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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4919 W Hunter Trail
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$562,490
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,776
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776898
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW HOME! The perfect blend of functionality comes to life. This stunning home boasts 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, bonus space and walk-in closets, ensuring that there's room for everyone. The island takes center stage, serving as a workspace or a social hub where family and friends can gather. Whether you're preparing a gourmet meal or enjoying a family breakfast, the kitchen is designed to be a culinary haven. Umber dark cabinets and granite counter tops with a generous amount of wood look tile! Stepping outside, the 3-panel sliding glass door offers an additional living space that seamlessly extends the indoor experience. Each of our homes is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you enjoy more savings, better health, real comfort and peace of mind.
4354 Ponderosa Trail
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
$562,486
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,648
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770324
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Introducing the Dream floor plan, a stunning 1,648 sq ft home with 2 beds & 2 baths, expertly designed by Shea's in-house interior design team. This home features a GE built-in induction appliance package, including a dishwasher, wall oven, microwave, & oven hood. Oil-rubbed bronze accents add elegance throughout. The primary bath boasts a heavy glass shower enclosure, quartz countertops, & under-mount sinks in both baths. Enjoy custom mosaic tile work, upgraded full overlay cabinets, generous cabinet pullouts, & quartz countertops in the kitchen. Additional features include a 15 ft sliding glass wall, extended covered patio, upgraded electrical, $20k in tile flooring, 4 ft garage extension, & custom landscaping front & back. Discover current incentives at Shea sales office.
2827 N 212th Drive
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$562,073
4
Beds
4
Baths
2,514
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6741507
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your TO BE BUILT: 4-Bed, 4-Bath Mountain-View dream home nestled against the stunning White Tank Mountains, offering unparalleled privacy and breathtaking views. This East/West oriented gem boasts grand 10' ceilings and elegant 8' doors throughout, creating a sense of luxury and space. The chef-inspired kitchen is a culinary delight, featuring a gas cooktop, wall oven micro combo, large pantry, premium countertops, and 42-inch upper cabinets. Perfect for entertaining, the home seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living with multiple sliding glass doors leading to a spacious patio. The expansive owner's suite is a retreat of its own, complete with a big closet and a huge walk-in super shower with a rainhead. Located just minutes from the Sienna Hills Swim park/gym/clubhouse!
1922 E Yale Street
Phoenix, AZ 85006
$562,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,231
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772421
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This fully renovated 1925 classic home blends charm with modern luxury. Featuring stunning luxury laminate floors and brand-new windows, the open floor plan is enhanced by beautiful wood beams and elegant crown molding. The custom bathroom showcases period-specific tile choices, while the kitchen boasts white shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, a striking blue tile backsplash, a pot filler above the gas range, and a farmhouse sink. Stainless steel appliances complete the space. Plus, enjoy peace of mind with a new roof and serviced A/C—all part of a permitted remodel!
1473 W Saddle Run
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$561,990
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,432
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750810
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender plus additional 2% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available to be used toward closing costs, pre-paids, rate buy downs, and/or price adjustments. The Avelino floor plan offers a refined single-story design with four bedrooms, including an AllGen suite, and a spacious flex area ideal for an office, TV room, or study. Featuring front yard landscaping, this home will be ready for occupancy in October or November. Conveniently situated near community parks, grocery stores, and dining options.
3131 N Central Avenue Unit 6021
Phoenix, AZ 85012
$561,900
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,125
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6568555
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
*Construction completed* 5% BUYER INCENTIVE! Introducing Edison Midtown Phase 2 with 60 new construction condominiums. This spacious two bedroom condo offers ten ft. ceilings, an open floor plan, and large master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Chefs kitchen offers expansive cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances including a gas range. Edison Midtown features incredible amenities for that perfect Urbanite lifestyle. A beautiful pool and lap pool, 2000 sq. ft. fitness center and lounge, and gated parking garage.
