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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10356 E Chia Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,775,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,758
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6710878
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Contemporary Gem in Desert Mountain offering stunning sunset & mountain views. Optional LIFESTYLE Membership available to transfer at COE at Buyer's expense. Charming gated entry welcomes you to a courtyard colonnade leading to a beautiful resort patio with pool & spa. The main home is a SINGLE LEVEL (no steps) open plan with fresh clean lines & contemporary finishes. It is flanked by the pool patio plus an additional covered patio with a generous overhang & artificial grass accents that's perfect for entertaining. Detached casita features a sitting area, kitchenette, dry sauna plus roof-top deck sporting panoramic views & its own garage. New stylish pendants & chandeliers throughout ~ not in photos. Additional bonus room in main home offers flexibility. Desert Mountain is a prestigious gated community in Arizona's wealthiest zip code offering 7 golf courses, 7 clubhouses with swimming, tennis, pickle ball and work out facilities. There are also 20+ miles of private hiking trails in a 3,000 preserve backing to the Tonto National Forest. Home is ready to be shown by appointment only. More photos to follow.
11415 E Dreyfus Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$2,775,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,612
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6555062
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Modern luxury audiophile home perched high on a rare hillside Ancala lot nestled into the luxurious hills of North Scottsdale's most sought-after golf community. From your negative edge pool, enjoy the cool sunset breeze, and watch the twinkle of the city lights blend with the desert starscape. Impress friends & family with a functional & fun floorplan, room for 3 cars, fine finishes, top-of-the-line appliances, stonework, wood paneling, 4 fireplaces, 2 wet bars, & private bathrooms for every bedroom. From your smartphone transform the lower-level into an immersive audio-visual adventure in opulent sound, operate interior & exterior audio systems, mood lighting, window shades, cameras, televisions, door locks, & more. It's all user-friendly & supported by your own personal system advisor.
26924 N 35th Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85083
$2,750,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,776
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6741410
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW HOME TO BE BUILT!!! Wake up in the home of your dreams! Collaborate with Arizona's most acclaimed architects and planners to create a new way of living in North Phoenix. Nestled just north of Happy Valley, this 4,776-square-foot property offers breathtaking mountain and city light views within the prestigious gated community of Deem Hill Estates. This luxurious home includes an 875-square-foot guest suite, complete with a kitchen, living area, full bath, laundry room, and separate garage. The main house features an expansive master suite with a huge walk-in closet, two bedrooms with Jack and Jill bath and walk-in closets, a separate office, and a mudroom. The second floor boasts a spacious concept room with a walk-in closet and full bath. Experience unparalleled elegance and comfort in this exclusive hillside community. Seamlessly transition from indoors to a resort-style outdoor space via multi-slide doors, where a shimmering pool, state-of-the-art BBQ, chic bar, firepit, and a cozy gas fireplace await. For peace of mind, it's pre-wired for security and cameras. Just moments away from schools, exclusive shopping, and the renowned TSMC facility.
11901 S 71st Street
Tempe, AZ 85284
$2,750,000
5
Beds
5
Baths
6,300
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6769184
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream estate nestled in one of the most sought after ranchette communities in the southeast valley. This stunning Tuscan villa exudes elegance with no detail overlooked. From the gated courtyard and grand entry to the spa-like primary suite, every feature makes this home a perfect retreat. An open-concept great room with soaring ceilings and exposed wood beams connects seamlessly with dining and gathering areas. The gourmet kitchen boasts Viking appliances, custom cabinetry, and oversized island perfect for entertaining. Outside, your private oasis is complete with a waterpark featuring heated pool, waterfall, slide and splash pad. Gather on travertine patios or under the gazebo with built-in BBQ. This estate is a must-see offering unparalleled luxury and craftsmanship. Additional Features: Kitchen: dishwasher, pot filler, built-in Viking Professional appliances including refrigerator, double oven, cooktop, & microwave. Interior Upgrades: Pella windows and doors, steam shower, walk in closet by Classy Closets, travertine tile, new water softener, bonus downstairs kitchen, butler's pantry, & solid alder interior doors. Exterior Upgrades: radiant barrier roof, new pool pump, Pentair pool equipment - with remote operation, exterior trim lights, garage epoxy floors, outdoor kitchen, greenhouse, keypad entry, flood irrigation, citrus orchard, & raised bed gardens.
28080 N 101st Street Unit 116
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,750,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,846
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6696862
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Enjoy the luxury of the LaScala Terracina home, located in the prestigious Estancia community with prime southeast exposure. This residence features a sophisticated office space and a custom-built entertainment cabinet. The patio is equipped with a spa and a gas grill for optimal relaxation and entertaining. The home showcases a classic European design, highlighted by meticulous attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials and finishes. Estancia offers residents exclusive amenities, including a championship golf course, state-of-the-art fitness center, and private access to hiking trails. The gated community ensures privacy and security, making it a perfect sanctuary for those seeking a luxurious and peaceful living environment.
