Last week’s economic reports included readings on new and existing home sales, a speech by Fed Chair Janet Yellen, and a report on consumer sentiment. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released.
New Home Sales Rise in July as Pre-Owned Home Sales Fall
Sales of new homes jumped in July to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 654,000 sales, which surpassed expectations of 579,000 sales and June’s downwardly-revised reading of 582,000 sales. This was the highest reading for new home sales since 2008 and represented a 31.30 percent increase since July 2015.
Builders were seen by analysts as addressing the need for more affordable homes; this trend contributes to a healthy housing market by supplying homes for a wider range of buyers. First-time buyers play a vital part in housing markets as their purchases enable current homeowners to buy larger homes or relocate.
Sales of pre-owned homes fell 3.20 percent to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.39 million sales as compared to expectations of 5.59 million sales and June’s reading of 5.57 million sales. Year-over-year, sales were 1.60 percent lower. Limited inventories of available pre-owned homes have narrowed buyer options; increasing prices and narrow choices were seen as factors contributing to lower sales. There was a 4.60 month supply of available homes in July. Real estate pros typically consider a six months a normal reading for homes on the market.
Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors®, noted that a slowdown in home appraisals may have contributed to July’s lower sales reading for pre-owned homes. Low mortgage rates prompted a surge in refinancing which created a backlog in home appraisals. While low mortgage rates may entice home buyers, stricter mortgage requirements can also keep prospective buyers at bay.
Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen indicated that the stage could be set for a federal rate increase as early as next month. If the Fed hikes its target federal funds rate, interest rates for consumer credit and mortgages can be expected to rise.
Mortgage Rates Hold Steady; New Jobless Claims Fall
Freddie Mac reported that fixed mortgage rates for 30 and 15-year loans were unchanged at 3.43 and 2.74 percent respectively. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage was one basis point lower at 2.75 percent. Discount points averaged 0.60, 0.50 and 0.40 percent.
New jobless claims were lower last week. 261,000 new jobless claims were filed against expectations of 264,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 262,000 new claims filed. Declining jobless claims can indicate strengthening labor markets, but can also indicate that workers are leaving the labor markets.
Consumer sentiment declined slightly in August due to concerns over the upcoming presidential election. Analysts expected a reading of 91.0 for August, but the reading for August was revised from 90.4 to 89.80.
What’s Ahead
Next week’s scheduled economic news includes reports on pending home sales, inflation, construction spending and consumer confidence. National unemployment, non-farm payrolls and ADP payrolls are also scheduled.
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2409 W Mandalay Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85023
$499,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,162
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6668488
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NO HOA! 4 Bedroom 3 Bathroom Tri-Level Home Located in North Central Phoenix. This beautiful home with a recently upgraded kitchen, pool and front yard has 3 bedrooms upstairs and one private bedroom on the bottom floor. Just an easy 20 Min Drive From Downtown, Sky Harbor Airport and North Scottsdale. You are mere Minutes From I17 and Loop 101 Freeway's. The Convenience of this location is Just Fabulous! The Sparkling Blue Pool awaits in your private low maintenance backyard. The Property does have solar, the seller will pay off the solar note at closing so it will be owned. Pool was redone in 2017 and HVAC in 2020. On top of all this, it has North / South Exposure.
3749 E Emile Zola Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$499,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
1,714
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6671627
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
PRICED BELOW APPRAISAL! The perfect single level home with 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms is now available in Paradise Valley Oasis! This beautiful home features an open floor-plan, spacious kitchen with dark wood shaker style cabinets, granite counter-tops and stainless steel appliances, staggered laid tile flooring throughout, updated lighting, new exterior paint, new roof, whole house water treatment system, master bedroom split for additional privacy, large master bathroom with dual sinks, granite counter-tops and travertine tile wrapped shower, hall bathroom has granite counter-tops with tile wrapped shower, additional bedroom has ensuite bathroom with spacious walk-in shower and much much more. This one will sell fast!
