Last week’s economic reports included S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Indexes, along with readings on new and pending home sales. Recurring weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released.
Case-Shiller: Pacific Northwest Shows Fastest Home Price Growth
According to the Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index for August, home prices in Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington grew fastest year-over-year. Portland posted an August index reading of 11.70 percent and Portland followed closely with a reading of 11.40 percent. Denver, Colorado rounded out the top three cities with the fastest rates of home price growth with a year-over-year reading of 8.80 percent. The 20-City Home Price Index rose 0.30 percent year-over-year to 5.30 percent in August.
Low inventory of available homes poses challenges for housing markets, but Case-Shiller reported that the national home price index was 0.60 percent lower than its peak reading in 2006. The 20-City Home Price Index was 7.10 percent lower than the 2006 peak. This provides a positive context for healthy home price growth, but concerns linger about a repeat of the housing bubble that burst and caused home prices to crash.
David M. Blitzer, Chairman of the S&P Index Committee said that a new housing bubble is unlikely. Home buyers are not taking out huge mortgages as was common prior to the Great Recession; mortgage lenders have adopted stricter qualification standards to help ensure that borrowers can afford their mortgages.
New Home Sales Rise in September
Sales of new homes rose to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 593,000 sales in September according to the Commerce Department. Although lower than analysts’ expected reading of 600,000 sales, September’s reading surpassed August’s reading of 575,000 sales. August’s reading was downwardly revised from its original reading of 609,000, which suggests that new home prices are growing at a slower rate than expected.
High demand for homes boosted September’s reading for pending home sales, which represents homes under contract for sale that have not closed. Pending home sales increased in September with a reading of 1.50 percent growth as compared to August’s negative rate of -2.50 percent. Pending home sales provide indications of future completed sales and mortgage loan volume.
Mortgage Rates Rise, New Jobless Claims Fall
Mortgage rates were lower last week according to Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell five basis points to 3.47 percent; rates for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage averaged 2.78 percent, which was one basis point lower than the prior week’s reading. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was also one basis point lower at 2.84 percent. Average discount points were 0.60, 0.50 and 0.40 percent respectively.
In spite of growth in home prices and volume of sales, consumer confidence slowed in October. October’s index reading of 98.60 as compared to an expected reading of 101.00 and September’s reading of 103.50. Analysts said that uncertainty over the upcoming presidential election contributed to October’s lower reading.
What’s Ahead
Next week’s scheduled economic reports include readings on inflation, construction spending core inflation, and labor reports. Non-farm payrolls, ADP employment, national unemployment rates will also be released. Freddie Mac’s mortgage rates report and new jobless claims will also be released.
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33317 N 71st Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,150,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,303
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6734451
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Enjoy the Terravita Lifestyle in this gorgeous three Bedroom Caelum Model. The Great Room shows a Stone Fireplace and Wood Plank Tile Flooring. Master Bath and Junior Bath are remodeled as well as the Kitchen with high Quality Cabinets, Granite Countertops and built-in Wine Bar. The spacious Office has Alderwood built-in Bookcase and Desk. Watch the Sun and the Moor rise in your Resort Like Back Yard with View of Winfield Mountain, heated Pool, Putting Green, built-in Barbeque and Fireplace.
9285 W Juniper Road
Pine, AZ 85544
$1,150,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,826
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750019
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this enchanting French Country farmhouse on 2.23 fenced acres suitable for horses and featuring two separate living quarters. All of this is nestled amidst a beautifully landscaped country garden with mature shade and fruit trees. The main living quarters offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a spacious open loft with a half bath, a gorgeous kitchen with travertine flooring and granite countertops, a large wood-burning fireplace and access to a serene back patio. The second living quarters includes 1 bedroom, a ¾ bath, an updated kitchen with granite countertops, a cozy gas fireplace and a charming covered balcony overlooking a panoramic view of Strawberry Mountain. The property also boasts a large, attached garage with custom wood doors and a detached 24X48 ft combination PEACEFUL ESTATE COMBINES LUXURY LIVING WITH OUTDOOR CHARM
201 N Fawn Drive
Payson, AZ 85541
$1,150,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,310
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756145
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Here is your chance to own elegance with character. Pride of ownership exudes in this tutor style three bedroom two bath home on just over an acre. Nestled In the quiet neighborhood of Manzanita Hills, commune with nature and enjoy the views on the back deck, the adjacent acre next-door is also available to purchase for your added privacy. As soon as you walk in the front door, you are greeted by a magnificent great room and stone fireplace. With a rustic atmosphere and Tuscan like kitchen there is room for all. Porcelain flooring and new interior paint has been completely redone as of December 2021, newer roof installed three years ago, solar panels have not been reinstalled. Owners will credit toward reinstallation and remaining lease amount of solar panel.
