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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6061 S Oxley --
Mesa, AZ 85212
$639,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,071
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6719560
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
''Have you ever walked through a model home and wished you could buy it exactly as is? Well, here is your chance, our stunning Aster MODEL HOME is now available for your purchase! Imagine yourself living in a beautiful, sun-kissed retreat, where every detail has been carefully crafted to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our stunning model home is a true masterpiece, boasting 2071 square feet of luxurious living space. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by the warmth of rich tile flooring, perfectly complemented by the plush carpet in the bedrooms and den. The elegant 42'''' white shaker cabinets with matte black hardware add a touch of sophistication, while the expansive windows allow natural light to pour in and illuminate the space. With its sleek panel center slide and breathtaking views, this outdoor oasis is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. This home is also situated on a perfect lot location facing the greenbelt to soak in all the stunning Arizona sunsets! d. This incredible home includes all the upgrades you've been dreaming of, including a washer, dryer, and a refrigerator! It's truly move-in ready! Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise.
5196 E Desert Forest Trail
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$639,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,368
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6706259
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Energy Star Certified, 4 bedrooms, + Loft, 3 bath home on an incredible cul-de-sac homesite with Mountain Views, and open green space! THIS 2019 BUILT HOME feels new with a modern great room plan, large bedrooms, walk in closets, and 5-year-old mechanicals- today's tech. Recent updates include a custom master shower, new tile surrounds in two bathrooms, Quartz Bathroom counter tops, fixtures, and 2022 carpet on the second floor. The high-end finishes include 42'' Glazed cabinets, Granite countertops, and Subway Backsplash. 1st Floor has Wood Plank tile flooring. No need to renovate, this is move in ready! Enjoy the convenience of a bedroom, and shower on the first floor. The large 15x8 foot glass slider allows plenty of light. HOA includes front land scaping maint. Street parking OK
17139 W Hackamore Drive
Surprise, AZ 85387
$639,945
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,660
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771863
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6771863 January Completion! Experience the perfect blend of multigenerational living in this thoughtfully designed home. Step through the inviting porch and into the foyer, where you'll find a separate wing featuring three bedrooms, a private multi-gen living area, two bathrooms, and a one-car garage with its own dedicated entry. As you move further inside, a formal dining room sits across from a powder room and a laundry area, along with access to the two-car garage. At the heart of the home, the open-concept design showcases a spacious great room seamlessly connected to a kitchen with an island, casual dining space, and covered outdoor living. The primary suite is tucked away for privacy complete with a spa-inspired bathroom and a generous walk-in closet. Structural options include: paver front porch, garage service door, interior door at multi gen living suite, tile super shower at primary bath, and gourmet kitchen.
7387 W Cactus Wren Way
Florence, AZ 85132
$639,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,530
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6788280
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MAKE A SPLASH! Enjoy the tour of this stunning, nearly new 3 bedroom ''Journey'' model in the highly sought after community of Sun City Anthem at Merrill Ranch. Your new home offers an abundance of upgrades that include a chefs kitchen with beautiful upgraded granite counters, stainless appliances, roll-out trays, pendant lighting, butlers pantry, large island, gorgeous tile and hardwood flooring and soaring 10' ceilings. Additional upgrades include ceiling fans, tankless water heater, laundry cabinets w/utility sink, 4ft garage extension and golf cart garage. The outdoor living space offers private entertaining with a gorgeous swimming pool and sheer descent water feature, extended paver patio and walkways, power sun shade and privacy walls with common area to the West. A MUST SEE HOME!! Take advantage of the Anthem Grille, The Poston Butte Golf Club, a learning center and all the festivities, activities and amenities a Sun City community has to offer. Remember you are buying a lifestyle that goes beyond the homes property lines.
1202 W Random Way
Payson, AZ 85541
$639,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,900
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6788589
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
There is room for your toys and RV on this .96 acre, flat, all use able, partly fenced lot near Green Valley Park. There is a 2-car attached garage and 2 car detached garage, plus a storage shed with finished interior. The spacious, split floor plan, 3 BR,2BA, all one level home has a wood burning fireplace in the living room, a full-size kitchen offers lots of storage. The master bedroom has separate access to the large screened porch. Master bath has a jetted tub, walk-in shower and large walk-in closet. There is a large patio and many large trees to enjoy the outdoor living. Year around activities at Green Valley Park including fishing on the lakes, playgrounds, concerts in the park in the summer and Fireworks on the 4th of July.
20815 W Canyon Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$639,900
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,125
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743163
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Discover one of the most pristine golf course villas in the Vallarta neighborhood of Verrado, perfectly situated at the base of the White Tank Mountains along the 5th fairway of the Verrado Golf Club Founders Course. This stunning residence offers breathtaking panoramic views of the golf course and mountains. Nestled within a picturesque gated community, this villa provides access to exclusive amenities, including a pool, spa, and BBQ area, in addition to the full range of facilities available to all Verrado residents. Impeccably designed with exceptional attention to detail, this home is upgraded with features that cater to the most discerning buyers. The backyard retreat is truly extraordinary with an extended covered patio, travertine decking, private pool and fire pit— a perfect setting for entertaining friends and family year-round. Don't miss the chance to experience this extraordinary property. Schedule your private tour today!
