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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160 N Forgeus Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85716
$599,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,840
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781329
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Prestigious Sam Hughes Neighborhood in a limited 9 lot home community on Forgues Ave. This 2 story, 3bedroom, 2 bath home is located in the heart of Sam Hughe walking distance to Sam Hughes Elementary and even the old Rincon Market now as Floras Market Run. All Garages are in the back of the homes allowing great curb appeal. This home has only been owed by one family. Large living room with built in entertainment area. The down stairs has a step down to living room area from entry. Step down to hallway to bathroom and 2 bedrooms. Stairway upstairs for split master bedroom private with master bath. Roman jacuzzi bath tub, pedestal sinks, separate shower. Large walk-in... closet. Vaulted ceilings, separate laundry room, 2 car garage entry from laundry area. Kitchen with eat in area and built in ovens. Back yard enclosed with jacuzzi and grass area. Investor property. Needs remodeling. Power of attorney is selling home and limited info. Home is being cleaned out and pictures coming soon. Selling home As Is. Nov 30th viewing available BY APPOINTMENT ONLY between 10am-2pm. Proof of funds required prior to viewing. Email to co-listing agent. See private remarks regarding access, notices. DO NOT DISTURB elderly resident! All offers are being reviewed in 30 days. No EXCEPTIONS. Offers accepted with 2 additional back ups.
31013 N 41st Place
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$599,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,096
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787652
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this spacious and inviting home in highly sought-after Tatum Ranch! With over 2,000 square feet of living space, this bright and open floor plan features soaring vaulted ceilings, a striking wrap-around fireplace, plantation shutters, first floor primary suite and a new first floor A/C unit. The open-concept kitchen is perfect for entertaining, complete with stainless steel appliances, plenty of counter space and pantry. The generous primary bedroom is a true retreat, offering a private patio entrance, a beautiful arched window that bathes the room in natural light, and a luxurious en suite with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. The upstairs versatile loft provides the perfect space for a home office or flex room. Step outside to enjoy the spacious covered patio, extended patio, and mature landscaping--perfect for relaxation or gatherings. The extended garage adds valuable storage or workspace. Enjoy the wonderful amenities of Tatum Ranch, including nearby parks, trails, shopping, dining and world-class golf. Don't miss this gem!
10005 E Michigan Avenue
Sun Lakes, AZ 85248
$599,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,075
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781481
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Location is everything for this 3BR, 2BA golf course home in the fun active adult community of Cottonwood in Sun Lakes. Literally steps from the clubhouse and all its many amenities, this meticulously maintained home features a great room w/vaulted ceilings, electric fireplace with stunning, expansive golf course views. Kitchen features painted cabinets, some newer appliances, and an expanded breakfast area with bonus storage. New carpet in all three bedrooms. Large, expanded primary suite w/walk-in shower, dual sinks, modern lighting and a bonus sitting area with extra closet space. Extra deep, south facing covered patio and a serene backyard with mature landscaping. Enjoy the many amenities in Cottonwood: golf, tennis, pickleball, multiple pools, lots of clubs and wonderful restaurants.
4290 Highway 82 --
Elgin, AZ 85611
$599,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,809
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6547141
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning property offers panoramic views and sits on just over 13 acres, making it a true retreat! The home features a spacious great room with a cozy fireplace and Saltillo tile flooring throughout. Enjoy the Arizona room with a spa, perfect for relaxation. The country kitchen boasts tile countertops, an island, ample cabinetry, a gas stove, and a walk-in pantry. The layout includes Jack and Jill guest bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, and a guest bathroom featuring dual sinks, a walk-in shower, and a linen closet. Unwind under the covered patio, enhanced by the shade of mature pine trees, or take in the serene front courtyard with its desert garden. This property also includes a two-car attached garage that doubles as a workshop. Barn with covered shelter and fencing.
2509 N Dayton Street
Phoenix, AZ 85006
$599,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,684
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6620344
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nice 3bedroom 1.75 bath with 2 Car Garage the casita in back yard is rented for 800.00 per month making this an awesome Investment property. Also Parking on southside of home for small boat Trailer or additional Cars. Guest home at rear of home with full bath and kitchen great for rental income or for your family to enjoy or maybe a office and alley entrance. you will love this home for a large family or as an investment. close to restaurants and Downtown activities Schools are all nearby. Excellent Location. Owner is working on home and cleaning.
11217 N Blakely Street
Surprise, AZ 85388
$599,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,568
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6660689
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
$80k in upgrades. Motivated seller! No waiting, own it now! Quiet street & 55+ section. Deluxe contemporary style. The Smithfield's welcoming extended covered entry and inviting foyer flow into the spacious great room and casual dining area, with views of the desirable covered patio. The well-designed kitchen is highlighted by a large center island with breakfast bar, plenty of counter and cabinet space, and ample walk-in pantry. The beautiful primary bedroom suite is enhanced by a sizable walk-in closet and spa-like primary bath with dual-sink vanity, luxe glass-enclosed shower with seat, and private water closet. The generous secondary bedroom features a roomy closet and shared full hall bath. Additional highlights include centrally located laundry and additional storage.
