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
2814 S Fossil Creek Lane
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
$565,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,710
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6739279
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome home! This bright and cheery 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home is fully furnished, boasting a thoughtful and cozi layout. The sunny living room welcomes you as you enter the home, with a comfortably sized powder room conveniently tucked away beneath the staircase. The dining room seamlessly combines with the kitchen, which features stainless steel appliances and a convenient breakfast bar for casual dining... The ample primary suite offers a peaceful escape with its well-appointed design-including plenty of room for a work station, treadmill or reading nook. A great feature of this home is the 2-car tandem garage, providing substantial space for your vehicles and additional storage needs. The backyard is surrounded by privacy fencing, complete with a paved patio area - perfect for ent
5497 S Joshua Tree Lane
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$565,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
1,840
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6746360
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this impeccably maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home with an inviting open concept floor plan, nestled in the prestigious Bridge community. The updated kitchen features a natural gas oven/stove, a new microwave, a dishwasher, and a triple filtration system. This well-designed space seamlessly transitions into the dining and living areas, perfect for modern living. The extended garage offers ample space for large vehicles or additional storage. Professionally installed pavers adorn the side of the home, leading to a beautifully landscaped backyard. Enjoy a versatile outdoor area with a 16' x 2.5' planting bed, a 5' x 11' paved storage area, a covered patio, and a built-in gas hookup for your grill. Additional highlights include an owned water softener, stylish floating flooring in the master bedroom, a custom-designed screen door at the front entry, and a security system ready for reactivation. Experience the exceptional features of this home firsthand.
3211 E Kerry Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85050
$565,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,880
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6758934
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac, this stunning 4-bed, 2.5-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency with Newly Leased solar panels. Relax in a Refreshing Pool at the end of your day or all weekend long! There are no neighbors behind to peer down at you. The sleek remodeled kitchen offers modern appliances, quartz countertops, and ample cabinetry, perfect for any home chef. Just minutes from Desert Ridge Shopping, Loop 101, and the Musical Instrument Museum. Fantastic location to get you anywhere in the Greater Metro area quickly.
2133 N Atwood --
Mesa, AZ 85207
$565,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,379
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759727
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Escape to your own Desert Oasis! This radiant 2 bed, 2 bath retreat in the coveted Mountain Bridge Community is ready to welcome you home. Built in 2017, this light-filled haven features a split floorplan, modern upgrades & abundant storage, including built-in garage cabinets. The kitchen is a chef's dream w/stainless steel appliances, generous pantry & ample counter space. The oversized laundry room & private grassy backyard backing to a scenic desert wash offer extra comfort. HOA covers roof & exterior paint making it a perfect lock-and-leave option. Mountain Bridge is an award-winning master-planned community w/extensive amenities- pools, fitness centers, tennis, pickleball & basketball courts, plus playground putting green. Bella Via adds its own private pool, spa, clubhouse & more!
3819 N Springfield Street
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$565,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,036
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764983
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
LOCATED IN HIGHLY DESIRABLE VERRADO, PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP, PARKING FOR 6 CARS! This Pulte Magnolia model features a cozy front porch, high-end turf in both front and backyard, expansive great room that opens to the gourmet kitchen w/island, breakfast bar, eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, staggered cabinets, Corian countertops, granite stone sink, wall oven, cooktop, black appliances, and a large pantry, the split master floor plan includes an oversized master suite, his/her closets, raised vanities w/double sinks, separate tub/shower, 2 large additional bedrooms, and full bath. The backyard boast of a covered patio, extended custom pavers designed for a park-like setting, built-in pergola makes this the perfect place for entertaining. The 2car garage includes high-end epoxy flooring, storage cabinets, an extended driveway with room to park 4 additional vehicles.
22337 E Via Del Palo --
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$565,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,162
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765247
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover a stunning two-story home nestled within the prestigious Villages at Queen Creek Golf Course community. This corner lot residence offers breathtaking mountain views, a refreshing community pool, and a spacious interior designed for comfortable living. Key features include:Prime Location, Enjoy easy access to the 60 and 202 freeways, as well as a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Enjoy the convenience of a full bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor. Modern Updates include new tile, and updated cabinets and granite countertops. The expansive open concept living space features vaulted ceilings, a large kitchen with an island, and a generous pantry. Don't Miss this opportunity to make this house yours!
272 N 167th Lane
Goodyear, AZ 85338
$565,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,735
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767667
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in Canyon Trails! Nestled in a peaceful cul-de-sac, this 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence is loaded with premium upgrades. Step outside to your own slice of paradise, featuring a splash pad for endless summer fun and an outdoor kitchen perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining family and friends. The area directly behind your back fence boasts lush greenery, ensuring added privacy for your backyard. Enjoy the convenience of a full bedroom and bathroom on the main level, ideal for guests or multi-generational living. The extended garage provides ample space for your vehicles, while the built-in shelving offers extra storage and a dedicated workspace. Upstairs, the primary bedroom features a luxurious walk-in shower and two separate walk-in closets.