7931 E Quartet Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85212
$561,674
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,832
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6714316
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6714316 Ready Now!! The Edmonton at Hawes Crossing Discovery is a beautiful 1-story floor plan that comes standard with 1,832 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2-car garage, and 2 dining areas. The foyer takes you directly to the dining and kitchen area, which provides ample space for cooking all your favorite meals. Enjoy an open casual dining and great room area with direct access to the outdoor living area, which makes for great entertaining space. The spacious primary suite has a private bathroom with double sinks and a walk-in closet. Welcome home! Structural options include: 8' interior doors. Design upgrades include: tile throughout whole home, paver driveway, tankless water heater, soft water loop, window treatments on all window, 2 faux wood blinds.
8320 E Paloma Avenue
Mesa, AZ 85207
$560,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,246
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781572
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A collection of brand-new single-family homes located in the master-planned community in Mesa, AZ. The community feeds into the highly rated Gilbert Public School District, making this an ideal place for growing households. There are many onsite amenities at the masterplan everyone will enjoy, including a swimming pool, basketball court, pickleball court, playground and picnic area. Commuters have easy access to Loop 202 and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport for travel accommodations. This beautiful home features our platinum package including Sonoma Maple Linen cabinets and quartz countertops. Super luxury 7 x 22 plank tile flooring. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.
25224 N 159th Drive
Surprise, AZ 85387
$560,990
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,434
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6733494
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
FORMER MODEL HOME - Congratulations on finding this wonderful quick close home with such awesome upgrades, the quartz countertops and upgraded backsplash will add a touch of elegance to your kitchen but also provide durability, the oversized glass door in the great room will bring in natural light! Gas connections for your range, BBQ, and dryer provides more efficient dryer, and cooking and grilling, so with a combination of modern electrical features and carefully chosen window coverings, you can enjoy a sophisticated and energy-efficient living space right from the moment you move in. A tankless water heater is a great choice for your home as it provides hot water on demand eliminating the need for a storage tank the home is Energy Star Certified to save you money and Smart home modern!
5030 W Hunter Trail
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$560,490
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,776
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776913
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand new energy efficient home! This plan is where perfect blend of functionality and elegance comes to life. This stunning home boasts 5 bedrooms and 3 baths, ensuring room for everyone! A standout features of the Avery is a private bath in one of the bedrooms that could be used for an in-law. The heart of the home is the kitchen, where the island takes center stage, as a practical social hub where family and friends can gather. The kitchen boasts White shaker style cabinets, granite counter tops and a generous amount of tile that overlooks the great room, creating an inviting atmosphere. Each of our spray foam insulated homes is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you enjoy more savings, better health, real comfort and peace of mind.
12308 W Parkway Lane
Avondale, AZ 85323
$560,378
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,238
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782961
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Enjoy oversized living spaces and abundant energy efficient windows in this 3-bedroom 2.5-bathroom home that boasts 10 foot ceilings, 8 foot interior doors and a 3 car garage. Designer finishes throughout make this home as beautiful as it is functional. The gourmet kitchen features an oversized island, upgraded countertops and cabinets and GE stainless steel appliances. You will love the finishes throughout the home including designer selected tile flooring, upgraded carpet and pad in all bedrooms and gorgeous backsplash in the kitchen and Owner's Bath. Find time for yourself in your huge Owner's Retreat with a large bathroom featuring a Super Shower with tile surrounds and oversized walk in closet. This home also boasts a large covered patio and oversized backyard; 2X6 CONSTRUCTION
13342 N 173rd Lane
Surprise, AZ 85388
$560,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,774
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6783711
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fabulous home in the growing Aria Ranch at Surprise! This two-story residence is in like-new condition, showcasing a great curb appeal with a desert landscape & a 3 car tandem garage. The functional interior boasts soft paint, wood-look tile flooring, a den, a formal dining room, and a living room open to the kitchen for easy entertaining. This open layout is made bright & airy by tall ceilings that promote a sleek design & a modern feel! The immaculate white kitchen features shaker cabinetry with crown moulding, herringbone subway tile backsplash, quartz counters, SS appliances, gas cooktop, and an island with breakfast bar. You'll also find a walk-in pantry & a mud room. Plush carpet throughout the second floor. The loft is perfect for a secondary family room, come see it today!!! The large owner's suite hosts a pristine ensuite with an oversized dual vanity, a tiled shower, and a bountiful walk-in closet. The expansive backyard offers a covered patio & endless potential to be customized. Close to shopping, major roads, and easy access to Loop 303. Hurry to see, this beauty will sell fast!