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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20616 N Ventana Drive
Sun City, AZ 85373
$579,900
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,019
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750555
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
2024 OWNED solar! Years w/free electricity & NO loan pmt; 2024 NEW Roof underlayment. 2021 NEW HVAC. Invitingly spacious & delightfully updated home featuring 2 bedrooms w/walk-in closets, 2 updated bathrooms (new walk-in shower in Primary Bath) plus ofc/3rd bed. Filled w/light, elegant finishes & many extras! A tranquil interior pallet of natural hues & tones provides an ideal setting to enjoy the SW lifestyle. Live the Arizona dream as you view stunning sunrises & sunsets from your backyard, surrounded by vibrant colorful landscaping, covered tile patio, exquisite fountain, landscape lighting & misting system that will compliment any outdoor experience. Updated kitchen w/SS appliances, RO, pull-out shelves, island w/drawers, soft close cabinets. Whole home water filtration/softener. Residents in the Ventana Lakes Community enjoy friendly neighbors, four pools, jetted spas, fitness center, sports courts, catch and release fishing & a variety of clubs and activities.
11337 E Unger Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$579,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,074
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771730
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover modern living with stunning mountain views in this beautifully upgraded Ashton Woods home at Destination at Gateway, built in 2022. Boasting 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 full baths, plus a versatile den/flex space, this home offers everything you need. The open-concept design features wood-like tile floors throughout, a large center sliding door for seamless indoor-outdoor living, and kitchen includes sleek shaker cabinets, built-in Roku lighting, and quartz countertops. Why wait for a new build when this home is move-in ready and feels brand new? Ideally located near the new Fry's, and major freeways (24, 202, and 60), with access to excellent school districts. A must-see in a prime location!
25809 S Cloverland Drive
Sun Lakes, AZ 85248
$579,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,127
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773972
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome Home!!! This gorgeous 3 bedroom 2 bath home at the desirable 55+ active adult community of Cottonwood Palo Verde at Sun Lakes is in a fantastic location. Close to restaurants, shopping, parks, multiple golf courses & easy access to the I-10 Fwy. You'll love the layout of this home. Your kitchen offers stainless steel appliances (new dishwasher), tiled granite counter tops, a breakfast bar, filtered water & plenty of cabinetry for storage & organization. Your spacious master suite offers a plethora of natural light, a dual vanity & a tiled walk in shower w/grab bar. This golf course lot home also offers ceiling fans, a dry bar, a 2 car garage with epoxy flooring, a water softener, a work bench & cabinets for extra storage & organization. Your low maintenance backyard offers extended pavers & a view fence that looks out over the 6th hole of the Cottonwood Country Club. Your active adult community offers a clubhouse, golfing, tennis & pickleball courts, a fitness center, lap & swimming pools to enjoy, as well as many clubs & social activities to be apart of. This gem in the desert is a Great Buy & a Must See!!! **Furniture is available on a separate bill of sale.
13148 N 153rd Drive
Surprise, AZ 85379
$579,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,588
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768920
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful move-in ready home in Marley Park Community is now on the market! Offering an excellent curb appeal w/manicured front yard, a 3-car garage, & a relaxing porch! Take a look at the updated interior to discover tall ceilings, stylish tile flooring, recessed lighting, and a bright living room w/accented wall. The family room comprises a media niche, backyard access, & a cozy fireplace perfect for the cold winter nights. Enjoy a delightful meal in the formal dining room! Impeccable kitchen showcases wood cabinets w/crown molding, built-in appliances, granite counters, mosaic tile backsplash, & a 2-tiered peninsula w/a breakfast bar. Flexible den is ready to make it your own. Oversized primary retreat features a soft carpet & a pristine ensuite w/dual sinks. 3% to buyers agent.
10637 W Eucalyptus Road
Peoria, AZ 85383
$579,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,993
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778643
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fall in love with this incredible single-level residence in the highly sought-after Tierra Del Rio! The desirable interior impresses you with an inviting foyer leading to the bright & spacious open floor plan, perfect for welcoming & entertaining. With tall ceilings, trending paint, plantation shutters, classic tile flooring, Large slider to the back patio, & a practical den, 3 car tandem garage. Gourmet kitchen is equipped with quartz counters, stylish tile backsplash, white cabinetry with crown molding, & an island with a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom has hardwood flooring, a chic ensuite with a wooden panel accent, a walk-in closet, & outdoor access. Unwind in the serene backyard, offering a covered patio, pavers, a built-in BBQ, and a fire pit. This value will not disappoint
18581 W College Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$579,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,279
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778682
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in the highly sought-after Sedella Community. This gem offers everything you could want, including a spacious 3-car garage, RV gate, and dedicated RV parking. Step inside and be captivated by the bright, open floor plan adorned with stylish tile flooring, a custom entertainment niche, and an abundance of natural light pouring in through large windows. The chef's kitchen is a dream come true, featuring upgraded cabinetry, granite countertops, a prep island with a breakfast bar, recessed and pendant lighting, a walk-in pantry, and stainless steel appliances, including a gas cooktop and wall oven. There's even a cozy nook, ideal for a pocket office or a special space for your furry friend. Retreat to the main bedroom, a serene haven with plush carpeting, dual vanities, and a spacious walk-in closet. Outside, enjoy a generous backyard designed for relaxation and entertaining, complete with a covered patio and built-in bar - perfect for year-round gatherings. Don't miss out on this exceptional home!