10521 E Hawk Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$565,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,104
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767313
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful residence in the esteemed Eastmark Community is the one! Lovely curb appeal with a well-maintained front yard and a 3-car garage. Be welcomed by an inviting foyer leading to the spacious living room enhanced with tall ceilings, pre-wired surround sound, and sleek wood-look tile flooring. The chef's kitchen is fully equipped with an electric cooktop, a wall oven, granite counters, a walk-in pantry, ample white cabinetry with crown molding, and an island with a breakfast bar. The primary retreat has plush carpeting, an immaculate ensuite, and a walk-in closet. Secondary bedrooms enjoy a Jack & Jill bathroom! The home's elegance extends outdoors to the tranquil backyard with a covered patio and pavers, great for relaxation. Make this gem yours today!
17814 N 137th Drive
Sun City West, AZ 85375
$565,000
2
Beds
3
Baths
2,532
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776829
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This exquisite San Simeon model was originally designed by Del Webb as a 3-bedroom home or 2 bed with study. This particular one is unique because it actually has a 3rd bathroom. As you approach this stunning property, you're greeted by a private front courtyard that promises tranquil mornings and an intimate space for reflection or casual conversation. Inside, you'll find a home that with a spacious layout that is perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The living spaces flow seamlessly to the extended back patio, where the home's true gem lies: breathtaking views of the golf course, lake, and distant mountains that has delighted the owners for a quarter of a century enjoying these sunsets from the extended patio. Garage can accommodate a golf-cart. Roof replaced 2019. Situated on a tranquil street void of through traffic, it's peaceful, yet convenience is just around the corner, with easy access to all the shopping, dining, and amenities that Sun City West has to offer. Live your adventure now.
112 N 3rd Street
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$565,000
5
Beds
6.5
Baths
5,264
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769706
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Check out 1 of Historical Downtown Buckeye building that was built in 1927. Flood irrigation is available on this 15000 sq ft lot. This property can be residential or commercial. it has 5 bed, 6.5 baths . Roof had new sealant , all new pool equipment, and resurfacing. new primary shower, new flooring in dining area, remodeled front half bath. new hot water heater. 2 car garage plus 8 assigned parking spaces. Basement has bedroom and bath plus living area. Green house and a shed. Shared parking with bank,verify all info.
23105 E Camina Buena Vista
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$565,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,381
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777387
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MUST SEE! Take a look at this incredible 2,381 sqft single-story home with 4 bedrooms, large GREAT ROOM, and a prime spot near the community pool, splash pad, and parks—perfect for relaxing and having fun! Step inside to find a spacious, open floor plan that brings together the living, dining, and kitchen areas, making it great for both everyday life and hosting. The living room is bright and airy, thanks to large windows and a sliding glass door that lets in an abundance of natural light. The open kitchen has a sleek, modern look with upgraded countertops, plenty of cabinets, and a HUGE ISLAND —ideal for casual meals or hanging out with guests. The kitchen opens up perfectly to the great room and dining areas. The primary suite is split perfectly from the other three bedrooms features an upgraded bathroom. Head out back to enjoy a beautifully designed yard with a large covered patio, a cozy paver sitting area, and a low maintenance artificial turf area. It's perfect for entertaining, gardening, or just kicking back in your own private space to watch a breathtaking Arizona sunset. Other features include: 3 car tandem epoxy garage with built-in storage, energy efficient home, vinyl frame windows, new carpet, mudroom, reverse osmosis, water softener, tankless water heater, and so much more. This home is perfectly located in Queen Creek, AZ with every convenience just minutes away - close to shopping, Golfing, Freeways, Dining, Schools, Downtown Queen Creek. You don't want to miss out on this property. Schedule your showing today!
813 W Diamond Drive
Tempe, AZ 85283
$565,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,915
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782021
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautifully upgraded home is a standout gem! Thoughtfully renovated inside and out, this home combines efficiency, elegance, and high-end finishes and is 100% move-in-ready. Be the very first to live in this freshly renovated home! Stunning wood-look porcelain tile throughout the entire home - no carpet here! Upgrades include solid maple cabinet doors, white quartz countertops, all new dual pane argon windows throughout the home, new fans, hardware, light fixtures, toilets, mirrors, and the list goes on and on!! The details and touches put into this home are unmatched. Freshly epoxied garage with storage cabinets, plus a RV gate w\ concrete slab for your motorhome, boats, or other toys. Add this one your short list - this home is gorgeous and completely turnkey!!