Last week’s economic news was abundant with releases on home builder sentiment, housing starts, building permits, sales of previously owned homes. The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve released its customary statement at the conclusion of its meeting; Fed Chair Janet Yellen also gave a press conference. Weekly readings on new jobless claims and mortgage rates were released as usual.
NAHB: Builder Sentiment Increases in September
Home builder confidence in housing market conditions increased in September according to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index. Builder confidence rose five points to 65; analysts expected a reading of 60 based on August’s reading of 59. NAHB said that September’s reading was boosted by more “serious” buyers entering housing markets.
Components used to determine NAHB HMI readings were also higher. Builder confidence in current market conditions rose six points to 71; builder confidence in housing market conditions over the next six months rose by five points to 71. Builder confidence in buyer traffic in new housing developments rose four points to 48. Buyer traffic readings have not reached 50 since 2005; 50 is a neutral benchmark for NAHB HMI readings.
Home prices continue rising at a higher pace than wages; this is pressuring first-time and moderate income buyers out of the market. An ongoing shortage of available homes is pressing prices higher as demand increases. Analysts pay close attention to the NAHB HMI as building more new homes is a key factor in easing the shortage of homes for sale.
Housing Starts, Building Permits Lower
Commerce Department readings on housing starts and permits issued were lower for August Housing starts were lower in August at 1.142 million starts on a seasonally-adjusted annual pace. Analysts expected 1.182 million housing starts based on July’s reading of 1.212 million starts. Regional readings showed a dip in starts in the South. Severe flooding in Louisiana contributed to the lower reading for housing starts. August’s reading for housing starts was 5.80 percent lower than July’s reading and 0.90 percent lower than for July 2015.
Building permits issued were nearly flat in August; this was likely due to the prime building season winding down 1.139 million permits were issued as compared to 1.144 million permits issued in July. Single-family starts were six percent lower than for July and were 1.20 percent lower year-over-year.
Existing Home Sales Dip: High Demand, Low Supply Cited
Sales of pre-owned homes fell by 0.90 percent in August to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.33 million sales. Analysts expected a reading of 5.48 million sales; July’s reading for sales of pre-owned homes was 5.38 million sales.
Low inventory of available homes continues to impact housing markets as demand for homes increased and prices rose; the national average home price was $240,000 in August. Rising home prices continued to be driven by high demand and low supplies. These conditions also impacted first-time and moderate income home buyers who were pressured to keep up with rapidly rising home prices.
While mortgage rates remain relatively low, higher home prices and tight mortgage credit requirements remain obstacles for first-time buyers.
Mortgage Rates, Weekly Jobless Claims Lower
Freddie Mac reported lower mortgage rates last week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell by two basis points to 3.48 percent; the average rate for a15-year fixed rate mortgage fell on one basis point to 2.76 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was lower by two basis points at 2.80 percent.
Analysts expected new jobless claims to remain flat at the prior week’s reading of 260,000 new claims, but 252,000 new claims were filed for the lowest reading since July. The four-week rolling average of new jobless claims fell by 22250 claims to 258,500. The four-week reading is considered a less volatile reading than week-to-week readings.
Federal Reserve: No Increase in Fed Rate
The Federal Open Market Committee said in its post-meeting statement that the target federal funds rate would not be raised. In a press conference given after the FOMC statement, Fed Chair Janet Yellen said that although the economy continued to improve, the Fed had concerns over the labor market and decided not to raise rates. Any increase in Federal Reserve rates triggers increases in consumer lending rates.
What’s Ahead
This week’s readings include Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, readings on new and pending home sales and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.
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10432 E Winter Sun Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,725,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,952
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6720599
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Motivated Seller so briing your offer on this private DREAM home in the gated Cresta Norte! Nestled on a HUGE an acre and an half lot on a cul-de-sac, this stunning property has all the bells & whistles. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and a private yard with a serene & picturesque backdrop. Displaying a desert landscape, private courtyard, and a split 3-car garage w/epoxy floors & cabinetry. The double-door front entry opens a spacious living & dining room combo! Continue onto the inviting family room adorned with a fireplace for chilly nights. Tall ceilings add to the airy feel, complemented by plantation shutters, chic light fixtures, designer paint, tile & wood-look flooring, and large windows for tons of natural light. Pre-wired surround sound for the ultimate audio experience! For added functionality, this gem comes with a bonus room & a cozy den, both of which provide versatility! Double-door main bedroom has a lavish ensuite with a soaking tub, separate shower, two vanities, & two walk-in closets. PLUS! Another one bedroom includes its own full bathroom, perfect for the guests. But the true highlight is the RESORT-SYLE backyard! With a covered patio, a built-in BBQ, & a sparkling pool, this space promises year-round enjoyment. Immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty that embraces this serene residence. Explore it! Love it! Live it!
