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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706 W Curry Street
Chandler, AZ 85225
$560,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,208
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6757486
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in the sought-after Mission Valley neighborhood of Chandler! This spacious single-level home features a desirable split master bedroom floor plan, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a versatile den perfect for an office or guest room. Sitting on an expansive lot, featuring lush, mature landscaping, creating a private oasis complete with a sparkling pool, perfect for entertaining or relaxing. The 2.5 car garage provides ample space for storage or a workshop. With its prime location near top-rated schools, parks, and shopping, this home is perfect for those seeking comfort and convenience in a peaceful setting.
1228 E Wesleyan Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$560,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,486
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6758491
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Prime Tempe Location! This stylish 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with 2-car garage is just minutes from ASU and the freeways. The kitchen boasts sleek stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and seamlessly flows into the dining area. Enjoy the additional living space in the separate living room which opens to the backyard. Recently updated with new flooring installed in 2024, this home features a distinctive and modern look. The backyard is perfect for entertaining, with a covered patio, misting system and a refreshing diving pool. The property is situated among single-story homes, offering added privacy. New roof. No HOA. Come see it today!
6850 N 15th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85014
$560,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,906
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6710157
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Charming 3-bed, 2-bath home on a spacious corner lot with ample storage and an RV gate. The pride of ownership is evident as this home has been with the same family since it was built. Enjoy stunning mountain views from your front porch. Recent updates include a roof replacement just 2 years ago. Don't miss this opportunity!
22443 E Munoz Street
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$560,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,301
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6731713
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome Home! Situated in the coveted Meridian neighborhood this property comes highly upgraded and professionally designed. Stunning laminate flooring throughout, marble kitchen backsplash, oversized island and new carpet freshly installed. All upgraded pendants and dining lighting is included, also pre-wired for surround sound. This is a 3 bedroom plus spacious office/playroom and 2 bath home. Front and back yard are connected to an automatic watering system for easy maintenance. Post tension slab included along with tankless water heater. Meridian offers lots of green spaces, parks and a luxury community pool.
17831 N 130th Avenue
Sun City West, AZ 85375
$560,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,394
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6703110
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Come see this completely renovated 4 Bedroom/2 Bath home with paid off solar! No detail was missed in this stunning 2394 square foot property. All work was permitted and completed by licensed contractors. Updates include: New Windows, Electrical, Plumbing, Fixtures, Paint, Flooring, ductwork, outdoor upgrades, and Appliances. From the new flooring to the kitchen upgrades, you don't want to miss out on the opportunity to tour this home! Seller to pay the $5000 SCW Asset Preservation Fee if COE by 12/31. Enjoy all of the amenities Sun City West provides! The new owner(s) will be able to pick out their new backsplash for the kitchen and installed by our contractor.
10913 W Chino Drive
Sun City, AZ 85373
$560,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,746
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6719018
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
PRICE ADJUSTMENT! Beautiful Lakefront Home in Ventana Lakes 55 + community! It has everything you want, 2 bedroom, 2 baths, 3 car garage, Living room, separate great room, and an Office. You will enjoy the morning sunrises and evening sunsets from the patio and backyard. Ventana Lakes is one of Peoria's premier 55+ communities. The community features 9 lakes, some with waterfalls, and great fishing! 4 pools and spas, recreation and fitness room, billiards, fine arts and crafts and quilting rooms, handball, tennis courts, Bingo games, etc.
26916 N 52nd Glen
Phoenix, AZ 85083
$560,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,927
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749367
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience luxury living in this stunning resort-style retreat featuring a fenced Pebble Tec saltwater pool and spa, heated and self-cleaning with a variable speed pump. The professionally landscaped yard boasts a pomegranate tree in the front, a synthetic grass backyard, and a covered patio with extended cool decking—perfect for outdoor relaxation. Nestled in a cul-de-sac, this home offers privacy and direct access to a greenbelt and walking trail, all framed by picturesque mountain views. Inside, enjoy a formal living and dining area, along with a spacious family room that flows seamlessly into an open-concept kitchen designed for entertaining. The kitchen is equipped with a large island and sink, a breakfast bar with ample seating, a gas oven/range, a pantry, and a reverse osmosis system. Modern touches include updated light fixtures, surround sound wiring, ceiling fans, and a combination of tile and laminated flooring. The master suite is a serene retreat with dual sinks, an updated walk-in shower, a spacious walk-in closet, and a private toilet room. This smart home is equipped with a programmable thermostat, security system, and an owned solar system with a loan assumption. Additional features include garage storage cabinets, overhead storage racks, a water softener, and an automatic garage door opener. With great curb appeal and a welcoming front porch, this home is conveniently located near top-rated schools, shopping, dining, Deem Hills Recreation Area, and major highways including I-17, Loop 101, and 303.