15025 N Forever View Lane
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,150,000
2
Beds
3
Baths
2,049
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755658
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
SELLER WILL PAY BUYERS $40K MEMBERSHIP FEE WITH A FULL PRICE OFFER! Rare opportunity to own this stunning 2-bedroom plus den cottage with a large 3-car garage, located near the cart path in Talking Rock. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac, this beautifully appointed home offers a spacious outdoor patio with a fire pit, built-in BBQ, and a peek of Granite Mountain. Surrounded by mature, professional landscaping, the open floor plan features vaulted beamed ceilings, hardwood floors, a slider in the dining room and master, and plantation shutters. The charming kitchen boasts granite counters, stainless steel KitchenAid appliances, and a 6-burner gas stove. Move-in ready! Talking Rock is a gated private community for members only. Amenities include: award winning Jay Morrish designed Golf Course, fitness center, bocce, pickle ball courts, tennis court, pool and dog park
7121 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 3011
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$1,150,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,628
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775711
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Discover the pinnacle of luxury with this exquisitely remodeled condo, perfectly situated in the heart of Scottsdale. Thoughtfully redesigned with the discerning buyer in mind, this spacious sanctuary showcases brand-new premium Karndean Select Warm Ash flooring, refined lighting fixtures, and breathtaking quartz kitchen countertop and honed marble bathroom countertops that exude sophistication at every turn. Every detail reflects modern elegance, seamlessly paired with timeless charm for an atmosphere of pure opulence. Located within an exclusive, resort-inspired community, residents enjoy access to world-class amenities that elevate daily living to an art form. This rare gem presents an unparalleled opportunity to experience elevated comfort, style, and exclusivity. Don't let this masterpiece pass you by.
947 Morins Ranch Road
Show Low, AZ 85901
$1,150,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,964
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762236
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Lush green grass and the beautiful park like landscaping welcome you to the perfect family home. No HOA on 3.08 acres in Show Low is quite the find. This spacious home is the perfect spot for family gatherings and holidays. The chef's kitchen has an indoor vented grill, large island, double ovens and an oversized pantry. A pellet stove keeps this wing of the house cozy in the winter and conserves energy as well. Large double pane windows throughout the house let in plenty of light. The family/great room boasts tongue and groove aspen ceiling and accent wall as well as a wood burning fireplace. French doors open to the fully fenced yard where the natural vegetation and landscape has been preserved. The oversized bedrooms all have plenty of closet space and shelving Newly constructed 2400sf Mueller shop, 16 foot ceilings, 2 - 60x15 covered car ports on either side of the shop. Shop is equipped with water, electric and air lines for air compressors.
3205 W Silver Sage Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85083
$1,150,000
7
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,126
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766510
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream property, perfectly blending function and elegance! Situated on a spacious double lot, this extraordinary home offers added privacy with no rear neighbors, making it an ideal retreat for families and entertainers alike. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a light and bright, thoughtfully designed layout. To your right, you'll find a cleverly concealed laundry room and an office, both featuring doors that seamlessly blend into the white wall for a clean, modern aesthetic. The heart of the home boasts a fully remodeled kitchen, perfect for culinary enthusiasts which is open to your dining and living areas letting you stay engaged with family and guests. The main level includes a large primary suite, with its own ensuite and walk-in closet, offering easy access and comfort. The upstairs has a separate living/playroom, laundry room, six additional bedrooms, with two large enough to serve as secondary suites, and two bathrooms, providing flexibility for guests or family. The home is equipped with two newer Trane 5-ton, 17 SEER air conditioning units and a modern water heater, ensuring year-round comfort and energy efficiency. Outdoor Entertaining: Step outside to discover your own outdoor oasis! The property features two expansive patios, perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing in the sun. Custom metal structures at both ends of the patios are adorned with blooming jasmine, creating a serene atmosphere. An RV gate, Ramada, and a fully equipped outdoor BBQ/kitchen make this space perfect for hosting gatherings. The Aero Professional misting systems on the patios provide comfort during those warm summer days. Hate putting up and taking down Christmas lights each year? No problem, they have been permanently installed on this home! Expansive Shop: For those with hobbies or business needs, a standout feature of this property is the impressive 40x40 shop. Complete with two oversized 2-car garage doors, this space is deep enough to accommodate a boat or large truck. Inside, you'll find a full bath and a separate room that could easily be converted into a casita, providing additional living space or a private home office. The shop is temperature controlled with two newer mini-split units, and a tankless hot water heater adds convenience. Fully permitted, this space has extra power to meet all your needs, and the roof is only about six years old, ensuring durability. This unique property truly has it all, spacious living, functional workspaces, and an incredible outdoor environment. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exceptional home your own!
