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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16002 W Jenan Drive
Surprise, AZ 85379
$589,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,484
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780813
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Easy to Show this Beautiful move in ready home located in Greer Ranch subdivision. This 4 bedroom 2 1/2 bath split floor plan with great room is perfect for entertaining guests. Granite counter-tops and beautiful staggered cabinets with large walk in pantry and separate coffee bar area make this kitchen a cook's dream. Gorgeous Master Bedroom and bath. Large laundry room/ pantry with door to the side yard. Raised flower bed along the entire backyard block wall and large grass area along with extended covered patio make for a gorgeous outdoor haven and play area. RV gate with 10' side yard is ready for your creative touch. 3 car garage includes a deep sink. New Paint Inside and Out, Stainless Appliances 1 year old, Luxury Vinyl Plank Floors throughout , New Upgraded Carpet in Bedroom
21539 S 215th Place
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$589,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,245
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6668740
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW Exterior Paint!!! Welcome to this stunning 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath model home nestled in the heart of Queen Creek. Showcasing the builder's finest work, this 3,245 sqft house offers spacious, luxurious living, combined with refined style. Unique to this home is a versatile finished basement - a rare find in the community, perfect for any lifestyle needs. Watch Video Link!
8744 E Via De La Luna --
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
$589,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
1,675
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6673641
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Rare 3/3 in desirable McCormick Ranch on a quiet dead-end street. Easy access to schools, shopping, Talking Stick Entertainment District, Dbacks spring training, etc. New dual-speed AC unit with 10-year warranty assures you stay cool affordably! Lovely community pool lets you cool down and not deal with the headaches of maintenance. Please email all offers for quickest response. Supra shackle is now up for easy access! Agents show at your leisure - lockbox installed, no need to schedule.
9122 W Circle Drive
Strawberry, AZ 85544
$589,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,027
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6703166
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Feel the peacefulness of Country Living and bring your horses - 2 horse coved corral is included. Nestled on a secluded 0.40 acre lot, this private home boasts a spacious 2027 sq ft of living space. As you step inside, you are welcomed with a generous great room adorned with cathedral ceilings and a warming gas fireplace, offering a cozy ambiance for gathering or quiet evenings in. The allure of outdoor living is evident with covered back deck overlooking a sprawling yard, providing a perfect setting for outdoor dining, sitting around the fire pit or simply soaking up nature's beauty. Upstairs is a sizable primary bedroom which provides a tranquil sanctuary, vehicle an open loft area offers versatility for various lifestyle needs. This is horse property with two stalls. The 2-car garage has a full attic making for ample storage. NEW HVAC SYSTEM heat and A/C
35737 N Loemann Drive
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143
$589,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,219
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6714599
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to 35737 N Loemann Dr., a stunning home nestled in the highly desirable area of San Tan Valley. This gorgeous property boasts 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and an expansive 3,219 sqft of living space on an 8,265 sqft lot that backs onto the serene Empire Park. As you step inside, you are greeted by a spacious open floorplan that perfectly balances luxury and functionality. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a large island/breakfast bar, walk-in pantry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, reverse osmosis system, and a water softener. The main floor houses a large primary suite complete with a spacious ensuite and a walk-in closet, providing a perfect retreat. Upstairs, you'll find a second suite and all bedrooms come with their own walk-in closets, ensuring ample storage space for everyone. A huge loft and a media room add to the home's versatility, making it ideal for both relaxation and entertainment. The great room opens to an expansive backyard with a view fence overlooking Empire Park, a covered patio, and plenty of space for a custom pool, perfect for entertaining family and friends. Additional features include a 3-car tandem garage and an RV gate for extra storage. Pride of ownership is evident throughout this meticulously maintained home. Don't miss the opportunity to make 35737 N Loemann Dr. your new address in San Tan Valley, AZ.
2947 E Rose Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$589,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,185
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6722709
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Views, views, views!! Come see this remodeled Biltmore condo overlooking the magnificent Biltmore golf course. This home features an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, completely remodeled bathrooms, new flooring throughout, a good-sized living room and dining room with fireplace, a Split Master, and incredible views of the golf course and mountain from every window and patio. The AC unit was replaced in 2021. One car garage, lush landscaping, Amazing gated community with multiple pools and tennis courts. Within walking distance to all of the Biltmore amenities, world-class hotels and golf courses, shopping, restaurants, entertainment, theaters, library, access to major freeways, 15 minutes to Sky Harbor, and more.
