Last week’s economic reports included readings on pending home sales, construction spending and consumer sentiment. Case-Shiller Home Price Indices for June were released, along with several labor-related reports including national unemployment, ADP Payrolls and Non-Farm Payrolls were also released along with weekly readings on new jobless claims and Freddie Mac’s survey of average mortgage rates.
Case-Shiller: Home Price Growth Holds Steady in June
According to the Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index for June, average national home prices held steady with a seasonally adjusted annual growth rate of 5.10 percent in June. The top three cities for home price growth were Portland, Oregon with a reading of 12.60 percent; Seattle, Washington followed with a reading of 11.00 percent. Denver, Colorado home prices grew by 9.20 percent year-over-year.
San Francisco, California, which had posted highest year-over-year price gains in recent months slipped with a reading of 6.40 percent year-over-year in June. This could signify a cooling of rapid price gains in high demand metro areas where home prices have become unaffordable for many buyers.
Construction Spending Flat in July, Pending Home Sales Increase
While builder sentiment has been strong, construction spending was flat in July as compared to an expected reading of 0.60 percent and June’s reading of an 0.90 percent increase in construction spending. The Commerce Department reported that pending home sales increased 1.30 percent in July, which exceeded expectations of 0.90 percent growth and June’s negative reading of -0.80 percent. July’s reading appeared to even out June’s unexpected slump in pending sales, which are considered an indicator for future closings and home loan volume.
Mortgage Rates, New Jobless Claims Rise
Mortgage rates rose for all three loan types reported by Freddie Mac. The rate for a 30-year mortgage rate rose three basis points to 3.46 percent; the average rate for a 15-year mortgage also rose three basis points to 2.77 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage jumped by eight basis points to 2.83 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent, 0.50 percent and 0.40 percent respectively. Mortgage rates rose after the yield on 10-year Treasury Notes increased in response to a speech given by Fed Chair Janet Yellen that indicated that the target federal funds rate could be raised in December.
263,000 new jobless claims were filed as compared to expectations of 265,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 261,000 new claims. Job growth slowed in August; the Commerce Department reported a reading of 151,000 new jobs in its Non-Farm Payrolls report. Analysts expected 170,000 new jobs, which fell significantly short of July’s reading of 275,000 jobs created. Non-Farm Payrolls includes data for public and private sector jobs.
Labor Reports: Job Growth Slows, National Unemployment Holds Steady
ADP Payrolls also reported fewer private sector jobs created in August with a reading of 177,000 new jobs as compared to 194,000 private sector jobs created in July. Analysts characterized August jobs reports as “fickle” due to high numbers of summer vacations and company-wide summer holiday closures.
August’s reading for national unemployment held steady at 4.90 percent.
While slower growth in home prices and job creation could signal an economic slowdown, there was good news as consumer confidence rose to 101.7 in August; this reading surpassed the expected reading of 97.0 and July’s reading of 96.7.
What’s Ahead
This week’s scheduled economic news is lean due to the Labor Day holiday on Monday. In addition to weekly reports on new jobless claims and mortgage rates, reports on job openings and the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book report will be released.
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35003 N Ellsworth Road
Queen Creek, AZ 85144
$1,600,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,411
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6761572
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Escape to this beautiful custom home on 3.44 acres in the heart of Queen Creek. The coveted views of the San Tan Mountains are second to none. The original home boasts charm and rustic appeal; while the new 2,500sf addition is grand, displays beautiful views, provides many opportunities and extends the comfort throughout. Break bread in the dining room fit for royalty, relax and unwind in either of the living rooms and host your guests or spoil your family with a loft and kitchenette upstairs. Outside you will find a covered patio, perfect for sunsets, a steel covered garage and an inside garage/shop. Not to mention the 3.44 acres of land, just waiting for your personal touch -- horse stables? Arena? Pool and spa? The choice is yours! This home is truly one of a kind!
43508 N Jackrabbit Road
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
$1,600,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,553
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762939
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fantastic 5 acre ranch with everything a horse person could want. 26 Stalls, some extended to 12x24. Round Pen. 4 Irrigated Pastures. 100x300 Sand Roping arena. Property completely fenced with no-climb and gated with new bridges over ditch. Adobe/Block home with 4 bedrooms, fire place and In-law suite with mini kitchen and own entrance. Hurry on over as this will not last!
