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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16873 W Fetlock Trail
Surprise, AZ 85387
$582,997
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,241
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766532
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
On the hunt for a new home? Here's a gorgeous and completed home in the heart of Sunrise. Don't wait for the builder - move in ready now! Very spacious Wrightson plan. This home is gorgeous and perfect for buyers looking for a highly upgraded kitchen and a large lot with 900 sq ft of gorgeous pavers waiting for you to entertain. Buyers spared no expense with the upgrades in the home - Soft closing drawers, smart ceiling fans, faux wood blinds, oversized pantry, coffee station option added, smart home technology, stone front elevation, double sized patio, double glass sliding doors, just to name a few. Assumable FHA current loan if buyer can meet the loan qualifications required to assume. This floorplan is no longer available, and home is almost new - don't miss out!
20625 S 228th Place
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$582,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,234
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764438
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
''The Sunflower floorplan is ideal for modern living, featuring an expansive kitchen with a large island, pantry, and generous dining and Greatroom areas, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying quality family time. Step into this stunning quick move-in home, offering a thoughtfully designed 2234 sqft layout with 4 bedrooms, a guest retreat, 3 full bathrooms and 2.5 car garage. The home radiates elegance with finishes from the Coastal Collection, showcasing 6 x 36 Vicinity Natural plank tile floors in the main living areas, plush carpeting in the bedrooms, and stylish 42'''' Fairview White shaker cabinets adorned with polished Chrome hardware. The kitchen is truly a showstopper, featuring Della Terra Quartz - Crisp Stria countertops and Marazi Zellige Cielo 4x4 Brick Patterned tile backsplash, creating a seamless blend of luxury and functionality. Additional highlights include 8' doors throughout, adding to its refined appeal. The spacious Greatroom is accented by a 4-panel sliding glass door that seamlessly transitions to the covered patio and backyard, making it perfect for embracing indoor-outdoor living. This home is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, including a gas range, microwave, dishwasher, and soft water loop. This Sunflower plan combines thoughtful design with elegant details, creating an inviting and meticulously finished space that is ready to welcome you home. This home is located across the park and is on a larger homesite.
3216 S Piedra Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$582,990
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,233
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786471
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A collection of brand-new single-family homes located in the master-planned community in Mesa, AZ. The community feeds into the highly rated Gilbert Public School District, making this an ideal place for growing households. There are many onsite amenities at the masterplan everyone will enjoy, including a swimming pool, basketball court, pickleball court, playground and picnic area. Commuters have easy access to Loop 202 and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport for travel accommodations. This beautiful home features our platinum package including Sonoma Maple Linen cabinets and quartz countertops. Super luxury 7 x 22 plank tile flooring. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.
16699 W Saguaro Park Lane
Surprise, AZ 85387
$582,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,545
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770961
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. The Gardengate floorplan offers 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a garage extension, and 8' interior doors. Notable features include built-in appliances, granite kitchen countertops, a gas stub in the kitchen, a backyard perfect for BBQs, and a gas dryer connection in the laundry.
3752 E Terrel Street
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
$582,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,649
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776075
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Popular Trillium plan features a full guest suite with own private entrance. This home is situated in the amenity rich community of Bella Vista Farms. Residents enjoy an amenity-rich lifestyle with exclusive access to an onsite swimming pool, picnic area, splash park, playground, basketball court, volleyball court and greenbelt. The local area is host to the San Tan Regional Park, where locals enjoy biking, hiking, horseback riding and more. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.
17727 W Carol Avenue
Waddell, AZ 85355
$582,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,222
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772984
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Gorgeous NEW home has so much to offer! Primary bedroom on the 1st floor 3,222 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, loft, media room, a 3 car tandem garage on a North/south corner lot! This home features 36'' burlap shaker cabinetry, 18x18 tile, a large kitchen island, quartz counter tops, and 9' ceilings throughout. It also includes a soft water loop, dual pane low-E windows, multi-zone thermostat, window coverings and a smart home system. The exterior features front desert landscaping, a covered patio and generous backyard. Conveniently located off the 303, this community is near Costco, Safeway, and shopping. **Finishes may vary from sample photos and virtual tour.
