Last week’s economic reports included new and pre-owned home sales, new jobless claims and Freddie Mac’s weekly mortgage rates survey.
Home Sales Mixed in October
According to the National Association of Realtors®, sales of previously owned homes reached a seasonally adjusted annual level of 5.60 million sales, which exceeded expectations and October’s reading of 5.49 million sales. Analysts had expected a rate of 5.44 million sales.
October sales of preowned homes rose 2 percent over September’s reading and were 5.90 percent higher year-over-year. This was the highest reading for sales of pre-owned homes since February 2007. High demand for homes is driving housing markets in spite of obstacles including rising mortgage rates and tight mortgage approval requirements.
Sales of new homes were lower in October, which indicated continued ups and downs in the economic recovery. October’s reading of 563,000 sales on a seasonally adjusted annual basis was lower than expectations of 595,000 sales and September’s downwardly revised reading of 574,000 new homes sold.
New home sales were 17.80 percent higher year-over year and 12.60 percent higher year to date, but analysts said that housing markets continue to be constrained by a short supply of available homes. Inventories of available homes are slowly increasing, which is expected to help curtail rapidly rising home prices caused by pent-up demand.
The median price of a new home was $304,500 in October as compared to September’s median price of $314,100 and October 2015’s median price of $298,700. There were 246,000 new homes for sale in October, which was the highest quantity of new homes on the market since September of 2009.
Mortgage Rates, New Jobless Claims Rise
Mortgage rates jumped last week in response to an increase in the 10-year Treasury note rate. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose nine basis points to 4.03 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was 11 basis points higher at 3.25 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was five basis points higher at 3.12 percent. Last week’s readings were the first time in 2016 that mortgage rates exceeded four percent.
New jobless claims were also higher last week with 251,000 claims filed as compared to expectations 248,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 233,000 new claims filed. Last week’s reading marked the 90th consecutive week of new jobless claims less than the benchmark of 300,000 new claims, an event that hasn’t occurred since 1970.
What‘s Ahead
Economic reports scheduled this week include Case-Shiller Housing Market Indexes, pending home sales and construction spending. Readings on inflation and labor will also be released along with weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.
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17033 E Bobwhite Way
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$574,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,446
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774586
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Now complete, move-in ready, Just off 172nd (paved road). Minutes from trails, w/great hiking and Biking. Enjoy horseback riding with easy access to trails. The beautifully designed Durango Plan offers 10 ft high ceilings and polyurethane spray foam insulation for exterior house walls and attic. Open floor plan, great for entertaining. The kitchen features SS Appliances, White shaker-style cabinets with Soft Close Drawers and Doors, a nice-sized pantry, and a large Island for extra seating. Electric built-in cooktop with separate oven. Jack-N-Jill bedrooms with full bathroom. Tile-plank flooring throughout the home. The primary bedroom boasts a private exit to the back patio, a large closet, dual vanities, and a large easy access enclosed tiled shower. 3 car attached garage.
23012 N Giovota Drive
Sun City West, AZ 85375
$574,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,904
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769607
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the epitome of retirement luxury in this exceptional 1,904 sq ft home, perfectly positioned on a larger lot with no direct rear neighbors, offering maximum privacy and serenity. Embrace the elegance of a lushly landscaped front yard featuring a private courtyard complete with a cozy fireplace, setting the scene for unforgettable gatherings. Step inside and be greeted by the impressive rotunda foyer leading to an open-concept living space. Seamlessly connecting the living, dining, and kitchen areas, this layout is ideal for entertaining and everyday living. The kitchen boasts granite countertops, raised panel cabinets with both under and upper lighting, and a breakfast bar island for your culinary explorations. The primary suite is a sanctuary of comfort, offering ample room for a sitting area or office workspace, a walk-in closet, dual sinks, a vanity counter with granite tops, and a beautifully remodeled master walk-in custom shower. Across the home, find two additional spacious bedrooms with easy access to a second bathroom featuring a walk-in shower. This residence is further enhanced by plantation shutters, 18 southwestern tiled flooring, newer tile plank flooring in bedrooms, upgraded lighting fixtures, a newer hot water heater, and a water softener system. The rear yard is a private retreat with a raised conversation firepit area, built-in BBQ, extended patios, and rear awning all designed for your relaxation and enjoyment. Experience active adult living at its finest in one of Corte Bella's most exquisite homes. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to own a piece of paradise!