13665 W Evans Drive
Surprise, AZ 85379
$599,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,540
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6703301
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful property is well maintained, with large open living areas and high ceilings. It has a large new kitchen with lots of storage, new carpet throughout, newly painted, very large garage and much more! Four bedrooms are upstairs, including master bedroom with a balcony, and a family room. The fifth bedroom is downstairs with a full bathroom. This home is great for a growing family!
7709 W Boca Raton Road
Peoria, AZ 85381
$599,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,642
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6698687
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your fully renovated, modern oasis! This stunning four-bedroom, two-bathroom home has been thoughtfully updated from top to bottom. Step inside to discover a light, bright, and open floor plan with all-new flooring that flows seamlessly throughout the space. The heart of the home is the gorgeously remodeled kitchen, featuring sleek cabinetry, high-end countertops, and brand-new appliances. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning limestone backsplash and the focal point of the kitchen, a breathtaking waterfall island that offers both beauty and functionality. The kitchen also boasts an eat-in area with tons of seating, making it the perfect spot for casual meals or entertaining guests. The vaulted ceilings add to the sense of space and grandeur, creating a truly luxurious feel. Both bathrooms have also been meticulously updated to provide a spa-like experience, with modern fixtures and finishes. Gather around the new fireplace in the spacious living area, perfect for cozy evenings with loved ones. Outside, a brand-new RV gate provides convenient access to the oversized corner lot, offering ample parking, including space for an RV. Enjoy the outdoors in the newly landscaped front and back yards, providing the perfect backdrop for entertaining or simply relaxing in the Arizona sun. NO HOA!!! For those interested, all the furniture is available for purchase on a separate bill of sale. Please see the list of updates in the documents tab. Don't miss the opportunity to make this beautifully renovated home your own!
12064 S 186th Avenue
Goodyear, AZ 85338
$599,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,543
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6719055
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
With full price offer, seller to provide $20k concession towards the complete payoff of remaining solar loan, or towards buyers choosing. This is your chance to secure a home in the highly sought after INSPIRE community of Estrella Mountain Ranch! Boasting a 4 bedroom 3 bathroom, split floor plan; this home sits on a premium oversized lot and has an open great room floor plan. Kitchen upgrades include: RO Water System, dark maple cabinetry with sliding shelves, crown molding, granite countertops, stainless appliances, and large island. The primary suite is generously sized and features a spa like bathroom with custom tile and a spacious walk-in shower. The front and backyard has been meticulously landscaped and upgraded. You will enjoy low maintenance plants, backyard turf, exterior sun screens on the sun exposed side of home, and pergola in addition to the covered patio. Storage is abundant here, the oversized 2 car garage has an additional storage area, storage cabinets, and overhead storage. Additional upgrades include plantation shutters throughout the entire home, wide porcelain plank wood-look tile floors throughout living areas & baths, granite countertops & upgraded mirrors in all baths, water-softener system, & much more! This home comes equipped with a large solar panel package, greatly reducing electricity costs throughout the year. See additional information in documents tab. Solar system was installed in Oct 2019. Total value if paid off over the term of the loan would have been $55,000. Residents of Estrella Mountain Ranch enjoy access to two resident centers equipped with state-of-the-art fitness facilities, community rooms, and outdoor gathering spaces. Additionally, residents can take advantage of the pickleball and tennis courts, two community pools, and a water park with water slides. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the extensive network of over 50 miles of hiking and biking trails, which offer opportunities to explore the breathtaking landscape surrounding the community. Come and discover the magic of life in this vibrant community!
2323 N Central Avenue Unit 906
Phoenix, AZ 85004
$599,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,456
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6703380
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
RECENT PRICE IMPROVEMENT & BEST VALUE at Regency on Central. SPECTACULAR city + mountain views! See virtual tour. Historic building designation = LOW PROPERTY TAX! Quality modern design. Huge kitchen & great room. Tall ceilings. 2 bedrm, 2 bath. Near downtown fun venues & employers (incl. health/academic Banner Hospital, St. Joseph, Barrow, Creighton, UA med school, ASU downtown). Perfect live/work. Resort lifestyle, lock & leave. Mountains, twinkling city lights, BIG sunset ambiance, sparkling pool below. Perfect entertainment/hosting. Upgraded ventilation, modern custom cabinetry & lighting/storage/closets. Spacious chef's kitchen, quartz countertops. HUGE double Electrolux ICON professional refrigerator/freezer. Built-in wine cooler, oven/microwave, mirrored bar, hooded range.
27194 N Skipping Rock Road
Peoria, AZ 85383
$599,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
1,958
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6705368
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 4 bedroom 3 bath home. 3 car tandem garage with lots of storage and a 220 plug. Warm neutral color throughout. Home was just painted and new neutral carpet has been installed. Custom tile throughout in all the right places. The large kitchen with granite slab opens into a spacious family room and eat it dinning area. The backyard is an entertainers dream. Great use of space with many outdoor seating areas. There is also your own private bar, natural Gas BBQ, gas firepit, and hot tub. Great mountain views!!