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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104 N 3114 -- Vernon, AZ 85940

$582,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,866 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713245
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Tucked away in the White Mountain landscape, this custom-built, full-log cabin offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern updates on an expansive 10.57-acre lot. Featuring 2 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a grand loft, this home provides ample space for relaxation and enjoyment. Step outside to enjoy the covered porch and open deck, perfect for soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The property is heavily treed, creating a private, tranquil setting. Inside, admire the beautiful hardwood floors and exposed logs that highlight the cabin's craftsmanship. The charming, updated kitchen is equipped with modern amenities, perfect for any culinary enthusiast. The exterior of the cabin has been recently refreshed, and the floors have been carefully refinished by hand, ensuring this home is move-in ready. Animal lovers will appreciate the fact that the property is already set up for your furry friends. Come experience comfort in this White Mountain retreat.

4198 N Spyglass Drive Florence, AZ 85132

$582,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,989 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6701840
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come and see this beautifully upgraded home with Stunning views on the 1st fairway of the Poston Butte Golf course in Sun City Anthem. This home has SOLAR for low energy bills Enjoy two large bedrooms, two baths and a large den complete with French doors. Hunter Douglas window treatments and ceiling fans in all rooms. Enjoy a gorgeous chefs kitchen with gas range, upgraded cabinets and granite countertops. The master bath has an oversized walk-in shower with stunning custom tile, beautiful tile flooring in all main living spaces with upgraded carpet in bedrooms. A gorgeous outdoor travertine patio gives you a spectacular golf course view, complete with lovely desert inspired landscaping, garden lighting and motorized sunshades! Enjoy the beautiful view and AZ weather all year round. There is a Golf Cart garage, complete with storage area, shelving and wall slat hanging storage system with upgraded additional LED lighting. There is also a whole house RO system and water softener, and tankless gas hot water heater. This home has a freshly painted exterior as well! Located in a wonderful community with numerous amenities, there will never be a lack of activities to participate in! Golf, Pickle Ball, tennis, biking, fitness center, pools and spas, bocce ball, clubhouse and restaurant are all just steps away! Come for a visit and stay for a lifetime! See you soon!

7723 W Willow Way Florence, AZ 85132

$582,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,530 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750621
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
UPSCALE LIVING in luxury & comfort w/endless upgrades! Stunning curb appeal w/paver driveway, a beautifully massive iron door providing both security & elegance upon entering the home. Inside you'll find an open floor plan w/gourmet Chef's Kitchen w/all the high-end features, granite counters, pendant lights & large walk-in pantry. Kitchen opens to great room w/built in entertainment center, surround sound inside & out. Spacious office w/glass French doors. Primary suite features tile walk-in shower, double sinks w/makeup vanity & walk-in closet. 2nd bedroom w/large walk-in closet, private bathroom w/shower & raised vanity. Relax/RENEW w/the FAR INFRARED SAUNA! Covered patio w/electronic sunscreen & fireplace creates a relaxing ambiance + 6 hole putting green!! 2' Ext 2 car + cart garage!

3349 E Oriole Drive Gilbert, AZ 85297

$582,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,292 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6724272
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Be sure to check out this great home, priced below market value and ready for you. This beautiful single story home features 4 bedrooms ( 2 of which are en suites) den, formal living and dining, 3 full baths and a split floor plan. The 2 en suites are perfect for guests, parents or in laws. The home has a private pool for those hot summer days, spa for those cool desert nights, all new windows 2023, new hot water heater in 2023, solar panels to keep your electricity bill down all on a large corner lot located close to the 202 freeway in a sought after Gilbert neighborhood. The owner has used this as a vacation home and has maintained the home very well and it is looking for it's new owner. Stop by and see your new home today.

11946 W Parkway Lane Avondale, AZ 85323

$581,995
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,480 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761545
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The heart of this ranch-style home is an open floor plan with a family room, a breakfast nook and a large gourmet kitchen. The adjacent primary suite offers a walk-in closet and an attached bath. You'll also find two additional bedrooms and a bath, as well as a quiet study and a guest suite complete with a living area, bedroom, and private bath. Includes covered patio and a 2-car garage!

15680 W Mercer Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$581,027
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,492 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760233
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand new home completed this November! This home is a wonderful 3-bedroom with a Den or Flex Room. The amazing kitchen / great room is open and has an oversized island. This beautiful home is under construction & backs to an open space with no direct back neighbors. There is wood plank tile throughout except for the bedrooms. Gourmet kitchen with designer hood, gas cooktop, built in oven / Microwave. & upgraded Painted Linen Cabinets, honed granite countertops, and a custom backsplash. Owner's suite has a tiled shower & Honed Granite counters & undermount sinks. Don't miss the unbelievable owner's closet. The flex room is built in so that it could easily be used as a den / playroom or home office. HOME WILL BE COMPLETE IN November. SELLER IS OFFERING RATE BUYDOWNS!

