Last week’s economic releases included reports on new and pending home sales, S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Indices and regularly scheduled weekly reporting on mortgage rates and weekly jobless claims. Readings on consumer sentiment and confidence were also released.
New and Pending Home Sales Lower as Peak Sales Season Winds Down
August readings for new and pending home sales were lower than for July; analysts said that slim supplies of available homes and rising home prices contributed to slower home sales. Peak home sales typically occur during spring and summer. Homebuyers with school-aged children prefer to be settled into a new home when school starts in August and September.
According to the Commerce Department, new home sales achieved their second highest reading since the Great Recession. Although lower than July’s reading, August sales of new homes reached 609,000 on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis. Analysts expected a reading of 600,000 new home sales based on July’s reading of 659.000 new homes sold. August’s reading was 20.60 percent higher year-over-year. High demand for homes appears to be kicking home builders into higher gear as they strive to ease slim inventories of available homes.
The impact of short inventories of available homes was reflected in August’s reading for pending home sales. Home sales awaiting closing fell in August from July’s reading of +1.20 percent in July to 2.40 percent in August. The National Association of Realtors® said that home sales are declining due to very limited inventories of available homes. Rapidly rising home prices and strict mortgage qualification requirements also contributed to slipping sales. After home buyers sign a purchase contract, they are at the mercy of changing mortgage rates their ability to qualify for a mortgage. Pending home sales supply an indication of future closings and mortgage loans.
According to the S&P Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index for July, home price growth dipped from June’s seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.10 percent to 5.00 percent. Slim inventories of homes for sale and high demand were again cited as primary reasons for slower home price growth. While demand is high, slim supplies of available homes can cause would-be buyers to postpone their home search until more homes are on the market.
Mortgage Rates Fall, New Jobless Claims Rise
Mortgage rates fell across the board last week according to Freddie Mac’s weekly survey of rates. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell six basis points to 3.42 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was four basis points lower at 2.72 percent. 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages had an average rate of 1.81 percent, which was one basis point lower than the previous week’s reading Discount points were also lower and averaged 0.50 percent for fixed rate mortgages and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.
New jobless claims rose last week to 254,000 claims, but new claims were lower than the expected reading of 259,000 new claims which was based on the prior week’s reading of 251,000 new jobless claims. New jobless claims have stayed below 270,000 new claims for three months for the first time since 1973.
In prepared testimony before the Financial Services Committee, Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen discussed problems facing two major banks and said the Fed’s goal was managing its regulatory stance to support financial stability.
September’s Consumer Confidence Index reading rose to 104.1, which exceeded analysts’ estimated reading of 99.3 and August’s reading of 101.1.
What’s Next
Next week’s scheduled economic reports include readings on construction spending and several labor-related releases including ADP Payrolls, Non-Farm Payrolls and the National Unemployment Rates. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims are set for release as usual.
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1325 E Palomino Drive
Tempe, AZ 85284
$1,859,000
7
Beds
4
Baths
5,076
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6767845
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this extraordinary 7-bedroom, 4-bath home in the sought-after Warner Estates, offering luxurious living both indoors and out. The grand entrance welcomes you with a serene fountain, setting a tone of opulence from the moment you arrive. Inside, the formal living and dining rooms feature exposed wood beams and a striking dual-sided fireplace, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for intimate gatherings or larger celebrations. Or entertain outside with an oversized negative edge pool spa putting green sport court and a oversized outdoor kitchen. Inside is an expansive gourmet kitchen designed for both style and functionality. A large central island makes it ideal for entertaining, while the oversized walk-in pantry. this kitchen elevates every culinary experience. The luxurious feel extends throughout the private living quarters, where each of the seven bedrooms offers privacy and comfort. The primary suite is a true retreat, featuring elegant finishes, natural light, and a spa-like en suite bathroom with a soaking tub and walk-in shower. The additional bedrooms provide ample space for family, guests, or even a home office or fitness room. Outside, the backyard is an entertainer's paradise. The expansive covered patio is perfect for outdoor dining, complemented by a luxurious outdoor kitchen and entertainment gazebo with ample seating and stunning views. A dedicated sports court is ideal for recreation, while the heated spa offers year-round relaxation. The centerpiece is a sparkling infinity pool with an oversized seating area, making this outdoor retreat perfect for lounging and hosting gatherings. This home masterfully blends practicality with luxury, offering a flexible layout for ease of living. With no HOA fees, you can enjoy the beauty and exclusivity of Warner Estates without added costs. A rare find, this residence combines luxurious living spaces, exquisite outdoor amenities, and a prime location in one of the area's most desirable neighborhoods. Homes like this in Warner Estates are truly uniquedon't miss your chance to own this exceptional property!
