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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6078 E Southern Avenue
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$584,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,844
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6720211
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exceptional property nestled on an acre lot, perfect for horse lovers! Near the Superstition Mountains, this BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED home offers breathtaking views & a serene environment. Providing 3 beds, 2 baths, & a 2-car garage. Highly upgraded interior showcases fresh neutral paint, tons of natural light, and wood-look flooring w/carpet in bedrooms. If entertaining is on your mind, you'll love the spacious open layout adorned w/a cozy fireplace! The renewed kitchen boasts SS appliances, quartz counters, recessed & pendant lighting, white shaker cabinetry, and an island w/breakfast bar. Main bedroom has a spotless bathroom w/tiled step-in shower. Relax under the covered patio of your expansive backyard! Plenty of room for parking, gardens, and horse/animal facilities! Move-in ready
25139 N 171st Lane
Surprise, AZ 85387
$584,873
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,185
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762097
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6762097 January Completion! This flexible Victory floor plan offers an open-concept living area where the kitchen seamlessly flows into the great room, with a separate dining area nearby. The primary suite, conveniently located on the first floor, features a generous walk-in closet and a beautifully designed bath. Also on the main level are a full bathroom, an additional half bath, and a versatile flex space to suit your needs. Upstairs, you'll discover secondary bedrooms, a full bathroom, ample storage space, and a loft for added living or entertaining space. Structural options added include; Gourmet kitchen, paver front porch and walkway, bedroom 5 with bath 4, and garage service door.
926 N 97th Way
Mesa, AZ 85207
$584,870
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,651
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747081
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
45 - 60 DAY CLOSE! Beautiful Modern Desert Farmhouse home with NO HOA, Fully fenced backyard, & Beautiful modern finishes! This incredible home includes 1,651 SQFT, 3 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, an oversized 2 car garage, open floor plan & kitchen, white quartz counter tops, upgraded stainless steel appliances, farmers sink, modern cabinets, built in soaking tub & double vanities in the primary bathroom, fully fenced backyard, the ability to build a casita or RV garage, & so much more!
14107 S 203rd Lane
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$584,800
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,921
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754403
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled on a serene 1-acre lot in a peaceful cul-de-sac, this remarkable single-story home offers an unparalleled blend of comfort, style, and outdoor living! Be greeted by a circular driveway, solar panels, and an inviting front porch—an ideal spot to enjoy your morning coffee. With a 3-car garage and ample parking space, this property ensures you'll never have to worry about guest parking. Designed for both relaxation and entertainment, the expansive backyard is truly a retreat! It features a full-length covered patio, fire pits, a deck, a built-in basketball hoop, and a refreshing pool with a water feature. This gem has plenty of space for horses, animals, or your toys! Breathtaking mountain vistas! Hurry! Your paradise awaits!
2620 Nelson Lane
Chino Valley, AZ 86323
$584,335
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,076
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776580
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
AVAILABLE NOW I Move-In Ready on a 1 Acre Lot! Welcome to Arizona's High Desert, a luxurious neighborhood offering a unique experience for those seeking spacious living and a love for the outdoors! Situated on 1-acre homesites, our community is designed to provide ample space and privacy while enjoying the cooler desert climate. 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.
9315 E Arrowvale Drive
Sun Lakes, AZ 85248
$584,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,842
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779048
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome home! This 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a 2-car garage, a paver driveway, and a well-maintained front yard. You'll be delighted by the living/dining room with vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, and durable tile flooring. The gourmet kitchen boasts a breakfast nook, granite counters, custom wood cabinetry with crown moulding, recessed lighting, built-in appliances, a pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. You'll also find a versatile den ideal for an office or study. The main bedroom offers plush carpeting, a quaint sitting nook, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Enjoy relaxing outdoor moments in the backyard, showcasing a covered patio and abundant space for hosting memorable gatherings with loved ones. Make it yours today!
