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,

What‘s 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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780 E Kapasi Lane San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$579,999

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,141 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753650

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LOW INTEREST RATE PROGRAM AVAILABLE! The space here has been maximally utilized with not only 5 bedrooms but a loft, bonus room, 2 living rooms, a dining room, 3-car garage, split primaries (separate downstairs with a full bathroom), and all walk-in closets. The open floor plan flows seamlessly into the kitchen: a chef's dream. Granite counters that elegantly contrast the wood cabinets, double ovens, breakfast bar, complete with an oversized walk-in pantry. Interior has been recently painted white. Spend evenings in the low-maintenance, backyard relaxing under the pergola. Within walking distance you'll find the community park (reach out for neighborhood amenities). Close to HWY 24, great schools, shopping, dining, groceries, gas, etc.

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17617 W Blue Sky Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,995

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,840 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772341

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This spacious 2,840 sq. ft. single-level ''Darius'' floorplan offers a perfect blend of luxury and comfort. With 10-ft ceilings, a 3-car garage, and a separate guest suite, there's room for everyone to feel at home. The gourmet kitchen features gas appliances, upgraded cabinets, quartz countertops, and a walk-in pantry—a chef's dream! The primary bath boasts a large drop-in tub, perfect for relaxing. Set for November completion, this home's neutral palette provides the perfect backdrop for your personal style.

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17605 W Blue Sky Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,995

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,840 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772324

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning 2,840 sq. ft. Darius floorplan is a single-level home offers luxurious living with 10-ft ceilings, an open-concept floor plan, and a separate guest suite. The gourmet kitchen features quartz countertops, high-end finishes, and a spacious island—perfect for entertaining. With a 3-car garage, neutral color palette, and November completion.

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29605 N 51st Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$579,995

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,697 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6767982

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Opportunity knocks! Here is your chance to own a move in ready home in the Tatum Ranch community of Cave Creek. This is a must see! The minute you walk through the door, you will be captivated and feel right at home! The kitchen will make your heart happy, updated cabinets and quartz counter tops. Tasteful colors throughout, new laminate and carpeting in the bedrooms, a split floor plan that is perfect for a family or guests. Enjoy the outdoors under a covered patio, backyard features mature landscaping and room to create your own oasis! This home is impeccable and is ready for you!

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3028 E Friess Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$579,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,032 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755440

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

-HOA- GREAT LOCATION. This home is located in a highly desirable neighborhood that offers numerous amenities for its residents. 3 bedrooms 2 &1/2 baths and a loft that opens to a balcony with views of a spacious yard and pebble tec pool. The North/South exposure provides ample natural light, and the home boasts a large family room with a fireplace, separate living and dining areas, and a kitchen with big windows and NEW appliances! The balcony has recently been updated with a new coating. The backyard is perfect for play, with a grass area, covered patio, and a beautiful pebble tec pool. Conveniently located near the 51 and 101 freeways, this home has NO HOA and is a short walk from the highly acclaimed Great Hearts Public Charter School K-12.

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20095 W San Juan Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$579,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,561 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775719

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

It's the stunning Cinnabar with 4 bedrooms + study, dining room, 3 full baths and 3 car garage. 8' gate for easy access to the backyard. Multi slide door that leads out the covered patio. Stainless steel gas appliances with 36'' cooktop, wall oven and canopy hood. Sonoma Maple Slate (Gray) cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers, pull out trash drawer. Himalaya white granite countertops in the kitchen and at the enhanced kitchen island. Stainless steel single bowl undermount sink. Upgrade flooring includes EMS Baccarate 12x24 Astra tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. Dual sinks at bath 2. Soft water loop, garage service door, 8' tall garage door with two controls. Estimated completion Dec/Jan.

