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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21724 E Roundup Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$629,995
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,510
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6708033
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into Light Sky Ranch and experience the allure of the Dominic plan. This single-level residence spans 2510 square feet and presents an inviting layout ideal for entertaining. The focal point of the home is its expansive great room, seamlessly connected to a sunlit kitchen featuring a central island, dual walk-in pantries, and a welcoming breakfast nook that extends to the covered patio. Retreat to the luxurious primary suite boasting a generous walk-in closet and an attached bath with double sinks and an elegant shower. With two additional bedrooms, a teen room, two and a half baths, and a dedicated study, this home offers ample space for privacy and relaxation. Outside, a single-car garage and a 2-car garage provide abundant storage for vehicles and outdoor equipment. Enhanced with amenities such as a tankless water heater for efficiency and a charming paver driveway, this residence effortlessly blends convenience with sophistication.
6782 W Firebird Drive
Glendale, AZ 85308
$629,995
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,125
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783697
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the highly sought-after community of Arrowhead Ranch, this beautiful 4 bedroom 3 bath +Den home stands as a true masterpiece of craftsmanship and design. Every inch of the property has been meticulously maintained, showcasing an elegant balance of style and function. Eye-catching custom woodwork graces the interior, from intricate design to handcrafted cabinetry, adding warmth and sophistication to every room. The spacious open floor plan invites natural light to pour in, enhancing the home's inviting ambiance. Outside, the manicured landscaping and peaceful surroundings offer a serene escape while still being close to all the amenities that the Arrowhead area has to offer. **Please check documents tab for the list of upgrades as well as the Home floor-plan. **
24006 N 171st Drive
Surprise, AZ 85387
$629,995
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,844
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6678786
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome Home! Darius plan provides a sophisticated and accommodating plan for livability that checks all the boxes on your wish list. In addition to a lavish owner's suite—with a roomy walk-in closet and attached double-sink bath—this home includes a second owner's suite with an adjacent living room, perfect for multi-generational living. You'll also enjoy a 3-car garage, a study, a great room with a covered patio featuring a multi slide door to bring the outdoor living indoors. Inviting gourmet kitchen with a generous island, dining nook for all entertaining gatherings! Airy 10 ft ceilings ,desired jack and jill bathrooms and so much more! This is a must see!
21816 E Saddle Court
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$629,995
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,500
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6708893
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The single-story Cassandra plan showcases an open layout with a multi-sliding glass door in the great room, cozy breakfast nook, a large gourmet kitchen and a 2-car garage. The primary suite is adjacent, and boasts a generous walk-in closet and an attached bath with a large walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms flank a full bath, and the nearby study.
21970 E Stirrup Court
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$629,995
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,500
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6709030
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The single-story Cassandra plan showcases an open layout with a multi-sliding glass door in the great room, cozy breakfast nook, a large gourmet kitchen and a 2-car garage. The primary suite is adjacent, and boasts a generous walk-in closet and an attached bath with a large walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms flank a full bath, and the nearby study.
21881 E Saddle Court
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$629,995
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,500
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6731553
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The single-story Cassandra plan showcases an open layout with a great room with a multi-sliding glass door, a breakfast nook, a large gourmet kitchen and a 2-car garage. The primary suite is adjacent, and boasts a generous walk-in closet and an attached bath with a large walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms flank a full bath, and the nearby study.
23997 N 172nd Avenue
Surprise, AZ 85387
$629,995
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,734
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6732038
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Estates at Asante, a beautiful community with surrounding views to enjoy! This community offers single story homes with floor plans you will love, like our beautiful Julia plan! This home sits on an oversized, cul de sac, corner lot with mountain views. Once you walk inside the Julia, the extended entry leads to an expansive gourmet kitchen with an extended Quartz center island and 42'' cabinets; a large Butlers Pantry with a wetbar, breakfast nook and great room with a 15ft center meet slider, for indoor and outdoor entertaining. In addition, there is a formal dining room with adjacent covered courtyard off to the side of the home accessible by the center meet doors! This home is set up with 3 bedrooms, 2 and half bathrooms, 3 car garage with additional storage. Welcome to the home of your dreams!
25388 N 76th Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$629,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,150
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6704857
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand new community in North Peoria! This stunning single story home offers 2,150 sq ft of functional living space. It features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, den, and a 3 car tandem garage. The open concept kitchen is perfect for entertaining and features a large Island, walk-in pantry and stainless steel appliances. It also offers our Coastal Design Palette which includes Fairview White Painted 42'' Cabinets, Crisp Stria Quartz kitchen countertops, Zelige Cielo 4x4 kitchen backsplash, and 6x36 wood looking plank tile in all the common areas. The great room offers a 4 panel center sliding glass door so you can step out into your covered patio to enjoy indoor/outdoor living in your backyard with friends and family. Great location close to dining, freeways, parks, and entertainment!
22884 E Lords Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$629,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,111
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6726730
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into this delightful quick move-in home, featuring our Daisy floorplan with 3111 sqft, boasting 4 bedrooms, a den, a loft, and 3.5 bathrooms. The Daisy floorplan offers a spacious kitchen with a large island, pantry, and expansive dining and great room areas, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying quality family time. Embrace the elegance of our fine finishes, featuring 6 x 24 plank tile floors in the main living areas, plush carpeting in the bedrooms, stylish 42'''' gray shaker upper cabinets with sleek Black Bronze hardware, and stunning quartz kitchen countertops paired with a white 4 x 16 tile backsplash. The kitchen comes fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, including a gas range, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, and white washer and dryer. Additionally, the kitchen is pre-wired for pendant lighting, allowing for easy customization, and features a painted grade mission railing and soft water loop. This home is truly a gem, with 8' doors throughout, a 4-panel slider in the great room, and a mission stair railing adding to its allure. It's just waiting for your personal touch to make it complete. Don't let this opportunity pass you by! Begin your journey to owning your dream home at Madera!
11506 E Utah Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$629,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,615
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6728747
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the Garnet at Destination at Gateway in Mesa, Arizona. This stunning single-story home boasts 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and a den. With 10-foot ceilings and 8-foot doors, the space feels open and inviting. The gourmet kitchen features GE stainless steel appliances, a 36-inch gas cooktop, built-in wall oven and microwave, shaker cabinets with hardware, quartz countertops, and a tile backsplash. Enjoy 6x36'' wood-look tile in the main areas and upgraded carpet elsewhere. A 4-panel sliding glass door connects the great room to a covered patio. The primary bathroom includes a separate shower, soaking tub, dual sinks, and vanity. Bathrooms have upgraded vanity lighting with matte black faucets and fixtures.
23043 E Lords Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$629,990
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,568
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757137
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand new phase!. Our beautiful Juniper plan is conveniently located to all that Queen Creek has to offer. Minutes from the brand new Costco, Schnepf Farms, Queen Creek Market Place and the Queen Creek Olive Mill. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.
2434 W Rowel Road
Phoenix, AZ 85085
$629,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,964
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755330
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your NEW HOME at Aster in Union Park! This home offers 1,964 sq ft of living space with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. The primary bedroom has dual walk-in closets and a private deck. The Design features are the Elevated A package of upgrades including 42'' flagstone cabinets, quartz countertop, custom backsplash, large island, stainless steel gas range and tile flooring. HOA includes Union Park Amenities, front yard landscaping & maintenance along with concierge trash pickup. Union Park residents will enjoy the abundance of amenities that include, resort styled pool and lounge areas, a 5800 sq ft clubhouse, pickleball courts, basketball courts, 11 parks, playgrounds and walking paths. Easy access to 3 freeways within 10 minutes and 25 minutes to Airport.