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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15749 W Roanoke Avenue
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$579,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,907
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783608
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Dream Home with Everything You Want! Step into this home with an open & airy Great Room floor plan: perfect for everyday living & entertaining. The kitchen is a cook's dream: upgraded cabinets, roll-out shelves, granite tile countertops, a decorative backsplash, & under-cabinet lighting. It also comes with stainless steel appliances, a roomy closet pantry, & updated microwave, dishwasher, & disposal. You'll love the easy-care tile floors throughout; no carpet anywhere! The dining room & primary bedroom feature bay windows that let in tons of natural light. This home is full of thoughtful upgrades: *New A/C (2021) *New hot water heater (2019) *New reverse osmosis system (2023) *New Refrigerators (2023) *New water softener (2024) *Owned solar & ceiling fans keep your electric bills low The private backyard is like your own peaceful retreat. Relax in the partially enclosed Arizona room, take a dip in the sparkling pool with a water feature, or practice on your putting green. The low-maintenance landscaping, new PVC watering system (2022), and refreshed Kool decking mean less work and more time to enjoy. The extended 2-car garage with an epoxy floor and built-in cabinets offers plenty of storage. Need an extra bedroom? The den has double doors and can easily be converted into a third bedroom. This move-in-ready home has it allcomfort, style, and convenience. A list of the extensive upgrades is available. Don't wait; come see it today!
1425 W Kenrick Drive
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
$579,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,190
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6651710
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to a move-in ready home that offers the perfect canvas for your personal touch. Situated in a prime location with stunning views, this property boasts a spacious backyard, setting the stage for a comfortable and personalized living experience. As you explore the home, you'll discover a cozy and inviting layout, featuring multiple rooms that are primed for your creative ideas. Each room is a comfortable space, eagerly awaiting your unique flair. Whether you're interested in adding modern touches, highlighting the home's charming details, or a combination of both, the possibilities are limitless. The private and fully fenced backyard is an ideal setting for a variety of activities. It's a gardener's dream, or a tranquil retreat for those who appreciate peaceful relaxation.
3200 W Black Oak Loop
Show Low, AZ 85901
$579,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,550
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6669326
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
This Torreon golf villa offers a comfortable and convenient living space with its 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It is designed for a lock and leave lifestyle, providing you with peace of mind when you're away. The property features a detached 1-car garage, offering secure parking and additional storage space. Surrounded by a lush canopy of trees, this villa provides a serene and private atmosphere. The covered deck and patio area are perfect for relaxing or entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The open floorplan creates a spacious and airy feel, while the split layout ensures privacy between the bedrooms. Large spacious kitchen makes meal prep a breeze while guest can accompany around the breakfast bar. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or simply..
18508 N Avalon Lane
Surprise, AZ 85374
$579,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,021
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6691782
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This well cared for 2 bedroom,2 bathroom plus den 2,021 square foot property offers many sought after features including a 2.5 car garage. Situated on Granite Falls North Course offering expansive views & beautiful sunsets.18 in tile floors on the diagonal except bedrooms.Kitchen corian counter tops,backsplash,new sink, stainless built in appliances & stone finish at breakfast bar.Extended breakfast nook bay windows with shutters & plenty of room for entertaining.Settle into the great room and take advantage of the gas fireplace finished with stone.Privacy doors at den.Primary suite has door to patio,bay windows,two sinks,separate tub & walk in closet in bathroom.Raised panel doors.Inside laundry with sink,W/D included.Side garage door & built in cabinets.Expaned patio & built in BBQ.
303 W Columbine Road
Christopher Creek, AZ 85541
$579,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,274
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6692998
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your serene woodland retreat awaits! This charming cabin is located in the Prestigious Christopher Creek Park tucked perfectly behind a gate for added privacy. This cabin offers a brand new fence along the 1/3 acre lot it sits on, lush plants, flowers & fruit trees including barlett pear, honey crisp apple & peach all on irrigation! Cozy up to a fire while gazing through your expansive bay window in your living room. This 4bed/2 bath/2 car garage features a newly built loft, remodeled upstairs including plumbing/electric. Full size kitchen, walk in pantry, dining area & enclosed sun room. 5 decks to take in nature's beauty! Brand new roof w/ 10 year warranty, Brand new light exterior light fixtures. (2024) Exterior Paint done in (2023) Do not miss this amazing opportunity! Call Today!
