Last week’s economic reports included readings on the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index, Commerce Department releases on Housing Starts and Building Permits issued and weekly reports on new jobless claims and mortgage rates.
Builder Sentiment Holds Steady, Demand for Homes Pushes Builders
November’s reading for the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index held steady with a reading of 65. Any reading above 50 indicates that a majority of home builders surveyed has a positive view of current and future housing market conditions. Tight supplies of available homes, steep competition for homes in desirable metro areas and rising home prices pressure home builders to produce more homes, but builder sentiment and housing starts are not always aligned, but data released by the Commerce Department indicates that builders are ramping up construction.
The Commerce Department reported that October’s reading of 1.323 housing starts exceeded September’s reading of 1.054 million starts and also surpassed the expected reading of 1.170 million starts. This suggests that builders are ramping up construction to quench ongoing demand for homes. October’s reading was 25.50 percent higher than September’s reading, which was the highest number of housing starts posted since 2007. Starts for multi-family homes of five units or more jumped 75 percent and starts for single family homes of four units or less increased by 11 percent.
Building permits issued in October rose to 1.229 million as compared to September’s reading of 1.225 million permits issued. Approaching winter weather and holidays typically cause slowing of construction.
Mortgage Rates Rise after Election
Last week’s survey of mortgage rates was mostly completed by the time presidential election results were released; this week’s readings showed higher rates for all types of mortgages. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage increased from 3.57 percent to 3.94 percent; rates for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage rose from 2.88 to 3.14 percent and the average rate for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages was also higher at 3.07 percent as compared to the prior week’s reading of 2.88 percent. Discount points were unchanged at 0.50 percent for fixed rate mortgages and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages. Low mortgage rates have helped home buyers qualify for financing they need to buy homes; if rates continue to trend upward, demand for homes is likely to ease.
New jobless claims reached a 43-year low last week. 235,000 claims were filed as compared to expectations of 255,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 254,000 new jobless claims. Low layoff rates point to stronger economic conditions; job stability can encourage first-time home buyers to enter the market and existing home owners to buy larger homes.
What’s Ahead
Readings on new and pre-owned home sales, the Federal Reserve’s post meeting FOMC statement and reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will be released this week.
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6754 W Andrea Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$634,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,125
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6740369
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Ready now! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'Barstown' floorplan features 3 full bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes Burlap Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 8' doors, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. Interior photos of similar spec home, options will vary
7432 W Quail Track Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$634,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,125
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755381
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
October completion! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'Barstown' floorplan features 3 full bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes White Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 9' ceilings, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. Home is under construction, photos of similar spec to show layout, options may vary**
5971 W Venus Way
Chandler, AZ 85226
$634,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,018
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6733382
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful home was just updated! Please see upgrades in documents. Location, location, location offers easy access to all the freeways, shopping & restaurants, in the desirable Chandler area. This home offers a wonderful layout with 4 bedrooms and 21/2 baths, making it ideal for comfort and privacy. Embrace the opportunity to a move-in ready home with a great location, easy maintenance landscape, and a sparkeling diving pool. Don't miss this home!!
515 W Poncho Lane
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143
$634,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,142
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781033
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous 3-bed plus den/office home in The Estates at Johnson Ranch. The single-story layout features a spacious great room with 9' ceilings, tile flooring, & custom shutters throughout. The kitchen is stylishly appointed with top tier stainless steel appliances, an island with breakfast bar seating, walk-in pantry, & RO System. Energy-efficient with paid-off solar and two newer A/C units (2022). The split floor plan includes a generous master suite with private backyard access. Step outside to a resort-like yard featuring a lap pool, covered pergola, extended patio, raised garden beds, & two-tone fencing. 2- car garage with epoxy flooring & cabinets along with extra storage including multiple sheds, one 8'x30' with golf cart access through the RV gate. A true gem in a great neighborhood!
16001 W Huron Drive
Sun City West, AZ 85375
$634,900
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,182
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783974
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW!! Golf Course Lot #15th Hole on Trail Ridge GC. This, Open Concept w 10' ceilings, Updated Premier Cottonwood Model has Silas stone Kitchen Counter Tops, Matching Appliances & Center Island. 6 Skylights throughout w newer Tile/Carpet in the Bedrooms. All the Bathrooms have been updated & the Master has a Walk in Tub w a separate Shower. This house also boasts a Office/crafts room that roomy & bright. AC was replaced in 2019 & water heater in 2018. Master Bedroom has Bay window updated feature. Large 2 car garage along w additional golf cart garage which has Additional Storage Cabinets. This home has wide views of fairway, mountains & gorgeous AZ sunsets. All this, and more, plus all the amenities of Sun City West
7814 E Cypress Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
$634,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,848
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738297
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the highly desirable Cox Heights neighborhood near El Dorado Park and the Greenbelt in Scottsdale! Great South Scottsdale location near Old Town, ASU, Scottsdale Stadium with easy access to freeways! Quiet cul-de-sac street. Home features open floor plan with Living Room, dining room and Kitchen with island. Marble countertop, stainless steel appliances, New flooring and carpet all in Oct 2023. Exterior paint 2022, new ceiling fans 2022, new garage door opener 2023, added attic insulation 2021. A/C and Roof 2017, gas hot water heater 2018. North / South exposure!
