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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27280 S State Route 89 Highway
Congress, AZ 85332
$550,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,735
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763756
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a versatile property with two parcels, totaling 1.13 acres. This unique offering features a vintage 2,735 sq ft home, once a charming restaurant. Inside, you'll find new flooring, beautiful wood-beamed ceilings, vintage posts, corbels, and period-style light fixtures, adding character to every corner. The property boasts two separate living quarters, and a guest studio making it perfect for multi-family living or rental opportunities. In addition, there's a spacious 2,100 sq ft detached metal building, ideal for vehicles, equipment, or storage. With a 30x70 ft garage door for easy access, this building offers endless possibilities. The property benefits from prime frontage on Hwy 89 and offers ample parking, making it perfect for a business venture or investment. While the main building has vintage charm and may need some TLC, it's brimming with potential. Whether you're looking for a rental income opportunity or a unique home, this property is full of possibilities!
20034 N 273rd Lane
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$550,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,478
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765303
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
ENDEAVOR MODEL WITH A SPOOL ON A LARGE CORNER LOT! 2,478 sq. ft. of living space. 3 Bedroom, Flex Room, & 2.5 bath. Main living areas feature wood floors! Great Room fireplace, floor outlet, & SS speakers. Kitchen w\ Quartz counters, soft close drawers & cabinets, glide-out shelves, center island, large walk-in pantry, & R.O. system. Owners' Suite w\door to patio, power blinds, low threshold tiled shower w\glass door & seat, dual sinks, toilet room & large walk-in closet. 2 Guest bedrooms are adjoined by a Jack & Jill bathroom, w/a tiled shower & seat, perfect for guests! Hallway bath w/pedestal sink. Laundry room with sink. 4 ft Extended Garage with water softener & overhead storage. Private walled backyard w\ext Kool Deck & paver patio, spool w\water feature, roller shades & SS speaker
2130 Remington Drive
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
$550,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,247
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764103
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning 4-bed, 2-bath home! This spacious home features a semi-open floor plan, perfect for entertaining. The home includes large energy efficient windows allowing plenty of natural light throughout. The kitchen is equipped with modern appliances and a center island, perfect for gatherings. The master suite offers a tranquil retreat including an en-suite bathroom featuring a soaking tub, dual vanities, and a walk-in closet. Step outside to your private oasis! Enjoy your own sparkling in-ground pool and spa, perfect for year-round fun. Relax under the covered patio which features two automated shades. The backyard includes low maintenance lush landscaping and lawn all completely irrigated.
4245 S 247th Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$550,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,694
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765716
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning former model home is move in ready with updated flooring and fresh paint throughout. Situated in the serene neighborhood of Rancho Vista. Offering 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths, a 3-car garage and backyard oasis perfect for Arizona outdoor living. Step inside and be greeted by the separate formal living and dining area. Continue into the heart of the home, the stunning gourmet kitchen with all new cabinets, boasting expansive granite countertops and backsplash. Enjoy the seamlessly connected kitchen, dining room and family room. Downstairs, you'll also find a large laundry room, a guest bedroom and fully remodeled bathroom. Venture outside through double doors and discover your own private oasis, where meticulously designed landscaping sets the stage for relaxation and entertainment. Enjoy the low-maintenance artificial turf, a 40ft covered patio with mist system, a soothing waterfall, built-in firepit with seating and a relaxing hot tub. Upstairs, a spacious loft with built- ins ads additional entertainment space. You'll also find three secondary bedrooms and remodeled full bath. Retreat to the expansive owner's suite through double doors, where a soaking tub, separate walk-in shower, double sinks, and a large custom walk-in closet await. Welcome Home!
16222 N 161st Drive
Surprise, AZ 85374
$550,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,166
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766768
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Cul de sac home, updated from top to bottom, including the heated pool. On top of that, an outdoor kitchen with pizza oven! Backyard paradise with fruit trees, grape vines, hydroponic system and huge covered patio. Sunny kitchen eat-in kitchen is open to family/great room and has beautiful granite counters, island, an added coffee bar, lots of cabinets, counter space and pantry. Large living/dining room with flex space, a guest bedroom, full bath and laundry room round out the lower level. Upstairs, a large primary suite with walk-in closet, dual sinks, separate tub and shower. Two ample bedrooms with Jack and Jill bath. Solar system with low monthly loan payment means low energy costs overall. Close to great shopping, dining, spring training and Loop 303. This home has everything!
560 S 197th Avenue
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$550,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,369
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767143
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home! This stunning four-bedroom, three-bathroom residence combines rustic charm with modern luxury. With captivating beamed ceilings and breathtaking mountain views, you'll experience tranquility just minutes from major retail areas. The four well-appointed bedrooms provide ample space for family and guests, each with large windows that let in plenty of light The spacious gourmet kitchen features a high-end gas range and elegant tile floors. Cozy evenings await in the living room, where large windows flood the space with natural light. This home offers a paid off solar system and great savings. Step outside to a covered patio perfect for entertaining, complete with a gas fire pit for cozy nights. Golf enthusiasts will love the three mini putting greens.
