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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2460 S Apache Drive
Chandler, AZ 85286
$569,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,975
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727216
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand new roof, new HVAC, new stove/oven/microwave! This charming 4 bedroom and 2.5 bathrooms, is nestled in the heart of Chandler, a community celebrated for its parks, top-rated schools, and great dining. The kitchen offers access to each room on the main floor and the living areas are perfect for cozy family gatherings! The master suite offers a bright ensuite bathroom and a walk-in closet. Outside offering a covered patio ideal for al fresco dining, low-maintenance landscaping, and a refreshing pool! Close to major freeways, conveniently located near shopping, dining, and Chandler Fashion Center.
7825 W Rovey Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85303
$569,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,694
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6731089
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Beautiful home located in Tessera's gated community features *4 Bathrooms *2 Baths, Formal Living Room with Dining Room *Family Room*Granite counter*Tile floors in all common areas*Extended 3 car garage*Additional 4th Garage conditioned as workshop or can be used to store extra toys.*Lots of space for entertainment for large family*Beautiful front landscape with mature trees*RV Gate *Pavers/concrete laid out for RV parking Front/back yard*Across from Community Park*
9038 W Orchid Lane
Peoria, AZ 85345
$569,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,437
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738790
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Seller Concession Available ! Beautifully maintained single-story home nestled in a gated community on a quiet Cul-De-Sac. The kitchen is a chef's dream with granite countertops, a large island adorned with pendant lights, a gas cooktop, stainless steel appliances & LED lighting, all complemented by high ceilings. The split floor plan includes a versatile flex room, perfect for a home office or playroom. The luxurious primary bathroom boasts a soaking tub & a spacious frosted glass tiled shower, alongside a generous walk-in closet. The 3-car garage provides ample storage space. Enjoy the low-maintenance backyard, complete with artificial turf, a dog run, an RV gate, a kids' play structure. Plus, there are no two-story homes behind the property, ensuring privacy. Conveniently located, close to The Westgate Entertainment Complex! This home offers both tranquility and entertainment at your doorstep.
18370 W College Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$569,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,099
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750583
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
POOL PARTY-READY!! Welcome home to a stunning Meritage 3 bedroom, 2 bath home plus large den, located in the highly-sought after Sedella community in Goodyear. Home sits on a large lot with a beautiful landscaped backyard boasting a large sparkling pool, a large ramada with pavers, a beautiful gas fire pit for those cool desert nights, synthetic turf, large covered patio and dwarf fruit trees. Home also has a large RV Gate with generous paved parking, and RV parking IS allowed. From the moment you walk through the front entry, the spacious floor plan opens up to a great room with vaulted ceilings and a beautiful modern kitchen with a large island and a walk-in pantry, made for entertaining. Primary bedroom suite is split from other bedrooms for private tranquility..... All bedrooms have ample walk-in closets. This home shows pride of ownership and is move-in ready, and shopping and other conveniences are close by.
3150 N Eagle Landing Road
Show Low, AZ 85901
$569,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,679
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6752586
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
We may say this often - but it is true - Escape to the Pines! This perfect lot that backs to State land in Creekside at Eagle Mountain Estates is a beautiful gated community in Show Low. This very spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath home with a separate little office area off the kitchen (which has a large walk in pantry and gas range) is perfect for relaxation retreat away or living here permanently . Enjoy the warmth of the living room fireplace during those cooler mountain evenings or step outside into your enclosed pavered yard—perfect for peaceful mornings with a book or safe playtime for your pets. This home also features a generously sized two-car garage that provides extra space for larger vehicles or additional storage (think UTVs!). Residents appreciate the community's strict no short-term rental policy, which preserves the neighborhood's quiet charm. Whether you're seeking a permanent residence or a seasonal retreat, this home offers an ideal setting for a tranquil lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. Explore the opportunity to call this serene dwelling your own!
2475 N 163rd Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$569,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,088
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759367
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This fabulous 2 bed/2 bath residence now on the market is for you! Featuring great curb appeal, a low-care landscape with mature shade tree, and a 2 car + golf cart garage. A spacious open floor plan w/elegant wood plank flooring, formal dining area, a 2-way fireplace, and neutral palette throughout. The gorgeous kitchen is comprised of wood cabinetry w/granite counters, a pantry, brand new SS dish-washer/gas stove top-oven. Newer ''Samsung Bespoke ''refrigerator, new pen lighting & recessed lighting, completes the breakfast bar. You'll love the primary bedroom, with a walk-in closet and an esuite w/dual sinks. You'll also find a cozy open den/sitting room! Finally, the lovely backyard includes a covered patio, extended paver seating area, a built-in BBQ, gas fire pit and fountain.