3810 E Herrera Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85050
$1,150,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,677
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773142
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to the stunning Toll Brother's home of 3810 E Herrera Drive located in Aviano at Desert Ridge. Spanning 3,677 square feet and boasting 5-beds, 3.5-baths, the home exerts luxury and comfort living. Inside, the tall ceilings, freshly painted interior, are enhanced by stylish new light fixtures that create a sophisticated ambiance. The home's dual 2021 HVAC systems ensure year-round comfort, making relaxation effortless. The sought-after floor plan invites you to move through the dining room and living room and opens to a courtyard, which allows natural light to flood the home. The home's newly painted exterior allows you to enjoy a resort-like backyard equipped with a gas fireplace, natural grass, and mature landscaping, plumbed and wired for a pool, all perfect for relaxation. Conveniently located just minutes from The Club, you'll have access to a heated pool, spa, gym, media center, and both tennis and basketball courts. The community boasts 19 parks and scenic walking paths for outdoor exploration. With prime access to shopping, fine dining, and the vibrant Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland, this residence offers an unparalleled lifestyle of comfort, style, and exceptional amenities.
7117 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 2005
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$1,150,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,635
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773268
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
This stunningly, fully remodeled 2-bed, 2-bath condo epitomizes modern urban luxury and is among the larger two-bedroom units in the entire complex. The open-concept design combines sleek, contemporary finishes with functional style - showcasing new flooring, elegant quartz countertops, and a striking electric fireplace. Every detail has been carefully considered to breathe fresh life into this space. The gourmet kitchen is a true showstopper, featuring a new stainless steel gas cooktop, waterfall quartz countertops, and a matching backsplash. To create a sophisticated focal point in the kitchen, the island features bold white marble quartz outfitted with a large single basin sink. The living areas are bright and spacious, illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the condo with natural light. These expansive windows are equipped with roller shades for added privacy when needed. For cozy winter nights, the new electric fireplace in the living room adds a warm and inviting ambiance. In addition, this unit offers a large bonus room perfect for a formal dining room, office or pool table. Step outside to the remodeled patio featuring new Italian porcelain tile, new landscape and a glimpse of the iconic Camelback Mountain. The master bedroom serves as a serene retreat, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Its en-suite bathroom evokes a spa-like experience with new flooring, updated shower tiles, and sleek modern lights & faucets. A generous walk-in closet provides ample space for clothing and accessories. To top it all off, Optima Camelview Village offers a luxurious array of amenities to complement your high-rise living experience, making this condo the perfect urban sanctuary. This fully renovated condo is priced competitively at one of the lowest prices per square feet being offered!
3518 E Desert Cove Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85028
$1,150,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,568
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773595
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Seize this rare opportunity to own a meticulously maintained single level gem sitting on over 1 acre in the highly sought-after Desert Paradise community! This 2,568 sq. ft. home includes an inviting front living room addition, updated flooring, sparkling blue pool, oversized 3 car garage, massive front & backyard, RV Gate & renovated master bath. Possible lot split opportunity!!! Did we mention this home was sitting on 1 acre! Updated Landscaping, New Soft Water System, Newer Carpet, New Electrical Panel, New Heat Pump, New Pool Pump, New Fridge & Dishwasher, New Tankless Water Heater & More!!! Centrally located just minutes from Paradise Valley, top-rated schools, shopping, dining, entertainment & freeway access. This home is a must see!!!
16217 W Skinner Road
Surprise, AZ 85387
$1,150,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,300
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778102
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning custom home on over 2 acres of usable land, including a sparkling pool and private guest house with income potential! The homes interior features high-end finishes throughout! The kitchen features a custom copper sink and hand crafted custom cabinets. All bathroom's feature custom floor to ceiling tile. The grounds have been expertly landscaped including several large fruit bearing trees. There is room to build horse stalls and pen, a workshop, rv garage or another home! The possibilities on this property are truly limitless! You'll also find a casita with separate access, ideal for visiting loved ones or as a rental opportunity. Enjoy outdoor moments in the resort-style backyard, offering a covered patio, a lovely gazebo, pristine artificial turf, and a refreshing pool for cooling down on hot days. This gem will sell fast! Act now!
3215 Clearwater Drive
Prescott, AZ 86305
$1,150,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,291
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6785922
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience luxury living in this stunning single-level home in the desirable Crossings at Willow Creek. Set on nearly an acre, the beautifully landscaped property features mature trees, rock walls, raised garden beds, and a fenced backyard with multiple entertaining areas. The open great room showcases a dramatic floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, while the chef's kitchen impresses with granite counters, a massive island, custom knotty alder cabinetry, and a striking copper range hood. The owner's suite offers porch access, a spa-like bathroom, and a spacious closet. A detached casita with a full kitchen, living space, and bath provides versatility. Additional highlights include a 2-car garage with epoxy floors, an attached heated bonus room with a half bath, and smart home features.