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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116 N 3rd Street
Tombstone, AZ 85638
$559,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
1,404
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6746565
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
INVESTORS WELCOME!! THIS HOME HAS 3 - 1 BEDROOM UNITS FULLY FURNISHED FOR SHORT OR LONG TERM RENTAL OR PERSONAL LIVING PURPOSES. VERY COMFORTABLE RANCH STYLE HOME IN ''THE TOWN TOO TOUGH TO DIE''! QUIET STREET, WALK 3 BLOCKS TO ALL THE FUN IN ALLEN STREET! COVERED RV PARKING IS AN ADDITIONAL BONUS OR INCOME PRODUCING BENEFIT! OFF STREET PARKING AVAILABLE FOR GUESTS. WATCH THE BIRDS & ANIMAL PARADE JUST A STONE'S THROW FROM THE GORGEOUS GAZEBO WITH ''FIRE PIT/GRILL'' IN THE BACK YARD. LOWER LIVING SPACE COMES WITH ACCESS TO A MINE AND POSSIBLE GHOST.
43154 N Outer Banks Drive
Anthem, AZ 85086
$559,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,153
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753584
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this stunning Tuscan-style home, featuring 3 bedrooms plus a den and breathtaking mountain views. Designed with elegance and comfort in mind, this residence offers a formal living room and dining room, perfect for entertaining, while the spacious great-room provides a welcoming space for everyday family living. The home showcases luxurious travertine flooring throughout, complemented by granite countertops and a travertine and marble backsplash in the kitchen, creating a seamless blend of style and sophistication. You'll love the location of this home as it is close to dining, shopping and entertainment not to mention the community pools, parks and clubhouse that are waiting just for you.
3834 E Cavalry Court
Gilbert, AZ 85297
$559,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,160
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769305
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
UPDATED TO FIVE BEDROOMS AND THREE BATHROOMS, GREAT POWER RANCH COMMUNITY, HOME SITS ON A PRIVATE CUL DE SAC, FIRST FLOOR HAS A BEDROOM, FULL BATHROOM, FAMILY ROOM AND SPACIOUS KITCHEN WITH ALL APPLIANCES AND CENTER ISLAND, MASTER SUITE HAS A PRIVATE BATH WITH SEPARATE TUB/SHOWER, DUAL SINKS, AND A WALKIN CLOSET, BACKYARD HAS COVERED PATIO AND A LARGE GRASSY AREA, GARAGE AND LAUNDRY ROOM HAVE CABINETS, COMMUNITY POOLS, CLUBHOUSE, POND AMD MANY PARKS AND WALKING PATHS, TWO NEW A/Cs IN 2021 AND A NEWER WATER HEATER, NICELY LANDSCAPED FRONT YARD AND PRIVACY IN BACKYARD,
15147 W Double Tree Way
Surprise, AZ 85374
$559,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
2,240
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780561
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Luxurious expanded Coronado with Magnificent Kitchen and Dining Room. 3 CAR GARAGE!! Lavish Upgraded Baths. Large Front Courtyard. Lots of Privacy at SE Back with Spacious Covered Patio and Decorative Knee Walls. Kitchen with Custom Cabinets, Granite, SS Appliances, Gas Range, Island, Pantry, Bar, Skylight. 20'' tile on the diagonal flow T/O most of the home. Wonderful Primary Suite with wood floors, sitting area with a bay window. Luxurious bathrooms feature custom vanities & updated showers. Bedrooms, kitchen, office have window shutters. Beautiful Expensive Custom Draperies and Cornice Boards in Living, Dining Areas. Create a New Chapter in Your Life in this Great Home on a Great Lot in a Great Location!
11967 W Vernon Avenue
Avondale, AZ 85392
$559,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,979
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781455
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS 5 bedroom, 2.75 bath with a separate den/office nestled in a quiet neighborhood conveniently located close to I-10, shopping, and the 101! A soaring ceiling, open floor plan, and an inviting color palette greet you as you step inside to the combination dining/living room. The spacious kitchen is perfect for entertaining and features granite countertops, an island, new stainless-steel appliances, farmhouse sink, and plenty of counter space. The space opens to a family room for easy conversation and gatherings. You will also find a bedroom, a full bathroom, and a separate den/office on the main level. The kid friendly, low maintenance backyard is a sanctuary for bird lovers. With its view of the Estrella Mountains, this yard provides a great venue for those gatherings. The home borders an open green space allowing for peaceful evenings on the back patio. With its sparkling pebble tech pool, turf, landscape, storage shed, pergola and concrete side yards, this beauty won't last long! Updates/new in 2023 - paint interior and exterior, carpet, plantation shutters, French doors leading to outside patio, additional insulation in attic, mini split heat pump in garage, garage door opener, ducts cleaned, and pool pump!!
2575 N Tamarisk Street
Chandler, AZ 85224
$559,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,922
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783649
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to 2575 N Tamarisk—a charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single level home designed for both comfort and convenience! This home has been lovingly owned by one family! This property features two spacious living rooms; one with a wood-burning fireplace, perfect for entertaining or relaxing with family. The kitchen features granite countertops, a convenient breakfast bar, and plenty of cabinet space for all your storage needs. The primary bedroom is a true retreat with direct access to the backyard, offering a seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Step outside to find a sparkling pool, covered patio, and a low-maintenance backyard, perfect for enjoying Arizona's sunny weather year-round. Don't miss this opportunity for a home that combines style, space, and outdoor living! Located with easy access to the 101 and US-60 freeways, Mesa Community College, shopping centers, and beautiful parks.
