Last week’s economic news included reports on inflation, construction spending, the Federal Reserve’s announcement regarding interest rates and several labor and employment related releases. Weekly reports on new jobless claims and Freddie Mac’s survey of interest rates were also released.
Construction Spending Rises, Fed Holds Steady on Interest Rates, Suggests December Increase
Construction spending remained in negative territory for September according to the Commerce Department. The month-to-month reading decreased by 0.40 percent against the expected reading of +0.40 percent and August’s reading of -0.50 percent. Approaching winter weather is a likely reason for less spending, but ongoing challenges with shortages of buildable lots and labor are also factors. Spending on residential construction rose 0.50 percent, which is good news in terms of a persistent shortage of available homes.
The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve announced that it would hold federal interest rates in the target range of 0.25 percent to 0.50 percent. Analysts have been monitoring Fed policymaker pronouncements in anticipation of a rate increase. With strengthening labor markets and other economic indicators, policy makers hinted at raising the Fed target rate in December.
Labor Data: Slower Job Creation, Lower Unemployment
ADP payrolls showed that only private-sector jobs 147,000 jobs were created in October as compared to September’s reading of 202,000 jobs created. The Labor Department reported 161,000 government and private-sector jobs were added in October as compared to an expected reading of 175,000 jobs added and September’s reading of 191,000 jobs created. Healthcare, professional jobs and financial sector jobs showed the highest job gains.
National Unemployment met expectations with an October reading of 4.90 percent. September’s reading was 5.00 percent Unemployment readings are reported as a percentage of workers seeking work and do not include workers who’ve left the workforce. New jobless claims rose last week to 265,000 as compared to expectations for 258,000 new jobless claims and the prior week’s reading of 258,000 new jobless claims.
Mortgage Rates Rise
Freddie Mac reported higher average mortgage rates last week. 30-year fixed rate loans had an average rate of 3.54 percent, an increase of seven basis points. The average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage rose six basis points to 2.84 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was three basis points higher at 2.87 percent. Discount points for fixed rate mortgages averaged 0.50 percent; discount points for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages held steady at 0.40 percent.
Low mortgage rates have helped to offset the effects of high demand for homes and rapidly rising prices; if mortgage and refinance rates continue to rise, affordability and mortgage qualification issues are likely to arise for some home buyers.
What’s Ahead
This week’s scheduled economic reports include job openings, consumer sentiment and weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.
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9409 E Nacoma Drive
Sun Lakes, AZ 85248
$585,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,443
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6713360
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Pride of ownership is apparent in this 3 bedroom, 3 bath home in the gated active adult community of Oakwood CC. The casita with separate entrance provides flexibility for guests, a home office or exercise studio. Entertain in the great room or family room with adjacent kitchen and breakfast nook. Granite counters, SS appliances, newer paint and hardware with loads of cupboard space. Retire to the primary suite with patio access, walk in closet, dual split sinks and separate shower and tub. Guests will appreciate the spacious bedroom with walk in closet and nearby bath. New AC in 2021. Newer wood look tile flooring with some carpeted areas. You'll love the large picture windows and slider leading to the backyard with expanded covered patio and lush landscaping. See upgrade list.
7500 E Deer Valley Road Unit 68
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$585,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,358
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6714999
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Seller may carry. Best offering in North Scottsdale. Priced to sell Freshly painted interior will impress you, showcasing a large living room bathed in natural light, ideal for entertaining or relaxation. The kitchen displays fluorescent lighting, plenty of honey oak cabinets, built-in appliances, and a bright dining area with sliding glass doors to the back patio. Make the flexible den with double doors a media room or extra bedroom for your guests. Take a look at the spacious primary retreat, which provides a walk-in closet and private bathroom. The secondary bedroom has a mirrored door closet. A washer and dryer are included! The backyard has a covered patio where you can sit and relax after a hard day's work. This rare find won't disappoint!
7102 W Windrose Drive
Peoria, AZ 85381
$585,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,532
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6721103
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
SELLER OFFERING CONCESSIONS! Welcome to this modern home nestled on a large corner lot with an RV GATE offering 5 bedrooms & 3 full-sized bathrooms, & a secondary owner's suite in the basement. The main level features 3 bedrooms, including the master bedroom upstairs with walk-in closets. REMODELED bathrooms and a laundry chute to enhance the comfort & functionality of the home. Natural light shines through plantation shutters, creating a bright atmosphere. The basement adds 2 bedrooms, a WET BAR, & a full-sized bathroom to be used as a guest room or for entertaining extended family members. Outside, the backyard is a serene retreat with mature greenery providing privacy & a perfect backdrop for relaxation or outdoor activities.
3161 W Frankfurt Drive
Chandler, AZ 85226
$585,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,024
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760217
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This beautiful one-level home exudes charm and comfort with its expansive open floor plan and high ceilings, creating a bright and airy atmosphere throughout. Recently updated with fresh paint inside and out, along with updated carpets. The master suite is a true retreat, featuring a full spa-style bathroom with a soaking tub and walk-in shower—perfect for unwinding. The outdoor living area is equally impressive, boasting a sparkling pool and an extended patio, offering plenty of space for lounging, dining, and entertaining. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening by the pool, this home provides the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living. Don't miss your chance to make this exceptional property your own!
22740 N 74th Lane
Glendale, AZ 85310
$585,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,242
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6748677
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Situated on a great lot in the community of Hillcrest this 4 bedroom 2 bath home has everything you are looking for. Great curb appeal with new exterior paint in 2021. Step inside to beautiful inlaid tile in neutral colors, large open living room with art niches, vaulted ceilings and bright open windows. Open kitchen with plenty of cabinet and counters space, kitchen island and great spot for a dining table - all over looking the cozy family room. Nice primary bedroom with ensuite bath featuring a step in shower, soaking tub and dual vanities. Beautiful back yard with large covered patio, sparkling pool/spa with rock accents, grassy area, and mature landscaping. New roof in 2017; New heat pump/AC in 2018; New water heater 2023. No neighbors behind you. Low HOA! So much to love!!