56 S Prairie Road
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$1,600,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
4,006
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6764759
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful Custom Home Located in the Sought-After Morrison Ranch Community in Gilbert. This Open, Light and Bright Floor Plan Boasts a Gourmet Kitchen with Extra Large Marble Slab Island, Custom Cabinetry, Sub Zero Refrigerator and Wolf Appliances. The Walk In Pantry has Custom Built-Ins with Antique Barn Door. Master Retreat with Spa Like Bath and Walk In Closet. Secondary Bedrooms are Separated By Jack and Jill Bath and its own Private Vanity. The 4th Bedroom has an Adjacent 3/4's Bath and Private Exit to Pool Area. Resort Style Backyard with Fenced in Pool, Raised Spa, Water Feature, Built In BBQ, Large Umbrella to Cover Pool and there is also a Pickleball Court, for Outdoor Living at its Finest! With Private Sauna in the Garage, Cabinets and Split Air for Workout Room. This Home Blends Modern Luxury with Practical Living!
8561 E Cactus Wren Circle
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$1,600,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,484
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765691
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Highly upgraded gem with stunning views in gated community of Boulder Ridge. Enter thru a charming courtyard into an open common area with 14' ceilings, fireplace, and bar set between family room and home theater. Kitchen offers chiseled edge granite, large island, stainless steel appliances, stained shaker cabinets & walk-in pantry. Interior upgrades include sun screens throughout, central vac, and stained cabinets in baths, den & laundry to match the kitchen. Spacious master suite has dual walk-in closets & sink areas. At over 2/3 acre, the oversized lot offers privacy and generous space from the neighbors. The oasis backyard features pebbletec pool, spa, gas fireplace, built-in BBQ and exterior poolside bathroom. Large upper deck with traditional stairway offers 360deg mountain & city light views, along with power & lighting for entertaining. Besides that view deck, what sets this home apart from nearly all in the neighborhood... 4 car garage, with one bay offset with a secondary laundry, perfect for woodshop or secluded storage. Priced to sell quickly!
20866 W Werner Place
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$1,600,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,085
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769339
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exquisite Luxury Retreat in Verrado's Main Street District. Discover an extraordinary, fully remodeled residence situated on a coveted corner park lot in the heart of the vibrant Main Street District of Verrado. This meticulously updated gem boasts a wealth of enhancements, including a new HVAC system, new roof, and a stunning pool and spa, complemented by beautifully landscaped front and backyards. Spanning over 4,000 square feet, this home showcases an array of luxurious features. The gourmet kitchen is a culinary dream, featuring high-end KitchenAid appliances, gorgeous granite countertops, custom cabinetry, and an accordion window wall that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living. Step into your private backyard oasis, where lush landscaping sets the stage for relaxation and entertainment. A sunken Ramada offers a cozy fireplace, lounge area, and a built-in BBQ, all overlooking a spectacular swimming pool with multiple water and fire features. An expansive putting green and an in-ground trampoline elevate this outdoor haven, making it truly one-of-a-kind. Designed for the most discerning buyers, this home is destined to be the envy of family, friends, and guests. Experience the pinnacle of luxury livingschedule your private tour of this incredible Verrado paradise today.
581 Windspirit Circle
Prescott, AZ 86303
$1,600,000
6
Beds
5
Baths
6,716
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778199
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning home sitting on top of a bluff in the Ranch at Prescott. Views as far as the eye can see. Tons of main level living with a new kitchen with custom cabinets, high level granite, stainless steel appliances and a great room that includes plenty of space for a large dining table, two sided fireplace and multiple decks to enjoy the views. Spacious living room with a conversation pit and fireplace. Huge master bedroom with lovely views, two huge closets, large bathroom and a new custom shower with two shower heads. Two separate offices. Extra bedrooms on the lower level, theater room, toms of extra storage and guest quarters with a separate entrance.
11428 N 85th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$1,600,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,156
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6776677
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Located in a coveted neighborhood in the heart of Scottsdale, this property offers a prime investment opportunity on spacious 36,000+ SQFT lot. The surrounding area is home to several successful developments, making it perfect for your next project. Don't miss out on this opportunity - come take a look today!