520 S Roosevelt Street Unit 1009
Tempe, AZ 85281
$574,900
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,483
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743200
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Tempe Urban Living, now ''Skye 15 Lofts'', nestled within the Riverside-Sunset Neighborhood just west of Mill Avenue in Downtown Tempe, is truly an architectural gem. Designed by the Baldinger Studio, this large 2 bed, 2.5 bath loft shares a common modern DNA: open floor plans, exposed block construction, Rooftop Terraces, urban Backyard w/synthetic grass, and European style cabinetry. But most importantly, they share modern minimalist architecture that is unique not only to Downtown Tempe, but to the entire Valley of the Sun. This dwelling is walking distance to the Metro light rail, Tempe Town Lake, Mill Ave Streetcar, Whole Foods Marketplace, Mill Avenue with tons of shops and restaurants, ASU and everything else downtown Tempe has to offer!
3426 W Carter Road
Phoenix, AZ 85041
$574,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,230
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773448
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning home has it all! 4 y/o Woodside home with endless upgrades in gated community. Kitchen is perfect for preparing & sharing meals and memories, Gas stove with stainless range hood, wall oven and microwave, upgraded refrigerator, step in pantry, extended island and beautiful backsplash. Home has large den/office; upgraded shutters throughout the home. The backyard is a beach lover's dream with a gorgeous pool that has a fountain and a large Baja step. The backyard also has a custom Palapa and a putting green. Extended patio with ceiling fan and turf for easy maintenance. Surround sound is installed in the home. House was set back further than others to allow for a longer driveway for room to park an extended vehicle. Home neighbors beautifully landscaped greenbelt.
3448 W Sunshine Butte Drive
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$574,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,291
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777185
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath home, nestled near the beautiful San Tan Mountains in a wonderful neighborhood. This 3,290 square foot home features large vaulted ceilings and newer flooring throughout. The updated kitchen is perfect for any home chef, and the pebble tech pool offers a refreshing retreat. With solar panels and a Tesla charger connection in the 3-car garage, this home is both eco-friendly and convenient. Enjoy the spacious layout and all the modern amenities this home has to offer. The community also boasts a park, schools, walking paths, and plenty of shopping and restaurant amenities nearby.
4307 E Jesse Street
Gilbert, AZ 85295
$574,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,693
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784518
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
To be built: This beautiful Blue Streak plan, 1693 sf single story home with 2 car garage side entry garage is beautifully laid out with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths off a spacious great room with open kitchen. The master bedroom features a roomy walk in closet and a beautiful appointed master bath highlighted by a separate bath and shower. Come visit Cooley Station by Fulton Homes, you won't be disappointed!
2545 E Vista Bonita Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85024
$574,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,094
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768128
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home in the highly sought-after Crescent Butte neighborhood (perfect for an AIRBNB or personal residence). As you approach, you'll be greeted by a charming exterior with stunning curb appeal, setting the tone for what lies inside. Step through the front door and into a light-filled space, featuring large arched windows that flood the home with natural light. The newly remodeled kitchen is a showstopper, complete with crisp white shaker cabinets, elegant quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and under-cabinet lighting. Luxury vinyl plank flooring flows throughout, offering both style and durability. The spacious primary suite offers a peaceful retreat, boasting a spa-like bathroom with modern finishes and a large walk-in closet. The additional three bedrooms provide ample space, perfect for a growing family or those who need a home office or guest room. The backyard is a true oasis, with lush green grass that's perfect for relaxing evenings or entertaining friends and family. With a newer HVAC system (2021), this home is move-in ready, ensuring your comfort year-round. Located in the heart of Crescent Butte, you'll enjoy the best of both worlds: a serene neighborhood with easy access to local amenities, parks, and schools. Don't miss the opportunity to make this stunning home yours!
1309 E Ellis Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$574,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,852
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6767556
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
No HOA!!! This beautiful 3-bed, 2-bath home w/ pool in a highly desirable area of Tempe offers all the convenience with easy access to the 101 & 60 freeways, Sky Harbor, ASU and all the dining and shopping you need! It gets even better with a complete remodel in 2018 including new wood-look tile flooring, new AC, new roof, new paint, new windows and new cabinets and countertops. This home is move-in ready with a washer/dryer and refrigerator as well as a neutral palette to suit any style. When you want to entertain, step outside to the expansive backyard where you will find an oasis ideal for entertaining, cooling off in the pool or simply enjoying the Arizona sunshine. The covered patio offers shade for those warm afternoons, while the low maintenance yard allows for more leisure time and less upkeep. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a piece of Tempe real estate! Come take a tour today and fall in love with everything this home has to offer. **Please note that the large cactus in the front yard was removed on 11/16/24.
