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.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

41961 W Lucera Lane Maricopa, AZ 85138

$595,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,283 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769687
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning home with Pool, Workshop, and 4-Car Garage in Glennwilde. PRE PAID SOLAR.. enjoy the benefits of solar without a payment! Welcome to this expansive 4-bedroom home, plus a den and a loft, located in the desirable Glennwilde community of Maricopa. This home offers a spacious layout perfect for any lifestyle. Downstairs, you'll find a formal dining room, a breakfast nook, and a large kitchen featuring rich cherry cabinets, dark granite countertops, and plenty of cabinet space. There's also a bedroom and a full bathroom on the first floor for added convenience as well as an office that could easily be converted into a 5th bedroom. Upstairs, the oversized loft provides flexible space for a home office, playroom, or anything your heart desires. The built-in desk in the hallway adds a practical touch. The oversized master bedroom include a separate sitting area, ideal for an office or additional lounging space. The master bathroom boasts a large soaking tub, separate vanities, and a massive walk-in closet. Sitting on over a quarter-acre, the backyard is one of the largest in Maricopa. It features a large pool with a seating bench and water feature, a serene rock waterfall pond, a gazebo with a cozy sitting area, a workshop, and a covered patio with pull-down shade screens. There's plenty of room to create your dream outdoor oasis. A rare 4-car garage provides ample space for vehicles, storage, and toys. Located in Glennwilde, the community offers 2 sparkling pools, walking paths, and is within walking distance of Pacana Park. Don't miss this rare find in one of Maricopa's most sought-after neighborhoods!

13484 N 103rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,614 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774781
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home, featuring everything you need for relaxation and comfort. The cozy fireplace creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere inside, while the backyard is a true oasis. Enjoy the sparkling pool and spa, perfect for unwinding or entertaining, with a spacious covered patio providing shade for year-round outdoor living. Whether you are hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet evenings at home, this property offers the ideal blend of indoor comfort and outdoor enjoyment. Ready for you to move in and start making memories!

4696 W Buckskin Drive Eloy, AZ 85131

$595,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,322 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768956
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Popular Miramonte home with many extras, including a 4 ft. extended two-car garage with a mini-split, epoxy flooring, a third garage with a mini split and epoxy flooring. Whole house water filtration & tankless water heater. This spacious two bedroom, Den and 2.5 baths has an open floor plan is perfect for entertaining or just relaxing. The kitchen has lots of cabinet space, quartz countertop, stainless steel appliances and a large walk-in pantry. The backyard is a must see. Beautiful outdoor living space, with an extended large patio with pavers & electric blinds. Partially fenced for privacy. No pets have lived in this home and no one has smoked in this home.

5831 W Pine Cove Prescott, AZ 86305

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,057 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772452
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home tucked away on a serene, pine-covered .93 acre lot in Highland Pines. Offering 2,057 sq. ft. of living space, this mountain retreat features a great room with soaring ceilings, rustic wood accents, and a cozy wood-burning stove. The dining room's wall of windows provides breathtaking views of the surrounding pines. Step outside onto the deck to take in the panoramic scenery. Additional amenities include a one-car garage, asphalt driveway, brick paver paths, and a fenced dog run. This home is truly a peaceful getaway in the Pines with modern comforts!

16426 S 180th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$595,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Cantamia, Goodyear
New
$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,779 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777616
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this energy-efficient residence located on a desirable corner lot in the sought-after 55+ Cantamia Community! Enter to find a harmonious open floor plan featuring wood-look tile flooring & neutral palette that complements any décor. Well-appointed kitchen boasts abundant cabinets topped w/crown moulding, tile backsplash, butler's service area, recessed & pendant lighting, a prep island w/a breakfast bar, granite counters, & high-end SS appliances such as cooktop gas & a wall oven. The main bedroom is a serene retreat, offering plush carpet, plantation shutters, an ensuite w/dual sinks, & a walk-in closet. Flexible den provides additional space, perfect for an office or library. Discover the expansive backyard, complete w/an extended covered patio & a refreshing pool. LAKE VIEW! *$$$SOLAR SAVINGS$$$* / GATED community / DEN-FLEX ROOM can be easily converted into 3rd BDRM. NEAT Bucher Block counter in Butler area- AC Minisplit in the Garage.

2226 N Shannon Way Mesa, AZ 85215

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,586 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772985
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
LOCATED ON THE 4TH TEE BOX OF APACHE WELLS GOLF COURSE. THIS EXCELLENTLY MAINTAINED 2 BEDROOM 2 BATHROOM HOME IS READY TO MOVE RIGHT INTO. NEWER KITCHEN CABINETS AND BACKSPLASH. NEW QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS. NEW FLOORING IN LIVING ROOM. PATIO HAS BEEN EXTENDED AND AN ELECTRIC AWNING INSTALLED IF IN NEED OF SHADE. BEAUTIFUL ARIZONA SUNSETS FROM BACK PATIO. THIS WILL NOT LAST LONG. SHOW AND SELL!