49947 N 26th Avenue
New River, AZ 85087
$560,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,784
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6739056
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
360 VIEWS! This charming home sits atop a mountain on a HUGE 1.4-acre corner lot, offering unmatched scenery & privacy. Providing 3 beds, 2 baths, & a 2-car garage. Bright & light interior showcases carpet & Saltillo tile flooring t/out and vaulted ceilings that add to the airy feel. Discover the living/dining room and a cozy family room w/fireplace! The kitchen features SS appliances, oak cabinetry, a pantry, & a garden window. Primary bedroom boasts French doors to the back and an ensuite with dual sinks, a separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Relax under the back full-length covered patio while enjoying the unobstructed vistas! Want MORE? Bring your toys, RVs, horses, & other animals—this property has plenty of space! What a GEM!
27478 W Tonopah Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$560,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,998
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786670
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exceptional Opportunity at Sun City Festival in this highly upgraded Preserve model, located in the sought-after Sun City Festival community. This stunning home is truly move-in ready and offers a host of impressive features. Enter through the custom iron entry door and see well over $100,000 in thoughtful upgrades throughout. Open concept kitchen / dining / living. Two spacious suites, a primary and a guest, each with its own bathroom. An additional tiled and HVAC connected utility / hobby room off the laundry room brings living space up closer to 2,100 square feet. Step outside to the extended, beautifully paved patio, complete with a charming pergola with built-in fireplace and BBQ, perfect for entertaining or relaxing in style. Pride of ownership shines at this lightly used home.
3406 E Libby Street
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$560,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,560
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6717614
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautifully updated three-bedroom, two-bath home nestled in a prime location backing directly onto a beautiful golf course. This open-concept floorplan boasts a bright and spacious layout, The kitchen flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas, ideal for entertaining. Step outside to your private oasis which features a view fence that showcases the golf course, a large putting green, and a chipping area, perfect for golf enthusiasts. Enjoy evenings by the firepit, soaking in the serene surroundings of AZ. Best of all, there's NO HOA, offering you unparalleled freedom and flexibility.
16972 W Alice Avenue
Waddell, AZ 85355
$560,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,788
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763393
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This better-than-new 4-bedroom + Den, 3-bathroom home is nestled in a peaceful community with no homes behind, offering ample privacy. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and entertainment, you'll have everything you need just minutes away. Whether you're looking for a primary residence or an income generating property, this home is perfect - currently operating as an established Airbnb. It features a family room and upstairs loft, highlighted by fresh interior paint, soft carpet and wood-look tile flooring. The oversized primary bedroom on the main floor has an oversized ensuite bathroom with double sinks and a walk-in shower. The kitchen offers a pantry, granite countertops, a kitchen island and an eat-in dining area. The exterior features a covered patio and lush real grass!
3839 N St Elias Circle
Mesa, AZ 85215
$559,999
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,181
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766638
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to 3839 N St Elias Cir, nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac with mountain views in the highly desirable Red Mountain Ranch community of Mesa, AZ. This 3 bedroom home, plus a spacious den, offers not only a beautifully maintained interior but also a lifestyle that embraces Arizona's natural beauty. The peaceful backyard is a private retreat with a large, extended covered patio, perfect for dining, surrounded by vibrant landscaping. From your kitchen window, enjoy the view of blooming flowers and frequent hummingbird visits. The cozy gazebo offers a shaded sitting area, making it the ideal spot to savor your morning coffee. Inside, the home features soft, clean carpeting with upgraded padding, providing comfort underfoot. High ceilings and very large energy efficient windows invite an abundance of natural light, creating a bright, airy atmosphere throughout. The kitchen overlooks the living room and is designed with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and soft close cabinetry, blending style and function. The den, larger than a standard bedroom, is equipped with custom shelves and drawers, offering versatility for work or leisure. Living in Red Mountain Ranch means more than just a home; it's a lifestyle. With access to world class golf courses, fitness centers, hiking trails, and more, there's always something to enjoy. Plus, located just minutes from the Red Mountain 202, the home's location provides easy access to local dining, shopping, and entertainment. This well maintained property combines comfort, convenience, and a true sense of community. With its move in ready condition and prime cul-de-sac location, this home is a perfect sanctuary for those looking to embrace both relaxation and an active lifestyle.