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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19702 W Elliot Road
Buckeye, AZ 85326
$849,999
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,920
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742176
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This expansive 4-acre property offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and freedom without the constraints of an HOA. Ideal for those with a passion for outdoor toys, RV(s), &/or horses. This property boasts a well-appointed 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-family home with 1920 sq. ft. of updated living space & 3-car garage, and a 40X80 workshop giving you ample space (3200 SQFT) for your toys and your latest projects. The highlight of this unique property is the rooftop balcony, where you can take in breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and cityscape. Equipped with both water and power, this elevated space is perfect for relaxation or entertaining under the stars. Prepare to be amazed by the open floor plan equipped with wood-look tile flooring throughout. Large family room offers a wet bar ideal for entertaining. Impeccable kitchen complete with recessed lighting, NEWER black SS appliances, plenty of crisp white cabinets, an island with a breakfast bar, and quartz counters. Make the flexible den a media room or additional lounging area. Main retreat boasts a walk-in closet and a private ensuite with a separate seating/office area. Enjoy views of the Estrella and White Tank Mountains throughout the kitchen and bedroom windows. This property is 1 of a kind. Don't miss it!
20230 E Escalante Road
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$849,999
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,700
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6707126
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Former Model Home w/ professionally cleaned tile and carpet! Perfect cul-de-sac home w/ 3 car garage & RV Gate. Elegant 2-Story complete with 2 Outdoor Entertaining areas, Mature Landscaping & Sparkling Pool. Custom Flooring, Wainscoting with Gorgeous Tile Work and Plantation Shutters throughout. 5 Oversized Bedrooms, Extra Office Room, 3 ½ Baths, and the Owners Retreat includes Tiled Walk-In Shower & Garden Tub, Raised Vanities and Oversized Walk-In Closet. The Chefs Kitchen complete w/ Stunning GE Café Stainless Appliances (w/gas stove), Staggered 36'' Maple Cabinets in a Creamy Dulce Glaze with Mesquite Granite Countertops. All appliances are included with Upgraded Pendants, Accessories, Hardware, Moldings, Trims, Ceiling Fans, Stereo & More! Professionally designed and move in ready
563 E Krista Way
Tempe, AZ 85284
$849,999
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,763
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6749302
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This elegant two-story home, situated in a desirable gated community of Coventry Tempe, offers modern design and thoughtful upgrades throughout. As you enter, the high ceilings create a sense of openness and light. The main floor features a large, open-concept kitchen with upgraded appliances, stylish cabinetry, and a generous island, making it ideal for both everyday entertaining. The well-planned layout includes a true five-bedroom, ensuring ample space for everyone, including 2 bedrooms and full bathroom downstairs. The primary suite is a comfortable retreat, featuring a spacious bathroom with matching designer tiles, dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a separate walk-in shower. Let's get you here!
15951 E Thistle Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$849,999
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,756
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6775306
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
***MOTIVATED SELLER, MAJOR PRICE REDUCTION!*** Welcome to the pinnacle of Arizona living in this stunning, fully remodeled haven nestled in the tranquil community of Fountain Hills, renowned for its dark sky designation. Boasting breathtaking views of the majestic McDowell Mountains and the snow-capped peaks of Four Peaks during winter, this residence offers a perfect blend of modern elegance and natural beauty. Spanning nearly 2,800 square feet, the open floor plan is designed to showcase the spectacular desert vistas from virtually every angle. As you enter, you will be drawn into the heart of the home, where a sophisticated ambiance awaits. The remodeled kitchen is a culinary dream, featuring oversized quartz countertops, sleek stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet space, providing everything you need to inspire your inner chef. The thoughtful design seamlessly integrates functionality and style, making cooking a joyous experience. The home includes three generously sized bedrooms, each offering magnificent views and abundant natural light. The primary bedroom is a true retreat, beautifully remodeled to enhance comfort and luxury, complete with a stunning ensuite bathroom that features upscale tile work, elegant cabinetry, and convenient laundry facilities for your daily ease. The guest bath has also been tastefully updated, maintaining the same high standards of quality and design. Enjoy added convenience with a secondary laundry area located in the garage. Step outside to discover two levels of expansive patio space, perfect for entertaining or relaxing while immersed in the stunning desert landscape. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pool, soak in the warm Arizona sun, or simply unwind while enjoying the unparalleled vistas that envelop you. This home has been meticulously maintained and updated, with a new roof installed in 2020 and upgraded AC units in 2022, ensuring years of worry-free enjoyment for its fortunate new owners. Don't miss the chance to embrace the ultimate Arizona lifestyle in this exceptional residence. Prepare to be captivated by its beauty and charm in this enchanting desert sanctuary!
23379 N 73rd Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$849,999
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,373
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765737
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Stunning newer townhome in gated Pinnacle at Silverstone features two outdoor living spaces sure to impress! Chef's kitchen boasts warm cabinetry, quartz counters, premium appliances, filtered water, and an enormous island perfect for entertaining. Open great room leads to a charming paver patio with a wall of telescoping glass doors and remote-controlled screen. Half bath and mud room just off the garage. Upstairs you'll find a spacious primary with walk-in closet and ensuite with double sinks, step-in shower, soaking tub and water closet. Two secondary bedrooms, full bath, second floor laundry and bonus space/office. Enjoy 360-degree views of remarkable Arizona sunsets, surrounding mountains, and city lights from your private rooftop terrace. Community pool, spa, BBQ, workout facility.