4477 N 200th Lane
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$582,856
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,569
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776603
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
KITCHEN: Painted Gray Cabinetry and tile backsplash, Gas GE Profile 36'' stainless steel Cooktop with wall oven, Quartz Countertops, Extended Island, Box-in for 36'' refrigerator. FLOORING: 6X36 Wood look and upgraded carpet & pad. INCLUDED OPTIONS: Spanish exterior, Bonus Room, Super Laundry Room and Pre-plumb for soft water loop. Stain Nickle door hardware with 6 panel Rockport doors.
6233 W Mescal Street
Glendale, AZ 85304
$582,500
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,444
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760532
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The search is finally over! This delightful residence boasts a 3-car garage and a well-kept front yard. Fall in love with the inviting open layout highlighting vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, skylights that bathe the space in natural light, and attractive wood-look flooring. You'll also find a cozy family room downstairs, including a warm fireplace for relaxing evenings! The kitchen has granite counters, abundant white shaker cabinets, a stylish tile backsplash, recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, a handy pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar for casual dining. The main bedroom offers an ensuite with dual sinks and a walk-in closet. The backyard features a covered patio, a firepit with seating areas, and a refreshing pool for endless summer fun. Make this gem yours!
15963 W Montana De Oro Drive
Surprise, AZ 85387
$582,436
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,229
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6721719
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
New home ready for immediate occupancy! This single level 2229 SF single level 3 BR, plus den 3. BA home is located on a north south facing home site. Surrounded by single level homes, no 2 stories. Exciting included features include upgraded cabinets, upgraded Quartz tops, tile Kitchen backsplash, plank tile on the floors, 10' ceilings, 8' interior doors, 3 car garage, gourmet kitchen, garage service door, tank less water heater, landscape credit, and so much more. Neighborhood also includes, tree lined streets, Certified Energy Star and Indoor Air Plus for more energy savings.
6073 W Caribe Lane
Glendale, AZ 85306
$582,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,996
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6713341
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous family home with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, no HOA, pool, and an RV gate. Currently used a short term rental and can be purchased fully furnished. Home has open layout and was completely remodeled in 2022.. Great location in Glendale family neighborhood.
4198 N Spyglass Drive
Florence, AZ 85132
$582,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,989
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6701840
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Come and see this beautifully upgraded home with Stunning views on the 1st fairway of the Poston Butte Golf course in Sun City Anthem. This home has SOLAR for low energy bills Enjoy two large bedrooms, two baths and a large den complete with French doors. Hunter Douglas window treatments and ceiling fans in all rooms. Enjoy a gorgeous chefs kitchen with gas range, upgraded cabinets and granite countertops. The master bath has an oversized walk-in shower with stunning custom tile, beautiful tile flooring in all main living spaces with upgraded carpet in bedrooms. A gorgeous outdoor travertine patio gives you a spectacular golf course view, complete with lovely desert inspired landscaping, garden lighting and motorized sunshades! Enjoy the beautiful view and AZ weather all year round. There is a Golf Cart garage, complete with storage area, shelving and wall slat hanging storage system with upgraded additional LED lighting. There is also a whole house RO system and water softener, and tankless gas hot water heater. This home has a freshly painted exterior as well! Located in a wonderful community with numerous amenities, there will never be a lack of activities to participate in! Golf, Pickle Ball, tennis, biking, fitness center, pools and spas, bocce ball, clubhouse and restaurant are all just steps away! Come for a visit and stay for a lifetime! See you soon!
12015 W Parkway Lane
Avondale, AZ 85323
$581,995
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,480
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742829
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this ranch-style Townsend home, ready for quick move-in! Included features: a covered front porch; a relaxing great room with center-meet patio doors; a gourmet kitchen boasting 42'' cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, a generous center island and a walk-in pantry; a charming nook; a luxurious primary suite showcasing additional windows, a spacious walk-in closet and a private bath with double sinks; three secondary bedrooms, including on with an attached bath; a shared hall bath; a beautiful study; a central laundry and an inviting covered patio. This home also offers dramatic 10' ceilings, wood laminate and 9 x 35 stone tile flooring, cultured marble bath countertops, ceiling fan prewiring in select rooms, front yard landscaping and concrete pavers at the driveway and walkway. Tour today!