1799 W Canary Way
Chandler, AZ 85286
$579,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,080
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784885
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your new home awaits! Spacious and bright open floor plan with vaulted ceilings throughout. Large kitchen offers plenty of cabinetry, center island, and newer stainless appliances including a gas range. Luxurious primary suite with private bath featuring dual vanities, walk-in shower, soaking tub set into a bay window, and walk-in closet. New paint and carpet throughout. Covered patio overlooks sparkling play pool and grass play area. Oversized 3 car garage for additional storage and parking. Premiere South Chandler location close to shopping, dining, and freeways. A great value and a must see!
13532 N 146th Lane
Surprise, AZ 85379
$579,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,743
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764564
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Marley Park Beauty - 4 bedrooms 3 bath home that sits on a premium lot next to green belt. Short walk to community pool / Charter School. Shopping & dining + new Costco minutes away. Home has upgraded kitchen & flooring - this to be best home on your tour.
2118 W Hemingway Court
Anthem, AZ 85086
$579,900
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,120
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779175
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning 5-Bedroom Home with Modern Amenities Near Parks and Schools! Welcome to your dream home! This spacious 5-bedroom, 3-full-bathroom residence offers the perfect blend of comfort and style, ideal for families and entertaining alike. Nestled in a friendly neighborhood, you'll enjoy walking distance to parks and schools, making it a convenient choice for active lifestyles. Step inside to discover an updated kitchen that will delight any chef, featuring sleek stainless steel appliances, a gas stove, and ample counter space for meal prep. The open layout flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas, creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings. The master suite boasts a private bath, providing a serene retreat after a long day. Four additional well-sized bedrooms offer plenty of space for family, guests, or a home office. With three full bathrooms, mornings will be a breeze for everyone! The three-car garage provides ample storage for vehicles and outdoor gear, making it easy to keep everything organized. Outside, the yard offers room for play and relaxation, perfect for enjoying warm evenings or weekend barbecues. Don't miss the chance to make this beautiful home yours and experience all that this wonderful property has to offer!
12687 W Paradise Lane
Surprise, AZ 85378
$579,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,683
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6597550
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful, brand-new custom home featuring 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, including two master suites ideal for multi-generational living or added privacy. With over 2,600 sqft of well-designed space, this home is built with 2x6 construction for enhanced durability and energy efficiency, paired with a high-efficiency HVAC system to keep you comfortable year-round. The open-concept layout flows seamlessly, offering a large living area, a chef's kitchen with modern appliances, and plenty of natural light. Situated close to top-rated schools, shopping, and entertainment, this home combines luxury and convenience in one stunning package. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity
20581 N Enchantment Pass
Maricopa, AZ 85138
$579,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,528
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6650676
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning home located in the highly desirable Province adult community! Original owners who have taken immaculate care of this home. This is a split floor plan and is one of the very few built with a separate entry guest house / casita room. Located across the street from a greenbelt with a beautiful open floor plan and no neighbors behind. Entertainers kitchen with granite countertops and S/S appliances. Home features newly painted inside and out, shutters throughout, upgraded doors, large laundry / utility room, upgraded installation. Home has two large AC units with three zones to control heating and cooling. Backyard is professionally designed with private patio are with pavers, fire pit, beautifully landscaped with a newly private spa - 2 years old.
1521 W Garfield Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
$579,900
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,059
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6716799
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing 2 bed, 2.5 bath home updated & reimagined by one of the members of its original family! The formal entry opens to an large greatroom. There's a spacious kitchen with 5 burner gas range, upgraded cabinetry, gorgeous granite counters, stainless steel appliances & elegant tile backsplash. A fantastic place to gather & entertain! The ground floor has an owner's suite w/ tiled shower, powder room & large office/utility room. The upstairs was designed as a second owner's suite, complete with its own ensuite & balcony. It's large enough to enclose an additional bedroom or use as a mother-in-law suite. The home has been updated with a reinforced foundation, newer roof & HVAC (mini-splits). Perfect as a SFD or multi-generational home & just minutes from downtown. Welcome home!