N Marchant Trace --
Queen Creek, AZ 85144
$1,850,000
4
Beds
5
Baths
4,325
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6698857
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Ravenwood! Your future home in SanTan Foothills. This modern farmhouse, to be complete in 2025, offers 4 beds, 5 bath, and is situated on a spacious 3.3-acres! Designed with both horse lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, its proximity to San Tan Regional Park ensures endless adventure possibilities. Spanning 4,325 square feet, the home has a large RV barn and features designer touches including GE Café Series appliances, Custom Cabinetry, and wide plank LVP flooring. Guests are greeted by soaring 15 ft ceilings leading seamlessly into the open-concept living area, perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. Located just a short 20-minute drive from Queen Creek shopping and surrounded by scenic mountains and trails is the perfect blend of rural charm and city convenience.
33490 N Bell Road
Queen Creek, AZ 85144
$1,850,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,800
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760571
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This brand-new, custom-built 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom luxury home sits on over 2 acres in a gated community, offering breathtaking 360-degree mountain and city views. The gourmet kitchen is the heart of the home, boasting high-end appliances, a grand island, and custom cabinetry, perfect for entertaining and culinary adventures. The main bedroom is a luxurious retreat, featuring an expansive en suite with a freestanding tub, oversized walk-in shower, and dual vanities. Step outside to the resort-style backyard with a sparkling pool and water features, ideal for relaxation or hosting guests. The home's courtyard provides a serene outdoor living space, while the private office is perfect for work-from-home days. A 4-car garage and RV gate offer ample space for parking and storage. With a dedicated media room and top-tier finishes throughout, this custom home offers the perfect blend of elegance, comfort, and privacy, all within minutes of city conveniences.
14629 E Shadow Canyon Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$1,850,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,164
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6764578
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Looking for your dream home nestled in the exclusive Shadow Canyon community? Look no further! This remarkable SINGLE LEVEL home offers a perfect blend of elegance, comfort, soft contemporary feel and functionality, making it the ideal retreat for the pickiest buyers. As you step inside you are greeted by a charming interior atrium featuring a cozy gas fireplace for relaxing and entertaining. This space has a layout that seamlessly connects all of the living areas, ensuring an effortless flow throughout the home. The kitchen is a culinary enthusiast's paradise, boasting modern appliances, including 2 dishwashers and double ovens. Elegant custom cabinetry provides ample storage, while a large walk-in pantry offers practicality for all of your culinary needs. The kitchen has a reverse osmosis system, ensuring pure fresh water at your fingertips. Watch for the oversized laundry room when you view this home! Adjacent to the kitchen is an eat-in kitchen, family room with fireplace and an library/office all with the MOST AMAZING MOUNTAIN VIEWS. The entertainment room has an oversized bar, two large subzero wine coolers and plenty of custom cabinetry. This is the perfect place for hosting gatherings, just open the slider to the atrium and your guest will be able to move freely from indoors to outdoors. The large primary bedroom has a special seating area to take in the beautiful views or if your tired after a long day, you can soak in the oversized tub. Step outside onto the patio to discover your private oasis which backs to serene natural landscaping providing both beauty and privacy. Enjoy the breathtaking sunrises from your cozy outdoor patio off the dining room. The backyard is designed for relaxation and leisure, featuring a negative edge pool and invites you to unwind and soak up the sun. The meticulously maintained grounds help make outdoor entertaining simply enjoyable and the perfect way to take in the tranquility of your surroundings. Off the living and dining area is another outdoor space features its own gas fireplace. Sit outside with a cup of coffee and take in the beautiful sunrise and views of four peaks mountain range, all while have a fire to keep you warm. There are unobstructed views from almost every angle of the home. Needless to say, it is move-in ready, showcasing the absolute pride of ownership evident in every detail. Located in a gated community, this property offers peace of mind and security, allowing you to enjoy your home with confidence. Shadow Canyon is known for its picturesque landscapes and friendly neighborhood atmosphere, making it a sought-after location. Don't miss this opportunity to own this stunning home that perfectly balances luxury and comfort in a desirable neighborhood. The lifestyle at Shadow Canyon awaits you! You will have to see this home to be able to appreciate all that it has to offer. The lot next to the home is 1.5+ acres is owned by the sellers and is available for sale. It is an easily buildable lot and would not impede your views. Pease see documents tab for upgrades.
