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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1258 W Plane Tree Avenue
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
$590,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,881
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787613
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss this 5 bedroom/3 bath home located in the sought after community of Ironwood Crossing. This home features a desirable open concept floor plan with tons of natural light and OWNED SOLAR PANELS!!!. The gourmet kitchen has an oversized island with seating, granite countertops, beautiful upgraded cabinetry, gas cooktop, and a walk in pantry. Large primary bedroom boasts a huge walk in closet, dual sinks and a separate tub and shower. All secondary bedrooms are spacious and have a walk-in closet. Guest bedroom has it's own wing with a bath that has a walk in shower. This home also has a separate den/office and a generous backyard with a covered patio. Community offers pools/spas, clubhouse, pickleball courts, splash pads, playgrounds, basketball & volleyball courts!
16048 W Mercer Lane
Surprise, AZ 85379
$590,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,451
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6715329
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Check out the Great Curb Appeal at this Nice 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 3451 sq. ft., 3 car garage home in Greer Ranch South, Surprise, AZ. New carpeting and interior paint. Low maintenance front yard leads you to the front door. Vaulted ceilings and large rooms greet your entry to this home along with a spacious open eat-in kitchen granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances and ample cabinet space. Looking for a formal dining space? Found! Relax and hide in the Great Room downstairs or the spacious upstairs Media Room. Large Primary Suite with a large walk in closet, private bath with separate shower and tub. The backyard includes a covered patio and a pool to keep you cool. This could be your next ''New To You'' home.
19233 W Coolidge Street
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$590,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,649
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6715943
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**Welcome to Your New Home!** This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence offers the perfect blend of luxury and functionality, featuring a full apartment casita with its own private entrance, ideal for guests, extended family or rental income. Highlights include: - **Spacious Main House:** Open floor plan with a bright and airy living space, modern kitchen, and elegant finishes throughout. - **Private Apartment Casita:** Self-contained unit with a living area, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, perfect for extended family or rental potential. - **3-Car Garage:** Ample space for vehicles, storage, and hobbies. - **Completed Backyard:** Beautifully landscaped for relaxation and entertainment. - **Installed Solar Panels:** Enjoy significant savings on your energy bills and contribute to a greener planet. Located close to top-rated schools, shopping, and recreational facilities, this home offers convenience and comfort in one package. Don't miss out on this rare find! Contact us today to schedule a viewing and make this exceptional property yours.
9710 W Campana Drive
Sun City, AZ 85351
$590,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
1,832
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6717251
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Presenting a well maintained 3-bedroom residence complemented by an expansive Arizona Room, this property boasts refined additions and enhancements. Nestled in a Cul De Sac, The residence encompasses a total area of 1832 square feet plus An expansive addition completed in 2018 supplements the property with an additional 1169 square feet, offering versatile parking spaces. The property is thoughtfully outfitted with triple pane windows, ensuring superior insulation against both sound and heat. Noteworthy recent upgrades include a new AC unit installed in 2021, along with a water heater of the same year. The oven and stove top were replaced in 2019. Maintenance and improvements extend to the infrastructure, with sewer lines and clean outs updated during the 2017 addition. The exterior features a freshly painted back wall, benefiting from a five-year warranty, with two years remaining. . The roof was replaced in 2018, with insurance coverage through AAA. To accommodate discerning buyers, seller financing terms may be considered.
706 E Washington Street Unit 128
Phoenix, AZ 85034
$590,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,880
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6732346
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Welcome to urban living at its finest in this modern and stylish loft in the heart of downtown Phoenix. Within walking distance of event centers, fine dining, the lightrail, and so much more, this industrial-chic loft features an open floor plan with soaring ceilings, large luxury tile floors, and big windows that flood the space with natural light. The sleek kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and plenty of cabinet space for all your culinary needs. The spacious bedrooms offer a private retreat with 2 bathrooms. Enjoy the convenience of in-unit laundry and a designated parking space as well as a secure 1 car garage. Outside, this corner unit has its own private side yard perfect for pets. The third story patio offers views of Chase Field, Phoenix skyscrapers, and perfect for enjoying our spectacular Arizona sunsets.
6703 N 12th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85014
$590,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,673
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6729358
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this unique single-level home within the Madison Simis boundaries! Boasting 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, this spacious residence features a remodeled master bedroom and bathroom, along with a beautifully renovated kitchen equipped with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Recent upgrades include exterior paint and a heat pump (2017). New exterior paint! The property offers two RV gates and sits on a generous corner lot, providing ample space for parking your toys. Conveniently located in Mid-Town, you'll have easy access to shopping, restaurants, and public transit. This versatile home is perfect for a potential assisted living facility, group home, or extended family living.