14022 N Bolivar Drive Sun City, AZ 85351

$581,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,448 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6723831
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning house is located in a prime location and features 3brs/3bths. Spacious great room plan has an office/3rd bedroom w/ a sep. entrance. Spacious primary suite includes a washer/dryer. The guest quarters with a kitchenette are separate from the primary suite, providing privacy. The eat-in kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring custom cabinets, granite countertops, a breakfast bar, and a luxury line of Miele appliances, including a built-in refrig, dishwasher, induction cooktop, microwave, wall oven, steam oven, & coffee station. Inside laundry room and a sep storage room. Plantation shutters, dual pane windows, fans, and tile t/o (except for the primary closet) add to the home's charm. This home is ideal for those who enjoy golf course living and appreciate luxury and convenience.

4230 W Palace Station Road New River, AZ 85087

$581,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,799 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747349
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't miss this one! Stunning single story Barbaro model home on a premium corner lot in sought after Circle Mountain Ranch! 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and just under 1800 SF. Split floor plan with a bright and open concept main living space. The kitchen boasts granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, walk-in pantry, gas range and opens to the spacious great room with tile flooring, ceiling fan, recessed lighting, multiple windows and neutral tones. Primary retreat with double door entry, ceiling fan, carpet, walk in closet, en suite bath w/ dual sinks. Low maintenance landscape, block wall, extended paver patio & cover and turf! Additionally, this home is equipped with smart home technology. Enjoy all of the wonderful amenities Anthem has to offer - walking/hiking paths, parks, shopping, dining, golf & more all with EZ freeway access.

4623 E Monte Way Phoenix, AZ 85044

$581,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Pointe South Mountain Unit 6 Amd, Phoenix
Open House
$581,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,735 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763286
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to your dream home! This property features a cozy fireplace, perfect for chilly evenings. The neutral paint scheme throughout is ready for your personal touch. The primary bedroom boasts a spacious walk-in closet, and the primary bathroom is a true retreat with double sinks and a separate tub and shower for a spa-like experience. This home is a must-see for those seeking comfort and style!

3131 N Central Avenue Unit 6022 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$580,900 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Edison Midtown Condominiums, Phoenix
Open House
$580,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6415956
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
*Construction completed* 5% BUYER INCENTIVE! Introducing Edison Midtown Phase 2 with 60 new construction condominiums. This spacious two bedroom condo is located on the corner with West facing views to the pool and common area and offers ten ft. ceilings, an open floor plan, and large master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Chefs kitchen offers expansive cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances including a gas range. Edison Midtown features incredible amenities for that perfect Urbanite lifestyle. A beautiful pool and lap pool, 2000 sq. ft. fitness center and lounge, and gated parking garage.

13138 N 173rd Lane Surprise, AZ 85388

$580,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,745 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760540
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This home combines modern luxury with everyday convenience, making it the perfect place to make your own. Located in a newly developed and highly sought-after neighborhood, this brand-new construction (2023) boasts both luxury and convenience. With 4 bedrooms, 2 bonus flex spaces, great room, chef's kitchen, and a large interior courtyard, this home offers the perfect blend of style and functionality for today's modern lifestyle. Chef's Kitchen: The heart of the home, featuring gourmet appliance package including double wall oven, gas cooktop, and drawer microwave, chic white cabinets with 42'' uppers, decorative tile backsplash, and an expansive island - ideal for culinary enthusiasts or entertaining. Large Great Room: Open and airy with plenty of natural light, perfect for family gatherings or relaxing after a long day. The 12' center-slide glass door provides direct access to the patio. Eat-In Kitchen: Spacious for hosting dinner parties, holiday feasts and gathering for family meals. Owner's Ensuite: Nestled at the back of the house and split from the other 3 bedrooms, your private retreat with a spa-like bathroom, oversized walk-in shower, double vanities, and a generous walk-in closet. 3 Additional Bedrooms: Spacious and thoughtfully designed with ample closet space. 2 Bonus Flex Spaces: Versatile areas that can be used as home offices, playrooms, or workout spaces. Large Interior Courtyard: A serene outdoor space for al fresco dining, lounging, or gardening. Across the Street from a Beautiful Park: Enjoy walking, playing, or relaxing in the lush greenery right outside your door. Minutes from Costco and Other Shopping and Dining: Convenience at your fingertips with easy access to a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Don't miss your chance to own this gem in one of the most desirable new neighborhoods!

17416 E Windstone Trail Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$580,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,331 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6487563
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
HOME IS COMPLETE AND MOVE IN READY NEW BUILD ON AN ACRE AND A QUARTER LOT WITH BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS. THIS 4 BEDROOM HOME HAS 2331 SQFT, OPEN KITCHEN WITH UPGRADED CABINETS, ISLAND, GRANITE COUNTERS, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, DOUBLE OVENS, 36'' COOKTOP, CUSTOM EXHAUST HOOD, MICROWAVE, FARMER SINK AND A WALK IN PANTRY. GREAT ROOM WITH FIREPLACE. MASTER BEDROOM HAS A LARGE WALK IN CLOSET, 36'' HIGH VANITY WITH DUAL SINKS AND GRANITE TOPS, SEPARATE TUB/SHOWER WITH TILE SURROUNDS. EXTRA LARGE LAUNDRY ROOM WITH DEEP SINK. UPGRA