2211 E Camelback Road Unit 804
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$1,850,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,100
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757836
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Experience unparalleled luxury in this sophisticated Camelback corridor high-rise residence, meticulously designed for the modern urbanite. Situated on the 8th floor, this exquisite home boasts southern and eastern views, showcasing stunning city lights and the majestic Camelback and South Mountains. Nestled in the coveted Camelback/Biltmore corridor, enjoy unparalleled convenience and elegance in a walkable neighborhood. The original owner has spared no expense in enhancing this home with premium upgrades. Features include Brazilian teak floors, travertine stone accents, customized lighting, quartz countertops, and sleek glass tile. The state-of-the-art Gaggenau appliances elevate the culinary experience. This residence offers two luxurious primary suites and a versatile media/bonus room, which includes a closet, should third bedroom needs arise. The second primary suite is thoughtfully designed with bespoke dual office spaces, entertainment area, and illuminated shelving. Three private patios extend your living space outdoors, perfect for alfresco dining, relaxing, or enjoying serene sunsets and stargazing. The building itself epitomizes urban sophistication with a full suite of amenities: 24-hour lobby staff, valet service, comprehensive security systems, a personal club/coffee room, executive board rooms, a pet park, a state-of-the-art gym, and rooftop pool/spa with firelit entertainment areas. An adjacent urban park enhances the lifestyle with opportunities for leisurely strolls, recreation, and sophisticated dining. Embrace a refined lifestyle in this exceptional residence, offering the highest quality construction and elegance at a fraction the cost of today's new products.
11626 E Wethersfield Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$1,850,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,906
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773482
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the resort lifestyle in the private gated prestigious Ancala Country Club. Nestled next to the McDowell Mountains & offers something for everyone. Custom comforts are found in this architecturally designed masterpiece for family as entertaining abounds. Inviting open floor plan offers gracious modern living. 4 bedrooms + den & the upstairs boasts a guest suite with separate bedroom & living, kitchen with refrigerator, micro, cabinetry & sink + balcony. Perfect for a live-in, teenager or guests. Primary suite split offers privacy & serenity. Updated kitchen is the center of the home & entertains beautifully flowing into the fabulous outdoor spaces. Cool north exposure patio, heated pebble pool/spa, built in grill + grassy area for kids/pets plus mountain views. Ancala Club memberships available at many levels, golf, +other sporting & activities. Vibrant HOA offers a dynamic community feel with many clubs & opportunities to socialize with your neighbors. Located in the heart of Scottsdale close to all services, fine restaurants and Top Rated schools. BEST VALUE in Ancala!
7113 N 183rd Avenue
Waddell, AZ 85355
$1,850,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
4,122
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771288
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Move-in ready, luxury 1.86-acre horse property with solar in Romola - updated from floor to ceiling! With too many upgrades to list (check documents tab for details), this stunning property is an entertainer's dream. The home features newer exterior paint, a spacious 3-car garage, and lush landscaping front and back. Step into the large living room with a fresh palette, decorative wood beams, and an Urbana Bay Fireplace, creating the perfect ambiance for hosting guests. The updated gourmet kitchen is designed for the modern chef, with stainless steel appliances, tall cabinets, granite counters, a stylish tile backsplash, pantry, and a large center island with a breakfast bar. This property also offers a cozy family room, breakfast nook, and a den that serves as an ideal home office. The grand main retreat is your personal sanctuary, complete with patio access, a walk-in closet, and a lavish ensuite featuring dual sinks and granite countertops. The resort-style backyard is a true highlight, boasting an Olympic lap pool, built-in bar and BBQ, oversized patio, and lush green areas with irrigation. For horse lovers, there are five horse stalls, and the yard includes a gazebo and putting green. Additional amenities include a fire pit, dry sauna, and the impressive XL Cold Plunge. Don't miss the opportunity to own this luxurious horse property!
27601 N 110th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,850,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,518
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774221
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Introducing the Quisana model, a luxurious home set on the largest premium corner lot with all top-of-the-line finishes. The expansive floor plan spans 3,518 square feet and includes a separate-entry casita along with all ensuite bedrooms. The resort-style backyard is an entertainer's dream, featuring a lounge pool with stunning multiple water features, a built-in BBQ, a covered patio, a fire pit, artificial turf, and a private view deck to take in breathtaking mountain and sunset views. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, outfitted with high-end, furniture-grade alder cabinetry, granite countertops, a Wolf/Subzero stainless steel appliance package, a wine fridge, a spacious island with counter seating. Design touches throughout the home include arched niches, dome ceilings, plank and Versailles pattern travertine floors, cantera stone columns, designer paint, wood-beamed ceilings, and custom wood doors. The opulent master retreat offers a serene sitting area, a walk-in shower with multiple heads and settings, a negative-edge soaking tub with a ceiling-fill spout, designer cabinetry, dual sinks, two refrigerator drawers, and the warmth of two fireplaces. With so many extraordinary features, this home must be seen to be truly appreciated.
