Last week’s economic releases included the National Association of Home Builders’ Housing Market Index along with reports on housing starts, building permits and sales of previously owned homes. Weekly reports on new jobless claims and mortgage rates were also released.
NAHB: Builder Sentiment Dips amid High Demand for Homes
Home builder confidence in current housing market conditions dipped from September’s index reading of 65 to 63. September’s reading was the highest since the peak of the housing bubble. Any reading above 50 indicates a majority of builders surveyed are confident about housing market conditions. Building new homes is essential to relieving intense demand for homes against short supplies of homes for sale. Builders cited obstacles including low supplies of land for development and workforce shortages, but expressed confidence in overall economic conditions that affect construction and sales of new homes.
Housing Starts Fall, Building Permits Rise
According to the Commerce Department, the reading for housing starts was nine percent lower in September than for August. 1.047 million starts were reported in September on a seasonally adjusted annual basis; August’s reading showed 1.150 million starts. Monthly readings tend to fluctuate due to weather, labor and materials supplies. Single family starts provided good news with a higher annual rate of 783,000 starts; this was 8.10 percent higher than August’s reading.
More building permits were issued in September than for August. Overall, 1.225 million permits issued on an annual basis. August’s reading showed 1.152 million permits issued. Building permits for single-family homes rose to 783, 000 on an annual basis, an increase of 8.10 percent over August. September’s increase in single-family permits indicates that builders are shifting their efforts toward single-family construction instead of multi-family construction. This signifies confidence in homeownership and suggests stronger housing markets as renters become homebuyers.
Sales of Previously–Owned Homes Increase
The National Association of Realtors® reported that previously owned homes sold at a seasonally-adjusted annual pace of 5.47 million sales in September as compared to a rate of 5.33 million sales in August. Pre-owned home sales rebounded after slowing in July and August. Home prices rose 5.60 percent year-over-year to an average of $234,200; this was the 55th consecutive month that home prices rose.
Sales of pre-owned home sales rose in all four regions rose year-over-year from 0.90 percent in the South to 5.80 percent in the Northeast. First-time buyers accounted for 34 percent of sales, which was the highest participation rate in four years.
Mortgage Rates Higher
Freddie Mac reported higher average mortgage rates last week. 30-year fixed rates were five basis points higher at 3.52 percent. 15-year fixed rates were three basis points higher at 2.79 percent. 5/1 adjustable mortgage rates rose three basis points to 2.85 percent. Discount points rose from 0.50 to 0.60 percent for fixed rate mortgages and were unchanged at -.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.
New jobless claims were higher than expected at 260,000 claims; analysts expected 248,000 new claims to be filed based on the prior week’s reading of 247,000 new claims filed. Last week’s reading was the highest in six weeks, but analysts said that layoffs remain very low.
What‘s Ahead
This week’s scheduled economic news includes Case-Shiller home price data, readings on new and pending home sales along with reports on consumer confidence. Mortgage rates and new jobless claims will be released on their regular weekly scheduled.
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3222 Bear Howard --
Flagstaff, AZ 86005
$2,295,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,334
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750128
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Escape to your mountain oasis, this beautifully updated home is on the fifth hole of the Canyon Golf Course in Forest Highlands. Situated on a generous lot, this thoughtfully designed floor plan allows for main-level living with plenty of space for guests. Vaulted ceilings and soaring windows showcase the ponderosa pines off the back deck, making the open concept living area an inviting space to relax or entertain. Appointed with smoked European oak floors, custom designed knotty alder wood cabinets, and new wood ceilings throughout the home. The chef's kitchen is ready for all your best creations, with a Sub Zero refrigerator, Wolf appliances and leathered quartzite counters. Two bedrooms, including the primary, are on the main floor, and two bedrooms upstairs share a bathroom. There is an additional loft, making a great space for a TV room, game room, or home gym. To stay comfortable no matter the season, the home has two new air conditioning units (2023), a new hot water tank (2023), a fifty year roof (2024) and heated floors in three of the bathrooms. Exterior painting was completed in 2023, garage painting in 2024, and new pavers placed in the front courtyard. All the work has been done and it is ready for you to make your own! Buyer to verify the homes square footage.
