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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15625 N Jerry Street
Surprise, AZ 85378
$570,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,455
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787673
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully stunning 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom single level newer built surprise home. This home has upgrades throughout including marble floor throughout with no carpeting, upgraded baseboards, 9' ceilings and archways throughout, upgraded doors, fixtures window blinds and ceiling fans. This open floor plan home has a large living room and formal dining area with access easy access to the backyard patio. Stunning kitchen features granite countertops, tile backsplash, breakfast bar, upgraded soft-close cabinets, large island, separate walk-in pantry, gas range, dishwasher and refrigerator.
28715 N 64th Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85083
$570,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,820
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6784043
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss this open airy 3BR, 2BA floorpan with many modern amenities such as upgraded blackout shades throughout entire home. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring elegant white cabinets, a wall oven, microwave, gas stovetop, farmhouse sink, rounded quartz island & quartz countertops with a walk-in pantry. Included are a refrigerator and washer/dryer. Luxuriate in the spa like owners bathroom suite with an oversized tiled walk in shower w/bench, double sinks, and a large closet. Bedrooms are carpeted & tile flooring flows through main areas. A large coat closet & gas tankless water heater complete this inviting home! Enjoy outdoor living with a sliding door leading to a low-maintenance backyard with turf and brick accents, surrounded by mountain views and overlooking a scenic canal
16180 W Glenrosa Avenue
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$570,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,066
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6651477
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Embrace the beauty of this wonderful 5-bedroom haven in Palm Valley! This home has a split floorplan, spacious primary bedroom with a remodeled walk-in shower, his and hers vanities and a walk-in closet. This home also features a MIL suite with it's own entrance from the courtyard and private bathroom PLUS an extended driveway with an RV Gate. The open-concept kitchen displays recessed lighting, a pantry, staggered cabinetry adorned with crown moulding, granite counters & backsplash and stainless steel appliances. Lastly, the backyard features a covered patio and a shimmering pool, perfect for warm summer days! Hurry! This gem will surely impress you!
2135 S Bristol --
Mesa, AZ 85209
$570,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
1,883
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6709098
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the heart of coveted Augusta Ranch, this home epitomizes elevated living. With its spacious open-concept floor plan boasting four bedrooms and three baths, it's an entertainer's dream. The family room and inviting kitchen areas are ideal for hosting gatherings. Enjoy the beautiful low-maintenance backyard, complete with a large pool that can be enjoyed year around thanks to a gas heater addition (2023). Updates like a new roof (2023) and renovated bath fixtures add modern convenience, while the community's amenities, including an executive golf course, bar/grill, abundant events, parks, and a school, ensure a lifestyle of comfort and enjoyment. This home is a must-see!
3225 N Lost River Drive
Camp Verde, AZ 86322
$570,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,640
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727355
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
With a compelling offer, the seller is prepared to contribute to the buyer's interest rate buy-down or concessions. Updated 4 Bed, 3 Bath Home on 2 separate Parcels totaling over an Acre of Land. Brand New 2024 Roof. Brand New 2024 HVAC. All New LVP flooring & Fresh Carpet. Kitchen Boast New Quartz Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances, & Tile Backsplash. Master Bedroom features Custom Walk-In shower, His & Her sinks, & Barndoor entry. New Light fixtures and Contemporary Fans throughout. Freshly Painted Inside & Out. Great for Animals or Extra Toys/RV's. Just Blocks away from the Verde River - Excellent Location!
714 W Mesquite Street
Gilbert, AZ 85233
$570,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,962
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750995
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fantastic opportunity! Welcome to this stunning residence featuring a 3-car garage and a convenient RV gate. Discover a welcoming living room with vaulted ceilings, clerestory windows for natural light, contemporary track lighting, and tile flooring. The great room has a cozy fireplace for quiet evenings. The delightful kitchen boasts a charming breakfast nook, granite counters, abundant wood cabinetry, built-in appliances, recessed lighting, a pantry, and a two-tier island with a breakfast bar. The den is perfect for an office or study. The main bedroom includes French doors leading to the backyard, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The enchanting backyard displays a covered patio and a sparkling pool for cooling down on warm days. Make this gem yours!