21838 N Scott Court
Maricopa, AZ 85138
$499,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,312
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6673046
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Golf course lot! iIncredible 3-bed + Den home sitting on a golf course lot of a quiet cul-de-sac in the desired Rancho El Dorado Community! RV gate, 2-car garage, and manicured landscaping welcome you. Enter to see a formal living & dining room, designer paint, a double-door entrance den, and high vaulted ceilings. You will love the family room boasting wood floors, built-in niches, a gas fireplace, and backyard access! The eat-in kitchen features an island w/breakfast bar, a walk-in pantry, oak cabinets, a chic backsplash, granite counters, and SS appliances. The oversize main bedroom has access to the backyard and an ensuite w/dual sinks & walk-in closet. Oasis-style backyard highlights a blue pool w/water feature, a covered patio, a storage shed, and multiple seating areas. Close to schools and shopping.
1610 W Lynwood Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
$499,900
3
Beds
1
Bath
1,140
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6683262
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Step into a piece of Arizona history with this charming 1920's bungalow, nestled in the coveted and iconic F.Q. Historic District. Retaining its distinctive classic integrity while boasting modern finishes, this home offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary convenience. The spacious kitchen is a standout feature, adorned with exposed brick, white beadboard, and butcher block countertops. Built-in stainless steel appliances, an island cook top, and cobalt blue Mexican tile surround the cozy breakfast nook, creating a perfect blend of functionality and style. Newer windows allow natural light to flood the interior, illuminating the subtle Smokey Ash porcelain wood plank flooring and crown molding that graces every room. designated dining area lead to a versatile flex office space and the third bedroom, providing flexibility for modern living. Outside, a spacious covered patio overlooks the backyard, offering a tranquil retreat for relaxation or a stylish setting for entertaining guests. Whether seeking solitude or a quintessential Arizona outdoor experience, this home provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying the desert lifestyle in style. Don't miss the opportunity to own a piece of Arizona's architectural heritage in this enchanting F.Q. Historic District residence. NO HOA!
2611 Leisure World --
Mesa, AZ 85206
$499,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
3,278
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6683707
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This is the best value at $153 per square feet in Leisure World The Laguna floor plan has the large, vaulted ceiling living area with plenty of room to entertain. The primary bedroom and bathroom are also oversized with 16' of closet space. On the other side of the house is 2 large bedrooms and an enormous family room that could be a game room, theater room, or a combination of both. Behind the kitchen is a office or den area with built in shelving units and another large room to use. The back yard has a built in spa and plenty of room to spread out. All this in the Premiere Active Adult Community of Leisure World with 36 holes of private golf, new tennis complex, pickle ball, swimming pools, library, state of the art fitness center, theater, arts and crafts, billiard room, and more!
34967 N 30th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85086
$499,900
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,614
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6691449
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
** Amazing Opportunity ** Beautifully furnished with new one year lease. This exquisite three-story townhome comes with a stellar track record of success as a rental. Step into luxury as you enter this meticulously designed interior featuring stunning granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and custom lighting fixtures that illuminate the contemporary furnishings throughout. With three spacious bedrooms and 2.5 baths, there's ample room for guests to relax and unwind in style. This property delivers with a walking path just 100' from your front door. Enjoy the warmth of hardwood floors on the second level, adding a touch of elegance. Your investment includes all furnishings shown in the photos.
15130 W Andora Street
Surprise, AZ 85379
$499,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,607
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6694832
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
This beautiful 4 bed, 3 bath townhome in Marley Park has all the right upgrades in all the right places! Discover spacious dining & living areas w/high ceilings, and trending palette throughout. The fabulous kitchen is comprised of painted cabinetry w/quartz counters, a pantry, herringbone tile backsplash, SS appliances, and a lovely large island. Downstairs has a spacious bedroom with a beautiful custom ''California Closets'' walk -in closet and a full bathroom. End your busy day in the primary bedroom, boasting elegant hardwood flooring, a walk-in closet, and a lavish ensuite w/dual sinks & a freestanding tub and shower. You'll also find a cozy loft area, great for sitting or an office. This home also has a stunning travertine side patio w/an attached pergola! This home simply has it al
372 W Nikita Drive
San Tan Valley, AZ 85140
$499,890
5
Beds
3
Baths
2,586
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6630546
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
On 4-18-24, the Carpets were cleaned and ready for a new owner. Large backyard! Don't wait any longer, as the seller is highly motivated. This is your chance to own a stunning McKinley floor plan with a 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom that includes a loft in the coveted Meadows community. The house is close to a new shopping complex, restaurants, a hospital, and grocery stores. You'll love the spacious and well-designed floor plan, which features an open concept on the main floor with access to a covered patio. The kitchen is a chef's dream, with plenty of cabinet and counter space and a walk-in pantry. With one bedroom and a full bath downstairs, you'll have plenty of space for your family and guests. Upstairs, you'll find the laundry room, three additional bedrooms, and a split primary bedroom, each spacious and perfect for relaxation. The primary suite is the ideal retreat, with a large, secluded room, a private ensuite bathroom with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The loft is suitable for movie nights or a separate space to unwind. The house is fully landscaped and ready for you to move in. The lot is large enough for a future pool/spa/spool. Take advantage of this opportunity to own your dream home!