6525 E Cave Creek Road Unit 14
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,725,000
2
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,775
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779783
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in the exclusive enclave of Hidden Rock, this luxurious two-story residence in Cave Creek seamlessly blends contemporary design with the natural beauty of the desert surroundings. This beautiful home boasts a spacious layout, featuring two bedrooms, three and a half baths, a bonus room, and a two-car garage. The main level showcases wood flooring, a front guest bedroom with a private bath and walk-in closet, an open kitchen with top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances, a formal dining area, and a great room with a contemporary built-in electric fireplace and shelving. The master suite, with sliding barn doors, offers a walk-in closet with built-ins and a full en-suite bath with dual sink vanities, a soaking tub, and a seamless walk-in shower. Additional conveniences on this level include a laundry area and a powder room. Take the stairs to the upper level, where a lounge area leads to a front viewing deck with breathtaking mountain views. An expansive bonus room awaits, perfect for a theater or entertainment space, with an adjacent full bath. The rear-view deck offers more mountain vistas and features a built-in BBQ, eat-up bar, sink prep area, mini-fridge, and an electric fireplace. The beautifully landscaped backyard extends the length of the home, and provides plenty of privacy while offering incredible views surrounding the home. The property is thoughtfully designed with block and view fencing that harmonizes with the desert surroundings. Residents can also enjoy a community pool and spa. Just minutes from downtown Cave Creek, this home offers easy access to world-class retail shops, art galleries, and dining, making it the epitome of luxurious desert living.
26615 N 71st Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,725,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,188
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765804
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Custom single-level home on over an acre. Gourmet kitchen complete w/upscale stainless steel appliances, granite countertops/island, ample cabinets/storage & large walk in pantry. Resort style backyard w/pebble tech heated pool/spa, built-in grill, fireplace, large grass area, mature trees & oversized covered patio. Master suite features gas fireplace, french doors leading to backyard, stunning bathroom w/dual sinks, marble countertops, separate tub/shower, & spacious walk in closet. All 5 bedrooms are ensuite. Hardwood floors in all bedrooms as well as living & dining rooms. Travertine tile in halls, bathrooms, kitchen, family room & outdoor patio. Oversized three-car garage. NO HOA!! Great location in North Scottsdale near world class golf, restaurants, shopping, hiking & more!
3791 W Highway 80 Highway
Bisbee, AZ 85603
$1,725,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,523
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6121153
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Seller will carry with $950K down and up to 8 years! FOUR registered wells in all, surface water rights & possible mineral rights are included with this majestic 168 acre historic mountain ranch, appropriately named Rocky Creek Ranch. Upon crossing over Banning Creek via the driveway's bridge and under a lush canopy of mature trees, it's like you've stepped back in time as you approach several rustic outbuildings, 2 historic homes including the charming Rock House w/ concrete walls, corrals, windmills & lush grassy meadows that teem with wildlife. Nestled in Bisbee's beautiful Mule Mountains along the jaw-dropping stretch of Hwy 80, magnificent rock formations, waterfalls & seasonal streams abound. ~20 miles East of Fort Huachuca, home to the Buffalo Soldiers.
10855 E Elba Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,725,000
6
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,358
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6740974
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Bring all offers. Welcome to your dream home in Scottsdale's prestigious Treviso community, nestled near the renowned Mirabel Golf Course. This exquisite Toll Brothers residence embodies luxury, privacy, and exceptional craftsmanship. As you approach this magnificent property, you'll immediately notice its impressive presence. The added benefit of an attached Casita featuring a private entrance—perfect for guests or a home office. Step inside to discover an expansive interior with high ceilings and elegant finishes. The backyard is a true retreat, offering unparalleled tranquility with its stunning views of the desert landscape and majestic mountains. Facing the Preserve, you can rest assured that your views will remain unobstructed, offering a serene and private outdoor living spac
2386 E Redfield Road
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$1,725,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,994
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6760289
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Looking for the perfect ACRE home, look no further this home has it all! Beautifully upgraded 5 bd, 4.5 baths. 3 bedrooms are ensuite with private baths perfect for guests or teens. Alexa smart home. Huge owner's suite with soaking tub, dual vanities and walk in closet. Remodeled kitchen with white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, custom backsplash and breakfast bar. New tile floor in all the right places, freshly painted, new low E double pane windows, all new electrical, raised 8 ft ceilings and the list goes on. Permitted 1440 sq ft custom RV garage with Clopay RV garage door and 15 ft glass accordion sliding door. Beautiful remodeled pool with custom rock waterfall with built in slide. Just minutes to downtown Gilbert, shopping, dining and freeway for easy access.
8171 E Juan Tabo Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,725,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,690
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764308
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Explore this breathtaking home nestled in the sought-after North Scottsdale area. As you enter, you'll be welcomed by European White oak floors, and a living room centered around a stunning floor-to-ceiling marble slab gas fireplace. Prepare to be wowed by the dazzling designer kitchen, featuring custom cabinetry and exquisite Quartzite slab countertops. Equipped with a premium Sub Zero-Wolf appliance suite and a Wolf gas range, this chef-inspired space promises to elevate your culinary adventures. The kitchen opens into an inviting family room with direct access to the patio and backyard. The master suite boasts a large sitting area, perfect for unwinding after a busy day. Step outside to the expansive covered patio, complete with a fireplace, where you can enjoy stunning views of of the resort-style saltwater pool and spa. The outdoor area also includes a built-in BBQ, ideal for hosting memorable gatherings and enjoying to beautiful Arizona winter nights. Further enhancing its appeal, the three-car garage features epoxy flooring and plenty of storage, combining functionality with convenience. This remarkable home showcases exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, offering an unmatched living experience.
