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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26511 N Thornhill Court
Peoria, AZ 85383
$610,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,950
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6728282
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This is a beautiful, professionally designed model home that you won't want to pass up! This is the Ashton Woods Oasis floorplan, with the lot situated in a cul-de-sac with great views. This home includes several upgrades to start with a pavered driveway and entry, epoxy coated garage floor, water softener, and a solar system! Moving inside you will find the upgraded lighting throughout, built-in speakers, modern accent trim walls, master walk-in shower with rain shower faucet, upgraded laundry room with cabinets, counter and sink, and a 4-panel sliding door, that provides abundant natural light, and invites you to the covered patio. The backyard is aesthetically landscaped with pavers, artificial turf, and tile beneath a pergola creating perfect space to enjoy the outdoors.
19004 N 25th Way
Phoenix, AZ 85050
$610,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,106
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6730783
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful & well maintained home is now available! This home has too many upgrades to list! It has 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a 3 car garage, NO HOA, large corner lot on a cul-de-sac, large pool & new fencing around it, citrus trees in the back yard (orange & lemon). Full length covered rear patio, large kitchen with granite countertops, & lots of cabinet space. Here are some of the recent updates on the home: Roof- 2011 Kitchen remodel 2011 Pebbletec added to pool 2014 Trane 19 Seer AC unit 2014 PAID OFF & owned Solar system 2015 Aeroseal of the ductwork 2016 New Anlin windows for the entire home 2020 New kitchen appliances 2021 New variable speed pool pump 2023 New washer & dryer 2023 This home has RV parking space & gate, is close to 101, 51 & 10 minutes to Desert Ridge.
3951 W Talc Drive
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$610,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,913
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6756189
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home in the heart of San Tan Valley! This property features modern finishes throughout, including a 2-car extended garage allowing space for up to 4 cars. The spacious kitchen boasts granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large island—perfect for entertaining. You'll also find a rare builder upgrade by Toll Brothers—an extra sliding window in the kitchen, a feature no longer offered, along with an extended patio for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Relax in the inviting living room or step outside to your private backyard oasis with low-maintenance landscaping. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and parks, this home has it all! A must-see in a fast-growing community
22698 E Saddle Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$610,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,373
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762473
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NO WAIT TO BUILD! This is your opportunity to move into the growing Madera Community and ASSUME 5.25% VA loan. This lovely JUNIPER plan built by Tri-Point has been lightly lived in for 18 months! Beautifully completed low maint back yard with artificial turf and established landscape. This ''like new'' home features 4 Bds, 3 baths, PLUS Flex rm, 10 ft ceilings,luxury vinyl plank flooring thru-out, custom window shade on patio door with remote open and close. The open concept kitchen highlights 42'' upper cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, breakfast bar with pendant lighting, 2'' faux wood blinds, Owner suite includes large walk-in closet with separate Tub/Shower. Exterior door to patio. Gorgeous amenites of the pool & park is a short walk away!
3118 N 15th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85015
$610,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,392
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6771036
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The search is over! Fall in love with the appealing open layout featuring a soothing palette, a modern feature wall, recessed lighting, and attractive wood-like flooring. The delightful kitchen comes with quartz counters, grey shaker cabinets with crown moulding, a stylish tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, a handy pantry, and a center island with a breakfast bar for casual dining. The primary bedroom includes an ensuite with double sinks, a lavish raindrop shower, and a convenient and large walk-in closet. Outdoors, you'll find an open patio, pristine artificial turf, and a shed for additional storage. HVAC System was replaced 20024. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
17850 N 68th Street Unit 2097
Phoenix, AZ 85054
$610,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,814
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769240
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Prime location and luxury living! This stunning home boasts premium interior upgrades with no detail overlooked. Nestled beside Reach 11 hiking trails, 1,000 ft from Lifetime Fitness, and within 2 miles to 3,000,000sf of premier shopping/dining at Desert Ridge, Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and Scottsdale/101. The home shines with granite countertops, tile backsplash, upgraded kitchen cabinetry with slide-out drawers, herringbone imported Italian tile, upgraded high end stainless kitchen appliances, Toto toilets, custom $2,000 office wallpaper, primary suite walk-in closet organizers, ADA-compliant bathrooms, laundry room cabinets and more!. Ample natural light through out, with community elevators for single-level living. Private 2-car garage and extra storage included Additional features include RO system, upgraded USB electrical outlets, 2 private balconies, European White Oak office floor.