6417 N 30th Way
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$2,295,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,564
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774983
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Gorgeous! This redesigned/remodeled contemporary home is located in the prestigious guard gated community of Biltmore Hillside Villas. Perfect lock and leave, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, offering the best designer finishes available. The living room features custom cabinetry with Viking wine cabinet. The chef kitchen has Wolf/Subzero appliances, quartz countertops and a huge island. Wood floor throughout the house and two gas fireplaces. Relax poolside or on the covered patio while listening to the private waterfall. The two car garage features an epoxy coated floor, built in cabinets, recently replaced water heater (2024) and lots of storage space. Short distance to the Biltmore Shopping Center & Phoenix Mountain Preserve trails! This is an immaculate home ready to greet its new owner
8501 E Indianola Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$2,295,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,500
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6701545
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW CONSTRUCTION!! A BRAND-NEW '2024' HOME! JUST COMPLETED....BUILT EXTRAORDINARILY BY 'SCOTTSDALE'S PREMIER LUXURY BRAND' AS THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE 'RESIDENCES OF DISTINCTION' COLLECTION! A CONNOISSEUR OF FINE DESIGN AS WELL AS A CREATOR OF ART. SCOTTSDALES MOST PROLIFIC INVESTOR IS THE DEVELOPER PAR EXCELLENCE: DESIGNING & BUILDING THE MOST OUTSTANDING HOMES, AMBITIOUSLY INSPIRED CREATIONS THAT STAND THE TEST OF TIME! Signature corner location in coveted South Scottsdale, the contrast of the white geometric walls framed in black against the green landscaping with giant palms creates a grand & impressive entrance! The reaction from the street - 'Awe''! Upon entering experience open concept flow. Superb volume is achieved with coffered & recessed ceilings, skylights, engineered hardwood floors throughout & a 'RESTORATION HARDWARE' Chandelier in every room! Every corner of this opulent home has been designed to make an INDELIBLE STATEMENT! Focal point Limestone WINE GALLERY & 'BLACK SATIN' SUBZERO WINE COOLER separate the Dining room & Living room which has floor-to-ceiling fireplace that flows onto the winter/summer patio through custom designed double sliders to breathtaking pool with water features and private outdoor his/her showers. This continuous entertaining space is cooled with built-in misting system. Experience HEATED POOL with baja lounging shelf, jacuzzi, fire pit, BBQ, all in a perfectly manicured verdant green surrounding creating a virtual indoor/outdoor experience! Spiral up the stairway to UNIQUE PATIO DECK where sunset-gazing over Camelback Mountain or midnight star-gazing is an either/and. The top-of-the-line SUBZERO/ WOLF/ COVE Kitchen with white characteristic clean 'European' lines has a 2 tone enormous 12 foot Island which is the central hub of the home integrating easily with the reception areas & outdoor terrace making for easy, interactive Entertaining and Living. 4 BEDROOMS, 3.5 decadent BATHROOMS for exceptional accommodation with the half bathroom being the main attraction as it has walls of real preserved moss and is hidden behind a sculptured glass barn door. 2 Bedrooms are En-Suite include a signature designed built-in 'Ladies cosmetic corner' in the 2nd Primary which is an unforgettable domain of it's own. The Grand Primary suite with wood inlayed walk-in closet, 'Four Season's' style en-suite and with romantic fireplace opens onto the pool. Each bedroom is brilliantly positioned through a huge hallway hand-laid with wood & mirrored artistry. Every feature is of an impressive scale including the the walk-in wood paneled pantry, gorgeous 2 tone Laundry Room with floor to ceiling cabinetry as well as the 2 car garage with opulent black epoxy floors an electric car charger, built-in storage cabinets and designer lighting. MUCH LIKE IN GREEK MYTHOLOGY - PROMETHEUS BRINGS THE GIFT OF FIRE TO HUMANITY, 'SCOTTSDALE'S PREMIER LUXURY BRAND'. BRINGS US CREATIVE HOMES THAT LIGHT THE FIRE WITHIN US!