3432 E Strawberry Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$639,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,080
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759348
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning, highly upgraded, ready-to-move-in single-level home offers 4 bedrooms, including a guest suite, and 3 bathrooms, in the highly desirable Bridges Gilbert community. Situated on a premium greenbelt corner lot, this home features an inviting built-in fireplace and an Arizona room for extra comfort and over $75K in upgrades. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, a gas stove, and tile flooring, with carpet only in the bedrooms. The private, low-maintenance backyard with no rear neighbors is perfect for relaxation or entertaining. Ideally located near shopping, freeway access, and A+ rated schools, The Bridges at Gilbert provides bike paths, playgrounds, a splash pad, lakes, and more, all within walking distance of Gilbert Regional Park!
15677 W Campbell Avenue
Goodyear, AZ 85395
$639,900
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,134
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777332
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fully renovated gorgeous home. This stunning 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home combines style, comfort, and modern amenities. Renovation includes but is not limited to new AC, new appliances, new carpet, tile, LVP, new paint interior/exterior, primary bath remodel, epoxy garage floors etc. Step inside to an open-concept layout, where a bright living room flows into a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and a central island, perfect for entertaining. The spacious master suite includes a walk-in closet and an en-suite bath with a soaking tub and separate shower. Outside, enjoy a landscaped backyard and covered patio, ideal for relaxation. Located near top-rated schools, parks, shopping, and dining, this home offers both convenience and luxury.
1207 N Velero Street
Chandler, AZ 85225
$639,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,316
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782367
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Check out this stunning 4 bed 3 bath home in highly desirable Chandler! Brand new flooring throughout the house, new hardware, paint and more. Large living ares and an expansive backyard with a pool make this home great for entertaining. Take advantage of the opportunity to own one of the biggest homes in the subdivision at a great value.
4636 E Tierra Buena Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$639,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,020
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783271
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home packed with features to make it the dream home you've been searching for! Spanning 2,020sf., every inch of this thoughtfully designed space offers a blend of comfort, convenience and style. Step into the bright, open kitchen, which overlooks a spacious great room - ideal for entertaining! The kitchen features a large gourmet island, quartz counters, sleek stainless steel appliances, white cabinetry and a timeless subway tile backsplash. Throughout the downstairs and bathrooms, enjoy modern tile and light wood LPV in all the bedrooms and loft which blend seamlessly to enhance the modern aesthetic - NO CARPET! Freshly painted walls (all downstairs and loft area) and stylish Fanimation 52-inch fans on both levels further elevate... the home's polished, move-in-ready appeal. Entertainment options continue upstairs in the loft area that has been transformed into a custom-designed movie room, featuring a 120-inch screen, BenQ projector, Dolby Atmos in-wall and ceiling speakers, and a Marantz audio cabinet with high-end amplifier equipment. Sink into the cozy Lovesac lounger (Included!) and enjoy family movie nights or entertain friends in style. Stay comfortable year-round with smart climate controls, including a Nest thermostat and an 18,000 BTU Mr. Cool mini-split AC in the primary bedroom - perfect for those that love to sleep cool! The two-car garage is also an organizational dream with epoxy-coated floors, ceiling storage, and a 220V outlet for electric vehicles or workshop equipment. The backyard is designed for easy living, with pavers and synthetic turf that keep maintenance low and create the perfect setting for BBQs and relaxation! The community also features a sparkling pool, walking paths, and more, adding to the lifestyle appeal. Ideally located near premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destinations such as Desert Ridge, Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and the newly renovated PV Mall, this home offers an unmatched combination of luxury, convenience, and community. Don't miss your chance to make this stunning property your forever home!
11000 N 77th Place Unit 2085
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$639,900
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,571
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6788768
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Luxury living at the Starfire Golf Club community, Sovanna Condominiums offers a clubhouse with attached gym, a resort style heated pool and spa. Sovanna Condominiums is a gated community in the heart of Scottsdale, the central location is close to many amenities, enjoy the convenience of nearby shopping, restaurants, sports bars, hiking, biking, near by casino and of course playing golf at Starfire's 27-hole golf course. The large 1571 square foot condo is a end unit with no one above you, it offers two bedrooms plus den/office (den can easily be converted into a 3rd bedroom), large kitchen with built in appliances, granite countertops,two large private patios, gas fireplace and attached is a two-car garage. The Perfect 'Lock and Leave' Lifestyle.
1408 Vista Montana Road Unit 10
Sedona, AZ 86336
$639,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6732197
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Location Location Location! Vista Montana is one of the most desirable subdivisions to live in due to accessibility to amenities yet is quiet & peaceful at the same time. This beautiful two-story home has an airy, open feel, with high ceilings & three outdoor spaces: back patio, front patio, & upstairs primary balcony. Home has ample parking with an oversized single car garage, an uncovered spot, plus right in front of garage. Popping into Whole Foods, ACE Hardware, Sky Rock for a cocktail to take in the lovely views, Airport Mesa for hiking, or up to Posse Grounds Park for mountain biking, hiking trails, the Dog Park, & events at the outdoor amphitheater has never been easier or faster. This well-maintained subdivision has a community pool and clubhouse in addition to friendly neighbors. There are amazing sunsets from the living room window, upstairs primary balcony and upstairs guest/office window that look to the west.