26028 N 66th Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85083
$570,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,119
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757394
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Location, location, location! Attention: Seller is offering a $10,000 credit at closing towards buyer updating and/or upgrades! This home has energy saving feature upgrades as well with newly installed premium Andersen windows with a transferable warranty and a fully owned 5KW solar system to keep your energy bills low. In demand north Phoenix Eagle Ridge location with mountain views! Homes do not come up for sale frequently in this idyllic neighborhood. Close to shopping, schools, and parks. Multi-level open floor plan with expansive vaults and skylights to let in lots of light. Recently updated primary bath with huge walk in shower. Large yard and covered patio for entertaining. Inviting pebble-tec pool with a removable fence and beautiful water feature will captivate you! The main level has a convenient 4th bedroom for guests or as an in home office. The heart of the home, the kitchen, features multiple pantries with abundant storage and pull out drawers in convenient locations, as well as easy access to both the living room and family room. Newer high efficiency AC and air handler installed by current owner as well as water heater. Durable bamboo and tile flooring in all the high traffic areas of the home as well. Your new home awaits you!
11541 E Corbin Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$570,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,373
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767202
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is located in the highly desirable Warner Enclave subdivision in Mesa. With 2,377 sq. ft. of upgraded living space, this 2-story home offers a bright and open floor plan perfect for entertaining. The kitchen features stunning Valhalla granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, a large pantry, and stainless steel appliances, including a gas range. The primary suite boasts a spacious walk-in closet, dual vanities, and a separate tub and shower. Additional features include a cozy upstairs loft, a dedicated office space, and a convenient upstairs laundry. The home is ENERGY STAR certified with a low HERS rating of 51, ensuring excellent energy efficiency. Outside, you'll find a well-maintained desert landscape with a covered patio, perfect for outdoor relaxation. Located near top-rated schools such as Queen Creek Unified District, this home also offers quick access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Plus, with no rear neighbors, you'll enjoy added privacy. Don't miss out on this gemschedule your tour today!
13408 W Lariat Lane
Peoria, AZ 85383
$570,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,781
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769987
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This 2022 3bdrm 2bath home is on one of the larger lots in Rancho Cabrillo. The home includes an additional bonus room, extended driveway pavers, and a large side vehicle gate. The kitchen opens up to the great room and dining room. Four panel sliding glass doors open up to the backyard entertaining area which includes a covered back patio, built-in BBQ, pool with water feature, and sun deck. The pool deck is surrounded by travertine pavers. The backyard also includes a fire pit and artificial turf. You will enjoy plenty of pool parties, and BBQ's in this beautiful backyard. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind gem! Seller is related to Listing Agent.
26322 W Firehawk Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$570,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,381
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772955
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
HIGHLY UPGRADED Serenity model w/Owned Solar & Updated 19 SEER Amana HVAC! Rare opportunity to own a 3 bedroom, 2 bath + Den home w/a Screened in Patio. You will be greeted by the Tuscan elevation & the Gated Paver Courtyard. Upon entering you will be impressed by the architectural touch of the tray ceilings throughout. Tile flooring leads you into the Chef Lux kitchen w/under cabinet lights, Granite counters, Tile backsplash, Pull-out shelves, Soft close drawers, Pendant lights & Walk-in Pantry. Cozy Gas Fireplace in the family room. Owner Suite w/a Bay window & Barn door that leads into the Bath w/dual sinks & Modern Walk-in Tiled shower for a spa like retreat! Enter the fully Insulated temperature-controlled garage w/cabinets, epoxy floors updated water softener & tankless water heater
29810 W Bellview Street
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$570,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,900
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777916
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Come and see this beautiful house with neutral tones through out, open floor plan, lots of natural light in the living area. Huge island in kitchen. Split floor plan, the back patio is huge, this house has pleanty of land, over 1 acre ready for you to give it your personal touch.
5153 N Main Drive
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$570,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,640
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6690299
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 2.5 acres close to freeway, and surrounded by views, clear skies, city lights and peace and quiet! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home has updating and room for the family. Updates include engineered wood flooring, Thermaster energy efficient windows, French doors, beadboard, stainless appliances, new roof and more. The great room is open concept with wood beams and a real wood burning fireplace. Bring your toys and horses as there is room for all! This horse property/mini farm has 2 stalls, a barn or 2 car garage, storage shed and a carport. Home has it's own well. The east 1.25 acres share a well with one other and can be subdivided. Easy to show. This property has something for everyone!