47435 N Meander Road
New River, AZ 85087
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,480
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767323
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
HORSE PROPERTY: This unique New River property offers 98% usable flat land and is one of the best horse properties in the area. Offering a 96x48 ft lasered sand TURNOUT with a 16 ft swing gate, a second TURNOUT 48x48, a 48x-16 shed row stall covered with water and fans, a 12x10 tack room with exterior power, water, and plenty of room for additional stalls. Bridle paths/recreational trails are just steps away. The property is a quarter mile from Asphalt with easy in and out access roads. Welcome to Country Living, just outside of the city limits. Fall in love with the interior Country-Western motif, with wood-like tile and high-end laminate flooring throughout. There is a spacious great room with vaulted ceilings, a cozy kitchen with ample cabinets, counter space, a gas stove a beautiful copper farmhouse sink. 3 Large bedrooms w/walk-in closets, updated bathrooms and indoor laundry room offering tons of storage and a large sink. Covered back patio and a 32x15 cement patio, covered dog run that is snake and critter proof. 2 car garage with AC, Property is a quarter mile off of Asphalt with easy in and out access roads. NOT IN A FLOOD ZONE!!!
11352 E Starkey Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,234
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769404
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous 3 bedroom home presents wonderful curb appeal with paver walkway and meticulous landscaping and 2 car garage. Front room offers a formal living room and a seating area for relaxing. Great room layout encompasses the family room with gas fireplace, kitchen and dining area. Open chef's kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, pantry, tons of cabinet/counter space and a breakfast bar. Escape to the master suite featuring large window seat and walk-in close. Spa like master bathroom boasts dual vanities, large garden tub, tiled walk-in shower with a seat and a second walk-in closet. Step out back onto the extended covered, paver patio to enjoy the beautiful, tropical-like backyard featuring artificial grass and lush landscaping providing extra shade. A true oasis!
11083 W Burnett Road
Sun City, AZ 85373
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,034
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769241
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**HUGE PRIVATE RESORT STYLE BACKYARD** WITH STUNNING **SALTWATER POOL** GAZEBO** THIS ONE HAS IT ALL** BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED** WOOD LOOK TILE FLOORING** UPGRADES EVERYWHERE** NEW APPLIANCES** GAS STOVE** NEW WINDOWS** NEW AC-2 years** PLANTATION SHUTTERS** WATER SOFTENER** MURPHY BED IN GUEST ROOM** NEWER WATER HEATER **GIGANTIC SUN ROOM WITH AC NOT INCLUDED IN SQ FOOTAGE **OWNED SOLAR MEANS NEXT TO NOTHING UTILITY BILLS**HIGHLY ACCLAIMED 55+ COMMUNITY **WITH 30 ACRES OF WINDING FULLY STOCKED LAKES** NON-MOTORIZED BOAT RECREATION **FOUR CLUBHOUSES **COMMUNITY POOLS **PLETHORA OF CLUBS AND GROUPS** SPORT COURTS **MOVE RIGHT IN AND LIVE THE LIFE YOU HAVE DREAMED!**
22870 W Sunset Lane
Congress, AZ 85332
$550,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,933
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771222
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't let the lot size fool you! This easy to manage horse property is strategically set up to accommodate horses, LQs and RVs. Step into the warmth of this enchanting home where every room whispers tales of tradition and heritage. The home is the perfect size for a full time retreat or a winter get away. With wooden beams and handcrafted accents, this home is unlike any other. Enjoy picture perfect sunsets as you unwind in the front courtyard. Out front is a red barn with water and electric offering endless possibilities for horse enthusiasts or those seeking additional storage. The property does have income potential and is turn key. It is fully fenced with an electric gate and all pens have automatic waterers. A portion of the turnouts can be removed and enlarged into a riding arena or
2349 W Del Campo Circle
Mesa, AZ 85202
$550,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,586
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779561
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Very nice home, Includes 3 bedrooms plus a small room and 2 bathrooms, current owner has kept this home in a very good shape, Master bedrooms has an addition. Lots of kitchen cabinets, tile flooring through out, a big grassed back yard perfect for entertaining, 2 car garage, RV gate, with a RV parking place. Close to City of Tempe, I-101, I-202 & I-60 freeways, ASU and restaurants.
18429 W Robin Lane
Surprise, AZ 85387
$550,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,989
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774539
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 4 bed + den, 2.5 bath RV GARAGE home in Surprise's North Copper Canyon. The original owners upgraded just about everything, including extending the attached RV garage to 48 FEET! The designer kitchen includes upgraded cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, an apron sink, a giant island with loads of storage, and a walk-in pantry! Wood-look tile floors flow throughout the open floor plan, with plush carpet in the bedrooms. The primary bathroom includes double sinks, a walk-in shower, and a large walk-in closet. RV garage is 48 feet long, 14' Tall Front door and includes a 10' garage door leading to the backyard. There is also an RV gate for additional toy parking! The backyard has a gorgeous fully covered pergola with cafe lights perfect for entertaining!