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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2204 E Kelly Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$624,990
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,793
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759517
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the gated community of Belrose, this stunning Gilbert home offers the ideal blend of style & comfort. Wood-look tile flooring with plush carpeting in all the right places, recessed lighting, & modern fixtures & design elements throughout. The bright, open kitchen boasts white cabinets, sleek stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, RO System, & a walk-in pantry. The spacious primary bedroom features an ensuite with walk-in shower & dual vanity. Enjoy AZ living in your backyard with a covered patio, pavers, & a dog run. Also included, a convenient doggy door, a 2-car garage with extra storage & water softener/whole house filtration system. Situated in an incredible central location, this home provides easy access to highways, top-rated schools, shopping, dining, & more!
12643 W Roanoke Avenue
Avondale, AZ 85392
$624,970
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,494
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783118
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to Rancho Santa Fe! This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence features a 2-car garage, an RV gate, and a low-maintenance yard. You're greeted by a cozy living room with a soothing palette, plantation shutters, recessed lighting, and tile flooring. The family room has an inviting fireplace and double French doors leading to the backyard. The delightful eat-in kitchen comes with granite counters, crisp white cabinetry with crown moulding, a stone tile backsplash, SS appliances, a handy pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. The bright main bedroom boasts vaulted ceilings, plush carpeting, balcony access, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Venture out onto the balcony, which offers serene views of the surroundings. The enchanting resort-style backyard showcases a covered patio, a lovely gazebo, a built-in BBQ, an outdoor fireplace, a putting green for golf enthusiasts, and a relaxing spa and pool combo. Make this gem yours now!
8532 W Rancho Drive
Glendale, AZ 85305
$624,950
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,871
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6734484
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
GORGEOUS 5BDRM/3BATH HOME IN MINT CONDITION W/UPGRADES GALORE!! SOARING CEILINGS & EXTENSIVE USE OF PLANK FLOORING GREET YOU AS YOU ENTER THIS OPEN & SPACIOUS FLOORPLAN! BEAUTIFUL GOURMET KITCHEN W/42' CABINETRY & QUARTZ CNTRTOPS W/LRG WATERFALL ISLAND/BRKFAST BAR - UPGRADED SS APPL, DBL OVEN, HOODED STOVE & PENDANT LIGHTING - LRG MSTR SUITE W/GLASS WALK-IN TILED SHOWER - FIBER OPTIC INTERNET - PAVERED DRIVE & WALK-WAY, COVERED PATIO + HOME CLOSE TO THE NEW MATTEL ADVENTURE PARK, CARDINALS STADIUM, SHOPPING, RESTAURANTS, ENTERTAINMENT & MORE!! A MUST SEE!!
16213 N 9th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85022
$624,950
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,910
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6745175
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
BLACK FRIDAY BLOW OUT PROMOTION!! Submit the Black Friday Coupon in the documents tab with your offer to receive $7,500 off the listed price!! All written offers must be submitted with the coupon by 11:59 pm on Sunday, December 1st to receive this promotion. NO EXCEPTIONS! BUYER COULD NOT PERFORM-BACK ON MARKET!!! Brand new roof!! Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch-style home at 16213 N 9th Place! Located in a peaceful cul-de-sac, this 1,910 sq. ft. home features an open concept living space with a split floor plan, luxury vinyl plank wood-look floors, a custom kitchen with a large island, coffee bar, and white cabinets that complement sleek silver appliances. The dual shower primary bathroom with elegant double sinks add a touch of luxury. Outside, enjoy the covered patio, oversized backyard, RV parking, and desert landscaping. The community offers a private park, playground, and green belt, and it's just minutes from Lookout Mountain with easy access to the I-17 and 51 freeways. This home has it all!
31006 W 213th Lane
Wittmann, AZ 85361
$624,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,100
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727483
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
60 DAYS & DONE - You don't want to miss this turnkey single-level home offering a 3-car Tandum and a Full RV Garage! Get an up-close look to discover a captivating open floor design filled with bountiful natural light, high ceilings, lovely flooring, soothing palette, recessed lighting, a cozy fireplace, and sliding glass doors to the patio. Prepare gourmet meals in the impeccable kitchen boasting shaker cabinetry with crown molding, beautiful counters, a convenient pantry, and a large island w/a breakfast bar. Owner's suite is a true retreat, providing a private bathroom and a sizable walk-in closet. The secondary bedroom enjoys a walk-in closet too. Sit back & relax under the covered patio while drinking your favorite drink! Contract now and put your personal touch on your new home
9023 S Dean Road
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$624,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,148
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762884
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Stunning, Custom 4BD/2BA plus office/den Home features 2,148 sq ft of Gorgeous, living space situated on a Huge lot! Enjoy the breakfast bar, ample, custom cabinetry w/lots of counter space in this Amazing, chef's kitchen, w/custom stone backsplash & under-mount cabinet lighting. Luxurious LED fixtures enhance the home's ambiance, while the Luxury, Spa-like bathroom features custom tile, a rain shower head, & water jets! Eco-friendly w/paid-off solar panels! & a sediment filtration system! this home is stylish & sustainable. The wood-like, tile flooring throughout and with no HOA, you have freedom & flexibility. Spacious 3-car, side-entry garage & dedicated, fenced-in dog run, complete this perfect modern oasis in the desert! You have to see this one to believe it!