3609 E Ludlow Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,530 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773988
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*Location* Location* Right off the 51 freeway and Thunderbird Rd., this home will not disappoint! Fully remodeled down to the drywall finish this home has endless new features such as low maintenance landscape with new synthetic grass, new flooring throughout, full bathroom remodel, complete kitchen remodel, low energy LED lighting throughout, double pane windows, and new appliances!! Don't hesitate, don't delay, seller is ready to sell!

21199 E Domingo Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$595,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,241 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775346
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your beautiful home in Nauvoo Station! This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers a light, bright and open concept layout, perfect for modern living. The spacious great room flows seamlessly into the bright and open kitchen, complete with stainless steal appliances and plenty of storage. The primary suite is a true retreat, featuring a large shower, expansive walk-in closet, and ample space to unwind. A versatile bonus room can be used as a home office, kids playroom or teen hangout space, allowing flexibility to meet your family's needs. Step outside to the entertainer's backyard, where you'll find a sparkling pool, turf, low-maintenance hardscape, a cozy fire pit area, and a built-in gas grill - perfect for gathering with family and friends. Don't miss out on this home!

4513 Jackpot Road Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$595,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Wickenburg Ranch Parcel L North Phase 2, Wickenburg
New
$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,818 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777905
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Professional Photos coming soon. Discover 4513 Jackpot Rd, a gem in the Trilogy at Wickenburg Ranch! 55+ and Living Resort. Part of the rare and discontinued Maverick Collection, this 2021-built, single-level home offers 1,818 sq ft of modern living with 2 master bedrooms, each with a full bath, plus a guest half bath. The open floor plan includes a versatile den, a stylish kitchen with GE appliances, and a large island with a double basin sink. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Weaver Mountains from the backyard, featuring a built-in BBQ, firepit, and stone patio with a cover. Complete with a 2-car garage, this home is listed at a great price! Don't miss out! Home will be sold unfurnished.

1960 W Armstrong Way Chandler, AZ 85286

$595,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Vineyards, Chandler
New
$595,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,200 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778789
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
INVESTORS: You will love this PRIME LOCATION IN CHANDLER with a tenant paying $3,000/mo. This 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2200sf split floor plan home has so much to offer. Neutral carpet, tile, designer paint accents, niches, vaulted ceilings, walk-in closets incl.built-ins in MBR. HUGE eat-in kitchen w/island and pantry,ceiling fans,updated faucets, window blinds t/o and extended patio leading to grassy backyard w/5 fruit tree varieties, 3CG w/cabinets for storage & epoxy flooring. Close to 101/202 freeways, Chandler Fashion Mall, Chandler Regional Hospital, Intel, and a multitude of employers and restaurants including a quick walk to Oregano's!

41652 N Hudson Court Anthem, AZ 85086

$595,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,120 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6756781
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this beautiful Anthem Parkside residence, perfectly situated at the end of a spacious private cul-de-sac with an expansive yard. Embrace the refreshing blue pool and bask in the abundant Arizona sunshine in your backyard oasis, complete with partial mountain views. NEW A/C! This meticulously maintained home features a warm neutral color palette, large diagonal tile throughout the main living areas, and cozy carpet in the bedrooms for added comfort. The eat-in kitchen, open to the family room, boasts elegant granite countertops, maple cabinets, a pantry, and a center island with a convenient breakfast bar—perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. Retreat to the spacious primary suite, which includes a large walk-in closet and an adjoining spa-like bath featuring a... garden tub, double vanity, and separate shower. This home also offers an additional bedroom and a den, thoughtfully separated to accommodate multi-generational living. Garage is air conditioned. With a low HOA, you'll enjoy fabulous community amenities including a 16-acre catch-and-release lake, thrilling waterslides, a gym, pickleball and tennis courts, soccer fields, basketball and baseball facilities, as well as scenic hiking, walking, and biking trails. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to live in a vibrant community that offers so much more!

40937 N Majesty Way Anthem, AZ 85086

$595,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,469 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6750370
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*VA ASSUMABLE LOAN AT 3%. LEASED SOLAR PAID OFF.* Location is everything! This home is settled in a quiet neighborhood with a trail entrance right next door connecting you to 13 miles of lush desert trails, 2 parks within a 5-minute trail walk, and the K-8 elementary school is just blocks away. Not to mention the one-of-a-kind comraderie and sense of community this neighborhood offers. This spacious ''Tradition'' floor plan is coveted for it's vaulted ceilings throughout the living space, and fluid layout perfect for hosting and family-time. The large kitchen island, pantry, and wall of cabinets creates the ultimate culinary experience. Conveniently located on the main floor, the extra large primary suite has private backyard access and a large walk in closet. Maintaining privacy, the 3 additional bedrooms and full bathroom are located upstairs. With the 3-car garage, overhead garage storage, multiple walk in closets, custom built-in bookcases, storage under the stairs, and an RV-gate, this property provides all the storage a family could need! This property is on a premium lot where you can enjoy the beautifully designed and low-maintenance backyard with synthetic grass, pavers, a large extended covered patio, and a view fence showing off stunning desert scenery and colorful sunsets!