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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16455 W Avenida Del Sol --
Surprise, AZ 85387
$567,995
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,480
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6682617
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
The Townsend has a gorgeous open floor plan with Guest Suite and 10' ceilings! Large Gourmet Kitchen with Quartz Countertops. Owners Suite has a deluxe Master Bath with Walk-in rain shower. Home is on a large lot in a secluded neighborhood. Home comes with paver driveway/walk way to entry. and is complete with stone front exterior on house! A Must See!!!!
16399 W Avenida Del Sol --
Surprise, AZ 85387
$567,995
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,506
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6702001
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the essence of luxury in this home featuring an upgraded gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, 42-inch cabinets, & expansive walk-in pantry. The spacious design includes 10-foot ceilings, staggered wood-look tile, and multi-slide patio doors that enhance the open, airy feel. The Primary suite bathroom features an upgraded shower with an added secondary rain shower head. Practicality meets style with 8-foot garage doors & paver driveway, offering ample space for storage and vehicles.
16372 W Avenida Del Sol --
Surprise, AZ 85387
$567,995
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,480
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6718700
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This home features a must have Guest Suite as well as dramatic 10' ceilings throughout and a tray ceiling at entry; a gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, 42'' cabinets, a spacious open great room with a multi-slide door; a beautiful primary suite with a generous walk-in closet. The walk-in shower features a rain shower head. This home offers stylish pavers at driveway/walkway.
935 Calle Azul --
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
$567,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,884
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6722019
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 4bed 2bath 2 car garage home with a large lot large patio RV gate with amazing views. Must see property in Wickenburg AZ.
8718 N 180th Drive
Waddell, AZ 85355
$567,250
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,548
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6715988
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss out on this beautiful Pulte home in a Great location! Easy access to the 303, I-10 and Luke Air Force Base. This home has an amazing floorplan with the master suite downstairs and 4 large bedrooms plus a huge loft upstairs. The nice sized lot backs to a greenbelt with mountain views from the backyard. You can take this all in while enjoying some quality time under the expansive covered patio. Some of the many wonderful features you will find inside include, granite countertops, an eat-in kitchen, tasteful neutral flooring and tons of storage space. The laundry room has ample space plus a utility sink. The 3 car garage features shelving and an epoxy floor. Come see it today. This one won't last.....
10221 S Bickwell Trail
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
$567,028
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,386
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6739939
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Experience the difference at Laurel at Blossom Rock! This stunning single-story Laredo design is currently under construction and features a spacious open-concept floorplan. The heart of the home includes an inviting kitchen with an island, seamlessly connected to a bright great room that opens to a private, covered outdoor living space. With 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a convenient drop zone right off the 3-car garage, this home offers both comfort and functionality. Plus, $49,000 in premium upgrades are already included, and special financing options are available. The home is expected to be completed by November. Living at Blossom Rock means embracing the outdoors with community parks, miles of scenic trails, beautiful lakes, and signature events. Nearby the Superstition Mountains.
2422 E Saint Anne Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85042
$567,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
2,599
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6743335
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this spacious 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom residence blends comfort, and modern living in the sought-after Arbor Subdivision. The spacious open floor plan seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas. The gourmet kitchen features stainless steel appliances, ample cabinet space, and a large island. The home boasts five generously sized bedrooms, with the primary suite offering dual sinks, dual walk-in closets, and an en-suite bathroom. Enjoy mountain views from the beautifully landscaped backyard with a large covered patio, turf, and pavers. Additional features include a loft, office, and two-car garage. Arbor Subdivision provides well-maintained common areas, parks, and walking trails. Check it out!
23852 N 167th Lane
Surprise, AZ 85387
$567,000
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,016
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6781319
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stunning Family Home with Private Outdoor Oasis This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and luxury, with an inviting front patio that welcomes you into a well-designed living space. As you step inside, you'll immediately appreciate the open, airy feel of the home with its modern finishes and thoughtful layout. The heart of the home features a beautifully kitchen that flows seamlessly into a cozy living room, making it perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The master suite is a true retreat, offering privacy and tranquility with its own ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet. Step outside to your own private paradise. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, with a heated pool complete with a tranquil water feature, ideal for relaxing or hosting summer gatherings. Enjoy outdoor cooking and dining with the built-in BBQ area, and when the sun gets too bright, simply extend the retractable awning for shade and comfort. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying a meal with family and friends, this outdoor space is perfect for creating lasting memories. With its ideal layout, stylish features, and amazing outdoor amenities, this home truly offers the best of both worlds indoor and outdoor luxury!
2398 W Arroyo Way
San Tan Valley, AZ 85144
$567,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,535
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6707047
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful single family home featured in popular community ''Morning Sun Farms' located in Queen Creek, AZ. This highly preferred [single level] home incorporates a subtle balance of contemporary finishes with a modern design. The home features 4 bedrooms, +Den/5th bedroom, 2.5 bath(s), 2,534 sq ft open concept floor plan, nicely appointed kitchen w/ granite countertops, large [eat-in] island, dual ovens, gas cooking, raised panel cabinetry, ss appliances, and walk-in pantry. Also, this home features large great room space, 9ft+ ceilings, tile flooring, modern plumbing/lighting fixtures [fans], dual pane [low-e] windows, 2'' wood faux blinds, designated dining space, and a dedicated master retreat featuring a spacious sleeping quarters, separate shower/tub, dual sinks, and large walk-in. closet. Lastly, the home features a 3-car tandem garage w/ new epoxy floors & built-in storage cabinets, and a private [resort style] backyard equipped with covered patio space, sparkling heated pool, built in BBQ [w/ dedicated gas line], mature landscaping, backyard wall raised for increased privacy, and separate RV gate --perfect for entertaining guests & family. Morning Sun Farms offers residents plenty of walking & bike paths, green spaces, and is just minutes away from great shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.
441 S Dodge Drive
Chandler, AZ 85225
$567,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,162
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6736916
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Fantastic location in the popular single level community in Kempton Crossing. Well maintained one owner 3BR 2BA plus large den, large kitchen with island and granite counter tops , breakfast nook, formal dining, formal living room and family room with gas fireplace, upgraded tile and wood flooring through out the home, Oversized lot with mature backyard and cover patio, 3 car garage, the home is one of a kind for the subdivision only one built, Kempton crossing is a unique community where all homes are single level with 7400 sqft minimum lot size, this home is the only one of its floor plan in the community, enjoy several nearby family parks with pickle ball courts, biking or walking along the canal and convenient close access to freeway and many stores.
34475 N Fortini Way
Queen Creek, AZ 85144
$566,610
5
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,937
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6748798
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
From AZ-24, take Ellsworth Rd, south. Make a right onto Thompson Pkwy. Turn left onto Tesota Way. The sales office will be on your right.
4901 W Hunter Trail
San Tan Valley, AZ 85143
$566,090
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,926
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778084
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Elite community with a lot of amenities! The perfect blend of functionality comes to life. This stunning home boasts 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, bonus space, office and walk-in closets, ensuring that there's room for everyone. The island takes center stage, serving as a social hub where family and friends can gather. Whether you're preparing a gourmet meal or enjoying a family breakfast, the kitchen is designed to be a culinary haven. dark cabinets, granite counter tops with a generous amount of wood look tile! Stepping outside, the 3-panel sliding glass door offers an additional living space that seamlessly extends the indoor experience. Each of our homes is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you enjoy more savings, better health, real comfort and peace of mind.