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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5929 N 189th Glen Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$575,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,617 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771789
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BETTER THAN NEW!! This gorgeous home built in 2021 sits on a corner lot and is perfect for entertaining! Open and spacious floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 10 ft ceilings, and a separate den/office. The gourmet kitchen features a massive island (just shy of 11 ft), quartz countertops, double wall oven, gas cooktop, built in microwave, deep farmhouse sink, walk in panty, and stainless-steel appliances. Stunning sunset mountain views from the front of the home. Primary suite has its own zone for AC and heat and a large walk-in closet. Owners have installed a water softener and epoxied the garage floor. The back yard is complete with a covered patio, pavers, palm and fruit trees, and turf. Walking distance to Canyon View High School

4338 E Desert Marigold Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,588 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744958
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Priced to sell! Beautifully upgraded 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-story home. Over the past 3-4 years, this residence has undergone extensive updates. Significant improvements include a new roof underlayment, new A/C system, updated kitchen and bathrooms, over $40k invested in new windows and exterior iron doors, custom trim work, newer carpet, fresh interior paint, new outlets, new light switches, and updated lighting fixtures. The 1,588 square foot floor plan is thoughtfully designed for maximum efficiency, ensuring every inch is utilized effectively with no wasted space. The backyard offers a blank canvas, ready for your personal customization. Ideally located in Tatum Ranch, this home is just a short drive from dining, golf courses, and schools

18118 W Golden Lane Waddell, AZ 85355

$575,000
5 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,548 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6735575
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**ASSUMABLE LOAN ** THE SELLER IS OFFERING $5,000 TOWARDS THE BUYER'S CLOSING COSTS WITH A FULL-PRICE OFFER!**Nestled near the highly desirable White Tank Mountains, this wonderful home offers a perfect blend of country charm and city convenience. With over 3,500 square feet, it provides ample space for a large family. The home features a formal living room, dining room, family room, and a spacious loft. The generous-sized bedrooms include a downstairs master suite with a large walk-in closet. The expansive kitchen is a chef's delight, boasting an island and granite countertops. The backyard is primed for outdoor enjoyment, with enough space for a pool and a deck equipped with an electric movie screen, ideal for family movie nights. Additional highlights include a workshop, RV gate.and a 3 car garage.

2942 S Sierra Heights Mesa, AZ 85212

$575,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,724 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781940
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Recently updated! This beautiful home in Skyline Park is move-in ready for your client! The backyard is an entertainer's paradise with a pebble-tech pool featuring a water slide, waterfall, and grotto, plus a pergola for shaded relaxation. The spacious kitchen boasts a granite island & countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a gas range. Additional highlights include a versatile downstairs suite with a full bath, ideal for guests or a home office, as well as an RV gate and a large side yard parking slab for extra toys. The home is conveniently located near community park and within the highly rated Gilbert School District. Nearby shopping, dining, and golf courses add to the appeal, creating an ideal setting for both entertaining and everyday living!

7635 W Rock Springs Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$575,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,079 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718396
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning single-level home is located in a highly desirable Rock Springs neighborhood, offering the perfect blend of comfort and luxury. The property features outstanding curb appeal with its beautifully landscaped front yard and an inviting entrance. As you step inside, you are greeted by an open room concept with an eat-in kitchen that boasts beautiful lighting, and in the kitchen you have granite countertops, an oversized sink, and a double wall oven with an electric cooktop. The kitchen also includes a spacious walk-in pantry and ample storage, making it a chef's dream. The oversized primary bedroom is a retreat in itself, complete with a large walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom that offers dual sinks, a separate tub and shower, and private water closet. Two large guest bedrooms come with extra tall closets and ceiling fans, providing comfort and convenience. The living areas are designed for both relaxation and entertainment, featuring tile flooring throughout, with plush carpeting in the bedrooms. The home extends its living space to the outdoors with an extended back patio featuring two ceiling fans, perfect for enjoying the Arizona weather. The backyard is a serene oasis with artificial turf, natural vegetation, and a dog run on the side yard. Additional features include a 2-car garage and a functional laundry room. This property is a true gem, offering a perfect combination of indoor luxury and outdoor tranquility.