1247 E Marketplace Way
Phoenix, AZ 85048
$584,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
1,809
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6704331
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW!! Priced Below Comparable sales! Hard to find Lot!! 3 bedroom 3 full baths. This home has 2 master suites. Huge nearly a quarter acre lot with massive pool and spa. Single family detached home is all on one level on a cul-de-sac with lots of natural light boasting soaring ceilings. ALL NEW STAINLESS APPLIANCES INSTALLED! Recently upgraded Kitchen Cabinets. 2nd HVAC unit for Garage. Located in one of the most coveted areas in Ahwatukee in the heart of the Foothills. The lot sits above the homes behind it giving it that much more privacy and resort feel. Great views of the the Foothills golf course. Excellent Montessori School within Kyrene School District. Hot water heater replaced in 2023 Trane HVAC Pool RePlastered in 2019 New pool Filter and pump 202
4170 Apache Drive
Happy Jack, AZ 86024
$584,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,605
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6722854
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This charming single-family home is the perfect place to call your own. With 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a spacious floor plan, this property offers all the space and comfort you need. Step inside and be greeted by the warm knotty pine doors and baseboard, wood trim around all dual pane windows, giving the home a cozy and rustic feel. The vaulted ceiling adds to the open and airy atmosphere, while the vinyl plank flooring and newer carpet upstairs add a touch of modern elegance. The remodeled kitchen is a true centerpiece, featuring designer copper drawer pulls, granite countertops, and a countersunk sink. Whether you're cooking a gourmet meal or grabbing a quick bite, this kitchen is sure to impress. The master bedroom is a true retreat, complete with a sitting area, oversized reach-in closets, and walk out balcony covered for privacy with your morning coffee. levelor cordless up down blinds throughout as well as honeycomb blinds on the french door. The remodeled bathrooms offer copper sinks, granite counters, and a luxurious jetted tub perfect for relaxing at the end of a long day. Outside, you'll find 3 large covered porches for added outdoor living space, ideal for enjoying the pleasant Arizona weather. The fenced-in dog run is perfect for pet owners, while the raised garden area allows you to exercise your green thumb. Additional features of this property include a tuff shed for extra storage, a 2-car detached garage, and mature trees that provide shade and privacy. The exterior paint is less than 3 years old, giving the home a fresh and inviting look, upgraded porch lights add the perfect finishing touches. Not only is this home beautifully appointed, but it is also surrounded by desirable forest trails for hiking and biking, lakes for fishing and Blue Ridge Reservoir for the kayakers. This home comes furnished and is turn key ready for you to move in. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a piece of Happy Jack. Contact us today to make this dream home yours.
29559 N Tarragona Drive
Peoria, AZ 85383
$584,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,546
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6740829
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning Allure model - High ceilings, Open Floor Plan, Plantation Shutters & Consistent luxury vinyl plank Floors throughout. Gourmet kitchen has storage galore! Cabinets w/pullouts, granite, stainless appliances, RO system, Glazed subway tile & walk in pantry. Tranquil Spacious Master Bedroom W/sitting area overlooks beautiful backyard. Relaxing spa style master bath w/ Moen shower station, dual sinks, upgraded tile & large closet W/built in organizers/drawers! Large laundry room W/D & Container Store organizer system included. 2 Car Garage W/custom cabinets & sink, Professionally landscaped backyard is perfect for entertaining- Pavers, PVC irrigation, Covered Patio. Trilogy is an amazing gated active adult community that features 2 clubhouses, Golf, Fitness centers, Pools & more!
12015 W Parkway Lane
Avondale, AZ 85323
$583,995
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,480
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742829
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this ranch-style Townsend home, ready for quick move-in! Included features: a covered front porch; a relaxing great room with center-meet patio doors; a gourmet kitchen boasting 42'' cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, a generous center island and a walk-in pantry; a charming nook; a luxurious primary suite showcasing additional windows, a spacious walk-in closet and a private bath with double sinks; three secondary bedrooms, including on with an attached bath; a shared hall bath; a beautiful study; a central laundry and an inviting covered patio. This home also offers dramatic 10' ceilings, wood laminate and 9 x 35 stone tile flooring, cultured marble bath countertops, ceiling fan prewiring in select rooms, front yard landscaping and concrete pavers at the driveway and walkway. Tour today!
22693 E Saddle Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$583,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,623
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6740821
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
**This is a TO-BE-BUILT LISTING, this home is ready for personalization and can be built on your choice of homesite. This is an advertisement of our base price for this elevation and lot premiums may apply** Welcome to Ashton Woods newest community in Queen Creek - Madera Marquis - which features outstanding community amenities and convenient access to the 24 freeway and shopping. The open concept Jade plan features 3-car tandem garage, butler's pantry at the kitchen, 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, formal dining room with structural option to add a separate den, 12 ft slider and more! This home includes an open concept kitchen with granite countertops, 42'' upper cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Amazing spa like primary suite with dual vanities and ample linen storage. This floorplan is accompanied by sizable secondary bedrooms and comes standard with 10' ceilings, front yard landscaping, paver driveway, dual sinks at primary bath, and much more! ~There is a minimum option spend requirement on new build homes, please reach out to the sales office for additional details.~
20377 W Terrace Lane
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$583,500
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,725
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753236
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This impeccably maintained 4 bedroom 3 bathroom home is located in the heart of the highly sought after Verrado community. Verrado boasts championship golf course, community facilities such as pool, community center, full gym, tennis, pickle ball courts., countless hiking paths and trails for all levels of hikers, the now famous stairs of Verrado, Main street area with restaurants, grocery store, coffee shop, and more. The interior of this home includes custom 2 tone paint, gourmet kitchen with staggered 42'' upper cabinets with crown molding, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, huge walk-in pantry, abundant storage through-out, 8ft interior doors, 10ft flat ceilings, private courtyard off dining room, huge owners suite w/en-suite bath including dual vanities, walk-in shower... and separate soaking tub, very large walk-in closet, there is a separate bedroom and full bath that is perfect for an in-law or guest suite. Well appointed backyard with fruit trees, grass area, paver walking paths and lounging area.