12414 N 33rd Street
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$574,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,508
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787192
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 3 bed 2 bath home on a spacious lot with no HOA in Paradise Valley West! Enjoy east-west exposure and a remodeled interior featuring a formal living room, a family room, and wood laminate flooring. The updated kitchen boasts an Alexa-enabled Smart Faucet, island breakfast bar, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and white shaker cabinets. The primary bedroom offers French doors to the backyard and a stylish en suite bathroom with touch-screen mirrors. Bonus: A separate guest house (single-wide) offers Airbnb potential or extra living space. The enclosed carport serves as a 2-car garage, complete with 220 EV charging, and the property includes two RV gates, a dog wash tub in the laundry room, and owned solar that conveys at no cost. cost, adding energy efficiency. Located near freeways, shopping, dining, schools, parks, and hiking trails, this home offers unbeatable convenience. Schedule your showing today!
2166 S 217th Lane
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$574,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,523
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6729300
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This spectacular two-story home is perfect for a large family with plenty of room to spread out! Enjoy New Paint outside, new carpet, a water softener, and OWNED solar panels for energy efficiency. Downstairs offers eat in kitchen to entertain your guests with ease. Upstairs boasts four spacious bedrooms with ample closet space. The master bedroom has French doors, walk-in closet and garden tub plus separate shower. Step outside to find your own private oasis complete with brand new sparkling pool, landscaping and views of the desert green belt! Plus there's an extended driveway, three car garage, RV gate and plenty of slab parking. This home is located conveniently close to shopping, restaurants, easy freeway access, hiking & more!
12384 W Hazelwood Street
Avondale, AZ 85392
$574,900
8
Beds
4
Baths
3,900
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6746885
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this spacious 8-bedroom, 4-bath home with a 3-car garage, featuring the quality craftsmanship of a DR Horton floor plan. The heart of this home is the enormous kitchen, complete with cherry cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a large island—perfect for cooking and entertaining. The master suite offers a luxurious retreat with dual vanities, a separate garden tub, shower, and a huge walk-in closet. Step outside to the spectacular private backyard, where a covered patio spans the entire width of the home, ideal for outdoor gatherings. With dual AC units and a desirable North/South exposure, you'll enjoy comfortable indoor temperatures year-round while keeping utility costs low. Don't miss out on this exceptional property!
33395 N 132nd Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$574,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,940
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6748045
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MOVE IN NOW! Welcome to your brand NEW HOME in Villages at Vistancia, North Peoria. With a premium oversized lot and a north-facing view, you are surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sonoran desert and the mountains. Step inside this elegant Shiloh Model by Beazer Homes. 1942 sq.ft. of living space, 4 BED + 2.5 BATHS + 2 CAR Garage with a Double RV Gate! Open concept main living area with classic herringbone-natural wood look porcelain tile floors, 12' great room double sliding doors, LED recessed canned lighting, oil rubbed bronze fixtures and hardware, upgraded designer wood shutters, blinds, trim, and doors throughout. The open-concept kitchen features beveled edge warm-tone granite countertops and an island, rich walnut cabinets, under-cabinet lighting,... stylish smoked glass pendant lighting, stainless steel Whirlpool appliances with double ovens, and a pantry for all your storage needs. Spacious master suite with wood shutter and can-lighting, master bath features porcelain tile floors, executive height granite vanity, double sinks, oil rubbed bronze fixtures, large walk-in shower with dark trim, and a walk-in closet. 3 additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a convenient powder room offer plenty of space throughout the home. Pre-wired for cameras, security flood lights, electric car, solar, and ceiling fans. Step out back and enjoy the scenic mountain views, bring your decorating ideas, and create your perfect Arizona oasis on this premium oversized lot. Neighborhood mountain views, close proximity to 303 freeway access, 20 minutes to TSMC, shopping, dining, entertainment, health care, and less than 20 min. away from beautiful Lake Pleasant Regional Park. Full list of updates available.