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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9934 E Twin Spurs Lane Florence, AZ 85132

$580,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,378 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770985
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Looking for an affordable horse property in Wild Horse Estates? 1.17 fenced acers w NO HOA. 2400 sf home with 4 beds, 2.5 bath, 3 car garage + 1 car detached garage w 220amp, detached finished insulated HVAC construction office. 12' gate, 5' gate. Enjoy the stunning sunsets from your full-length covered rear patio, front patio or while riding in or nearby desert trails. Home has open vaulted floorplan, eat-in island kitchen, SS appliances, herringbone tile flooring, fireplace, generous primary bedroom with separate exit. Fresh interior paint. Solar lease for energy efficiency and lower utility bills = savings. Plenty of room for vehicles, hobbies, RV, horses. Running a business and need to park trucks, trailers? Close to shopping, weekend ventures, still has that country feel! Great horse neighborhood with shopping, dining and entertainment within a short driving distance.

11035 W Chino Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$580,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,247 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6768500
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful Lakefront Home in Ventana Lakes 55+ Community. It has everything you want, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 car garage, 2 living spaces and an open concept home. Anderson Windows! Tile in all the right areas. This is a ''MUST SEE'' home in this area. You will enjoy the morning sunrises as well as the evening sunsets from your lakefront backyard. Ventana Lakes is one of Peoria's premier 55+ communities. The community features 9 lakes, some with waterfalls, and great catch and release fishing. 4 community pools and spas, recreation and fitness rooms, billiards, fine arts, crafts and quilting rooms, handball, pickleball and tennis courts. Bingo games and more.

6418 W Irma Lane Glendale, AZ 85308

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,834 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774108
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand New Roof in 2024! Absolutely Stunning 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Single Level Home Located on Premium Golf Course Lot, Formal Living & Dining Room w/Vaulted Ceilings, Upgraded Kitchen w/Custom Cabinets & Granite Countertops, Kitchen Island w/Breakfast Bar, Stainless Steel Appliances Included, Family Room w/Wood Burning Fireplace, Master Bedroom w/Walk-In Closet, Master Bathroom w/Dual Sinks, Custom Walk-In Shower & Tub, Tile Throughout Home, Dual Pane Windows, Plantation Shutters, Extended Covered Backyard Patio, Professionally Landscaped Front & Backyard, Variety Of Mature Citrus Trees, Best Backyard in the Community with over Quarter Acre Lot & Wonderful Views of the Golf Course, 2 Car Garage, Cul-De-Sac Lot, Come Check It Out!

1543 E Oakland Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,060 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769326
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Immaculate Single-Level Home with Pool—No HOA! Don't miss this stunning 3-bed, 2-bath home, complete w/a spacious 3-car garage, Conveniently located near shopping & schools, this beautifully updated property boasts an array of features that make it feel just like new. Step inside to discover tile & wood like flooring T/O. The kitchen features gorgeous granite countertops, refinished cabinets including a new stainless steel gas stove and a large pantry. The living room showcases a tiled fireplace & elegant wood shutters, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The bathrooms have been beautifully remodeled, featuring wood-look tile floors & a stunning walk-in shower in the primary bath. Recent updates include a brand-new heater and pump for the sparkling PebbleTec pool and spa, Enjoy the beautifully landscaped, private backyard with a heated pool and spa, perfect for entertaining or relaxing and an extended cool deck, this outdoor space is a true oasis. Additional highlights include high ceilings, two fireplaces, double front doors. The master suite features a separate exit to the backyard and a spacious walk-in closet. The third bedroom boasts the largest walk-in closet of all! Plus, you have your choice of outstanding elementary and middle schools nearby. Walk to the park down the street. Drive around the corner to Gilbert/Chandler Community College or Chandler Hospital or Phx/Mesa Gateway Airport. This home is truly a gem.

2792 Kona Trail Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,300 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6756366
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in a quiet cul de sac in Kachina Village, this single level home offers an abundancy of privacy and forest views. The large, covered deck overlooks a scenic canyon with towering ponderosa pines. The adjacent lot provides a walking path to National Forest. Inside you will find several sizable windows bringing in natural light and providing a wonderful space to view the four seasons that Northern Arizona provides. This is an incredible opportunity to own a move in ready home that grants the right mix of seclusion and convenience. There is a bonus room downstairs that is a blank canvas for a studio, storage, exercise room etc... The furnace and hot water heater were replaced about 3 years ago and a new roof with sheathing is being completed now. Interior paint was done just last week

21153 N 98th Lane Peoria, AZ 85382

$580,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,228 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6764910
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated home nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac! This versatile split-level layout features 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, including a spacious master suite and a guest area with its own bath. The inviting den/office offers a perfect work-from-home space, while the open kitchen and dining area flow seamlessly into a roomy family room. The modern kitchen showcases stunning white and grey tones, quartz countertops, and an expansive center island with extra storage. Step outside to a fantastic backyard with raised seating areas, ideal for entertaining. Plus, you're just a mile from Liberty High School! Don't miss your chance to make this wonderful home your own! Spa is in as is condition, owner had not used

