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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19301 N Ponderosa Court
Surprise, AZ 85387
$934,975
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,865
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750699
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning HAMPTON expanded to 2863 SF home with 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths! The entire interior was just painted! This home features a heated resort style pool and spa surrounded by a very large covered patio. The relaxing setting includes a firepit, built in grill with a counter and seating along with patio misting system and orange trees. Large kitchen with nook and island featuring upgraded cabinets with slideouts, water softener recently replaced, new oven, and shutters t/o. Large great room for entertaining plus a separate dining room. A true four bedroom home as the library/den was upgraded as a builder option. Full 3 car garage with four feet extension. Epoxy garage floors, and new furnace/ AC 2018. Also enjoy all the amenities that Sun City Grand offers! Many additional features including prime location, security doors, water softener, central vac, gas cooktop, reverse osmosis, expanded guest bedroom and much more.
19360 N 73rd Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$934,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,637
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6772942
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Belgravia Group presents Atavia, a private gated community featuring a collection of 88 luxury condominiums coming soon to North Scottsdale. Atavia blends the breathability of single-family living, featuring private entries and attached two-car garages, with the carefree convenience of condominium ownership. Designed by award-winning international architecture firm KTGY, Atavia redefines modern luxury living and includes a clubhouse inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic Taliesin West. Atavia is perfectly situated at the Loop 101 and Scottsdale Road and within the One Scottsdale masterplan development. Each exceptional home features a spacious outdoor terrace, Italian kitchen cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, 1 ¼'' quartz counters, and wood floors throughout main living areas.
19360 N 73rd Street Unit 1076
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$934,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,637
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784729
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
Belgravia Group presents Atavia, a private gated community featuring a collection of 88 luxury condominiums coming soon to North Scottsdale. Atavia blends the breathability of single-family living, featuring private entries and attached two-car garages, with the carefree convenience of condominium ownership. Designed by award-winning international architecture firm KTGY, Atavia redefines modern luxury living and includes a clubhouse inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic Taliesin West. Atavia is perfectly situated at the Loop 101 and Scottsdale Road and within the One Scottsdale masterplan development. Each exceptional home features a spacious outdoor terrace, Italian kitchen cabinetry, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, 1 ¼'' quartz counters, and wood floors throughout main living areas.
1261 E Cambridge Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85006
$932,999
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,618
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743054
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning 4-bedroom residence located in Phoenix is a dream come true! Fall in love w/an exquisite interior adorned with sleek tile flooring, a fresh soothing palette, dazzling light fixtures, a unique-style wine cellar, & plenty of natural light. Enjoy spending chilly evenings at home by the cozy fireplace in the family room! The gorgeous kitchen showcases granite counters, built-in appliances, a pantry, a stylish tile backsplash, modern white cabinets, & a large center island equipped w/a breakfast bar. The main retreat offers private outdoor access, a lavish ensuite w/dual vessel sinks, a delightful soaking tub, & a walk-in closet. Host fun gatherings in the fabulous backyard, featuring an open patio w/manicured landscape, built-in BBQ, & a charming firepit! This gem won't disappoint!
18211 W Sequoia Drive
Goodyear, AZ 85338
$932,500
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,570
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6757941
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Prepare to be impressed by this spectacular single-level TurnKey mostly Furnished home nestled on almost a 1/4 acre golf course lot at Estrella Mountain Ranch! This beauty showcases an exquisite façade with stone accents & desert vegetation. The elegant & sophisticated interior boasts a large, open floor plan complemented by tall ceilings, ceramic tile floors, stylish chandeliers, recessed lighting, and plantation shutters. The captivating living room comes with a built-in entertainment center equipped with a wall-mounted fireplace, the dining room allows unobstructed views of the backyard oasis, and the gourmet kitchen features staggered off-white cabinetry with crown molding, custom mosaic tile backsplash, black granite counters, SS appliances, and an oversized island with breakfast bar The primary suite has access to the back patio and hosts a lavish ensuite retreat comprised of a dual vanity, a sep-sin shower, and a bountiful walk-in closet. This spectacular layout includes a sizable den and an attached guest's quarter with a living room & a private bathroom. The stunning backyard is an entertainer's dream, offering a desert paradise with travertine flooring, an extended covered patio with a retractable lighted awning, a built-in grill, a meticulously maintained landscape with artificial turf, and a fabulous pool with a rain curtain. This gem is a rare find that won't last. Act now!
19042 E Tonto Trail
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$932,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,892
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6774283
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning Home with 180 degree view from Sunrise to Sunset with Mountain, Golf Course, and Desert Views. Welcome to your private dream retreat in Rio Verde's sought-after active adult community. Walking into this spacious open concept home, your eyes are drawn to the floor to ceiling windows, with million dollar view, large patio and heated salt water pool. A lovely southwestern charm home, saltillo flooring in kitchen, living, and dining, beautiful kitchen with custom Alder cabinets, two pantries with oversized island. Primary suite has two walk-in closets and a large walk-in shower. Guest suite has large walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. Tonto Verde golf membership is available for purchase. Owner Agent
3020 E Wethersfield Road
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$931,999
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,549
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6766358
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning mid-century modern home features over $150k in recent upgrades and sits on an oversized lot. Floor-to-ceiling and clerestory windows provide natural light and privacy. The open floor plan includes generous sized bedrooms and bonus spaces including a shop. The backyard is an entertainer's dream with new turf, concrete, massive diving pool, and a grand patio that are perfect for hosting. The completely remodeled 700 sq ft pool house with its own full bath and kitchenette can be used as a guest suite or additional income as it already has its own STR permit. Additional features include an expansive paved carport with an automatic gate, circular driveway, solar panels, ambient lighting throughout, and an EV charger. Don't miss the opportunity to own this unique resort-like home!
