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.

2682 N 158th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$460,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,824 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6665928
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Now here's a really nice home, situated on a cul-de-sac lot, and priced to sell. This is the ever-popular Newport model offering: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, office, open concept living and more. The main suite is spacious with roomy bath and built-ins in the closet. All tile floors thru-out. The lot is connected to common area, so there's no walls to make you feel closed in. This is a well-cared for home that will be sure to please.

17719 N 113th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85378

$460,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,934 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6663313
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the Gated Community of Canyon Ridge West! This stunning home offers privacy with no neighbors behind and boasts a sparkling pool with a soothing waterfall feature, along with a convenient RV gate and added parking for all your outdoor storage needs. Inside, vaulted ceilings with tubular skylights and neutral tile floors create a spacious ambiance. The flexible layout includes a private den and ample living space. New HVAC in 2024! *Edited Neutral paint photos added.

2150 W Alameda Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$460,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
1,861 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6667331
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Lovely Townhome Ideally Situated in the Sought After Gated Community of Villagio at Happy Valley. This well-kept home boasts 4bds/3.5ba with the primary suite having its own balcony to enjoy Arizona's beautiful weather. Gourmet kitchen offers granite countertops, stainless steel appliance package, and breakfast bar that provides ample seating and overlooks your great room - ideal for entertaining! Enjoy community amenities that include a community pool, spa, BBQs, and spacious landscape areas. Prime location that has easy highway access to I-17, minutes from local attractions that include The Shops at Norterra, Desert Ridge MarketPlace, and Outlets at Anthem.

4217 W Barbara Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85051

$460,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,064 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6668378
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the allure of this tastefully updated single-story home with no HOA! It displays a desert front yard, a 2-car garage, an RV gate, and a private courtyard for welcoming guests. You'll love the spacious living areas filled with ceiling fans, recessed lighting, and one with a brick-wall fireplace and outdoor access. The home exudes charm with fresh paint, chic light fixtures, and wood-plank flooring. The kitchen provides SS appliances, granite counters, white cabinetry, a breakfast nook, a walk-in pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar. Retreat to the generous main suite, showcasing designer's paint, backyard access, a dedicated bathroom, and a walk-in closet. Plunge into the diving pool during hot weather days, and it is perfect for year-round entertainment. Visit now