio, remodeled to perfection kitchen - and a primary suite that is truly dreamy with a walk in closet and secondary closet, and private remodeled bath. With two more bedrooms and a remodeled hall bath, new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, ample storage, gorgeous brick wood burning fireplace, and no HOA all within 20 minutes of Phoenix Sky Harbor and 5 minutes to the 51, making any commute a breeze. With lots of shops and restaurants nearby, it's easy living.
18479 W College Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$585,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,414
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765364
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to this beautifully designed property, featuring an array of modern amenities. The kitchen is a chef's dream, complete with a center island, accent backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. The primary bedroom is a sanctuary with a spacious walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom that includes double sinks and a separate tub and shower. Outside, enjoy the covered patio overlooking a fenced backyard with low-maintenance landscaping. This property is a true gem, blending comfort and convenience. Don't miss the chance to make it your dream home!
8310 E Greenview Drive
Gold Canyon, AZ 85118
$585,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,406
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780410
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover your dream retreat on the 12th hole of Gold Canyon Golf Course, offering breathtaking views of the Superstition and Dinosaur Mountains. This home boasts Arizona's natural beauty from nearly every room, including the great room, living room, first master suite, and patio. The kitchen is equipped with elegant granite countertops, a center island, and a breakfast bar for easy entertaining. Enjoy the convenience of dual master suites and an oversized laundry room with custom cabinetry. Relax on the extended covered flagstone patio with ideal north-south orientation. Situated in Mountainbrook Village, you'll have access to a range of community amenities, including pools, a spa, golf course, tennis courts, and scenic biking and walking paths.
11980 N Brewer Road
Maricopa, AZ 85139
$585,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787645
Property Type
Manufactured Home
Price Type
--
Business Meets Horse Property. 2,000+ sq ft home on 3.3 acres, blending modern living and equestrian convenience. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a business-ready property, this one has it all! Featuring a spacious, open floor plan with 3 large bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, plus a separate laundry area. Every detail has been updated, including brand-new tile flooring, paint, plumbing, cabinets, lighting, and appliances. Step outside onto the back porch, where you can take in stunning mountain views while relaxing in your private bar. 2 additional outdoor guest bedrooms and a bathroom, perfect for hosting visitors. 5 large, shaded horse pens, a hay shed, RV hookup with 30-amp service, irrigation, and crossed fencing for horses and arena. *Cash/private financing only
3525 N Carlton Street
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$585,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,132
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786767
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Welcome Home!! This Shea Villa property is tucked away in its own private luxury gated community within Verrado, giving you access to the amenities of both Vallarta and Verrado the walking paths from the house are amazing. Upon arrival you will notice the paved driveway and well-kept landscaping in the front... the backyard is a view lot giving a sense of relaxation, after a long day! As you enter the private courtyard with a custom glass/door, opening to the great room & gourmet kitchen. Featuring multi-slider doors to bring in lots' of natural lighting, custom cabinets, oversized kitchen island for entertaining, all stainless steel appliance this kitchen is a chef's dream! The owners suite was recently updated with new low maintenance flooring, spa shower as well as lot's of storage
16331 W Sentinal Rock Lane
Surprise, AZ 85387
$585,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,470
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6781817
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Estate model Ashbury home centrally located in The Grand. Home with 20'' neutral tiling in all common areas has 2 en suites, guest half bath, an office, great room with dining and a very generous sized kitchen. For the chefs amongst us, this model is known for its large kitchen with plenty of counter/storage and a center island with additional storage. Eating area is large enough to accommodate a table of 8 or more. Newer stainless appliances, gas cooktop, wall oven and mocha maple cabinetry. Primary suite which opens to rear patio features shower w/ separate tub, double vanities and a spacious walk-in closet. Rear patio has great protection from elements with lattice covering and a water feature to relax by. Home has a golf cart garage, garage built in cabinets and 2 NEW HVAC systems.
337 N Redrock Street
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$585,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,494
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782724
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Move in Before the Holidays! Welcome to this fantastic tri-level home with versatile living spaces, ideal for multi-generational needs. With 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, there's room for everyone. Enjoy the front patio by the fire pit, a perfect spot to unwind. Step inside to freshly painted walls, newer carpet, a welcoming eat-in kitchen with a breakfast bar, and new appliances. Newer water heater and an AC unit that's only a few years old. The lower level features a bedroom, office or yoga studio. A full bathroom, and a huge flex space, ideal as a mother-in-law or teen suite, playroom, or second family room. Enjoy the backyard with a sparkling diving pool and spa. Outdoor enthusiast will appreciate the Western Canal path offering a multi-use trail, perfect for biking, jogging& dog walks Prime Location: Minutes from Downtown Gilbert and an array of fantastic shopping and dining options. Ample Parking: Includes a two-car garage and a widened driveway with extra space for 3 cars.
18225 W Mackenzie Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$585,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,625
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6694848
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION! Welcome home to this fantastic Sedella beauty! Sparkling pebble-tec play pool with waterfall. Professionally landscaped backyard with tons of pavers & large covered patio. Open & spacious floorplan. Formal entry. Living room. Formal Dining. Huge rear family room opens into spacious eat-in kitchen. Raised panel cabinets, granite counters w/ tile backsplash, huge island, upgraded stainless appliances. & huge walk-in pantry. Office/Den. Upstairs has large open loft. Master suite has his/her closets, garden tub & walk in shower. Two bedrms w/ Jack/Jill bath, 4th bedroom & another full bath. Upstairs laundry. Located on almost 1/4 acre lot. Room for RV gate and HOA allows RV Parking! This home is beautiful & located near tot lot & community park.
28016 N 251st Avenue
Wittmann, AZ 85361
$585,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,654
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6667989
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This luxurious mini mansion on over an acre of land in the roping capital of the world is a haven for horse enthusiasts, boasting a private arena and covered stalls on-site, alongside ride-in, ride-out desert access and close proximity to major roping events. The property's circular drive, low-maintenance desert landscaping, and shared well guarantee pristine surroundings and water quality. Inside, the open floor plan facilitates seamless entertaining, complemented by a spacious kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances and tile countertops. With no restrictions, enjoy the freedom to park your camper on-site, striking a perfect balance between privacy and convenience.