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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23680 N 168th Lane
Surprise, AZ 85387
$642,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,860
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781921
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MULTI-GEN LIVING SPACE!! 3-CAR GARAGE! Welcome to the epitome of modern elegance and spacious living in this Aurora floor plan, located in the desirable community of Asante in Surprise, AZ. This immaculate home features 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and an ADDITIONAL DEN area perfect for a teen wing or guest quarters. As you approach the home, you'll be struck by its stunning curb appeal and METICULOUS LANDSCAPING on a desirable corner lot. The PRIVATE COURTYARD entrance sets the tone for this beautiful home. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by an abundance of natural light pouring in from the TWO LARGE SLIDING DOORS in the Great Room and Dining Area, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Every window in the hoam showcases gorgeous PLANTATION SHUTTERS! ... The open concept layout seamlessly connects the living area, dining area, and kitchen, making it ideal for entertaining or a busy household. Holiday cooking will be easy in this sleek kitchen that boasts GRANITE COUNTERTOPS, stylish cabinetry, a large island, and modern stainless steel appliances. The home features THREE FULL BATHROOMS, each with their own unique design and luxurious finishes. The primary suite is a peaceful retreat, complete with a SPA-LIKE WALK IN SHOWER, dual sinks, and spacious dual closets. Nestled between two bedrooms split from the primary suite, the den area offers a versatile space for a teen wing or entertainment zone for guests. Practical features such as EPOXY GARAGE FLOORING and ATTACHED GARAGE STORAGE make organizing and storage a breeze. Step outside into the BEAUTIFULLY MANICURED YARD, with mature trees and low maintenance turf, providing a serene outdoor space for relaxation and gatherings. This home has been meticulously maintained and is move-in ready, offering a high-quality living experience in the vibrant Asante community. Don't miss the opportunity to make this your dream home.
3609 W Summit Walk Drive
Anthem, AZ 85086
$642,500
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,663
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768388
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
REDUCED FOR FAST SALE Best in class Majesty Model, outstanding features abound... Shows like a model. New paint and new wood look tile floor throughout. Great Kitchen with Granite Counters and Huge Island, new gas range, upgraded pullout cabinets and large pantry. From the private gated courtyard entry this home shows like a model! Main bedroom features great walk-in closet, and an upgraded bath with Separate tub and shower and his and hers vanities. This open floorplan features a huge kitchen over-looking the family room. The family room has surround sound in place. A great home office looks out on to the private gated courtyard and make this one of Anthem's best! Did I mention completely paid off solar system...
17134 W Hackamore Drive
Surprise, AZ 85387
$642,456
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,660
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776830
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6776830 February Completion! Experience true multigenerational living with the Zion plan at Asante! Step through the welcoming porch into the foyer. To one side, discover a private multi gen suite featuring a bedroom, a dedicated living area, bathroom, a one-car garage, and a separate entry from the outside as well as into the main home. In the main home, you'll find a formal dining area, a powder room, a laundry room, and entry to your two-car garage. At the heart of the home, a spacious great room seamlessly connects to a kitchen with an island, casual dining space, and covered outdoor living area. Tucked away in the back, the primary suite offers a spa-inspired bathroom and a large walk-in closet—your perfect retreat. Structural options include: paver front porch, garage service door, exterior door at primary suite, interior door at mulit-gen living, super shower in primary and pre plumb for laundry sink.
21048 E Arroyo Verde Drive
Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$642,031
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,198
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766872
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't Miss Out on this CLOSE OUT & FINAL OPPORTUNITY for this beautiful inventory home located in desirable Hastings Farms. Plus Builder/Lender Financing Incentive Available when financing with builder's preferred lender(s) of up to $25K towards closing costs or interest rate buydown. Located close to Queen Creek Marketplace Shopping, Dining & Entertainment, this Community has Parks, Soccer Field, Basketball Courts, & 8-Mile Walking Trail. This Beautiful Cul-De-Sac home backs to 8-Mile Walking Trail with no homes behind! Beautiful upgrades include Smoke cabinets, Gourmet Stainless Gas Cooktop, Double Wall Ovens w/Microwave, Quartz Kitchen Countertop, Tiled Kitchen Backsplash, Plank Tile Flooring, & Window Blinds. Final Chance to Own Backing to the Trail! Don't Wait, See This Home Today.
