What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 22, 2016

Last week’s economic news included the NAHB Housing Market Index, Commerce Department releases on housing starts and building permits issued. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released.

Shortages of available single-family homes have driven up home prices and increased competition among homebuyers; short inventories of homes for sale are affecting affordability in many areas, although buyers seem motivated by lower mortgage rates and some easing of mortgage requirements. Analysts have repeatedly said that the only solution to the shortage of homes is building more homes.

Fortunately, the National Association of Home Builders reported that builder sentiment concerning U.S. housing markets increased in August. The HMI moved up to a reading of 60 in August as compared to July’s reading of 58. Readings over 50 indicate that a majority of builders surveyed are confident about housing market conditions.

According to NAHB, home builders continued to face obstacles including shortages of buildable lots and skilled labor. Regulatory issues were also cited by some builders, but overall, builders remain optimistic about housing market conditions.

Housing Starts Up, Building Permits Issued Slip in July

Commerce Department reading s on housing starts and building permits issued were mixed; housing starts rose from July’s reading of 1.186 million permits issued to 1.211 million permits issued in August. July’s reading was the second highest since the recession but was driven by multi-family construction. Building permits were lower in August with a reading of 1.152 million permits issued against July’s reading of 1.153 million permits issued.

Analysts said that under present market conditions, there is little reason for homebuilders to increase single-family home production as current pricing has put many would-be buyers on the sidelines.

Mortgage Rates Mixed, New Jobless Claims Lower

Freddie Mac reported that average rates for 30-year and 15-year fixed rate mortgages dropped last week while the average rate for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages rose. The average rate for a 30 year fixed rate mortgage was 3.43 percent and the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was 2.74 percent; both readings were two basis points lower than for the prior week. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage was two basis points higher at 2.76 percent. Average discount points held steady for fixed rate mortgages at 0.50 percent; average discount points for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages were lower at 0.40 percent.

New Jobless claims fell by 4000 claims to 262,000 new claims, which was lower than analyst expectations of 265,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 266,000 new claims. Job security is important to home buyers and signs of strong labor markets can help propel would-be buyers into the market,

Whats Ahead

This week’s scheduled economic news includes releases on new and existing home sales and consumer sentiment. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will be released on schedule.

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4307 E Jesse Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$574,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,693 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784518
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
To be built: This beautiful Blue Streak plan, 1693 sf single story home with 2 car garage side entry garage is beautifully laid out with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths off a spacious great room with open kitchen. The master bedroom features a roomy walk in closet and a beautiful appointed master bath highlighted by a separate bath and shower. Come visit Cooley Station by Fulton Homes, you won't be disappointed!

12414 N 33rd Street Phoenix, AZ 85032

$574,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,508 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787192
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful 3 bed 2 bath home on a spacious lot with no HOA in Paradise Valley West! Enjoy east-west exposure and a remodeled interior featuring a formal living room, a family room, and wood laminate flooring. The updated kitchen boasts an Alexa-enabled Smart Faucet, island breakfast bar, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and white shaker cabinets. The primary bedroom offers French doors to the backyard and a stylish en suite bathroom with touch-screen mirrors. Bonus: A separate guest house (single-wide) with bathroom and kitchenette offers Airbnb potential or extra living space. The enclosed carport serves as a 2-car garage, complete with 220 EV charging, and the property includes two RV gates, a dog wash tub in the laundry room, and owned solar that conveys at no cost. cost, adding energy efficiency. Located near freeways, shopping, dining, schools, parks, and hiking trails, this home offers unbeatable convenience. Schedule your showing today!

18150 W Las Cruces Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$574,900 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Estrella Mountain Ranch, Goodyear
New
$574,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,671 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788425
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
What a wonderful home with incredible pool & spa located in the resort style community of Estrella MTN Ranch! Marvelous interior offers two way fireplace in family room and great room, 3 bed, 2 bath, bar, and fabulous media/theater room perfect to entertain your guests. You'll love the huge kitchen equipped with a plethora of cabinets, granite counters, and center island. The roomy master suite has a private exit to backyard and a lavish bath with double sinks, makeup vanity, Garden tub, glass shower, & large walk-in closet with custom built ins. Serene over sized lot, premium backyard is great for gatherings with its blue Heated pool, relaxing spa, lovely covered patio, and personal putting green with Turf (Low maintenance). Location is IDEAL. Absolute Entertainers Delight! Theater-- Has 1L0 Screen, Risers, & soundboard insulated ROOM with Equipped surround sound throughout the home with all of the goodies. MUST see pictures & please review document tab to see additional Estrella & home Amenities. Premium Mountain views! Walking distance to North & South Lake as well as MTN Trails. Superior Floor plan design with exceptional finishes providing beauty & comfort with Amenities of much higher priced homes. Surrounded by majestic mountains and wide-open desert vistas, life in Estrella is a masterpiece of harmonious balance dynamic, yet sereneoffering something for everyone no matter what stage of life. Backyard oasis with putting green. Freshly painted exterior in 2023 and newer painted interior. HVAC is 2 yrs old and has a 15-yr transferable warranty. A resort-inspired lifestyle with state-of-the-art amenities awaits.

