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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1618 W Maplewood Street
Chandler, AZ 85286
$580,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,647
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760343
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Location, Location, Location! Nestled in the prestigious Pecos Ranch in the heart of Chandler, near the Price Corridor and its high-tech companies, this expansive waterfront lot is perfectly situated right by a community park, offering stunning views and direct lake access—ideal for all your favorite water sports and leisure activities. This breathtaking single-level home has been recently remodeled, boasting luxury Vinyl flooring, freshly painted neutral walls, modern quartz kitchen countertops, and contemporary lighting fixtures throughout. French doors in the family room and large windows in the kitchen frame the serene lake views, creating a tranquil living environment. The master bedroom features an en-suite bathroom with direct access to the backyard, perfect for enjoying the peaceful outdoors. With proximity to major freeways like the 101, 202, 60, and I-10, this home offers unparalleled access to Chandler's best schools, top-rated hospitals, and main shopping destinations, including Costco and Chandler Fashion Center. Discover the ease of urban living in a suburban paradise.
22456 E Via Del Verde --
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$580,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,202
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767389
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Hidden gem with 2 dens (home office!) plus the 3 BR's, private pool, tons of garage storage, driveway extension, easy maintenance yard, & gourmet kitchen! The resort style pool has a Baja shelf to relax, travertine, & turf next to the oversized covered patio. Inside has beautiful modern tile, KitchenAid SS appliances, large pantry w/ custom door, 42'' staggered cabinets, & granite eat in island. The large primary has an ensuite with 2 sinks + walk-in shower. Guests will love the Jack-&-Jill bathroom with separate door to shower/tub for privacy. The huge laundry room w/ cabinets has plenty of room for 2nd frig or freezer. Epoxy garage w/ H20 Softener & cabinets is a dream! Exterior painted in 2020. You'll love the community w/ parks, trails, pool, splash pad, garden, volleyball, & more!
951 N 165th Avenue
Goodyear, AZ 85338
$580,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,106
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766084
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this ideally located home, nestled next to expansive open space with no neighbors behind or to the side. Enjoy spacious living areas, including a kitchen and family room that offer stunning views of the backyard oasis. The oversized custom pool features a rock waterfall and slide, with ample space for lounging and entertaining. The outdoor area also boasts a built-in BBQ island, a covered patio, and wide side yards. Inside, there's a downstairs den with a full bathroom, while upstairs you'll find three bedrooms and a generously sized primary suite. The three-car garage comes complete with built-in cabinetry, and the home is equipped with OWNED SOLAR!
3790 E Chickadee Road
Gilbert, AZ 85297
$580,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,174
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776177
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully Remodeled Contemporary Home - Move-in Ready! Discover this freshly updated home featuring modern upgrades and elegant finishes throughout. New interior and exterior painting sets the tone, while luxury vinyl flooring adds style and durability. Step into a fully remodeled kitchen showcasing a custom wood range hood, high backsplash, and a farmhouse undermount sink for a sophisticated touch. Enjoy a dedicated wine area and all-new stainless steel appliances. The open-concept layout is enhanced with recessed LED lighting and stylish new fixtures, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Relax in the luxurious, fully remodeled bathrooms designed with contemporary finishes. Rest easy with new AC and furnace units, a new water heater, and a recently tuned-up roof, ensuring ensuring comfort and peace of mind. This home combines style and functionality, ready to welcome its next owner. Don't miss the opportunity to own this thoughtfully renovated gem!
27386 W Osprey Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$580,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,557
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6739338
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Why wait to build when you can make this stunning nearly new JOURNEY model yours today! This elegantly appointed 2,557 sqft, 2 beds, 2.5 bath, Den with French doors, Flex space, Great room, charming Courtyard & Golf cart garage home will not disappoint. The Kitchen is an entertainers delight with Granite countertops, sleek back splash, Gas cooktop with DOUBLE ovens, Soft close drawers, Pull out Shelves, Reverse Osmosis, magnificent Executive Island perfect for storing all of the small kitchen appliances and gathering loved ones or friends. Wooden shutters throughout & Media wall in the Great room. Owner's suite bathroom with its modern Tile Walk-in shower, Double sinks & Granite counters. Private walled lot, Extended Travertine Patio, Built-in gas BBQ & low maintenance Turf. See it today!
17106 E La Pasada Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$580,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,522
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6748601
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home! This exquisite 4-bdrm residence w/den is situated on a spacious lot in the highly sought-after Fountain Hills community. Every inch of this home has been thoughtfully remodeled to offer the perfect blend of modern luxury & timeless charm. Enjoy 4 generously sized bedrooms plus a versatile den, ideal for a hm office/additional living space. Experience contemporary living with high-end finishes, sleek fixtures, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. The large lot provides ample space for outdoor entertaining, gardening, or simply relaxing; endless possibilities! Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood w/ access to all the amenities that Fountain Hills has to offer, including seasonal art/wine festivals, Fountain park, dining and the iconic Fountain.