1620 W Carol Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85202
$559,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,051
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785676
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A must see home in the heart of Mesa. Step inside this beautifully remodeled home with all new flooring, brand new kitchen cabinets/countertop +appliances, and entertainment area (complete with a stunning fireplace). Bedrooms and bathrooms are fully redone with new vanities, and a gorgeous walk in shower+free standing tub in the primary bathroom. Two of the bedrooms boast en suite bathrooms! New turf in the front and back gives this home a beautiful finish!
22420 N 20th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85024
$559,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,557
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6778503
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning, remodeled 3-bedroom + loft, 2.5-bathroom home in the highly sought-after area of North Phoenix, within walking distance to award-winning PV schools! This move-in-ready home showcases pride of ownership with recent upgrades and thoughtful design throughout. The chef's kitchen features white cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and an undermount sink, perfect for cooking and entertaining. Inside, enjoy a spacious floor plan with vaulted ceilings, new waterproof vinyl flooring, fresh interior paint, and upgraded baseboards. The loft has been enhanced with custom built-ins, providing a versatile space for an office, playroom, or relaxation area. Other recent updates include new ceiling fans, blinds, and an updated primary shower for a modern touch. Storage is plentiful with added space in the garage. The resort-style backyard is perfect for entertaining, featuring a sparkling pool, pavered areas, synthetic grass, and an irrigation system, offering low maintenance and year-round enjoyment. With easy access to freeways, shopping, and local amenities, this home combines comfort, convenience, and style in an unbeatable location. Don't miss out on this incredible North Phoenix gem!
10260 E White Feather Lane Unit 2039
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$559,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,381
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6786921
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Resort Style Living! Stunning, Pristine & Move in Ready! Highly upgraded condo featuring Bosch appliances, quartz countertops, white shaker cabinets & plank tile wood flooring! Beautiful floor to ceiling custom stack stone fireplace w/ distressed wood mantle! Designer shower surrounds! Custom Shiplap wall in dining area! Gourmet Kitchen w/ gas cooking and new tile herringbone backsplash & under cabinet lighting! Like new & lightly lived in! Enjoy covered Patio w/ Mountain, City & Natural Desert Views. Prestigious Ridge at Troon North Community features a Heated Pool & SPA & Fitness Center! Minutes to more world class golf, shopping & entertainment! Conveniently located close to hiking & biking trails. Walking distance to Troon North Golf Club. Welcome Home!
20629 N Danielle Avenue
Maricopa, AZ 85138
$559,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,595
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787610
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome home! This beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath residence in Homestead North is the one for you! Charming curb appeal, a no-fuss front yard, a 2 car garage w/built-in cabinets, and an electric RV gate are just the beginning. Discover a spacious great room w/high ceilings, elegant wood-look flooring, and warm palette throughout. Hone your cooking skills in this gorgeous kitchen, comprised of wood cabinetry w/crown molding, a pantry, granite counters, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and an island complete w/a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom boasts a walk-in closet and a private ensuite w/dual sinks & designer touches. Double doors open up to a cozy den, ideal for an office! New 16 seer heat pump perfectly sized for your energy efficient warmth and cooling. Upgrades galore!! Lastly, the resort-like backyard includes a covered patio, extended seating area, a lovely gazebo w/a built-in BBQ, artificial turf, and a separate guest house w/an additional garage space! Fully paved RV parking with electric gate. What are you waiting for? Act NOW!
13326 W Montansoro Lane
Peoria, AZ 85383
$559,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,760
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6753497
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
SPECTACULAR N/S home on a PREMIUM lot with a NATURAL DESERT/MOUNTAIN SETTING - walking distance to the MITA CLUB! This GORGEOUS like new - open concept - 2022 built Vibrant shows like a MODEL & furniture can be purchased on a separate Bill of Sale making it the perfect winter retreat or full-time home! PAVER driveway/walkway & STONE ACCENTS greet you as you enter this PRISTINE home! STUNNING tile flooring in all the right areas & upgraded carpet in the bedrooms. The BEAUTIFUL kitchen features a large breakfast island, pendant lighting, roll-outs/trash-recycle & soft close drawers, LED under cabinet lighting, GRANITE slab, large pantry, gas stove, SS appliances & dining area. Great room w/2 large windows overlook the natural desert. Den/office has a BUILT-IN cabinet for additional storage. Both baths have CUSTOM tile showers w/decorative listelles - framed mirrors in the spacious owner's suite w/dual sinks & large walk-in closet. Enjoy your FENCED backyard DESERT OASIS - EXTENDED COVERED paver patio, synthetic grass, lighting & natural stone fountain. What an AMAZING opportunity to make this your HOME!! Upgrades: split-tilt plantation shutters, drapery panels, two tone paint t/o, laundry sink w/upper & lower cabinets w/stone c-tops, larger baseboards t/o, lighting, ceiling fans, deeper garage for toys/storage, water softener, reverse osmosis & trash enclosure on side of home.