7088 W Redbird Road
Peoria, AZ 85383
$849,995
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,915
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6754568
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome home to beautiful Aloravita situated between two mountain preserves! Over $175,000 in builder options & owner upgrades were put into this stunning 5 Bed 4.5 Bath + Office/Den & BONUS Room boasts a generous 3,915 s/f on a corner lot. BEDROOM & FULL BATH DOWNSTAIRS! Built in 2021 with a 3 Car Garage. Gourmet kitchen w/ large island, quartz counters, butler pantry + additional large pantry. Family room w/ gas fireplace & formal dining room. Custom banisters to spacious upstairs w/ huge BONUS ROOM. Wood-look tile & upgraded carpet/pad throughout. Quartz countertops in all bathrooms! Lg Master w/ beautiful mountain views open to spacious bath. Bedroom upstairs with private bath! Professionally installed LED lighting and MUCH MORE!
29122 N 146th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$849,990
3
Beds
3
Baths
1,637
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6706800
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
THIS GORGEOUS DESERT OASIS AWAITS YOU! Over 1 Acre, split floor plan, horse property, with a guest house, sparkling pool, amazing waterfalls, built in BBQ, RV gates and so much more! Drive up to the beautifully desert landscaped front and backyard with pavers to a 2 car garage and extended double set of RV gates. Walk in the front door to a open concept living with vaulted high ceilings, a neutral contemporary palette, high end fixtures, upgraded tile flooring and a stunning electric fireplace. The designer chef kitchen features granite counters, espresso soft close cabinets and drawers, SS appliances, walk-in pantry, tile backsplash and a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom boasts panoramic doors to the backyard, large walk-in closet, double sinks and a private toilet room. The guest rooms offer stunning sunrise views and a jetted walk in tub and sit down shower for the second bath. The casita offers another bedroom with an additional 3/4 bath and a slider that opens to the awesome backyard patio, built in BBQ and beautiful backyard oasis. Don't forget the landscaped yard comes with a covered patio, travertine deck, soothing above ground spa that conveys with the home and a separate gated doggie door and pet area off to the side of the house. Inside laundry with extra storage and washer and dryer also convey with the sale. Come out today to see everything this amazing home has to offer you already as well as all of the additions you could add to give it your own personal touch!
13190 W Horsetail Trail
Peoria, AZ 85383
$849,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,304
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753632
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover luxury living in this stunning Northpointe home! This 3-bed, 2.5 bath gem sits on an elevated lot with outstanding views. The updated gourmet kitchen features quartz and granite countertops, custom cabinetry and top-tier appliances, perfect for any chef. Soaring 12-foot ceilings elevate the spacious family and dining rooms, complemented by a striking stackstone entertainment wall.The primary bedroom boasts a custom Stackstone accent wall, adding rustic charm. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living with a grand patio, and park with ease in the spacious three-car garage. The iron front door adds a touch of elegance to this incredible home!
22678 E Pegasus Parkway
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$849,990
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,623
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6732024
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. Located in an exclusive gated enclave within the vibrant Harvest community, the Enchantment series offers a prime location near swimming pools, a catch-and-release lake, and a park. It provides a quiet retreat close to shopping and entertainment. The well-appointed kitchen, featuring a large island and pantry, is perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Additionally, there's a full guest suite with a living room, ideal for visitors or permanent guests. Don't miss this opportunity.
22608 E Stacey Road
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$849,990
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,203
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6732029
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. Welcome to the Enchantment series, situated in the exclusive gated area of the desirable Harvest community. Perfectly located across from swimming pools, a catch-and-release lake, and a park, this home offers a tranquil escape while remaining close to shopping and entertainment. The oversized kitchen, island, and pantry cater to all your entertaining needs, while the expansive L-shaped patio is an entertainer's dream. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity.
5535 W St Moritz Lane
Glendale, AZ 85306
$849,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,106
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6762300
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Ready Now!! Near all the amenities and park area. 4 Bedrooms, bonus room, with with 16ft slider, Granite counter tops, 42'' Dayton Birch Flagstone Cabinets with black hardware, Subway tile backsplash, gourmet collection gas appliances, wood look tile and upgraded carpets!! Great sized backyard with covered patio to enjoy. Just steps away from all the amazing amenities Legends has to offer.
18909 W Indianola Avenue
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340
$849,990
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,781
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777325
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience tranquil luxury in this stunning 4-bed, 2.5-bath home, featuring a spacious open floor plan & elegant vaulted ceilings. Nestled on over an acre, the backyard is a true sanctuary designed for ultimate relaxation. Located in a quiet, upscale gated community, this home boasts a bright, inviting kitchen that seamlessly opens to a spacious great room, as well as a formal living area, perfect for both daily living & entertaining. The versatile bedroom or office space offers abundant natural light & privacy. Retreat to the primary suite, complete w/ a garden tub, separate shower, & a walk-in closet all part of an ideal split floor plan for added privacy. Step outside onto a full-length covered patio, leading to a beautiful pergola & a custom pool that invites you to unwind.