21601 W Mariposa Street
Buckeye, AZ 85396
$931,496
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,261
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780228
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW single level 4 bed, 3.5 bath plus study and tv room with 4 car garage; gourmet kitchen with waterfall island, upgraded shaker cabinets in white and buckskin; custom tiled backsplash, GE Monogram appliances, quartz countertops in kitchen and bath, upgraded plank tile flooring, owner's bath with super shower and huge walk-in closet with direct entry to utility room; entertainment size backyard with large covered patio; 2x6 constuction and EXTENSIVE NEW HOME WARRANTY
22820 S 204th Place
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$931,202
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,517
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749738
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6749738 Ready Now!! The Acadia is a spacious 2-story floor plan offering 4,517 sq. ft. with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a 3-car split garage, dining room, study, and game room. As the largest floor plan in the Ellsworth Ranch Voyage Collection, it's designed to be your perfect home. The foyer is the central hub, leading to the dining room, study, laundry, winding staircase, and the open-concept gathering room, kitchen, and casual dining area. The main-level primary suite features dual vanity sinks and his-and-hers walk-in closets. Upstairs, find secondary bedrooms and a versatile media room.
6801 N 4th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85012
$930,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,502
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769159
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Tucked away in the sought-after Villa Tercera Community, this beautifully remodeled home serves as a serene retreat while being conveniently close to local amenities. Highlights include a stunning high wood beam ceiling, charming arched windows, and a cozy beehive fireplace in the family room. The renovated eat-in kitchen boasts quartz countertops, shaker cabinets, an island with seating, and stainless steel appliances, complemented by stylish modern bathrooms. Additional updating includes newer windows and doors, skylights, a new A/C system with an added mini-split, fresh carpet in the bedrooms, and a resurfaced pool with a new pump, all set against an extended bricked patio area. This exquisite home combines an ideal location with exceptional features. And the backyard? It's perfect for for entertaining, whether you're soaking up the sun or enjoying a magical evening under the stars. The delicious Ruby Red Grapefruit tree out front will be a hit too. Could this be the one? Come and see for yourself. This is what the owners have to say about the home: This home offers a great balance of space and comfort. The light-filled great room with vaulted ceilings is ideal for gatherings, with easy access to the backyard patio for additional space when entertaining. We've hosted many events here, and the layout always feels open and welcoming. The living room is perfect for relaxing or catching up with friends, and the kitchen is well-designed for two people to cook together comfortably. The island also works as a casual spot for conversation while cooking. When the kids were still here, they had plenty of space in their bedrooms. With the east facing windows, they always feel light and bright. We've upgraded the master and living room closets, as well as the laundry room, to improve both functionality and appearance. The quiet and secure environment of the gated community adds a layer of peace and privacy. The location is convenient, with grocery stores, a gym, and restaurants close by. It's easy to support local businesses with everything you need just around the corner.
6827 N 4th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85012
$930,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,488
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6779658
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This exceptional Santa Fe style home in the gated Villa Tercera community offers a truly unique living experience. Step through the handcrafted gate into an enchanting botanical garden, complete with an infinity water feature by Ten Eyck Landscape Architects. Inside, you'll be greeted by a spacious great room with high ceilings and abundant natural light. The gourmet kitchen, designed by Sandra Evans of Knoell & Quidort, is a chef's dream, featuring top-of-the-line appliances and custom cabinetry. Both bathrooms have been tastefully updated with modern fixtures and finishes. This meticulously maintained home also boasts numerous upgrades, including a new roof, HVAC system, and water heater. Enjoy the prime location, just moments from Central Avenue's vibrant dining and entertainment
146 S La Barge Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$930,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,061
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6784519
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Become the proud owner of this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence on a sprawling 1-acre lot! Fantastic curb appeal boasting a charming circular driveway, a 3-car garage, a convenient RV gate, tasteful desert landscape, an inviting porch, and breathtaking mountain views. The serene living room features high ceilings, an earth-tone palette, classic plantation shutters, wood-look flooring, and a cozy fireplace for intimate evenings. Cook delicious meals in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with granite counters, custom wood cabinetry with crown moulding, pendant/recessed lighting, sleek stainless steel appliances, and an island with a breakfast bar for casual meals. The sizeable main bedroom includes a lavish ensuite with double sinks, a jetted tub, and a convenient walk-in closet. Enjoy majestic sunsets in the vast backyard, complete with a covered patio, stylish pavers, a sunken gazebo with a bar, a sparkling pool, and panoramic views. Make this gem yours!