3705 Ridgeview Terrace Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$580,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,554 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754596
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This perfect 2-bedroom, 2-bath home is ideal for two, offering 1,554 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space. The open great room features stunning eastern mountain views and beautiful landscaping. Inside, you'll find upgraded cabinets with soft-close drawers, granite countertops throughout, under-mount sinks, and custom tile flooring with upgraded carpet in the bedrooms. Custom shutters adorn the bedrooms, while the living room boasts a custom entertainment center and shelving. Additional features include central vac, water filtration, a fully fenced yard with ample entertaining space and a custom water feature, all framed by open mountain views to the north and east. Paired with your resort lifestyle living, you've found your desert oasis!

4739 S Leisure Way Gilbert, AZ 85297

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,722 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6769608
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning single-level home in the highly sought-after Layton Lakes community, where modern living meets everyday convenience. This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers an open and spacious layout designed to maximize both comfort and style. The moment you step inside, you'll notice the gorgeous flooring throughout, free from any carpet, offering a sleek, low-maintenance appeal. Large windows flood the living spaces with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Recent upgrades include new exterior paint (Aug/Sept 2024), new faucets, and fresh turf (Oct 2024), ensuring a move-in-ready experience. With its east-west orientation, you'll enjoy plenty of sunlight throughout the day. Nestled in a prime location, this home is close to parks... , walking trails, top-rated schools, and easy access to freeways, making it a perfect choice for both families and professionals. The kitchen is the heart of the home, boasting ample cabinetry, modern appliances, and a breakfast bar that's perfect for casual dining or entertaining guests. Retreat to the serene master suite, which features a generous walk-in closet and a private bathroom for your own personal oasis. Outside, the expansive backyard is a landscaped paradise, featuring a variety of plants and a fenced-in poolideal for relaxation.

6337 W Irma Lane Glendale, AZ 85308

$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,942 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773664
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seize the opportunity to own this bright and inviting pool home located on the golf course at Arrowhead Ranch. Experience resort-style living in the beautiful Arizona sunshine with a backyard designed for relaxation and entertainment. Outdoor features include a sparkling pool with a waterfall, a BBQ cooking area, fire pit, and a covered patio—perfect for hosting or just enjoying the greenery. Many upgrades done over the last 10 years, this home boasts high-end finishes including fresh interior paint, wood flooring, granite countertops, backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. Upgraded with a new AC in 2018. Conveniently located near shopping and top-rated schools. You have to see this one to feel its beauty and charm. Don't hesitate as homes like this rarely last long.

22861 E Estrella Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$580,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Spur Cross Phase 1 Parcel 3, Queen Creek
New
$580,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,689 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778158
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Constructed in 2021 and situated in the sought-after Spur Cross community, this residence boasts a thoughtfully designed floor plan and an attached RV garage. The interior features an open great room concept, three bedrooms, and two bathrooms within 1689 square feet. The kitchen is equipped with espresso maple cabinets, granite countertops, a modern subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances including a gas stove, a walk-in pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. Multi-panel center sliding glass doors open to a covered patio, an extended paver patio with a gazebo, and a private backyard with grass for kids and pets to play on. The primary bedroom includes an en-suite bathroom with a dual-sink vanity, a large shower, and a walk-in closet. The secondary bathroom also features a dual-sink vanity and a combination bathtub/shower. Additional amenities include a two-car garage with a utility sink and overhead storage, and the highlightan attached RV garage with front and rear doors. Community amenities include a fabulous pool, sports courts, a playground, and common areas.

20627 W Luke Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$580,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,577 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752899
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this charming 1,577 sq. ft. Single story home located in the vibrant Victory District of Verrado, a premier 55+ active adult community. This beautifully designed residence features 2 spacious bedrooms, a versatile den perfect for a home office and 2 modern bathrooms. With a layout that emphasizes comfort and functionality, you'll enjoy open-concept living areas, stylish finishes, and access to the community's extensive amenities, including golf courses, pickle ball, tennis courts, pools, walking trails, and social clubs. Ideal for those seeking an active, engaging lifestyle in a welcoming neighborhood.

6658 S St Andrews Court Gilbert, AZ 85298

$580,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,764 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730222
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 2 bedroom 2.5 bathroom home is located right in the heart of Seville. On a corner lot in a quiet cul-de-sac you will find this gem that sits on the golf course right between the hole 9 tee box and the hole 8 green. The home has a large, beautiful kitchen with granite countertops and plenty of storage space. Gorgeous stone and wood accents are all throughout the home giving it that Arizona charm. There is a large master bedroom with a full bathroom and it is complete with a large walk-in closet. A full bar room/office is perfect to come relax on a hot day. As you step into your lovely backyard you are greeted with the sound of a calming rock fountain and the stunning golf course views. This home is impeccably well maintained and shows a real pride of ownership.