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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22953 S 207th Place
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$623,986
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,309
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6740939
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6740939 January Completion! The Cambridge at Ellsworth Ranch Landmark is a single-story floor plan offering 2,474 sq. ft. of living space with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a 2-car garage, and an exercise/flex room. A welcoming porch greets you at the front of the house. Upon entering, the foyer leads you down a hallway with secondary bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms on one side and a laundry room on the other. Continuing straight, you'll arrive at the spacious, open kitchen, great room, and dining area—a space sure to capture your heart. Structural options include: garage service door.
5709 S Dante --
Mesa, AZ 85212
$623,986
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,290
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6745163
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6745163 Ready Now! Discover the stunning Hillary Expedition Collection. This single-level home offers 2,290 square feet of well-designed living space, including 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a private study, and a spacious 3-car garage on a corner lot. The heart of the home is its open-concept design, featuring a large gathering room, a chef-inspired island kitchen, and a welcoming dining area. Sliding glass doors seamlessly connect the living space to the extended covered back patio and finished backyard. The two secondary bedrooms share a convenient Jack &Jill bath, while a private study is thoughtfully positioned near the front entry. Home options include: window coverings, whole house appliance package, and finished backyard.
4574 W Gilbert Lane
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$623,645
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,291
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6664214
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This home truly has it all. The SLATE plan is for those who want everything in their new home. The primary bedroom, guest room, and home office are all downstairs. The kids retreat featuring three generous sized bedrooms and a spacious loft are upstairs. This Slate features a desert contemporary exterior with all of the contemporary upgrades on the interior. Features include a gorgeous gourmet kitchen, custom backsplash, satin nickel fixtures and hardware, wood-look tile in all the common areas, and granite countertops.
2300 E Concorda Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$623,500
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,252
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6704841
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This 4 bedroom, 2 bath large open great room floor plan includes many features: Open kitchen with massive island, lots of counter space, many cabinets, Huge diving pool, Extra large master bedroom, 3 walk in closets, updated bathrooms, corner lot, RV parking with slab and gate, large storage shed, covered patios, North/South exposure, amazing location - close to Freeways, ASU, MCC, Mesa & Tempe Schools, Banner Hospital and Fiesta Mall. Lots of great restaurants close by too! Thank you for showing!!!
2740 S Pleasant Place
Chandler, AZ 85286
$623,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,350
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6744938
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fabulous 4 bedroom/3 bath home in the popular Chandler community of Carino Estates. Soaring ceilings & a beautiful wood staircase greet you as you enter. Formal living & dining rooms provide a perfect space for entertaining while the large family room is great for relaxation. Any chef would love the kitchen that boasts a plethora of upgraded cabinets, granite countertops with tile backsplash, pendant & recessed lighting, an island, breakfast bar and even a breakfast nook. The downstairs bedroom & full bath is a great space for guests. Upstairs you find the large master suite featuring a walk-in closet, separate tub & walk-in tiled shower, double sinks, his & hers closets & a sitting room that could double as an office or nursery. 2 additional bedrooms and another full bath can also be found upstairs. The back yard is a true private oasis with its covered patio, lush vegetation, large grassy yard & backing to the greenbelt so there are no neighbors directly behind. The 2-car garage and extended driveway provide plenty of parking and the RV gate leads to another concrete pad where you could park your toys. Located in a great community close to the 202 & 101 freeways and downtown Chandler with all its dining & shopping venues.
5415 W Pontiac Drive
Glendale, AZ 85308
$623,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,439
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6684020
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Excellent LOCATION in Arrowhead Lakes. Million-dollar homes in the neighborhood. Close to shopping. Elegant 4 bedrooms with master suite on the first floor and lake/mountain views from the second floor.
2730 Nelson Lane
Chino Valley, AZ 86323
$622,462
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,076
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776501
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
BRAND NEW I Quick Move-in 1 Acre Lot in Peaceful Heritage Pointe. Nestled in Chino Valley, just outside of Prescott! This charming community offers a haven for families seeking an exceptional living experience. The homes in this community are build on 1-acre homesites, so you and your family can enjoy privacy while taking in the picturesque atmosphere. Heritage Pointe offers 7 distinct floorplans, modern amenities, open-concept layouts with designer finishes. For those enjoying travel, opt for a floorplan that includes an RV Garage! You won't want to miss out; plan a visit with us today.
19016 W Rose Lane
Waddell, AZ 85355
$621,915
6
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,159
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770159
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Amazing 2 story floorplan, Downstairs owners suite plus guest suite. Professionally decorated gourmet kitchen, quartz center island with stainless appliances, Wood plank tile in common areas, Quartz countertops, tiled backsplash, staggered Harbor cabinets, oversized great room and eat in kitchen, oversized laundry room. Massive loft upstairs, Jack & Jill bath. Enjoy the peaceful sunsets on your covered patio and mountain views. Plenty of room for everyone and extra space in the 3 car tandem garage. This home will be completed in December/January
6798 W Andrea Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$621,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,051
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6722958
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Turnkey READY NOW-North/South Exposure. Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'El Dorado' floorplan features 3 full bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes White Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 9' ceilings, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. *Photos of similar spec to show layout, options will vary*
10130 S Bickwell Trail
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$621,848
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,099
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768168
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the exceptional difference in your home-buying experience! Welcome to Laurel at Blossom Rock, where our 2-story Ponderosa design w/ LIVE in SUITE is under construction now. Imagine an open-concept floor plan featuring a warm and welcoming kitchen that flows into a bright, airy great room. This space opens up to your private, extended covered outdoor room - perfect for relaxing or entertaining. With 5 spacious bedrooms, 3 luxurious baths, a great room with a dining area, and a flexible office space, this home has everything! Plus, we're including $81,000 in stunning upgrades to make this home truly special, and we're offering special financing to help NOW.
28250 N 134th Avenue
Peoria, AZ 85383
$621,469
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,318
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6788574
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A soon to be complete single-story Harbor with a Ranch exterior elevation style. This 4-bedroom home plus a flex room offers 3 and a half baths and a 3 car tandem garage. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances and stylish Mocha colored cabinetry and beautiful white quartz countertops. Throughout the home, find upgraded baseboards and wood-like tile. The home and community are at the base of a mountain and are near Vistancia. Home warranty included.
7313 E Fillmore Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
$621,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,841
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762777
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Well maintained single story home with great South Scottsdale location. Close to ASU and Old Town. The appealing interior boasts updated flooring, neutral paint, a welcoming living room, large eat-in kitchen with sliding glass door leading to back patio. Kitchen equipped with updated stainless steel appliances including new D/W, granite counters, ample cabinet space, a peninsula with breakfast bar. French doors of master leads to a spacious yard. Approximately 224 sqft Casita offers exercise room/ office. Large workshop shed only steps from RV Gate. Large side yard to store all your toys. New electrical house panel and cast in 2021. Insulation updated 2021. New Hot water heater 2023. Great Investment opportunity!