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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14816 E Valley Vista Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$1,325,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,742
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743723
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
New Build from the Ground Up! Located on a cul-de-sac. This single-story new build home allows you to choose your finishes. This open floorplan showcases the protected easement behind the home with 8' windows and 12' ceilings. Select your finishes and build your dream home now.
21961 E Via De Arboles Street
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$1,320,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,196
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6770411
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Finally- the home where luxury meets modern comfort! This 4 bedroom home has an ADDITIONAL den as well as an office for a total of 6 rooms. A dreamy, spacious kitchen with two-toned kitchen cabinets, stunning quartz counters and upscale appliances. This popular Toll Brothers floor plan is designed with functionality for both relaxed living and stylish entertainment. The backyard features a sleek pool w/ an oversized baja step, a sunk-in trampoline, a fire-pit, raised garden beds, and an outdoor bbq area for year-round enjoyment. The location is ideal; sitting in a gated community that backs up to miles of the Queen Creek Wash walking trail while also being just a few minutes drive to downtown Queen Creek Marketplace place. Book your private tour today.
3137 E La Costa Court
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$1,320,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,514
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775639
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience luxury living in your dream home, nestled within an exclusive gated community in Gilbert with stunning mountain views. This elegantly designed residence boasts a split floor plan with expansive master suite, located on one side of the home, features beautiful wood floors, built-in surround sound, and access to the back patio. Indulge in the luxury of two spacious closets, an oversized bathroom with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a separate shower. The open-concept layout includes family room, dining area, and gourmet kitchen, fully equipped with Monogram appliances, including a 72'' refrigerator, dual dishwashers, a 6-burner cooktop with griddle and chef pantry. The family room, with gas fireplace, wood mantle and surround sound, offers the perfect space for entertainment. In addition to two spacious en-suite bedrooms, the home offers a versatile third bedroom that can easily function as an office. The generous laundry room provides space for dual washers and dryers or an additional freezer. Car enthusiasts will love the 4-car garage, complete with epoxy flooring, a new water heater, and an RV gate. Outside, the backyard oasis awaits, featuring a Pebble Tec pool with a cascading waterfall, an above-ground heated spa, and a built-in pergola with built in BBQ, surrounded by mature citrus trees and artificial turf offering the ultimate relaxation with picturesque mountain views.
13110 W Denton Street
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$1,320,000
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
5,055
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766234
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Grand Estate Living in Barrington Estates! Gorgeous sprawling 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom residence offers over 5000 square feet of luxurious living space with OWNED 52 panel SOLAR on a 3/4 acre corner lot in gated community. A complete renovation in 2020 is what sets this custom apart. Step inside and be greeted by a grand 20 ft high foyer entry with lovely staircase and custom railing. The spacious open floor plan seamlessly connects the great room, kitchen, and game room, creating an ideal space and flow for entertaining. The kitchen's centerpiece is a custom quartzite slab island with seating for six, and the butler pantry allows for convenient storage and serving. The private downstairs EnSuite will be loved by guests or loved ones.Retreat to the tranquil MORE... primary suite with an adjoined private paneled office & walk-out deck overlooking the backyard oasis. The spa-like primary bath features an elegant free standing soaking tub, a separate clear glass shower, and his-and-hers walk-in closets. As stunning as the interiors of this home are, what's on the outside truly epitomizes Arizona living. Enjoy endless outdoor recreation with a private 34'x60' pickleball/basketball court, a resort-style heated pool & spa that is shaded in late afternoon by a 20x20 ramada, an expansive travertine wrap around patio, and custom outdoor kitchen. Additional features include a 19x21 bonus theater or billards room, 4-car epoxy extended length garage, and RV gate leading to your future detached out building. The sellers had drawings rendered for their future detached casita and are included in the sale. This estate is located minutes away the world-renowned Wigwam Golf Resort. Come experience!
5401 E Corrine Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$1,320,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,889
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775108
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your new home in the highly sought-after 85254 zip code! This well maintained, clean 5-bedroom, 3-bath residence spans 2889 sq ft on an expansive 1/3+ acre interior lot. No HOA! The backyard features a sparkling diving pool, dual hot tubs (in-ground and above-ground), a charming outdoor fireplace, and lots of shaded areas complete with a patio, gazebo and pergola. Perfect for entertaining or relaxation. Ideal for multigenerational living with a private suite that includes its own entrance and full bathroom. Conveniently located just 1 mile from the new PV Mall and close to the 101 & 51 freeways, blending Scottsdale's prestige, Paradise Valley's top schools, and Phoenix's affordable taxes. Impeccably clean and truly move-in ready - this home is waiting for you!
630 W Echo Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85021
$1,319,500
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,442
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6649400
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into this gorgeous home conveniently tucked in a gated enclave of boutique semi-custom homes in an amazing location w/in the popular Phoenix Central Corridor. The open kitchen + great room concept has soaring 22ft ceilings, featuring a Chef's dream kitchen w/ full slab island, 6-burner gas cooktop & oven, dedicated ice maker, wine fridge, & spacious walk-in pantry. The luxurious master suite is on the main level w/ an expansive walk-in closet, dual vanities, & beautiful shower / tub combination. The split floor plan has an upper level w/ 3 oversized bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, generous laundry room, multi-use loft, & 2 balconies. The backyard is an entertainer's paradise w/ a large covered patio, low maintenance synthetic lawn, & sparkling heated pool & spa w/ mountain views (MORE) plenty of room to roam for both kids & pets. Additionally there is a 3-car tandem garage with builtin EV charger. The home is also conveniently positioned close to restaurants, shopping, entertainment and easy freeway access. Don't wait!
