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.
Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth
3355 Rising Sun Ridge
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
$575,950
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,543
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6745962
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing off-the-grid, very well-maintain cozy house, sitting on a premium lot. Features: high tech appliances, walk-in pantry, spacious master bedroom, built-in vacuum system, solar panels with bird proofing, inverter and storage batteries. House has an extended length garage with beautiful epoxy floor and installed shelves on the walls. House stays attached to the grid in order to sell excess electricity to APC. House is energy efficient in many ways. A Trane XV20i Variable Speed Heat Pump (20 SEER) with 4-ton Hyperion Air Handler was installed in 2022. In 2023 the complete exterior of the house painted, windows and seams caulked. Deal includes an EZ-GO RXV (golf cart) with replaced batteries.
13602 S Garnet Road
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$575,555
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,718
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757813
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Move in ready custom home sitting on 1.2 acres with huge garage , remodeled primary bath with tiled shower & tub, new vanity, lighting, & fixtures. Nicely remodeled kitchen with QUARTZ counters, tall cabinets, pantry & trash compactor. Breakfast bar, eat-in kitchen + a formal dining room. Living room with cozy fireplace & large bay window seat flows nicely into billiard room, bar, & office. There is a large craft room with outside exit door & an enclosed AZ room off the primary + a nursery & walk-in closet. Vaulted ceilings, fans, plant shelves, french doors with inset blinds, dual pane windows. 3.5 car extra tall garage with plenty of storage, newer water softener. Grass yard, 2 RV gates, fully fenced. And a sun deck to enjoy 300* MOUNTAIN VIEWS! Live Rural with shopping only 4 miles awa
8552 W Sierra Street
Peoria, AZ 85345
$575,500
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,228
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6727723
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**BUYER FINANCING HELP AVAILABLE**Step into this freshly painted home featuring a spacious living and dining area that provides ample space for entertainment. The large kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, a kitchen island, extended cabinetry, a breakfast nook, and opens to a huge family room with a cozy fireplace. The expansive primary suite offers a walk-in closet and a luxurious bath. Three additional bedrooms share a well-appointed bathroom. Outside, enjoy a perfect backyard oasis complete with a heated pool featuring a soothing waterfall. Situated on a huge lot ideal for entertaining or personal enjoyment, the property includes a gazebo and storage shed for added convenience. RV gate and ample parking space, plus a three-car garage and new AC unit
20923 S 231st Street
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$575,490
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,264
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786619
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand new phase!. Our popular Sage plan is conveniently located to all that Queen Creek has to offer. Minutes from the brand new Costco, Schnepf Farms, Queen Creek Market Place and the Queen Creek Olive Mill. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.
10262 W Columbus Avenue
Avondale, AZ 85392
$575,279
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,587
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761862
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6761862 November Completion! Welcome to the 45-3 at Parkside Almeria, a spacious single-story home spanning 2,567 square feet with 4 bedrooms. The heart of the home is the expansive great room, effortlessly blending with the dining area to create an open, inviting space perfect for gatherings. The primary suite offers a private retreat with plenty of space to unwind. The smart floorplan also includes a flexible room, ideal for a home office, creative space, or even an additional bedroom. The primary bathroom adds a touch of luxury with its super shower, transforming daily routines into spa-like experiences. This home combines thoughtful design with luxurious living for ultimate comfort and style. Structural options include: soft water loop, gas line outdoor kitchen, garage service door, and paver porch and walkway.
16029 E Rancho Laredo Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$575,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,795
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781610
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome home to your brand new 4 bedroom 2 bath 2024 new build! This spit open floor plan features quartz countertops, wood cabinets, custom tile showers and synthetic stucco finish. With NO HOA and an acre of land, your backyard is a blank canvas for outdoor serenity. This home is signed up with Epcor for water to ease your mind. Don't miss out on this great opportunity.
31344 S Eastview Road
Marana, AZ 85658
$575,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,959
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787390
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful home on 10 acres of land! This rare find is remote, yet very nicely finished. At 1,959 sqft, this 3 bed, 2 bath 2014 custom build has plenty of space. It is entirely off-grid, with a private well and solar power with battery bank. The mountain views are breathtaking, and can be seen from nearly every window and both balconies. The lot is also uniquely situated with enough room for another dwelling. Enjoy the views and abundant wildlife during the day, and the fireplace, outdoor firepit, and stars in the evenings. This home is in a private, gated, and fenced community with very few neighbors, lots of space, and no HOA. The home is down a long dirt road, and downtown Marana and the comforts of city living are about 35-45 minutes away, making this a true getaway.
35938 N 138th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$575,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,138
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782719
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled on a spacious 1.25-acre lot, this charming 2,138-square-foot home offers the perfect blend of comfort, tranquility, and outdoor adventure. Surrounded by natural beauty, the property provides ample space for relaxation and recreation, while being just moments away from scenic hiking trails that wind through breathtaking landscapes. The home's inviting floor plan features generous living spaces with large windows that frame stunning views of the surrounding countryside and sky. Whether you're enjoying the crisp air from the patio, stargazing under the expansive night sky, or exploring the nearby trails, you'll feel a sense of peace and connection with nature at every turn.