33521 N 75th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$2,295,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,693
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777485
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Perched on the top of a cul de sac in the custom home section of Montesano at Winfield expect VIEWS! Private backyard backs to 75 acre boulder studded Winfield Mountain with expansive front views to the Boulder stack and Black Mountain. Great room living with expansive windows opening to fabulous views of Winfield Mountain. The kitchen features a massive granite kitchen island, tons of cabinets and walk in pantry. Split master bedrooms, 3 car garage with storage area, waterfall feature and exterior fireplace in backyard. The secluded backyard has covered and open patio space. Mountain and City View buyers, DO NOT DELAY! This one is spectacular. Winfield offers a resort style clubhouse including heated comm. pool, fitness facility, aerobics/tai chi, 8 tennis courts(2 clay) &pickleball
3800 E Lincoln Road Unit 42
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$2,295,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,332
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782571
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Exquisite Villa in Estate Antigua This fully remodeled home offers it all, a prime location, breathtaking city skyline views with a modern contemporary feel, and privacy. Impeccable designer touches, this home boasts an open floor plan perfect for entertaining. The new gourmet kitchen features stunning quartz countertops, top-of-the-line appliances, custom cabinets, a wine fridge, a breakfast nook, and a spacious island with deep drawers & breakfast bar. The 4th bedroom/ office opens to a private patio. The Family room and Master suite offer exceptional city views. The master bathroom is a serene retreat with dual vanities, a dual custom-tiled shower and a custom wraparound walk-in designer closet. Wow! See More for Complete list of improvements... -Complete remodel -New Roof -New Exterior colored smooth stucco - no painting necessary -New HVAC units and thermostats -New Iron courtyard gate and iron front door installed -New courtyard pavers, paver walkway to street and paver driveway installed -New Coach lights installed outside garage on driveway -New garage cabinets and garage floor coating -Rework of stairwell from main floor to lower to remove walls and add iron railing. To open up main floor floorplan -New window glazing installed throughout -Modifications to South wall to create expanded view windows upstairs and sliding full wall door downstairs leading to newly created lower patio entertainment area. -New flooring throughout -New texture and paint throughout -New lighting throughout, wall fixtures changed and led can lights installed -New wiring added for data and tv throughout -Complete kitchen and dining remodel to create island kitchen. All luxury brand new appliances added, all new cabinetry and quartz countertops. -Complete bathroom remodel of all 3.5 bathrooms -Second toilet room in Master Bath added - creates his/hers -New focal point shower added in Master bath -Closet organizers in all bedroom closets with extensive in Master closet -New Washer and dryer added in laundry room.
9248 E Desert Village Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,295,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,209
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778803
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Complete remodel with no expense spared located in a premier location overlooking the park at The Estates DC Ranch * This chic, designer home offers an open Great Room floor plan perfect for entertaining * Rare 5 bed, 4 bath home with no interior steps * Retractable glass wall spans the entire length of great room * Freshly remastered kitchen with Wolf/ Sub-Zero appliances, dual dishwashers and walk-in pantry * Interior details include wide wood plank flooring, custom cabinetry, intricate tile work, all new lighting fixtures and door hardware, * Backyard features heated pool, sauna, covered patio, and new landscaping * A 3-car tandem garage completes the residence *
7180 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 916
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$2,295,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,954
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787637
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Discover unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views in this corner unit at Optima Kierland, North Scottsdale's premier condominium tower. With panoramic east and south-facing views from every window, this residence offers an abundance of natural light and stunning scenery. The thoughtfully designed layout features two spacious primary suites, each with a walk-in closet and a spa-like ensuite bathroom, offering privacy and comfort. Optima Kierland sets the standard for luxury living with unmatched amenities, including a world-class fitness center and a show-stopping rooftop deck. The Sky Deck has heated pools, elegant lounge spaces, and a glass-enclosed sauna, all with spectacular mountain and city views. enjoy a lifestyle defined by sophistication, convenience and wellness.
37295 N Boulder View Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,295,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,523
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765631
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Luxury custom home in a prestigious North Scottsdale neighborhood, bordering the scenic Tonto National Forest with easy access to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This impeccably maintained home boasts an open floor plan with high-end finishes throughout. The chef's kitchen is equipped with WOLF appliances, including three ovens, a warming drawer, microwave, and six-burner gas cooktop. Sub-Zero refrigerators are strategically placed throughout the home, complementing the spacious granite countertops, prep area, and wet bar. Alder cabinetry and premium granite and stone surfaces enhance the elegance of every room. The temperature-controlled wine closet can store over 400 bottles, ensuring your collection is well-preserved. The expansive master suite, complete with a fireplace and sitting area, opens directly to the patio, pool, and spa. Additionally, a den/office/game room with a full wall of built-ins provides space for books and memorabilia. Your guests will enjoy privacy and comfort in the attached casita with its own entrance through the courtyard. Step outside to a resort-style backyard featuring a stunning boulder waterfall, an upper terrace with breathtaking views, and a fire pit for cozy evenings. This home is a must-see to truly appreciate the unmatched quality and luxury it offers!