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20233 W Catalina Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$579,990

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,224 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6655189

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

QUICK MOVE-IN!!! It's the stunning Crimson 3 bedrooms + flex space to use as you wish, 2.5 baths and a 3 car tandem garage. Large walk-in shower at owner's bath, Multi slide door that leads out to the extended covered patio which is perfect for entertaining. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Stainless steel gas double oven with a 36'' cooktop and canopy hood. 42'' kitchen upper Espresso cabinets and Himalaya white granite countertops in kitchen and at the enhanced kitchen island. Upgrade flooring includes EMS Baccarat 12x24 tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms/closets. 5'' baseboards and door casing throughout. Dual sinks at bath 2. Stub out for future BBQ, garage service door, 8' tall garage doors, pre-plumb for soft water and so much more.

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22685 E Saddle Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$579,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,506 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740903

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**This is a TO-BE-BUILT LISTING, this home is ready for personalization and can be built on your choice of homesite. This is an advertisement of our base price for this elevation and lot premiums may apply** Welcome to Ashton Woods newest community in Queen Creek - Madera Marquis - which features outstanding community amenities and convenient access to the 24 freeway and shopping. The open concept Topaz plan is highly sought after and is the decorated model floorplan with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Options for structural upgrades include adding a butler's pantry, teen room, 12'' sliding glass door and so much more. This home includes an open concept kitchen with granite countertops, 42'' upper cabinets, and stainless steel appliances . Amazing spa like primary suite with dual vanities, ample linen storage and separate tub and shower. This floorplan is accompanied by an oversized den and sizable secondary bedrooms. This home comes standard with 10' ceilings, front yard landscaping, paver driveway, and much more! ~There is a minimum option spend requirement on new build homes, please reach out to the sales office for additional details.~

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1376 W Golden Ore Pass Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$579,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,524 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770289

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Blossom Rock! The east valley's newest master planned community. With views of the Superstition Mountains and a wealth of amenities currently in the making including three community parks, dozens of neighborhood parks, a community school, miles of trails, beautiful lakes, and indoor and outdoor gathering spaces all meant to serve as the backdrop of the calendar of signature events and annual celebrations currently being created.

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32405 N 122nd Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$579,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,373 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748747

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6748747~January Completion! The Erikson floor plan at Mystic Discovery exemplifies open concept living and is perfect for entertaining on both floors! The first floor is the heart of the home, with an open main living area that holds a spacious gathering room with a casual dining area and an open kitchen. The designer kitchen features a large island and step-in pantry. A downstairs guest bedroom is located at the front of the home which is perfect for overnight guests. Upstairs, the owner's suite features a garden tub and shower and a spacious walk-in closet. A loft and two additional bedrooms and the laundry room round out this lovely home. Structural options include: paver front porch, 2' garage extension, super shower at owner's bath, and soft water loop.

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17727 W Carol Avenue Waddell, AZ 85355

Open House

$579,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,222 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772984

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Gorgeous NEW home has so much to offer! Primary bedroom on the 1st floor 3,222 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, loft, media room, a 3 car tandem garage on a North/south corner lot! This home features 36'' burlap shaker cabinetry, 18x18 tile, a large kitchen island, quartz counter tops, and 9' ceilings throughout. It also includes a soft water loop, dual pane low-E windows, multi-zone thermostat, window coverings and a smart home system. The exterior features front desert landscaping, a covered patio and generous backyard. Conveniently located off the 303, this community is near Costco, Safeway, and shopping. **Finishes may vary from sample photos and virtual tour.

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9423 E Steno Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$579,990

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,668 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6681193

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 2,668 sq ft Verbena floor plan home has plenty of space with 4 bedrooms, upstairs loft, 3 full bathrooms and 2 car garage. You'll love the convenience of a full bedroom and bathroom on the first floor. This home features the Harmony Signature palette, with 42'' white cabinets, quartz kitchen countertops, and subway tile kitchen backsplash. Stainless steel appliances (including the fridge) which makes this kitchen complete. This beautiful home will also come with a full size washer and dryer! Easy maintenance, luxurious wood plank tile is featured in all common areas with plush carpeted bedrooms and loft. Getting ready is easy with dual sinks and raised vanity in the primary suite bathroom, plus you'll love the space in your suite - large enough for a king-sized bed.

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