11077 N 111th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$574,900 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Villa De Cholla Amd, Scottsdale
New
$574,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,249 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6789137
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning, fully renovated Villa De Cholla home offers modern upgrades throughout, including a new roof underlayment and fresh exterior paint. The expansive family room features a striking floor-to-ceiling custom fireplace surround, seamlessly flowing into a gourmet kitchen. The kitchen boasts elegant granite countertops, a stylish tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances, including a slide-in stove, microwave, dishwasher, and refrigerator. The large primary suite includes a spacious walk-in closet, granite countertop, luxurious tile flooring, and an upscale shower. The main bathroom is highlighted by a new vanity. Outside, enjoy a covered patio surrounded by flourishing citrus trees. All new LVP flooring, interior paint, and fixtures complete this move-in-ready home. -Underlayment and coating on flat roof -SS stove and microwave -Fireplace tile -Mantle -Flooring -Baseboard -Scrape popcorn -Granite tops -Tile backsplash -Floating shelves -Kitchen sink -Hall bath vanity -Faucet -Resurface surround -Paint primary vanity -Granite top -Tile flooring -Tile surround -Plumbing fixtures -Cleaning -Landscaping -Hardware -Rock -Interior paint -Exterior paint

19001 W Desert Mirage Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$574,500
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,010 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6756108
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in Surprise! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence with a den boasts impressive curb appeal, featuring a tranquil front porch. Inside, you'll find a meticulously maintained space, highlighted by a gourmet kitchen with custom cabinets, a pantry, an oversized island, and stainless-steel appliances. The open-concept design seamlessly flows to an inviting outdoor area with dual sliders, a covered patio equipped with ceiling fans and TV hookups, and a self-cleaning, heated, and cooled saltwater pool with a beautiful water feature. The owner's suite is a spacious retreat, featuring a spa-like bathroom and a custom closet. Additional highlights include plantation shutters, solar, sun screens, and an oversized garage with built-in cabinets. Come see it today!

18313 E Spring Valley Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$574,449
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,678 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758949
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful home in the Resort Collection at Trilogy at Verde River. The Valletta offers a well thought-out layout with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an office. Enjoy Beautiful Gold Landscape Package which Includes Pavers and upgraded window covering package. The kitchen is stunning with Barcelona Granite Countertops and a spacious kitchen island with a breakfast bar. The great room boasts a 12 foot multi-slide door that open to the covered patio. The primary suite has a lavish ensuite with a huge tiled shower and walk-in closet. Do not miss out on this home The amenities at Verde River are World Class with Tom Lehman inspired eighteen-hole Golf course, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and bocce ball, heated lap pool and Resort style swimming pool, hot tub, Afterburn fitness center, Helen's demonstration Kitchen for cooking classes and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual poolside dining at Eddy's Diner and gourmet dining at award-winning Needle Rock Kitchen and Tap, Alvea Spa with full-service Salon and Spa amenities, Art Loft and events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails.

14226 W Parkland Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$574,400
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,103 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761226
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this spectacular home-resort style living with a serene interior atmosphere! Meticulously updated San Carlos model featuring private, heated pool and amazing views of the 18th fairway of the Grandview Golf Course-situated on a large lot in a low tax area with no HOA fees! Come inside this luxurious dream home that features custom granite countertops throughout, upgraded GE Profile S/S kitchen appliances & updated spa-inspired bathrooms, plantation shutters T/O, popcorn ceilings removed, wall corners bullnosed, int/ext neutral paint, OWNED SOLAR BLANKET HEATING SYSTEM FOR POOL, automatic Remote-Controlled Misters on rear patio, Culligan water softener system & mature fruit trees, beautifully landscaped, Oversized utility room w custom utility sink-storage & pull-out faucet.