35612 N Lodestone Drive
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$642,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,433
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779171
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful Toll Brothers home! This brand new 2024-built residence has been thoughtfully upgraded throughout. Offering 4 beds, 2.5 baths, 3-car garage, & a low-care landscape. Home exudes elegance with stylish light fixtures, tall ceilings, wood-look tile flooring in common areas, Berber carpet in bedrooms, a neutral palette, and tons of natural light. You'll love the open layout paired with sliding doors to the back! The gourmet kitchen features quartz counters, tile backsplash, and a large island w/breakfast bar. The walk-in pantry & gray shaker cabinetry ensure ample storage. The owner's suite has an ensuite with dual quartz sinks & a walk-in closet. Outback, you have artificial turf and a covered patio to relax or enjoy BBQ. Just WOW
549 W Sweet Shrub Avenue
Queen Creek, AZ 85140
$642,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,317
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6741014
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This large, beautiful 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom Fulton home located in Ironwood Crossing features an extended 306 square foot balcony with private master access and mountain views, view fencing to the greenbelt, no neighbors behind, a SUPER-SIZED 4.5 car garage, SOLAR PANELS that will be PAID IN FULL by sellers at closing, artificial turf, LIME & RUBY GRAPEFRUIT trees. Interior has new carpet and paint, wood tile flooring, Havana tile stairs with iron scroll railing, 2'' faux wood blinds, dual pane low-e windows, paneled doors and closets, ceilings fans and lots of storage space throughout! Surround sound speakers installed in family room.Spacious gourmet kitchen has a large island, granite counter tops, extended maple cabinets with 3 crown molding, recessed lighting, under mount stainless steel sink, and stainless steel appliances, and new convection stove top. There is a GAS STUB at the cook top! Master bedroom has views of the lush greenbelt overlooking the backyard, private sliding door to the balcony, a HUGE closet AND bathroom with an extra long counter, double sinks, and a Graniterra garden tub/separate shower. The spacious loft is central to the upper level living area and is a flex space for office, entertainment, whatever suits you! The 5th bedroom is located downstairs and has access to the all bathroom just one door down. Brand new water heater! Solar is owned and will be paid in full at closing. Soft water loop already installed. 210 breaker box professionally installed for an above ground pool! Gas available at cooktop, dryer, and BBQ! Home is turnkey ready with all appliances conveying, including washer/dryer/fridge! Platinum Plan warranty will be provided by sellers through Select Home Warranty. Sellers can paint accent walls and kitchen to match rest of house if buyers desire. They will work with you! The aquatics center with a heated community pool and splash pad is nearby, as is Legacy Traditional Charter School. One of many playgrounds is just a few houses down the street. There are walking paths, parks with ramada covered picnic areas and gas grill throughout the community, basketball courts, and a soccer field!
1449 W Saddle Run
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$641,990
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,344
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6750835
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. The Casoria floor plan presents a sophisticated two-story layout featuring four bedrooms, an upstairs loft, and a versatile flex space perfect for an office, TV room, or study. Enhanced by professionally landscaped front yard, this home will be ready for occupancy in October or November. Ideally situated near community parks, grocery stores, and a variety of restaurants.