1731 W Palmaire Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85021
$499,880
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,375
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6694080
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW, this home has just completed an extensive remodel and it looks great! This 3 bed 2 bath home on a large north central, culdesac lot also has a great pebble tech pool! The interior has been updated with plank flooring, quartz counters, new paint inside and out, baseboards, vanities, tile showers, lighting, landscaping, epoxy garage floors, the list goes on! Located in area of million dollar homes, this house has it all at half the price. Large back yard for entertaining, two car garage, storage, large interior laundry room, space for RV, no HOA. Newer AC and appliances. Third bedroom can make a great work from home office. Come check out this north central Gem today!
25229 W Rockaway Hills Road
Morristown, AZ 85342
$499,800
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,801
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6639688
Property Type
Manufactured Home
Price Type
--
Your new home away from the crowds awaits in Morristown! Santa-Fe-style residence sitting on a more than 1-acre lot on a desired corner! This property is fully fenced w/an RV gate for all your toys. Beautiful interior has tile floors, a cozy fireplace in the living room, gorgeous light fixtures, and neutral paint. Cook gourmet dishes in the eat-in kitchen showcasing SS appliances, center island, a walk-in pantry, white cabinetry, and ample counter space. Split main retreat has a walk-in closet and a full bathroom with a dual sink vanity and a jetted tub for a spa-like feel. In the backyard, discover a fenced covered patio w/a Ramada, a greenhouse, a detached garage w/a small workshop attached, a fire pit, and natural desert landscaping. Don't miss the AZ sunsets and mountain views! Hurry!
1683 W Cottonwood Lane
Phoenix, AZ 85045
$499,800
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,977
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6671249
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Foothills Club West former model home situated on one of the few larger lots within this subdivision. Highly upgraded with two tone paint & plantation shutters throughout. Entertainment layout as kitchen is completely open to dining area and flows to great room with slider out to patio. Staggered maple cabinets, granite counter-tops, island, stone backsplash, recessed lighting, all SS appliances including French door refrigerator. Surround sound in family room, primary bedroom & prewired on patio. First floor has a private office/den with built in maple cabinets and bench window seating. Huge open loft with built in cabinets. Primary bedroom has crown molding, private door to balcony, large bath remodeled 2022 with separate tub & frameless glass shower, updated tile and dual integrated sinks in quartz countertop, large walk-in closet. Good size secondary bedrooms, full bath and upstairs laundry room with built in cabinets, front loading washer and dryer included, split from primary bedroom. Custom front door with glass insert, sun-screens, brushed nickel hardware and fixtures throughout. Garage has new side utility door and upgraded epoxy floor coating. Mountain views, close proximity to 202 Fwy, many hiking trails, new bike trail and shopping/dining. This home will not disappoint.
18326 N Gila Springs Drive
Surprise, AZ 85374
$499,800
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,782
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6673887
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully designed home in the highly sought-after Sun City Grand community! Versailles pattern travertine flooring extends through the living area with a stone fireplace & additional sitting area off the kitchen ideal for a conversation or game table. The open kitchen boasts granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, drawer pull-outs, & RO. All bathrooms have been elegantly crafted with travertine & gorgeous vanities. Den area complete with custom built-in desk & shelving. The backyard offers a covered patio with a built-in BBQ ideal for hosting & citrus trees. Also featured, a 2-car garage with built-in cabinetry, water softener, & heat shield. You'll love the Sun City Grand community with amenities like a pool, spa, gym, clubhouse, sports courts, & fun community events!