11410 N 50th Lane
Glendale, AZ 85304
$585,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,782
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755548
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful Former Model Home...Inviting 5 bedroom, 3 full bathrooms! Real wood plantation shutters, recess lighting, 8 foot doors and closets, 5 inch base boards throughout home. Gorgeous kitchen w/ white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite counter top, and an island w/ a breakfast bar. Spacious primary bedroom w/ large walk in closet, double sinks w/ subway tiled walk in shower. Primary bedroom PLUS 2 additional bedrooms and another bath downstairs! Large loft, 2 more bedrooms and a bath upstairs. Energy efficient spray foam insulation keeps electric bills low. Laundry room w/ sink and custom cabinets downstairs. Dreamy backyard showcases a covered patio, pavers, built-in BBQ, a fire pit, & an enticing pool for year-round entertainment! A MUST SEE!!
4810 N 74th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$585,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,236
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767229
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
MODERN CANAL RETREAT Tucked into the heart of Scottsdale's historic district, this gorgeous 2-bedroom, 2-full bath home in coveted Villa Monterey 55+ community is a true gem. Step into a light & bright sanctuary that exudes warmth & comfort. Formal dining area invites you to host intimate gatherings, while the completely updated interior flows effortlessly into the serene backyard with private canal access. With over $130,000 in upgrades, every corner of this home has been meticulously crafted. From the new Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) floors to the upgraded modern kitchen, walnut interior doors, no detail has been overlooked. New roof (2019), HVAC (2023), appliances and more all recently replaced. Open-Concept Closets in both bedrooms. Front-facing kitchen with new modern pull out cabinets, new LVP plank (6x9) flooring, and smooth texture walls throughout. Enjoy the fully upgraded, spa-like bathrooms that include a deep soaking bathtub & walk-in shower. Coveted side yard and laundry room are added bonuses. Well designed, low maintenance landscaping is easy to maintain. Community Pool & Spa, Located directly on the canal, this property is minutes away from Old Town Scottsdale, Spring Training facilities, shopping, restaurants, art galleries, and the renowned Talking Stick Resort, the possibilities for entertainment & adventure are endless. Walk out your back gate and explore the vibrant community, stroll along scenic walking and biking paths, or simply bask in the Arizona sunshine.
3706 S Cottonwood Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$585,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,669
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768193
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, single-story home with a 2-car garage and no HOA! Recently renovated within the last 5 years, including a new A/C unit, this home features hard floors throughout and an open-concept kitchen with granite countertops. The exterior boasts fresh paint, a low-maintenance yard, and a sparkling PebbleTec diving pool. The spacious covered patio is ideal for entertaining. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, entertainment, the 101/60 freeways, and Ehrhardt Park. This home is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and location!
4077 S Sabrina Drive Unit 71
Chandler, AZ 85248
$585,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
1,775
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768414
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning home in the Echelon At Ocotillo Community in South Chandler. This end unit boasts an abundance of natural light and windows creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Well laid pavers in the front patio make it a great place to sit and watch the sunset. The gourmet kitchen includes quartz counter tops, new upgraded LG smart appliances with refrigerator connected to the RO for water, regular ice and craft ice spheres, plus lower kitchen cabinets & pantry with convenient pull outs. Smart home system with ring doorbell, programmable thermostats and smart garage door opener. One bedroom and full bath on the first level, three bedrooms and two bath rooms on the second level. Walk-in shower in master bathroom. Additional features, ceiling fans, steel security front door, full driveway with two car garage. Community amenities include a playground , gorgeous community pool and spa for your enjoyment. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this house your new home.
7807 E Mckinley Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
$585,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,590
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768199
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
It's just a short drive to Old Town, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Step inside this beautifully decorated home featuring wood-look floors and an inviting great room bathed in natural light. The sleek kitchen is a culinary delight, with abundant cabinets, stainless appliances, a stylish tile backsplash, ample counter space, and a convenient breakfast bar. Retreat to the main suite, which offers direct access to the serene backyard, a private bathroom with stylish tiles, and a spacious walk-in closet. The backyard offers a covered patio, artificial turf, and plenty of space for fun barbecues and gatherings. Within walking distance of the Salt Cellar, McKellips Lake, and Scottsdale parks. Don't miss this opportunity! Make it yours today!
5831 W Pine Cove
Prescott, AZ 86305
$585,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,057
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772452
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home tucked away on a serene, pine-covered .93 acre lot in Highland Pines. Offering 2,057 sq. ft. of living space, this mountain retreat features a great room with soaring ceilings, rustic wood accents, and a cozy wood-burning stove. The dining room's wall of windows provides breathtaking views of the surrounding pines. Step outside onto the deck to take in the panoramic scenery. Additional amenities include a one-car garage, asphalt driveway, brick paver paths, and a fenced dog run. This home is truly a peaceful getaway in the Pines with modern comforts!
1354 W Nido Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85202
$585,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,616
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769367
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in sought after community of Dobson Ranch!! This beautifully designed 4-bedroom residence offers a perfect blend of comfort and style, ideal for those seeking spacious living with community amenities. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an inviting open floor plan that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating a warm atmosphere for gatherings and entertaining. This home provides trending designs with remodeled bathrooms, remodeled kitchen, and new LVP flooring throughout the home. Dobson Ranch is a sought after Southeast Valley community boasting 1 of the best municipal golf clubs in the City and this home Just doors away from the Dobson Community La Casita rec Center. HVAC 2023, Roof 2010.