14214 N 38th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$610,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,808
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769316
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fully Remodeled Gem in North Phoenix! This stunning home blends modern luxury with comfort, offering an open-concept layout, sleek finishes, and designer touches throughout. Every detail has been meticulously updated - from the brand-new kitchen with stainless steel appliances to the spa-like bathrooms with custom tile work. Fresh flooring, new windows, and upgraded lighting, this home is move-in ready and perfect for entertaining. Located in a desirable North Phoenix neighborhood, close to top schools, New Paradise Valley Mall minutes away, and outdoor recreation. Don't miss your chance to own this beautifully transformed home!
4317 E Western Star Boulevard
Phoenix, AZ 85044
$610,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,615
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6757507
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Home Is A True Icon Like No Other Which Is Apparent The Moment You Drive Up The Street. It Is One Of The Most Admired And Sought After And Is Finally For Sale. Be Greeted By The Multi Tier Concrete Steps And Patios, A Fire Pit, Steel Posts And Beams,Smooth Stucco Walls With Wood Facia And A New Metal Roof. The Clear Glass Front Door Completes The Entry And The Mid Century Modern Block Home With Strategic Frank Lloyd Wright Style Gray Block Walls And Accents. Concrete Stained Floors, Birch Cabinets, With Corian Counters. The Two Bathrooms Have Been Proffesionally Designed With High End Commercial Grade Fixtures. Walk In To The Backyard Oasis And Wow! The Covered Patio Open To The Large Yard, Diving Pebble Tek Pool, Detached Block Office heated and cooled With Mini Split.. Backs Wash The Separate Quarters Is Quite Amazing. Gray Block Walls With Birch Interior Facia, Contemporary LED Lighting And Glass Block Windows With Double Door Entry. The Diving Pool Has One Of The Most Unique Custom Steel Fencing And A Metal Welded Shade Sail Frame. Two Unique Gates Lead You To The Open Wash For Hiking, Biking With Entrance To The City Park And Trails To South Mountain For Miles Of Trails. The Yard Also Features A Propane Fire Pit, Raised Planters, Propane BBQ Grill And Metal And Rock Pillars.
330 W Verano Place
Gilbert, AZ 85233
$610,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,123
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781175
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Immaculate and completely renovated gem located in a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly desired lake subdivision of Lago Estancia. This beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 bath home was completely remodeled in 2024. This Pulte built home features an updated kitchen with white shaker cabinetry, stainless steel sink and appliances, granite countertops, interior and exterior paint, luxury vinyl plank flooring, new carpet and baseboards, recessed lighting, new plumbing and light fixtures, new water heater, updated bathrooms with high-end vanities. Located just minutes from downtown Gilbert, fine dining, shopping, freeways and A+ rated schools!
15210 S 44th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85044
$610,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,315
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6725779
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Must see this gorgeous remodel with new white shaker cabinets, self closing with brushed nickel hardware. Stainless kitchen appliances with Granite counter tops. All downstairs floors done in wood look vinyl planks and upstairs is upgraded neutral carpet. One bedroom and full bath downstairs. Two upstairs bedrooms share a Jack and Jill bath. Huge owner's suite, Bath has step in shower plus tub and large walk in closet. Freshly painted, inside and out. Both AC units new in 2022, Gas water heater new in 2021. Front and back yards have artificial grass in 2024. Fenced play pool and spa. Nice well kept community with no HOA, close to freeways and shopping.
688 W Ebony Way
Chandler, AZ 85248
$610,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,157
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6716664
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
PRICE REDUCED!!! and sellers giving$5000 towards closing costs as well! LOCATION! LOCATION! **NEW GRANITE COUNTERS in the KITCHEN and BATHROOMS!! *** All the CABINETS have been freshly painted! This beautiful home has 3 bdrms/2 bths with DEN can convert to extra bdrm. A spacious 3-CAR garage. The floor plan features a cozy family room, formal dining area, and formal living room. 5 Blink cameras and an alarm system that coveys with the home. Other recent upgrades-NEW A/C, with all new duct system in 2021, a NEW GAS HOT WATER HEATER 2023, and fresh paint both inside and out, including inside the garage! The backyard is a beautifully landscaped oasis with a stunning pool, perfect for relaxation and entertaining. This move-in-ready home is just waiting for you to make it YOUR own!
176 N Honeysuckle Lane
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$610,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,109
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6753160
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Rare find! Located in beautiful Park Grove Estates. Minutes from downtown Gilbert. This 4 bedroom 2 bath home features a large entry area thats open to formal dining room, open kitchen/family room concept, vaulted ceilings-lots of natural light throughout home. Ready for you to make it your own! Huge corner lot, (over 13,000sqft). Mature trees and an RV gate! Large pool with a built in spa, mature trees... +Newer roof, newer windows and A/C as well as exterior paint+ Lots to see!