Case-Shiller: Home Price Growth Slows in May

CaseShillerAccording to the S&P Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index, home price growth in May dropped to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.20 percent as compared to April’s reading of 5.40 percent. Analysts said that low mortgage rates continue to support housing markets, but also noted that affordability due to rising home prices is sidelining some would-be buyers. High demand for homes coupled with slim supplies of available homes have driven prices up for months; analysts said that “tentative signs” of slower gains in home prices were seen.

New Home Sales Hit Highest Level Since 2008

David M. Blitzer, Chairman of S&P Dow Jones Indices, cited high home prices and sales of previously-owned homes as contributing factors to a healthy housing sector. Slower home price growth in high priced metro areas may indicate that home prices are topping out in cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle. With home prices out of reach in high demand metros, it’s likely that rampant home price growth seen in recent years will have to slow in spite of pronounced shortages of homes and high demand in many areas.

Building more homes is the only way to combat outsized competition for homes and astronomical home prices. According to the Commerce Department, June sales of new homes jumped to 592,000 as compared to an expected reading of 562,000 and May’s reading of 572,000 new homes sold on a seasonally adjusted annual basis. June sales of new homes were at their highest level since February 2008.

Rising Rents Increase Demand for Homes

The national average price for a new home rose to $306,700 in June, while the supply of available homes sank to 4.90 percent. Real estate pros typically consider a six-month supply of available homes a typical reading. 574,000 new homes were sold in the second quarter of 2016, which was 10 percent higher than the reading of 524,000 new homes sold in the first quarter of 2016.

A report on rental vacancies is due out on Thursday. Rapidly rising rents have recently contributed to higher numbers of first-time buyers looking to buy homes and could continue to strengthen demand for available homes.

3660 E Montecito Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

$449,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,289 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6614597
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
GORGEOUS REMODEL! Nestled in the popular Arcadia Villa Rey! This lovely home features BRAND NEW LVP flooring throughout, NEW top to bottom paint and a completely remodeled kitchen boasting wood cabinets, waterfall quartz counters , BRAND NEW stainless steel appliances and an open breakfast bar! Continue to the main suite, showcasing a beautiful remodeled en-suite, walk-in closet, & a separate outdoor access. ! Located in the very desirable Arcadia area. This gem will not last long!

2302 N Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85004

$449,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,277 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6599361
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
WOW! Simply-stunning complete REMODEL of gorgeous condo in historic Willo District with amazing views of downtown and the Valley! Spacious split-floorpan 2 bedrooms/2 baths + Den/Office. Bright, open all-new kitchen with beautiful cabinets, quartz countertops, and stainless-steel appliances including gas cooktop. Contemporary styling throughout with popular flooring and fixtures. Dramatic bathroom remodels for both bathrooms. Private patio with panoramic views of the Valley! High-end complex with 2 parking spots in underground garage, gated entrances, heated lap pool, fitness room, and more! Light rail station literally out the front door. Lots of restaurants, shops, and extremely close to the Heard & Phoenix Art Museums.This remodeled gem will give you the lifestyle you want!

5900 E Hickory Court Hereford, AZ 85615

$449,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,389 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6621675
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning views will take your breath away. Located in the gated community of Three Canyons. This beautiful home sits on a 1-acre lot, with almost 2400sqft of spacious living. There are 3 generous sized bedrooms plus a separate office with double doors off the foyer entrance. 2 baths; master offers a garden tub & walk-in shower. Great room with adorable built-in shelves, family room, & large kitchen w/stainless steel appliances. Oversized laundry w/cabinetry, countertop & closet. 3-car garage w/built-in shelving, workbench & water softener. Step out back through French doors to a large covered porch & extended patio. Fully fenced block wall w/RV & pedestrian gates. Incredible views of the majestic Huachuca Mountains. High Speed Internet is included in the annual HOA assessment.

12926 W Beechwood Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$449,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,454 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6635070
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't miss this desirable Castillo model now on the market. This 3-bedroom, 2 bath split bedroom floor plan has a great deal to offer. Laundry has been moved in from garage adding square footage and an office/craft area. No popcorn ceilings and no carpet in this house! There's plenty of outdoor living space with the front courtyard and the back covered patio. Back yard provides exercise & relaxation in one with its ''Endless Pool'' & Hot Tub combination! Located in the heart of Sun City West, this home is close to shopping, restaurants, golf and Rec Centers! Own this great home and begin enjoying all the amenities of Sun City West!