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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1247 E Marketplace Way Phoenix, AZ 85048

$584,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,809 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6704331
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW!! Priced Below Comparable sales! Hard to find Lot!! 3 bedroom 3 full baths. This home has 2 master suites. Huge nearly a quarter acre lot with massive pool and spa. Single family detached home is all on one level on a cul-de-sac with lots of natural light boasting soaring ceilings. ALL NEW STAINLESS APPLIANCES INSTALLED! Recently upgraded Kitchen Cabinets. 2nd HVAC unit for Garage. Located in one of the most coveted areas in Ahwatukee in the heart of the Foothills. The lot sits above the homes behind it giving it that much more privacy and resort feel. Great views of the the Foothills golf course. Excellent Montessori School within Kyrene School District. Hot water heater replaced in 2023 Trane HVAC Pool RePlastered in 2019 New pool Filter and pump 202

16873 W Fetlock Trail Surprise, AZ 85387

$583,997
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,241 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766532
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
On the hunt for a new home? Here's a gorgeous and completed home in the heart of Sunrise. Don't wait for the builder - move in ready now! Very spacious Wrightson plan. This home is gorgeous and perfect for buyers looking for a highly upgraded kitchen and a large lot with 900 sq ft of gorgeous pavers waiting for you to entertain. Buyers spared no expense with the upgrades in the home - Soft closing drawers, smart ceiling fans, faux wood blinds, oversized pantry, coffee station option added, smart home technology, stone front elevation, double sized patio, double glass sliding doors, just to name a few. Assumable FHA current loan if buyer can meet the loan qualifications required to assume. This floorplan is no longer available, and home is almost new - don't miss out!

22693 E Saddle Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$583,990
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,623 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740821
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 Jade plan features 3-car tandem garage, butler's pantry at the kitchen, 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, formal dining room with structural option to add a separate den, 12 ft slider and 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 and ample linen storage. This floorplan is accompanied by sizable secondary bedrooms and comes standard with 10' ceilings, front yard landscaping, paver driveway, dual sinks at primary bath, and much more! ~There is a minimum option spend requirement on new build homes, please reach out to the sales office for additional details.~

3757 S Hibiscus -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$583,945
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,832 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6664611
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6664611 Ready Now! Welcome to The Edmonton at Hawes Crossing, a charming single-story abode showcasing 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, a 2-car garage, and two dining areas. Upon arrival, the foyer effortlessly guides you to the dining and kitchen space, providing ample room for culinary delights. Step into an open and inviting casual dining and great room area, seamlessly connecting to the outdoor living space and backyard, perfect for hosting gatherings. The spacious primary suite boasts a private bathroom with double sinks and a walk-in closet, ensuring comfort and convenience. Structural options include: 8 ft interior doors, pavers front porch, driveway and entry walks, garage service door, extended owner's suite, soft water loop, and gas line for future outdoor kitchen.

8300 E Vía De Ventura Boulevard Unit 1015 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$583,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,442 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750386
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Come see this move in ready condo in gated Lakeside Villas at McCormick Ranch! This home wood plank tile flooring plantation shutters and upgraded lighting fixtures and fans throughout. The living room has a reclaimed wood detail fireplace and high ceilings with lots of natural light. The kitchen features soft close cabinets and drawers, Quartz countertops and new stainless steel appliances. New Quartz countertops in the bathrooms as well. The primary bedroom has an ensuite bathroom and spacious walk in closet. Inside laundry and a singel car detached garage. Community amenities include pool/spa, walking/biking path and lake views. Close to lots of shopping, fine dining, golf and easy freeway access. Must see

2084 E Ellis Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$583,500 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Continental East 5, Tempe
New
$583,500
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,764 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777859
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Remodel**Open Floor Plan**Great Room Concept**Light & Bright**Single Story**4 Bedrooms/2 Baths/ 2 Car Garage**Corner Lot**Stucco Exterior**Painted Interior & Exterior**Roof Replaced 2024**Newer HVAC System**Tile Throughout**Appliances Replaced 2024**Large Kitchen**White Shaker Style Cabinets with 42'' Uppers**Backsplash With Herringbone Pattern**Engineered Quartz Countertops**Large Pantry**Laundry Inside**Peninsula Island/ Breakfast Bar**Dual Pane Windows Installed 2024**Wall Accents**Tile Throughout**Recessed Lighting Throughout**All Interior Doors Replaced**Ceiling Fans/ Light Fixtures Replaced**Tub & Shower With Tile Surround**All Plumbing Fixtures Replaced**Expoxy Floor in Garage**Roof Replaced 2024**Very Nice Remodel**