28217 N 139th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$1,315,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,281
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774444
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Living in the desert offers a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. This home, with its large east-facing windows, is perfect for enjoying stunning sunrises over the Four Peaks, while sunsets can be admired from the rooftop deck. Located just 10 minutes from Tonto National Forest and numerous trailheads, it's ideal for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The yard often welcomes wildlife such as eagles, owls, and hummingbirds. Enjoy the pool for relaxation and stargazing at night. The yard features fruit trees, a raised garden, and low-maintenance irrigation. With efficient cooling systems and friendly neighbors, it's a peaceful and convenient place to live, close to great dining, shopping, and recreational spots like Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, and golf courses.
3119 E Tremaine Avenue
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$1,315,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,950
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6710790
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Prepare to be amazed! Check out fully remodeled 4 bed, 3 bath horse property now on the market! Nestled on an oversized 1 acre lot w/lush grass, mature shade trees, and a 2-car side garage w/built-in cabinets. Discover a spacious open floor plan w/elegant wood-look flooring, recessed lighting, a lovely bay window, plantation shutters, neutral palette throughout, and a fireplace to keep you warm during the winter months. The fabulous kitchen is comprised of white cabinetry w/quartz counters, a pantry, tile backsplash, a farmhouse sink, stainless steel appliances, and an island complete w/a breakfast bar. Lovely AZ room can work as a sitting area or a dining room! End your busy day in the primary bedroom, boasting vaulted ceilings and a lavish ensuite w/dual sinks & a sliding barn door. Laundry room offers lots of storage space and a convenient utility sink. The expansive backyard includes a covered patio, extended seating area, and a sparkling blue pool! This home is also equipped for horse keeping, including numerous stalls, a corral, and arena! Your new home is waiting for you, act now!
2945 W Trail Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$1,315,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,107
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6693685
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This fantastic, 3100+ SF, single story custom home in North Phoenix is a must see! Acre lot at the end of a cul-de-sac, NO HOA, great views & loads of fabulous upgrades, including travertine flooring, 10 ft. ceilings, gourmet kitchen w/ double ovens, Wolf induction cooktop, granite countertops, wine fridge, island w/ sink & lots of storage space! Gas fireplaces in both the spacious family room featuring soaring 14 ft. beamed ceiling, and the primary suite boasting of a snail shower, spa tub, dual sinks & walk-in closet! 2 new AC units, 3-car garage and a separate 1100 SF RV garage/shop with AC & 1/2 bath! Fully landscaped desert front & back yards with w/ oasis like custom pool, putting green, huge covered patio w/ grill area and more to see including the amazing mountain views!! Just minutes to Tramonto, Anthem, EZ freeway access and less than 30 minutes to Lake Pleasant!
10445 W Navigator Lane
Peoria, AZ 85383
$1,310,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,231
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6660063
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Estimated completion 14 months from contract. New community by Canavest Group with each lot having the ability to be fully customizable to your liking and finishes to your selection. Ironwood Estates in Peoria, AZ offers a luxurious living experience in a serene desert setting. This fully improved exclusive 6 lot community features spacious single-family homes with modern amenities and high-end finishes. With 4 lots ½ acre and 2 lots ¾ acres residents can enjoy stunning mountain views, beautifully landscaped yards, and access to community parks and walking trails. With its convenient location near shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Ironwood Estates provides the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for those seeking a sophisticated lifestyle in the heart of Peoria
32853 N Bell Road
Queen Creek, AZ 85144
$1,300,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,637
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6735331
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into your own private oasis on over 2+ acres of pristine land. This brand new home, completed in 2023, offers a unique blend of luxury and comfort. The Jack & Jill bathroom is perfectly designed to cater to the needs of any family. The property boasts dual RV storage in a spacious 40x40 garage, complemented by a separate four-car garage. No expense was spared in crafting the backyard into a true masterpiece. Enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the mountains, including the nearby San Tan Mountains with their inviting walking trails. Dive into the stunning 9-foot deep, pebble tech pool, surrounded by lush artificial turf. Entertain in style under the charming gazebo. This exquisite retreat is a rare opportunity to embrace elegance and tranquility in one perfect package.
32278 N 168th Avenue
Surprise, AZ 85387
$1,300,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,630
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6741875
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This custom Modern Farmhouse features 4 bedrooms and 3 ½ baths, including an office, and boasts a 2-car garage along with a large RV garage on a lot exceeding 1 acre. The home includes a massive great room with a fireplace, a large chef's kitchen equipped with upgraded energy-efficient appliances, electric and propane gas hookups, and custom cabinets with a large island. The kitchen also features a walk-in pantry with cabinets and a water hookup for a portable ice machine. A separate laundry room with a sink and space for an additional refrigerator with a water hookup. The primary bathroom includes a fireplace, a separate walk-in shower with custom tile, a luxury sit-in tub, his and her vanities, and a large walk-in closet. Each bedroom has a walk-in closet, with one bedroom featuring a Jack & Jill bathroom and the others having a separate bathroom. Custom tile is laid throughout the home, including the bathroom tub and shower surrounds, which also feature upgraded faucets. The home also features an electric tankless water heater with the option to switch to gas/propane. The entry door is a large, custom-iron secure door. Additionally, the home has a full-back covered patio with bifold doors. This home is adorned with upgraded light fixtures throughout, including a large chandelier at the entry. The lot is enclosed with block wall fencing surrounding the premises.