8762 E Posada Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$574,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,516 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732222
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Highly sought-after MOVE-IN READY single level home with 4 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms! The open kitchen features a large island, granite counters, tile backsplash, and stainlesss steel appliances- perfect for hosting gatherings with family and friends. The walk-in pantry provides ample storage space for all your kitchen essentials. Outside you will find a private pool with a waterfall feature and pergola, perfect for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. The primary bedroom is spacious with a bathroom that offers dual sinks, separate shower/bathtub, and a large walk-in closet. A new AC was installed this year, so you don't have to worry about the heat. Quick access to 202 & 60 freeways! Don't miss out on the chance to make this house your home! Gilbert Schools/Mesa taxes

20221 N 31st Street Phoenix, AZ 85050

$574,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,177 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749488
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Immaculate 5-Bedroom, 3-Bath Move-In Ready Home with Fresh Updates, and Backyard Paradise. Discover the perfect blend of modern luxury and convenience. This newly painted 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home is move-in ready and packed with features that make it an exceptional find. With two brand-new AC units installed in May 2024, you'll enjoy year-round comfort in this energy-efficient, beautifully upgraded property. Step inside to find a bright, open layout with plenty of space to entertain. The living room is prewired for a large TV, ready for your home theater setup—perfect for movie nights or watching the big game in style. The home also features a remodeled master bathroom and new flooring upstairs, adding a touch of luxury at every turn. The wardrobe in the upstairs guest room conveys with the property, offering added convenience. Outside, the backyard oasis awaits, featuring a charming pergola and fruit trees that create the perfect setting for outdoor gatherings or peaceful evenings at home. Location couldn't be betterCostco is less than a mile away, and you're just minutes from Desert Ridge Marketplace for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Plus, with easy access to Loop 101 and SR-51, commuting anywhere in Phoenix is a breeze. This stunning home checks all the boxes: space, style, comfort, and a prime location. Don't miss this incredible opportunityschedule your showing today before it's gone!

25817 N Bolero Bend Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$574,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,205 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762128
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Calling all investors and buyers looking for a bargain in the vibrant adult community of Rio Verde! Priced to sell and below market so you can reap the benefits of this fabulous property with tons of potential and equity! Spacious corner lot, this property offers a spacious backyard complete with a wonderful patio area & your own pool. Both bedrooms offer their own baths, while an additional flex space is perfect for an office, roomy sitting area, or home gym. The formal living and dining areas seamlessly flow into the generous kitchen, which boasts ample cabinet space and an inviting eat-in area. With a 2.5-car garage, there's plenty of room for your golf cart and extra storage. As a social member of the Rio Verde Country Club, you'll enjoy a wealth of activities; tennis, pickleball, bocce ball, and a community gym and pool. This is an excellent opportunity to create your own unique sanctuary while living the Rio Verde lifestyle!

29502 N 126th Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$574,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,287 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767268
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME! As you step through the beautiful, lush front yard, you'll immediately feel at home. Inside, enter through a wide foyer and spacious living room which flows seamlessly into the family room, just off the updated kitchen. The kitchen boasts granite counter-tops, a large island with a breakfast bar, and opens into a roomy breakfast nook. This home features a split floor plan with a generous primary bedroom, a large en-suite bath, a walk-in closet, and a stylish tiled shower. On the opposite side, you'll find three additional bedrooms and a full bath. Outside, enjoy a large grassy play area and a recently installed pool, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. Three car tandem garage and spacious inside laundry room add to the efficiency of this home. See it today

2351 N Tierra Alta Circle Mesa, AZ 85207

$574,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,811 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775532
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible Opportunity in East Mesa! Discover the only single-level, 4-bedroom home under $600,000 east of the 202 Loop with a private pool in a gated community. This rare find is nestled on a premium corner lot in the secure Boulder Mountain Community, offering a perfect blend of comfort and style. The home showcases a beautifully updated chef's kitchen with a gas range, Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, a custom backsplash, and many thoughtful upgrades. The functional split floor plan ensures privacy, with one secondary bedroom featuring a walk-in closet.The stunning primary bathroom boasts a large shower with a glass wall and a separate soaking tub, perfect for unwinding. Elegant diagonally laid tile throughout the main living areas adds sophistication, while the oversized 2.5-car garage provides ample storage space and includes an 18,000 BTU HVAC mini split for heating and cooling. The expansive corner lot is ideal for entertaining, with a gorgeous pool as the centerpiece. Lots of entertainment areas, and lovely garden beds. Plus, enjoy peace of mind with a new AC unit that keeps the home comfortable year-round. Boulder Mountain's prime location near Loop 202 and its proximity to Usery Mountain Regional Park offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation. Also, walking distance to A+ rated schools! Don't miss out on this exceptional find!