13735 E Columbine Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$2,295,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,192
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6732872
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Do you want city views? Do you want mountain views? Do you want a completely remodeled home? Well, you just found it and for under $2.5M! This gorgeous home is on a cul-de-sac street with a south facing backyard for city light views. Your view from the front is only the mountain because the mountain is literally across the street! This home is perfect for cozy family night's in, or entertaining friends and neighbors. With the stunning pool and back yard amenities framed by a southern mountain and city lights view - why go any where else? The modern elegence of this home is enhanced by the quality finishes and design. Absolutely nothing was missed, so your new hillside home is ready for you to move into today!
5558 E Lafayette Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$2,295,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,860
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6735220
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your ARCADIA OASIS designed for LUXURIOUS LIVING. Inside, you'll find a SPACIOUS 3,000+ SQ FT MAIN HOUSE featuring 3 BEDS & 3 BATHS in a highly desirable SPLIT-LIVING DESIGN. The great room & kitchen, with breathtaking views of CAMELBACK & PAPAGO mountains, serve as a gorgeous centerpiece for daily living & EXTRAORDINARY ENTERTAINING. The second family room, alongside MUDROOM/LAUNDRY ROOM offers intimacy & practicality conveniently off the 2-car garage. Enter the PRIVATE PRIMARY SUITE, where tranquil POOL & MOUNTAIN VIEWS invite serenity. The SPA-INSPIRED BATHROOM, featuring a dual vanity along with a separate shower & SOAKING TUB, provides the perfect RETREAT for RELAXATION & REJUVENATION, complemented by a sizable custom WALK-IN CLOSET. Outside, an impressive pergola stands.. tall above all-new pavers & the OVERSIZED DIVING POOL, while the generous GRASS LAWN creates an ideal backyard for lifelong memories of PLAY & LEISURE. Beyond, the 850+ SQ FT DETACHED GUEST HOUSE adds exceptional versatility, complete with 1 BED, 1 BATH, a full kitchen & cozy living spaceperfect for guests, a home office or additional living needs. NEW FEATURES INCLUDE: HVAC, PLUMBING, ROOF, ELECTRICAL, TANKLESS WATER HEATER, WINDOWS, APPLIANCES, REFINISHED SWIMMING POOL, THOUSANDS OF SQ FT OF NEW PAVERS, IRRIGATION SYSTEMS, SOD & STUCCO. DO NOT MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN YOUR DREAM LIFESTYLE IN THIS EXPANSIVE ARCADIA OASIS ON THE HIGHLY COVETED LAFAYETTE BLVD!
3111 E Indian Ruin --
Payson, AZ 85541
$2,290,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
4,720
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768559
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the prestigious Rim Golf Club, this stunning custom home offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and breathtaking views from every window. Featuring four spacious bedrooms and four well-appointed bathrooms, the home is designed for comfort and style. The partially finished walkout basement provides ample space for entertainment or relaxation, while the unfinished portion offers a blank canvas, perfect for creating a personal retreat, gym, or additional living space, limited only by your imagination. Surrounded by the beauty of the Mogollon Rim, Granite Dells and Tonto National Forest this home promises serenity and elegance in one of the finest golf communities in Arizona.
12222 N 74th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$2,287,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,669
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750919
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Completely remodeled, this stunning property offers over 3,600 sq ft of luxurious living on a spacious 1/2-acre lot. Enjoy a sparkling pool with an expansive outdoor area, and the freedom of NO HOA. The home features an open floorplan, top-of-the-line appliances, quartz countertops with a waterfall edge, custom lighting, new windows, a Ramada with a BBQ station, and exquisite landscaping. Close to restaurants and nightlife, this dream home is perfectly situated for a vibrant lifestyle. Don't miss your chance to make it yours!