4624 E Superstition Boulevard
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$589,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,484
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6727460
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Up to 20K in interest rate buy down and closing costs in Seller concessions on a full price offer. This horse property offers luxury and country living with no HOA. Key features include full slab Quartzite countertops, book-matched backsplash, soft-closing white shaker cabinets, GE slate appliance package, slate range hood, gas cooktop, Walt Disney collection lights, antique copper sinks and hardware, vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, open floor plan, all-new flooring, new windows, storage shed, private water, and septic system. Enjoy mesmerizing views of the Superstition Mountains. Some tour this amazing home.
5254 Starlight Drive
Happy Jack, AZ 86024
$589,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,098
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747257
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Escape to your own serene retreat with this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom cabin nestled in the heart of the forest. Situated on almost an acre of lush, wooded land, this home offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Perfect for family or guests, each room offers warmth and comfort with beautiful wooden accents. Enjoy updated amenities while maintaining the cabin's rustic appeal. Open floor plan with large windows that bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a full-time residence, this cabin offers the perfect setting to unwind and connect with nature. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise!
2320 E La Jolla Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282
$589,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,590
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747506
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Recently remodeled home in Tempe conveniently located near AZ-101, AZ-202, and US 60 and just minutes away from Tempe Marketplace, ASU, and Sloan Park. This home is beautiful inside and out and features so many modern touches and attention to detail. The kitchen boasts shiny Carrera quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, shaker cabinets, subway tile backsplash and a large kitchen peninsula perfect for seating multiple people. The decor in both bathrooms blends well with the rest of the home and the guest bathroom also features a Carrera quartz countertop. Additional updates include luxury vinyl plank flooring, new carpet in all bedrooms, fresh paint inside and outside, epoxy in the garage, new custom tall shower door, new tub, and new dual flush toilets. You can also find new light fixtures throughout the home and post lights in the front yard that are dusk to dawn aluminum solar lamps. The backyard has plenty of space to gather around the sparkly blue pool and underneath the large, covered patio. There is also an RV gate and RV parking area located on the west side of the home that is closed off from the rest of the backyard, a perfect spot to park your RV or any other type of vehicle or ATV.
32508 N 133rd Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$589,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,249
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749403
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**WINNER of the Peoria/Vistancia BEST Home on TOUR!!!*** Experience the allure of this beautiful home in Vistancia Village! Offering 4 beds + den, 3 baths, desert landscape, and a 2-car garage w/paver driveway. Home exudes refined style with layered crown molding, neutral paint, tons of natural light, & wood-look tile floors w/carpet in bedrooms. Enjoy the seamless design of an open layout paired with surround sound, making entertaining a bliss! The gourmet kitchen boasts SS appliances, a walk-in pantry, quartz counters, white shaker cabinetry, mosaic tile backsplash, and an island w/breakfast bar. The den provides versatility! Main bedroom has a barn door that opens to the ensuite with dual sinks & a walk-in closet. Outback, you have artificial turf and a travertine-covered patio w/ceiling fan! You'll surely love the mountain views! Just WOW!!
1250 W Sand Dune Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85233
$589,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,036
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755373
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this fully updated, cul-de-sac home surrounded by 3 lakes in the highly coveted Islands community in Gilbert AZ. Located alongside the green belt with views of the lakes, this 4 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home has been completely updated with custom wood shutters, bamboo wood flooring & new HVAC units. Discover the chef's kitchen equipped with double ovens, custom cabinetry, granite countertops & travertine flooring. The great room features custom wood shutters, a cozy fireplace & strikingly vaulted ceilings which lead into the downstairs primary bedroom, which offers a private entrance to the backyard, dual vanities, separate shower/tub & walk in closet. Enjoy entertaining in your North/South exposure backyard, perfect for hosting friends & family. Community center pool & spa. Must see
2901 N Miller Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$589,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,131
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762164
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 3 bedroom 2 bath home on large lot close to schools and all that Old Town Scottsdale has to offer, including Restaurants, Galleries, Museums, Live Entertainment, and Scottsdale Stadium. Spring Training home of the San Francisco Giants and much more. A great location to live and great Air BnB potential RV gates in both front and backyard. Circular Drive in front for easy access, Dual Pane Windows Granite Countertops, Soft Close Cabinet Drawers and Stainless Steel Appliances in kitchen. Beautifully landscaped backyard with lots of space for entertaining. This home is a must see!