1144 Christopher Creek Loop
Payson, AZ 85541
$590,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,392
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742443
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beat summer heat with a mountain retreat, or perhaps have a white Christmas! TWO HOMES on over TWO ACRES of tall pines (303-10-107A and 107B) & national forest on 2 sides! Versatile property, & a rare opportunity for a four-season get-away or as a rental property. Classic mountain cabin + guest cottage are located right on the loop in Christopher Creek, less than 2 mi on the adjacent forest road up to the spring-fed headwaters! It's a gorgeous area for hiking, picnicking, & fishing (seasonal bi-weekly stocking w/trout,etc). Unique main home has a master bedroom with an amazing view from the balcony, as well as an add'l loft area. Open style floorplan, with oak floors & large windows on three sides for plenty of natural light; there's a woodstove to cozy up to on cool evenings. CLICK: Custom bath features stone and glass brick walls & loads of storage; separate laundry room. Kitchen has an island with granite countertops, & the large decks (over 700 s.f.) in front & back offer the perfect setting for relaxation, entertaining, and watching the wildlife that meander through. Darling studio-style cottage provides additional space for overflow, guests, or tenants, complete with its own kitchenette and a bath with shower. This property is on a shared well, with this listing owning two of the three shares; further, the neighbor who owns a third share has drilled his own and has never hooked into this well. It's a rare opportunity to enjoy a secluded but conveniently located piece of paradise, right in the middle of the most beautiful forest in Arizona, with unparalleled opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, stargazing, and more. Treat yourself to a beautiful drive, and come check it out! Seller and listing agents are related.
20630 W Grandview Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$590,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,600
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6741192
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
***$10,000.00 seller concessions for upgrades, carpet, etc***This stunning corner lot home is located directly across the street from a beautiful children's park and features a spacious open concept living area with a sizeable kitchen-perfect for entertaining. The primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and separate shower. The backyard is an empty slate that can be customized to your liking and the large front porch is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the neighborhood, complete with a porch swing for added charm. The two car garage offers plenty of storage space for all of your toys. Enjoy the small town feel of Verrado with its tree-lined streets, community events and friendly neighbors.
504 N 297th Lane
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$590,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,850
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6746288
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
New Build Dream Home! Completion date early December 2024. Large 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 2-car garage on a 1-acre corner lot. Open Floor plan with large great room and eat in kitchen. Custom shaker cabinets with soft close drawer and doors. Spacious master suite with double sinks, quartz counter tops, walk in closet, private entrance to the covered patio.
2640 S Southwind Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85295
$590,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,260
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747537
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
***MOTIVATED SELLER!!!*** A beautifully maintained gem in the heart of Gilbert, AZ. This charming 4-bedroom, 2.5 bath home offers a perfect blend of comfort and style, nestled in a serene and family-friendly neighborhood. Freshly painted inside and out, the home is just waiting for you to move in! Check out the HUGE master bathroom with an oversized shower boasting 2 showerheads. Multiple living spaces and 4 bedrooms will give your family plenty of space to spread out! And don't forget the pool! With a fountain to keep it cool on these hot summer days! Added bonus... No neighbors behind you and only one directly next to you. Additional highlights of this home include a convenient 2-car garage, a dedicated laundry room, and easy access to nearby parks, shopping, and top-rated schools.
15428 S 24th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85048
$590,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,817
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757496
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully REMODELED home on HUGE corner lot in Ahwatukee. Gorgeous backyard with mountain views. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths plus Den/4th bedroom. Located in the popular Mountain Park Ranch community. This home boasts all new cabinets and granite countertops throughout, new flooring, new window screens, and professionally landscaped backyard with gazebo. Home comes with a ''NEW FULL ROOF'' that is only 4 years old and ''NEW Carrier A/C'' unit installed just 2 years ago! Also included are ALL APPLIANCES including both refrigerators. Inside garage are custom built in cabinets for plenty of storage and a separate side entrance.
1314 E Bluefield Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85022
$590,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,014
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764348
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Move in before the Holidays! Looking for a 4 bedroom home with a pool in North Phoenix? Welcome home to this very private home on a corner lot with mountain views. The inviting curb appeal brings you into the living room where you can entertain year round. Watch the kids play in the family room while cooking up a meal in your remodeled kitchen which has an island for bar seating and stainless steel appliances. Upstairs is a spacious master suite and 3 good sized bedrooms. Outside--YES. Enjoy a drink on the covered patio. Watch your favorite pooch run around in the grass....AND enjoy a dip in the relaxing pool all while getting a view of the mountain that is next door 🙂 All this in North Phoenix in an ideal location on a private street.