10105 E Sphere Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$634,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,324
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763289
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the charm of this fabulous home with stone accents on the façade! Appealing interior showcases clean lines that promote an inviting atmosphere! You'll love the desirable open layout paired with wood-look tile flooring, recessed lighting, and a wall-mounted fireplace. Glossy stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, subway tile backsplash, ample white cabinets with crown molding, a prep island with a breakfast bar, and quartz counters complete this immaculate kitchen. Romantic main retreat provides plush carpet, a private ensuite with dual sinks, enclosed glass shower, and a walk-in closet. The spacious backyard with artificial turf and a covered patio is ideal for hosting family get-togethers.
20051 W Pasadena Avenue
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$634,500
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,987
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6776214
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful home on over an acre of land! Enjoy mountain views from your front patio and a new AC unit replaced this year! This home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, updates throughout, and an open great room layout. You will love this stunning kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a kitchen island with a breakfast bar. The soft neutral tones and elegant wood-look flooring throughout the home create a clean, cohesive aesthetic .The primary suite is spacious with an ensuite featuring dual sinks, a soaking corner tub, a separate shower, and a huge walk-in closet! The remaining 2 bedrooms have walk-in closets and ceiling fans. The laundry room has added upper cabinets for additional storage! The private backyard is fenced and offers an extensive covered patio with extensions. Enjoy easy care landscape with artificial grass. Beyond the back gate you will find a huge yard with plenty of room for horses and a 24X35 Insulated metal workshop/garage generator attached! Additional features include lifetime sunscreen film applied, insulated garage, gutters, Security doors on both patio doors, and pull-out shelves in kitchen. Do not miss out on this home!
2528 W Coyote Creek Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$634,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,803
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770980
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This expansive home is nestled on a premium lot backing onto a wash, boasting mountain vistas and featuring 4 sizable bedrooms and 2.5 baths across more than 2800 Square Feet, which includes a separate casita! The layout encompasses two living spaces on the ground floor with plank tile floors and a neutral color scheme throughout. The kitchen is equipped with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, including a double oven range, cabinets with pull-out shelves, a two-door pantry, an island with extra storage, and recessed lighting. All bedrooms are located upstairs. The primary bedroom includes a sitting area and an attached bathroom with a dual sink vanity, separate tub and shower, linen closet and a walk-in closet. Additionally, two secondary bedrooms come with walk-in closets. The private backyard is a haven with a covered patio featuring a ceiling fan, a heated pool and spa, ample flagstone-style decking, a firepit, low-maintenance desert landscaping, and fencing that provides views of the desert and mountains. The separate casita, complete with a wall-mounted AC unit, is perfect for use as a pool house, office, or gym. Other highlights are the recently updated A/C units, a laundry room on the main level, a guest powder room, and a two-car garage. Anthem Parkside presents exceptional amenities for the whole family, including over 30 parks and a community center with a gym, indoor basketball/volleyball courts, a 10-court pickleball complex, and an outdoor water park.
5101 E Terry Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$634,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,649
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6713504
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
BRAND NEW ROOF on this immaculate home on a corner lot conveniently located near the community pool, tennis courts and Greenbelt in highly desirable Paradise Manor. This charming home offers a private courtyard, vaulted ceiling in the light open living room with fireplace, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and kitchen with NEW Dishwasher, SS appliances and granite countertops. Primary bedroom with large walk-in closet opens to the private covered back patio and main suite bathroom has separate shower and tub and double sink vanity with granite countertops. In addition, this superior Scottsdale location is just a few minutes drive to Kierland Commons/Scottsdale Quarter, Paradise Valley Mall, and numerous restaurants and shopping. Great opportunity to make this home with NEW water heater your own.
3476 E Pinto Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$634,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,702
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764649
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover your oasis in Lakeview Trails at Morrison Ranch! This like-new, meticulously maintained home, built in 2019, features 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 luxurious baths, a versatile den and an additional bonus space. Upgraded throughout, the home boasts beautiful wood plank tile flooring that enhances its modern charm. The heart of the home is a large, open kitchen with a massive island, perfect for gatherings and culinary adventures. Step outside to your backyard paradise, complete with low-maintenance artificial grass, a built-in BBQ, and a cozy fire table for memorable evenings. With built-in permanent LED holiday lighting, your home shines year-round. Enjoy serene lake views, multiple playgrounds for the kiddos, and walking paths throughout this welcoming community with friendly neighbors. This gem won't last long-come see it today!!
17040 W Echo Lane
Waddell, AZ 85355
$633,999
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,529
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769239
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Ask about seller contribution for 2/1 interest rate buy down!! Don't miss this beautifully upgraded home featuring a full 3 bed/2 bath residence and an attached guest space w/ full kitchen, full size washer and dryer, separate bedroom and full bath... and sparkling pool to top it all off! This floor plan is perfect for multigenerational living, visiting family or friends or it can offer a great opportunity for rental income! This home is so light and bright and features an open floor plan with lots of windows and tastefully upgraded tile floors in all the right places. Both kitchens have beautiful quartz counters tops, 42'' cabinets, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and added open shelving. Bathrooms have quartz counter tops and showers with floor to ceiling tile. Outdoor spaces are low maintenance with paved decking, river rock and astroturf. The backyard is perfect for entertaining with a large covered patio and refreshing pool. The lighted pool and patio area create a serene evening oasis ideal for Arizona living. Northern Crossing is a gated community with walking paths and green parks for larger gatherings. All of this in a convenient location near grocery shopping, restaurants, and a hop skip and a jump away from the 303 for an easy commute.