20377 W Terrace Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$583,500
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,725 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753236
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This impeccably maintained 4 bedroom 3 bathroom home is located in the heart of the highly sought after Verrado community. Verrado boasts championship golf course, community facilities such as pool, community center, full gym, tennis, pickle ball courts., countless hiking paths and trails for all levels of hikers, the now famous stairs of Verrado, Main street area with restaurants, grocery store, coffee shop, and more. The interior of this home includes custom 2 tone paint, gourmet kitchen with staggered 42'' upper cabinets with crown molding, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, huge walk-in pantry, abundant storage through-out, 8ft interior doors, 10ft flat ceilings, private courtyard off dining room, huge owners suite w/en-suite bath including dual vanities, walk-in shower... and separate soaking tub, very large walk-in closet, there is a separate bedroom and full bath that is perfect for an in-law or guest suite. Well appointed backyard with fruit trees, grass area, paver walking paths and lounging area.

20442 E Rosa Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$583,500
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,959 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754354
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A definition gem on a spacious corner lot, perfectly nestled quite-nearly in the very center of the Queen Creek Marketplace itself! It's a deceptive-charmer that just keeps giving more and more as you tour it. Four bedrooms within a functional layout including a flex-space ideal for a home office, second living space/game room- or even could easily serve as a fifth/guest bedroom if ever desired! The finishes are totally up to 2024 standards with a modern-boho feel throughout stemming from the wood-look tile flooring to the generous and gorgeous kitchen. Best surprise might just be the backyard, it astounds in use of space- and all this is positioned ever-so-cosily next to a pathway to the shopping and dining just steps away! Don't miss this one.

2435 W Stradling Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$582,990
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,444 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770624
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This expansive 2,444 square-foot single-level home offers the perfect combination of space and comfort. With 5 bedrooms/3 full bathrooms, this residence is ideal for large gatherings for those who love to entertain.The home's open-concept design creates a seamless flow between the main living areas. The kitchen is a highlight, featuring modern appliances with a gas stove, ample cabinetry, a large center island, and a breakfast bar. Adjacent to the kitchen is a spacious dining area that comfortably accommodates family meals and gatherings. The living room is designed for relaxation and socializing, with plenty of natural light streaming through large windows. 3 car garage & HUGE yard! tankless water heater!

4477 N 200th Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$582,856
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,569 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776603
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
KITCHEN: Painted Gray Cabinetry and tile backsplash, Gas GE Profile 36'' stainless steel Cooktop with wall oven, Quartz Countertops, Extended Island, Box-in for 36'' refrigerator. FLOORING: 6X36 Wood look and upgraded carpet & pad. INCLUDED OPTIONS: Spanish exterior, Bonus Room, Super Laundry Room and Pre-plumb for soft water loop. Stain Nickle door hardware with 6 panel Rockport doors.

10227 E Ulysses Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$582,629
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,428 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769959
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your 2024 DREAM HOME in the highly sought-after Medley at Avalon Crossing! Over $80k in UPGRADES! This STUNNING home combines modern elegance + thoughtful living spaces! GOURMET kitchen features quartz countertops + Whirlpool stainless appliance suite! The great room is perfect for entertaining, while the upstairs loft offers additional living space. Private primary suite w/ensuite bath! Situated in a BEAUTIFUL community, residents can take advantage of fantastic amenities including a heated pool, playgrounds, bocce ball courts, and scenic walking paths lined with trees. Perfectly designed for modern living, this home offers luxury, comfort, and community all in one! WELCOME HOME!

15963 W Montana De Oro Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$582,436
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,229 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6721719
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New home ready for immediate occupancy! This single level 2229 SF single level 3 BR, plus den 3. BA home is located on a north south facing home site. Surrounded by single level homes, no 2 stories. Exciting included features include upgraded cabinets, upgraded Quartz tops, tile Kitchen backsplash, plank tile on the floors, 10' ceilings, 8' interior doors, 3 car garage, gourmet kitchen, garage service door, tank less water heater, landscape credit, and so much more. Neighborhood also includes, tree lined streets, Certified Energy Star and Indoor Air Plus for more energy savings.