2201 E Bethany Home Road
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$1,850,000
5
Beds
5
Baths
3,743
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6763608
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exceptional Cul-de-sac Lot with Mountain Views in Exclusive Bel Aire Estates! Experience a unique opportunity to own a property in one of the area's most desirable enclaves—a private community of premier homes that combines seclusion with easy access to 24th Street, Camelback Road, and the 51 freeway. Nestled on a sprawling 27,000+ square foot lot, this inviting ranch-style home offers 3,743 square feet of living space with endless potential for customization. The light-filled, open floor plan features 4 generously sized bedrooms and 3 bathrooms in the main house. A detached guest house adds versatility, with its own bedroom, one & a half bath, and laundry area—perfect for accommodating guests, multi-generational living, or a private home office.
6502 N 25th Way
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$1,850,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,315
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6763568
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
PRICED BELOW MARKET! Beautifully located in 24hr Guard-Gated Community. Just 15mins. to airport, Downtown PHX. & Scottsdale. Mountain & City Lights Views. On cul-de-sac & backs to mountain preserve w/ hiking trails. Thoroughly refreshed throughout. Engineered Wood, Satin finish Travertine & Bamboo floors. Custom 8ft wood interior doors & gorgeous Zebrawood, Brazilian Walnut railing. Kitchen updated w/ customized cabinets, Bosch Stainless appliances, built-in Ref & wine cooler, & Waterfall counters. Open Loft for office, den or fitness area. Interior painted in 2024 & exterior in 2022. Very private wrapped backyard w/ covered patio & large fountain - great for entertaining & outstanding sunsets. Solar panels. 3 car Epoxy Garage w/ EV charger. See Feature Sheet in documents tab
7511 E Woodsage Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$1,850,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,606
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786108
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience luxury living at 7511 E Woodsage Ln where no expense was spared! Nestled just south of Gainey Ranch in the quiet enclave of Eastwood, this fully remodeled home boasts designer finishes coupled with impeccable functionality. The main house features 3 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with a bonus attached 4th guest bedroom that can double as the perfect work from home office or workout space. Upon walking up, you are immediately greeted by the cozy front pavered patio, custom steel french doors, white oak wood flooring throughout, and soaring vaulted ceilings in the living room. Just past the formal dining, you'll find the chef's kitchen which features SOLLiD cabinetry, Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, GE Monogram built-in appliances, Delta champagne bronze hardware, and a hidden walk-in butler's pantry you won't want to miss! This kitchen flows seamlessly into the open family room with the custom fabricated limestone fireplace front and center. The expansive master suite offers a spa-like bathroom with a freestanding tub, walk-in rain shower, double vanities, and a vast walk-in closet. Step outside to enjoy the private and tranquil landscape with a sparkling pebbletec pool, two covered patios, built-in BBQ kitchen, astroturf, and large format slate tiles. Located near the newly renovated Grand Hyatt and upscale dining, shopping, and golf, this home perfectly blends elegance and convenience. Additional features include: a brand new roof with warranty, newer HVAC, dual pane windows, custom steel gates, ethernet & cable drops throughout, all new landscaping, new red cedar wood garage door, epoxy garage floors, & modernized pool equipment.
2912 E Vaughn Avenue
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$1,850,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,029
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786835
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in the highly sought-after Higley Groves West neighborhood, nestled within the heart of Morrison Ranch and just steps from the serene Riparian Preserve. This stunning property is set on a premium corner lot of nearly half an acre, offering unmatched privacy with no neighbors behind. Boasting over $200K in high-end upgrades, this home combines luxury and functionality. Extra insulation in the attic and triple pane Anderson windows & patio doors enhance energy efficiency, while flooding the space with soothing natural light. The chef-inspired gourmet kitchen features top-of-the-line Wolf appliances, a Sub-Zero refrigerator, a built-in icemaker, and a mini bar with a wine cooler. The beautifully updated bathrooms and plantation shutters throughout add a touch of elegance. The dining room is adorned with custom French doors that open to the front patio, perfect for al fresco dining, while the owner's suite includes sliding doors that lead to the resort-style backyard. Designed for year-round enjoyment and entertaining, the backyard features a built-in Wolf grill, a flat grill, a sparkling saltwater pool and spa, and expansive travertine decking. With nearby walking trails leading to the Gilbert Riparian Preserve and convenient access to shopping, dining, and more, this home offers the perfect blend of tranquility, style, and location.