234 E Avenida Sierra Madre --
Gilbert, AZ 85296
$641,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,915
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6706250
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this charming Downtown Gilbert abode, a spacious sanctuary boasting 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. RV gate and NO HOA! Step inside to discover a modern haven where every detail exudes elegance. The heart of the home is the updated kitchen, featuring sleek countertops, stainless steel appliances, and an oversized island perfect for culinary creations and casual dining. Natural light pours in through large windows, illuminating the open-concept living and dining areas, creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings. Retreat to the tranquil master suite, complete with a luxurious ensuite bath and ample closet space. Outside, paradise awaits in the expansive backyard oasis. Dive into the sparkling pool on hot summer days or unwind on the large patio, ideal for al fresco dining and entertaining under the Arizona sky. Located in the vibrant Downtown Gilbert area, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, with trendy shops, eateries, and entertainment options just moments away. Embrace the epitome of suburban luxury in this impeccable residence.
24173 N 160th Avenue
Surprise, AZ 85387
$640,484
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,444
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765432
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MOVE IN READY, BRIGHT GREAT ROOM PLAN , QUICK CLOSE!! 5 BEDROOM PLUS LOFT, 4.5 BATH , 3 CAR GARAGE 9'CEILINGS, GOURMET KITCHEN LAYOUT, UPGRADE CABINETS , QUARTEZ KITCHEN TOPS, SPA SHOWER IN MASTER BATH, LUXURY VINYL FLOORING. 2'WHITE BLINDS, CEILING FANS, FRONT YARD LANSCAPING COMPLETED, ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED HOME, INDOOR AIR PLUS. A SHORT DISTANCE FROM THE COMMUNITY POOL AREA, PICNIC AREA, TOT LOTS, BASKETBALL, PICKLE BALL COURTSAND SO MUCH MORE
17126 W Hackamore Drive
Surprise, AZ 85387
$640,244
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,665
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6776842
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS#6776842 March Completion! Welcome to the Everglade at Asante Passage! Enter through the porch into a warm and inviting foyer. To one side, you'll find two bedrooms sharing a bathroom, while across the way lies a laundry room, an additional bedroom with its own bathroom, and access to the two-car garage. Move deeper into the home to uncover gorgeous open-concept living, where the great room seamlessly connects to a casual dining area, a kitchen with an island, and a covered outdoor space—perfect for entertaining. The private primary suite offers a serene retreat, complete with a spa-inspired bathroom and a spacious walk-in closet. Structural options include: paver front porch, 12'x8' sliding glass door, garage service door & study in lieu of bed 2.
3676 Gold Rush Court
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
$640,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,959
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6737439
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to 3676 Gold Rush Court! Located in a private corner of Wickenburg Ranch, this serene oasis features a stunning backyard with a calming water feature, mature plants and trees, a large stone rectangular fire pit, and dual glass walls in the great room and dining area. Remote-controlled shades with wind sensors and outdoor speakers enhance the ambiance, offering an exceptional outdoor living experience. This highly upgraded Nice floor plan boasts over $125,000 in original enhancements, with many additional improvements. These include new carpet in the bedrooms, ceiling fans throughout, new stainless steel appliances, a glass shower door in the guest bathroom, extended patio pavers, a raised garden area, and a block wall with wrought iron fencing. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with a wall oven and microwave, gas range, pullout shelves, a recycle center, granite countertops, and pendant lights. The extra-large laundry/smart space features a built-in sink, cabinets, and a desk. All window coverings operate both top-down and bottom-up for optimal comfort and lighting. The garage is complete with an epoxy floor, built-in cabinets, a brand-new garage door, outdoor lights, and a water softener. This home offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience in one of Wickenburg's most desirable neighborhoods, where every detail is designed to enhance your living experience.
134 W Crimson Sky Court
Casa Grande, AZ 85122
$640,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,132
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743294
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Exquisite, updated Coyote Ranch home on .38 acre with side entry 3 car garage, sparkling pool, plus Casita with bathroom and heat/cooling. Expansive chef's kitchen with upscale appliances. Great room with a gas fireplace. Split primary suite for owner privacy. Drive thru gate with RV storage slab with full hookups. Outdoor kitchen, fire-pit, citrus trees. An easement along the north lot line ensures no structures behind. Beautifully decorated and maintained.