6005 N 64th Place
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$2,750,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
2,963
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6755796
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain, this charming 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home with NO HOA offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comfort. With nearly 3,000 square feet of living space, the thoughtfully designed layout includes separate living and family rooms, stone flooring throughout, and cozy carpeting in the bedrooms. A charming fireplace in the living room adds to the home's warm ambiance, while ceiling fans throughout ensure year-round comfort. The lush backyard is a true desert oasis, featuring mature landscaping, an above-ground spa, and unobstructed views of Camelback Mountain. The low-maintenance yard allows for easy care, while the recently resurfaced pool (2022) invites you to cool off and relax. This home has been meticulously maintained with a new AC installed in 2021 and a fully updated roof in 2014, offering peace of mind. Recently painted and move-in ready, this Paradise Valley gem is the perfect retreat with easy access to hiking trails, breathtaking views, and modern convenience.
5741 N 38th Place
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$2,750,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,671
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6753536
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This Paradise Valley home offers stunning 360-degree views of Camelback Mountain, downtown Phoenix lights, and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, all complemented by modern upgrades throughout. The property includes a main house and an attached guest house, perfect for hosting visitors or extended stays. The open-concept living room features a wall of windows that bathe the space in natural light, anchored by a cozy fireplace. The chef's kitchen is outfitted with stainless steel appliances, a skylight, an eat-in area, and a formal dining space. The primary suite serves as a peaceful retreat with private backyard access, dual vanities, and a full bath. Designed for seamless indoor/outdoor living, the backyard is a true desert oasis, complete with a custom pool, expanded deck, covered patio, and lush desert landscaping that ensures privacy. Multiple seating areas provide ample room for lounging and entertaining. Situated in a highly desirable, private neighborhood, this home is just minutes from world-class resorts, golf courses, fine dining, and shopping. A rare gem, this property embodies the essence of luxury living in Paradise Valley.
18720 N 101st Street Unit 2006
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,750,000
2
Beds
3
Baths
2,752
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6718632
Property Type
Apartment
Price Type
--
**NEW-CONSTRUCTION** The best opportunity to be inside the gates of Silverleaf at a competitive price. ICON at Silverleaf offers an unlimited lifestyle with the lock-and-leave luxury of exceptional single-story flats amid the incomparable beauty of Arizona's McDowell Mountains. This rare and unique offering of spacious, open-concept residences affords the very best of all possible worlds, close to the cosmopolitan conveniences of affluent North Scottsdale, yet secreted within the pristine privacy of the Sonoran Desert behind the gates of the truly iconic upscale private resort community of Silverleaf.
7740 E Santa Catalina Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,750,000
5
Beds
5
Baths
5,371
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774091
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover your dream home in the heart of the Sonoran Desert! This beautifully appointed property offers a perfect blend of modern elegance and timeless charm.The recently updated Gourmet Kitchen boasts new cabinets '' Vittara Crystal'' Quartzite countertops with a waterfall island along with Sub-Zero, Wolf, Cove and Scotsman appliances.This meticulously designed and maintained home has an expansive outdoor living area with a sparkling pool, hot tub and putting green, perfect for entertaining or unwinding. Located in a very desirable neighborhood with top-rated schools, parks and dining options nearby, this home is perfect for families or anyone seeking a vibrant community.
16122 E Tombstone Avenue
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$2,750,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
3,435
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6659474
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Backing to FireRock Country Club #14 tees and fairway, this new contemporary SW home is the ultimate setting for entertaining. Featuring a 460 ft casita, pool, spa and full-size RV garage, the home is perched on over a half-acre. Completion expected October, 2024. The very open and large Great Room features 16' X 10' stacking slider doors to views and a 60' electric fireplace. The kitchen features a 10' island, offers Shaker style cabinetry to 10' height, SS Frigidaire Pro Series appliances w/full size refrigerator and freezer plus a 139-bottle wine captain. All bedrooms are large and fully suited to custom closeting, plus a den/office. The Casita features a private bedroom plus a hospitality area. The large 5+ car garage features an RV bay with 14' door and 16' ceilings.
2144 E San Juan Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85016
$2,750,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
3,480
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763200
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This stunning 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom home offers modern elegance in one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Phoenix. Featuring an open-concept layout, the gourmet kitchen includes high-end finishes, a large walk-in pantry, and a spacious island. The home boasts smart technology, built-in speakers, and a custom bar that opens to the backyard perfect for entertaining. The luxurious master suite includes a spa-like bath and a huge walk-in closet, with each bedroom offering its own private ensuite. Additional highlights include a three-car garage, RV gate, large backyard, and a prime location near the Biltmore Shopping Center and Biltmore Golf Club.
855 Distant Drums Road
Sedona, AZ 86336
$2,749,500
3
Beds
4
Baths
3,275
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6768405
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Live in TRANQUILITY w/ THE Absolute BEST VIEWS, BEST POOL, BEST SUNSETS in Sedona. Sellers live in main home & rent out the attached studio & detached casita for past 6 yrs ! This magical 2.4 acre site sides to National Forest w/ INFINITY POOL & 360 views. Full REMODEL 2012 of Main Home which features Great Room Living w/ true AZ Stone fireplace, Gourmet Kitchen w/ Massive Stainless Commercial Fridge/ New Induction Range. Main house which includes the studio boasts 2 Primary Suites & 2 bonus rooms/ 2.5 bth + in ground spa + additional hot tub. Detached Casita TO DIE FOR! Offering Gr8 Rm w/14' ft ceilings & glass window walls + Murphy Bed, 1 bdrm, 2 bths, kitchen, wrap around VIEW DECK, & Hot tub. Multiple open and covered patios & decks to breathe in RED ROCK VIEWS & stargaze at night! End of road isolation that is 5 minutes to Dining, Shopping, Medical in West Sedona.