3033 E Millbrae Lane
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$579,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,146
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6726711
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MOVE-IN-READY!!! LOTS of CHARM & CHARACTER EVERYWHERE!!! This home is a MUST SEE!!! Full Bedroom & Bathroom DOWNSTAIRS!!! Upon entry, you're wowed by VAULTED CEILINGS, along with two separate living areas, a STUNNING KITCHEN overlooking the main living space, making this the PERFECT HUB OF THE HOME!!! Spend some time outback in your Sparkling POOL, or relax in tub HOT TUB, cook out in your BUILT-IN-BBQ, or even enjoy your very own PUTTING GREEN!!! This backyard is an Entertainer's Dream!!! Workbench area in garage, along with LOTS OF STORAGE!!! This home has it all!!! Home is steps away from a FANTASTIC park with playground area and Basketball courts!! Don't miss out on this one!!!
2319 E Earll Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$579,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,416
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747987
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this freshly updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom gem close to all of the action of Arcadia and Central Phoenix! Boasting a modern, neutral aesthetic with designer touches throughout, it offers comfort and style at every turn. Enjoy outdoor living with covered patios in the front and back, a charming porch swing, and a generously sized backyard complete with a pool and firepit—perfect for entertaining. Additional features include a storage room off the 1-car carport. Conveniently located near freeways, restaurants, and shopping, Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of homeownership with no HOA restrictions.
8821 S 47th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85044
$579,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,195
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6745563
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
A rare opportunity for totally updated residence w/ views in mountainside resort, gated community! Amazing 4 bed, 3 bath residence in Pointe South Mtn/ AZ Grande in Ahwatukee haven! Two master bedrooms/ two large bedrooms perfect for large family or multi generational living. Upstairs bedrooms have balconies. Downstairs master with outdoor access. Updates from 2024 include modern interior color palette (2023 colors of the year), ext paint, two luxurious tiled rain showers, SS appliances, granite counters in kitchen/ downstairs baths, new light fixtures, new plumbing fixtures, all new flooring (wood plank tile and carpet), feature wall, roof updated, new landscape design featuring artificial grass and nightscape. The joy of your own piece of resort living, totally updated!
25024 S Stoney Lake Drive
Sun Lakes, AZ 85248
$579,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,968
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750372
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful 2-bed, 2-bath Plus Office/Den residence on a coveted corner lot! The exterior boasts a striking stone facade, a 2.5-car garage, and a tasteful paver driveway. The inviting living room showcases vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, and plush carpeting throughout. The eat-in kitchen comes with granite counters, ample wood cabinetry with crown molding, built-in appliances, a center island, and a serving window with a breakfast bar for casual dining. The cozy main bedroom offers direct backyard access, an en suite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Venture outside to find a covered patio for al fresco dining, a relaxing spa, and a low-maintenance desert landscape. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity! HVAC - 2 Units- Replaced in 2021, Hot water heater replaced 2021, Exterior Painted 2023, New Drip system - valves & timer replaced 2023. Exterior Stone work & Pavers done in 2023. New SPA Hot Tub 2024 Hard wired Security System. Reverse Osmosis.
1509 E Peach Tree Drive
Chandler, AZ 85249
$579,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,250
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757886
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome home to this gorgeously redone 3BR 2BA home in the vibrant active adult community of Sunbird CC. A charming courtyard greets you. Enter a large living/dining area with wood look tile throughout. The stunning kitchen boasts granite counters, crisp white cupboards, bar and newer SS appliances. Large family room with access to the relaxing patio and backyard. Bonus art studio den just off the family room. Enjoy the active adult resort lifestyle with golf, pool, tennis and pickleball. Plus, restaurant, bar and loads of entertainment!
20597 W Walton Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$579,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,785
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767346
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 4/3 Craftsman home in Verrado. Great location with tree lined streets and close to park. Relax on beautiful patio in this welcoming community.
8305 W Pioneer Street
Tolleson, AZ 85353
$579,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,244
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756752
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Make yourself at home in this beautiful 5-bedroom haven with a 3-car garage in Tolleson! Large living & dining room and the desirable great room are meticulously designed for relaxation and entertaining. High vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, and wood-look tile flooring add to the overall appeal. Open-concept kitchen boasts ample white shaker cabinets, a pantry, tile counters & backsplash, a center island with a breakfast bar, and stainless steel appliances. You'll also have a den/office and a cozy loft ideal for a reading nook. HUGE main retreat provides double door entry, media niches, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Surely to impress with the wonderful backyard equipped with a covered patio, gazebo, and a refreshing pool for endless summer fun. Don't miss it!