21051 W Sage Hill Road
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$575,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,934
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6773396
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home, boasting incredible curb appeal with a charming front porch sitting area perfect for enjoying the serene surroundings of Verrado's Main Street District. This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom plus den residence offers well-designed features and valuable updates throughout. Step inside to find painted interiors, beautiful blinds throughout, and ceiling fans to keep you comfortable year-round. The family room boasts built-in speakers, perfect for entertaining, and wooden built-in shelving adds elegance to the living room. The kitchen is a delight, featuring granite countertops, a double ceramic sink with a convenient pull-out faucet, a reverse osmosis (RO) system, stainless steel appliances, including a gas stove and refrigerator, and plenty of space for culinary.. creations. Enjoy complete privacy in your backyard oasis, with no neighboring homes in sight. Relax in your sparkling pool, complete with a new pump and filter (2021), in-floor cleaning system, and a gorgeous Pebble Tec resurfacing (2021) and sun self for those relaxing pool days, cantilever umbrella included. The pool area is complemented by cool decking and a gas stub for BBQing, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings. Additional highlights include a newer Trane AC unit, brand new water softener 2024, owned solar system ($30K value), and a well-equipped garage with epoxy floors, washer and dryer included, ceiling fan, and a garage door opener. Verrado offers top-notch A+ schools in the neighborhood. Take a stroll around Verrado and enjoy the tree lined streets, resort style pools, fitness center, over 78 gorgeous parks, hiking and biking trails, golf courses, shopping, and dining just steps away from Main Street. Community events are hosted throughout the year, creating a vibrant and connected lifestyle. Future developments include outdoor shopping, a medical center, and more restaurants to choose from. This home is a rare find, blending modern convenience with classic charm! Don't miss your chance to make it yours!
6943 N 88th Drive
Glendale, AZ 85305
$575,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,466
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786607
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning 4-Bedroom Home with a Pool, Gourmet Kitchen, and Prime Location 1 mile from the Arizona Cardinals Stadium. This magnificent 2,466 sq. ft. residence boasts 5 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 luxurious bathrooms, perfectly blending comfort and style. Step into the heart of the home—a gourmet kitchen designed for the culinary enthusiast! Featuring granite countertops, a double oven, gas cooktop, and wood-look tile flooring, this kitchen is both functional and elegant, ready to inspire your inner chef. The open floor plan seamlessly connects the kitchen to a spacious living area, ideal for entertaining or cozy family gatherings with 9ft+ Ceilings downstairs as well as upstairs Escape to your private backyard oasis, meticulously landscaped with turf and showcasing a brand-new pool with massive baja shelf. This outdoor haven is perfect for relaxing under the Arizona sun or hosting unforgettable poolside parties. This incredible property is just 1 mile from the Arizona Cardinals Stadium and the exciting new Via Resort, placing you in the heart of Glendale's vibrant entertainment district. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a slice of paradise with proximity to world-class entertainment, dining, and shopping. Outdoor Projector, Roku, and Outdoor Screen with Attachments can stay with the new owner for Movie nights or to entertain when friends and family are over.
3031 E Colonial Place
Chandler, AZ 85249
$575,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,170
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787735
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this extraordinary home that boasts both charm and personality! The fabulous interior features vaulted ceilings, tons of natural light, elegant stained glass, gorgeous light fixtures, designer paint & distressed wood floors. With both a separate living/dining room combo, an open-concept family room, this gem has versatile spaces for relaxing & entertaining! The impressive kitchen boasts custom additions such as: coffee station, SS appliances, double ovens, metal stove hood, farm sink, island w/breakfast bar, stone counters & backsplash, roll out shelving, RO, walk-in pantry & antique white cabinetry w stained glass doors. The large main bedroom has a bay window, new carpet, an ensuite w/ dual sinks, separate tub/shower & walk in closet. New Trane HVAC system & ductwork 11/20. PLUS! One bedroom doubles as a den and offers a unique setup, currently serving as a rental with two bedrooms separated by a steel privacy door. This layout provides endless possibilities, whether for a roommate, private office, or in-law suite. Discover your private backyard retreat including a covered patio, pavers, and a Gazebo for entertaining. Home has a 220 electrical outlet ready for a hot tub. Also, there is a large side yard with lovely 8x6 storage shed. NO neighbors behind for added privacy & on a cul-de-sac lot!!! Don't miss this opportunity! New suncreens (7/20),new water heater (8/21), new dishwasher (2/24).
1 E Lexington Avenue Unit 1101
Phoenix, AZ 85012
$575,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,261
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6720258
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Urban luxury living at your oasis in the city with million dollar views from the 11th floor of One Lexington, the premier high rise community in downtown Phoenix. This loft style contemporary is spacious and bright with floor to ceiling glass that capture dramatic views of the Phoenix City scape, along with picturesque surrounding mountain views. The kitchen is sleek and opens onto the main living space with custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances and ample storage space. The primary bedroom windows frame the city beyond and the spa like bath has dual vanities, a soak tub, walk in shower and roomy closet space. The secondary bedroom offers flexibility and additional opportunities for endless sunsets and desert night skies.Amenities include front desk staff, a heated resort style pool and spa, built in outdoor grills, a full gym facility with free weights and a club lounge for special events, along with a dog run for your urban city furry friend. The unit has 2 assigned gated parking spaces, as well as a separate lockable storage locker. Walk or ride the light rail to sporting events, dining, theater, opera and museums: all within walking distance of your desert city oasis. Go to our website for more information.