2055 W Edgemont Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85009
$624,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,061
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764540
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exquisitely updated 3 bedroom 2 bathroom private gated backyard and garage access corner lot. beautiful timeless finishes and well maintained property., no maintenance backyard with artificial turn and putting green
936 N Roadrunner Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$624,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,592
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6778347
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this beautifully updated and meticulously maintained home on a spacious 1.25-acre lot, featuring breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains! As you enter, you'll be welcomed by soaring wood-beamed ceilings, creating a grand sense of space. The bright Great Room, complete with a cozy wood-burning fireplace, seamlessly flows into an open-concept kitchen - perfect for gatherings and relaxation. The kitchen is a showstopper with stunning quartz countertops, designer cabinetry, and sleek stainless steel appliances. Unwind on the serene covered patio, designed for ultimate comfort and enjoyment. Additional upgrades include smart shades, a smart thermostat, a CCTV security system, and a separate mini-split heating and cooling unit for the back room. Ideal for RV enthusiasts, the property also features a large covered parking structure. This home is truly a rare find!
12810 S 209th Lane
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$624,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,983
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6778549
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Very well kept 2017 home on 1 ac of ready to bring the horses & toys fenced property with no HOA! Interior updates include large rooms, tile flooring, kitchen bay window, granite counters & island, R/O & water softener, ceiling fans, newer blinds & carpet in bedrooms, surround sound wiring in LR & Patio. Exterior security doors, extended back covered patio & fenced newer play pool with travertine & water feature. Back grass area with timed sprinklers, large 3 car garage with cabinets & parking slabs. Even a horse arena & open-air shade structure with 5 covered horse pens & room for hay, 3 RV gates, trailer parking & 50 amp RV plug. Back area includes large top-rail pipe fencing. Riding trails are less than 1/2 mile away, don't miss this great home!
16814 S 37th Way
Phoenix, AZ 85048
$624,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,458
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6777415
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Come check out this beautiful Spanish style home, with a southwestern flare lies in the desirable LAKEWOOD area of Ahwatukee. Near highly rated schools, as well as dining/shopping and freeway close makes this a winner before you even step inside! Once inside you'll notice so many great features like high and vaulted ceilings, a rare wood burning fireplace, fireplace in spacious primary bedroom, enclosed sun room addition (permitted), tons of storage and so much more. Fun fact...this was one of the original model homes, which is why it has such a large lot! Speaking of lot, the inviting backyard has a sparkling pool, mature trees, turf and the perfect environment for entertaining. Come tour this unique beauty today!
6750 W Via Montoya Drive
Glendale, AZ 85310
$624,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,539
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756139
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with over 2,500 sqft of living space! This inviting property boasts a generous floor plan featuring tile and wood flooring in high-traffic areas. The chef's kitchen is a culinary enthusiast's dream, offering abundant cabinet space, a large island with pendant lighting, high ceilings, stainless steel appliances, and large pantry int laundry room. The primary bedroom provides ample room with an en suite featuring dual sinks, a separate stand-in shower, and a walk-in closet. Vaulted ceilings and a great room add to the home's open, airy feel. Step outside to a covered patio, ample backyard space with cozy seating areas, and an outdoor fireplace perfect for entertaining. Plus, enjoy the convenience of a 3-car garage. Don't miss out on this gem!
2099 S Mountain View Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$624,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,940
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787145
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Views Views Views! This home sits at the base of the Superstition Mountains and has unobstructed views. Amazing home on over an acre. Vaulted ceilings in the main living room. Chefs kitchen with a custom built hood over the range. Master bedroom has mountain views from the windows. Updated bathrooms with new cabinets, flooring and fixtures. Master bedroom has a private exit out to the backyard to the spa. The possibilities are endless with this vast open space, providing room for all your toys, boats, trucks, and RVs. Conveniently located a mile from the freeway! Come see this one of a kind property.