10441 W Los Gatos Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$569,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,698
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779637
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing 4-bedroom and Den Residence in Casa Del Rey! You're greeted by 3-car garage, welcoming porch**Impressive entryway leads you to a charming living/dining room w/ Earth-tone palette**Spacious Family Room boasts Soaring Ceilings, Clerestory Windows for ample natural light**Gorgeous Kitchen comes w/Granite Counters, Custom Wood Cabinetry w/Crown Molding, SS appliances, a large Pantry, and a two-tier peninsula with Breakfast Bar**Convenient Downstairs Bedroom & full Bath** Upstairs, the Loft provides additional Living Space**Large Master Suite with Spacious Master Ensuite with Separate Tub/Shower and Large Walk-In Closet**Large Secondary Bedrooms**Double Sinks at Hall Bath**Ceiling Fans throughout**Step Outside to Eye Appealing Backyard with Extended Covered Patio & Large BBQ Island The cozy primary bedroom offers a sitting nook, an ensuite with double sinks, and a walk-in closet.Unwind in the enchanting backyard, complete with a full-length covered patio, stylish pavers, pristine artificial turf, and a built-in BBQ with a dry bar for outdoor get-togethers. Make this gem yours now!
3055 N 33rd Place
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$569,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,108
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6725209
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Beautiful newer townhome in a quiet gated community centrally located near Biltmore and Arcadia - close to restaurants, shopping, entertainment and just 10 minutes to downtown Phoenix and Sky Harbor International Airport. First floor has an open floorplan with high ceilings and wood plank tile flooring, Kitchen has a large island with bar seating, granite counters, large pantry, and bay window dining area. It is open to the family room, which has an oversized triple sliding glass door leading out to a covered patio and pavered backyard. Oversized garage has separate side yard exit. Upstairs you enter a huge loft space with vaulted ceiling. 4 bedrooms are split from each other for added privacy - Master at one end, two bedrooms at the other end and the fourth halfway between.
2409 W Acoma Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85023
$569,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,557
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6746657
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully maintained, energy-efficient home features owned solar panels, RV gate + parking, a charming front yard & inviting entry to start. Step inside to travertine & wood floors stretching across an open layout w/ vaulted ceilings. Additional upgrades include plantation shutters throughout, an open & spacious kitchen equipped w/ stainless steel appliances, granite counters, tile backsplash, breakfast bar & a whole house water filtration system. The spacious main suite boasts its own fireplace, sitting/office area, direct backyard access, & a private bathroom featuring dual sinks + a walk-in closet. The large laundry room has built-in cabinets & a utility sink. This is one of the largest single stories in the neighborhood that has 2 en suites. Pool has motorized safety cover. Outside, the sizable backyard boasts a covered patio, two sheds, a spa, refreshing pool, and ample space for lively barbecues. Don't miss this delightful haven!
240 W Dorado Circle
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$569,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,672
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743546
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in the highly sought-after neighborhood of Old Litchfield Park. This exceptional property offers NO HOA and is short-term rental friendly, making it an ideal choice for both homeowners and investors. The home features exquisite Spanish-inspired touches throughout, offering a unique blend of elegance and comfort. In 2024, the kitchen and bathrooms were fully remodeled with designer touches that elevate every space. The heart of the home is the spacious eat-in kitchen, perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. It boasts a walk-in pantry, a convenient pot-filler faucet over the stove, and ample space for all your culinary needs. Adjacent to the kitchen is a separate office, ideal for remote work or as a quiet study. The primary suite is a true retreat, featuring a remodeled bathroom with a large, luxurious shower that adds a touch of spa-like serenity. The living area is highlighted by a beautifully designed fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Step outside to discover two stunning new pergolas on both the front and back patios, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation. The property also features a beautifully crafted designer side gate that enhances the home's curb appeal. The large diving pool offers a perfect oasis for relaxation and entertainment. This home has been maintained, with a newer flat roof, hot water heater, and pool pump all replaced in 2020, ensuring peace of mind for years to come. Located just a short walk from Stagg's Park, Litchfield's Lake, the Recreational Center, and the iconic Wigwam Resort, this home offers a perfect balance of luxury and convenience. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exceptional property your own!
5720 S Wildrose --
Mesa, AZ 85212
$569,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,818
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6731718
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover elevated living in the stunning 55+ Encore community. This Manhattan model home is nestled on a desirable corner lot beside a tranquil park. From the moment you arrive, curb appeal captivates with lush surroundings. Inside, soaring ceilings and an extended great room create a sense of openness, while the private study offers a perfect space to unwind or work. The gourmet kitchen boasts a massive island and walk-in pantry, ideal for any culinary endeavor. Outside, relax on your extended porch or covered patio adorned with travertine, or challenge yourself on the 4-hole putting green. The 2.5 car garage, with epoxy floors and built-in cabinets, completes this thoughtfully designed retreat.