6221 E Cielo Run
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,600,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,164
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6755148
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience ultimate entertaining in this exclusive 4.509-acre estate backing to Tonto National Forest. The updated kitchen, stylishly modernized 5 years ago, seamlessly connects to an expansive indoor/outdoor living area, ideal for hosting gatherings. Revel in luxury with a $50,000 cooled wine room, a 27,000-gallon pool, and a 6-person jacuzzi. The open space and privacy of the property enhance your celebrations, while the unobstructed night sky offers breathtaking views of the Little Dipper and shooting stars. Enjoy the serenity and grandeur of this unique, secluded retreat.
5424 E Crocus Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,600,000
5
Beds
4
Baths
3,315
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6772808
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Elegant Living on a Coveted 85254 Street. The Ultimate Family Oasis. Discover Scottsdale living at its finest on this expansive 34,216-square-foot lot in one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in 85254. This stunning property features 5 spacious bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, offering a blend of elegance and comfort for family living and entertaining. Perfect for those who love the indoor-outdoor lifestyle, the oversized lot boasts an array of recreational features, including a dedicated sport court for pickleball, tennis or basketball, a walking, biking, and scooter path for outdoor enjoyment, and a sparkling swimming pool ideal for Arizona's sunny days. Multiple sitting areas for families and friends to gather and enjoy life together. With an RV gate, you'll have ample space for storing your toys and adventure gear. Situated just moments away from Scottsdale Christian Academy and the highly acclaimed Paradise Valley School District, this home is perfect for families seeking both privacy and convenience. With dining, shopping, and entertainment options in every direction, including Kierland, and the Scottsdale Quarter as well as easy access to SR 51 and Loop 101, you're never far from the best that Scottsdale has to offer. This remarkable home is not just a place to liveit's a backdrop for creating lifelong family memories.
12593 E Desert Cove Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$1,600,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,356
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750510
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome Home to this completely remodeled home in Sierra Foothills! Highly desired gated community with gorgeous mountain views. Step inside to the open concept layout featuring high ceilings with crown molding throughout. Gorgeous finishes were selected including wood look tile floors, white double stacked cabinets, quartzite countertops, marble showers and Restoration Hardware bathrooms vanities. This home also has an office with AV storage closet and media/theater room featuring a wet bar. A backyard that dreams are made of with waterfall featured pool, misting system throughout, luscious vegetation, outdoor kitchen, firepit, and grassy area. Located near BASIS, Mayo Clinic, hiking trails, golfing, this Arizona home can't be beat!
3623 E Arabian Drive
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$1,600,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,801
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769068
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Luxury retreat in Morrison Ranch! This energy-efficient 5-bed, 3.5-bath home features Tesla solar panels, power wall batteries, and an EV charger. The gourmet kitchen boasts Wolf and Subzero appliances, granite counters, and a walk-in pantry. Enjoy wood flooring, upgraded carpet, plantation shutters, and smart fans/blinds throughout. Stay connected with Cat 6 wiring, 8 speaker zones, and hard-wired security cameras. The heated/chilled pool and spa with waterfall, scuppers, and rain sheer, extended patio, gazebo, and gas fire pit are perfect for relaxing year round. Laundry room is equipped with sink, cabinets, washer/dryer. Garage includes service door, cabinets & epoxy floors. Located by the greenbelt and surrounded by single-story homes for added privacy. This home is truly a must-see! Continue upstairs and into the charming loft w/built-in bookshelves. End your busy day in the primary bedroom, showcasing a walk-in closet and a lavish ensuite w/dual vanities. Don't forget about the large den w/outdoor access, perfect for an office. Lastly, the wonderful backyard includes a covered patio, a lovely gazebo, fire pit, and a sparkling blue pool/spa combo. This is the opportunity of a lifetime, hurry and act now!
5225 E Whitton Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85018
$1,600,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,559
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6767461
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Quintessential Arcadia ranch home tucked on quiet street. Perfect remodel opportunity on a large lot with new builds selling $3.5 million and above in surrounding cul de sac. With a large front and back yard this 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home is the perfect family home. Light and bright open concept living, breakfast nook, and kitchen. With a wall of French doors, chef's kitchen includes custom cabinets, quartz counters, and eat-up kitchen island. Entertain family and friends in the backyard's custom pool with expanded pool deck, ramada, built-in BBQ, and sprawling grass yard. Split floor plan, bonus playroom/office and NY brownstone city feel in a sprawling Arcadia lot. Lots of upside and multiple offers anticipated. Walk or bike on the canal or drive minutes to reach Phoenix's top resorts, golf, hiking, dining, and shopping.