2438 W Clearview Trail
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$580,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,338
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762744
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**SELLER HAS 4.99% CONVENTIONAL LOAN THAT IS ASSUMABLE** Home, sweet home! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a 2-car garage and eye-catching stone accents. Discover a spacious living/dining room with 10' ceilings, a soothing palette, classic plantation shutters, sunscreens, recessed lighting, and a blend of wood-look and tile flooring. The kitchen comes with abundant wood cabinetry with crown moulding, stainless steel appliances, a handy pantry, and a two-tier peninsula with a breakfast bar for casual dining. You'll also find a versatile bonus room perfect for an office, lounge, or play area. The cozy main bedroom is complete with soft carpeting, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a convenient walk-in closet. The enchanting backyard includes a covered patio, pristine artificial turf, and a sparkling pool, built by Presidential Pools, for cooling down on hot days. Make this yours! Whole home water filtration system installed in 2021
19063 N 265th Avenue
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$580,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,864
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6707112
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
ASSUMABLE 3% FHA MORTGAGE WITH $285,000 DOWNPAYMENT, or fund a second! Get a pool, owned solar, golf and mountain views at a great price. This highly upgraded Sanctuary model with approximately 1,864 sf. has two suites, a half-bath, and a den. The home has a 2-ft. rear extension and 2-ft. extended garage which is air-conditioned. Upgraded Taupe cabinets, dark granite counters and a stainless-steel gas cooktop create contrast and brighten up the living space. An electric fireplace with a framed and tiled mantle, and accent wall paint, complements the hardwood floors in the gathering room. From the pool you can enjoy a view of the White Tank Mountains & the green at the 9th hole on the Mountain Course at Sun City Festival, Arizona's premier 55+ community.
20903 S 185th Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$580,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,920
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770353
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This incredible home is MOVE IN READY!! Comes complete with refrigerator, hot tub, and large shed!! You're going to love living in this open concept home with 10 ft ceilings and large windows with a backyard perfect for lounging, entertaining or relaxing in the hot tub! RV Gate with extra concrete drive for parking, and additional storage space behind the gate! Air conditioned garage space with epoxy floors and loads of cabinets is perfect for parking or working on projects! With kitchen and bathroom updates, and new flooring this home is in excellent condition and you're going to love living here! Located on the Gilbert/Queen Creek border you're just minutes from QC Marketplace and San Tan Village shopping, dining & entertainment options! Don't let this one get away!
10080 E Mountain View Lake Drive Unit 327
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$579,999
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,152
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749762
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Welcome to this Scottsdale Bay Club penthouse condo, recently renovated in 2024 with elegant quartz countertops, soft-close cabinets, sleek tile showers, and luxury vinyl flooring. This end unit offers privacy with no neighbors above and serene pool views from a private balcony. Enjoy direct access to the community pool, clubhouse, and gym. The gated community features a spa, fitness center, recreation room, Koi pond, and boat docks. Located next to Scottsdale Ranch Park, amenities include lighted tennis, racquetball, and sand volleyball courts, plus more. Close to Mercado Shopping Center and the 101 freeway.
9016 W Tony Court
Peoria, AZ 85382
$579,999
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,672
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779455
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
HUGE REDUCTION 40,000... NO HOA NONE.!!!!! .BRING YOUR BOATS AND TRAILERS YOU CAN PARK THEM HERE AT YOUR NEW HOUSE. RV GATE WIDE ENOUGH FOR A PONTOON.THERES A PLAY POOL , HALF BASKETBALL COURT AND A HALF LEMON/ORANGE TREE OUT BACK .INSIDE THE PLACE IS SPOTLESS NEW PAINT,THAT TIES THE GENTLY USED CARPET AND TAUPE AND BROWN TILE TOGETHER DOWNSTAIRS .THERES NEW HARDWARE THROUGH OUT. LIVE IN IT WHILE YOU MAKE THOSE LITTLE TWEEKS .THERES A LIVING ROOM ,DINING COMBO AND GREAT BIG FAMILY ROOM WITH A FIREPLACE .SNUGGLE UP WAITING FOR SANTA .QUARTER BATH DOWNSTAIRS AS WELL. ALL 4 HUGE BEDROOMS AND DEN CAN BE FOUND UPSTAIRS THERE ARE LARGE WALK IN CLOSETS IN THE BEDROOMS.LARGE LINEN,SEPERATE MASTER TUB AND SHOWER. 2YR OLD AC UNITS (2). LOTS OF GARAGE STORAGE..CLEAN CARPETS DOWN.ALLOWANCE UPSTAI
3028 E Friess Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$579,995
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,032
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755440
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
-HOA- GREAT LOCATION. This home is located in a highly desirable neighborhood that offers numerous amenities for its residents. 3 bedrooms 2 &1/2 baths and a loft that opens to a balcony with views of a spacious yard and pebble tec pool. The North/South exposure provides ample natural light, and the home boasts a large family room with a fireplace, separate living and dining areas, and a kitchen with big windows and NEW appliances! The balcony has recently been updated with a new coating. The backyard is perfect for play, with a grass area, covered patio, and a beautiful pebble tec pool. Conveniently located near the 51 and 101 freeways, this home has NO HOA and is a short walk from the highly acclaimed Great Hearts Public Charter School K-12.