19360 N 73rd Street Unit 1075
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$1,717,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,858
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784749
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Belgravia Group presents Atavia, a private gated community of 88 luxury condominiums coming soon to North Scottsdale. Atavia blends the breathability of single-family living with the carefree convenience of condominium ownership. Designed by award-winning international architecture firm KTGY, with a clubhouse inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic Taliesin West. Atavia is perfectly situated at the Loop 101 and Scottsdale Rd within the One Scottsdale masterplan development. Each exceptional home features a private entry with 2 car garage, Italian kitchen cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, 1 ¼'' quartz counters, and wood floors throughout main living areas. Residence E1 includes a private in-home elevator, a 473 sf rooftop deck plus an option for a 4th bedroom.
100 W Northern Avenue Unit 7
Phoenix, AZ 85021
$1,708,308
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,715
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6737176
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to 100 Northern! Nestled in the prime location of North Central Phoenix, this gated, NEW, unique community features 3 different floor plans and only 17 homesites. Experience the elegant sophistication and uncluttered feel of these thoughtful, light flooded designs, where soaring ceilings, sleek lines, and open spaces all converge to evoke a true sense of serene ambiance throughout the home. This spectacular 2 level ''C'' plan features owner's suite, large den, and all primary living on the ground floor with 3 additional bedrooms, 2 baths (one ensuite) and large flex loft upstairs. Subzero/Wolf appliances, Trane AC units ,and tankless water heaters all set the standard for the list of included high-end features. Heated community pool, dog park and walking path cont.... all provide the outdoor enjoyment without the upkeep, cost and work of maintaining your own. Come and claim your new address at 100 Northern, the epitome of modern luxury living!
31 W Canyon Street
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$1,700,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,800
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6697663
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into luxury with this stunning new construction home boasting vaulted ceilings adorned with rustic beams, a testament to its craftsmanship and charm. Indulge your culinary passions in the gourmet kitchen featuring custom cabinets, not one but two islands, and top-of-the-line appliances. Seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living with a folding patio door, leading to a spacious wrap-around covered patio, perfect for entertaining or simply unwinding in style. Enjoy the sleek elegance of smooth wall finishes throughout the home. Plus, say goodbye to restrictive HOA regulations and embrace the freedom of no HOA. With a convenient drivet-hrough RV garage, this home is tailormade for those who value both functionality and sophistication. Don't miss your chance to make this dream home yours
8724 E Russell Street
Mesa, AZ 85207
$1,700,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
3,770
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6740161
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
360 degrees unobstructed VIEWS!!! NO HOA! DETACHED GUEST HOUSE! 7 car garage! Bring all your toys to this home in The Desert Uplands of Mesa! Lifestyle here is exceptional with a blend of tranquility & convenience. Nearby stores, restaurants, hiking & boating at Tonto National Forest & Usury Mountain Regional Park. All million $ plus homes. Experience elegance & comfort in this magnificent 5-bedroom, 4.5 -bathroom residence on a sprawling 1.22-acre lot! 2 story entry w/ elegant stairwell. Formal LR & DR with updated modern flooring. 2022 kitchen remodel offers white shaker cabinets, viking stove, lg prep island, true butlers kitchen & pantry. Family room has huge windows, gas FP & open to the kitchen. 1st floor office, bedroom & full bathroom. Attached 4 car extended garage. GUEST suite is detached & private. Guest suite: great room, full kitchen with island & informal dining area, full bedroom & bathroom. Has a page storage room & attached to full access to second garage. This home boasts MOUNTAIN, SUNRISE, SUNSETS & CITY LIGHT VIEWS from multiple view decks & form inside the home. Fenced in back yard has extended covered patio's built in BBQ, heated spa and diving pool. Bring all your toys!! No HOA!! ** WELL is private and 1000 ft deep with a 2700 gallon holding tank!
703 N Chaparral Pines Drive
Payson, AZ 85541
$1,700,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,879
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763197
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exquisite one of a kind log home by Pioneer Log Homes of British Columbia. One level living plus a loft for family/game room and an office. The home is nestled in a private setting on over 5 acres that backs the National Forest. Extra large garage plus a two stall RV carport to store all the toys. This property is a horse lovers dream! It has an amazing horse set up with an MD custom made horse barn that has a saddle room and hay compartment. Horse stalls have rubber floors, and all stalls have their own outside run to a nice size arena. The one bedroom one bath guest house is also a custom Pioneer Log Home of the same amazing quality. You can hike, bike, or ride your horse directly from your property into the National Forest. One of the best properties available in Rim Country!