116 S Arizona Avenue Prescott, AZ 86303

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,320 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739131
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your fully remodeled home in downtown Prescott awaits! Only a half mile from the court house square you will find this updated home boasting a new roof; all new windows; all new flooring; all new kitchen cabinets and granite counters; all new appliances; new heating and central air; fully remodeled bathrooms; new stucco exterior; and all new paint inside and outside. Ample off street parking combined with a detached 1 car garage would make this a great second home with endless rental possibilities due to being walking distance to the Courthouse Square; tennis courts, and soccer field across the street; and only 3 blocks from the famous Mt Vernon Street!

18411 N 46th Place Phoenix, AZ 85032

$575,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,748 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783837
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this spacious 2-story home offering 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The home features a bright and airy main level with a spacious living room, kitchen, and a separate dining area. Just a few steps down, discover an inviting family room and convenient half bath, ideal for family and friend gatherings! Upstairs, you'll find the master suite with fireplace complete with a private ensuite bath, alongside additional bedrooms. You can enjoy the convenience of a two-car garage. This home provides ample parking and storage options. Lastly stepped into your backyard that has a brand new pool that the homeowner designed with endless taste and design. Set up your showing today and lets get you into your new home.

7723 W Encinas Lane Phoenix, AZ 85043

$575,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,818 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6751731
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your dream home in Phoenix! This stunning property boasts a spacious 3,818 sq. ft. floor plan with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, perfect for growing families or those who love to entertain. Enjoy Arizona summers with your very own private pool, ideal for relaxing and hosting gatherings. The home features a brand-new AC system and updated flooring, ensuring comfort and style throughout. Located next to a beautiful greenbelt to the west, this home offers a peaceful outdoor environment while being close to local amenities. Don't miss out on this amazing home.

12311 W Tigerseye Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,157 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752337
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your Desert Oasis... Pride of ownership is definitely shown in this move in ready 3 bedroom 2 bath home with a retreat style backyard. The home has many updates in the kitchen, living room, formal dining/family room, bathrooms, flooring, Arizona room, pergola with 6 person hot tub, updated pool decking, and painted sidewalks. All major appliances included. Interior window shutters on all front windows and new mini spilt in the Arizona room. Don't miss this one of kind gem! Come see it today!

2300 E Campbell Avenue Unit 310 Phoenix, AZ 85016

$575,000 - 2Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Contour Condominiums, Phoenix
Open House
New
$575,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,345 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788028
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Tidy Biltmore Area condo with a beautiful Modern aesthetic, recently constructed in 2017. Each bedroom is en suite, and an additional half bathroom is attached the living area. Full size stacking washer/dryer in unit, and 2 designated parking spaces included in this secure and 24 hr monitored building. Kitchen features Bosch appliances, LG refrigerator, quartz countertops and large kitchen island.

2989 N 44th Street Unit 3028 Phoenix, AZ 85018

$575,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Arcadia Grove Condominium, Phoenix
Open House
$575,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,743 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6723473
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Sunsets and sparkling city light views frame this urban contemporary condominium in gated Arcadia Grove.Surrounded by towering pines, palms, Koi ponds and waterfalls this luxury property is 10 minutes to galleries, restaurants, Sky Harbor, Scottsdale, Biltmore, Tempe and downtown Phoenix. St. Joe's/Barrows, Phoenix Children's and AZ Heart hospitals are a dream commute.With private garages for 3 cars, this single level unit offers 1,743 square feet, 2 master bedrooms with large walk-in closets, a study (or 3rd bedroom) with custom office furniture and 3 baths. The neutral palette, great room floor plan and large private balcony with views of Camelback, provide a tranquil setting. Resort style heated pool/spa, 24 hour fitness center and clubhouse with catering kitchen complete this property

5605 N 206th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$575,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Verrado Victory District Phase 7b, Buckeye
Open House
$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,528 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786833
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in Victory, an exclusive age-restricted community nestled next to the White Tank Mountains in Buckeye. This stunning residence, built in 2023, offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and an active lifestyle. Step inside to discover a beautifully upgraded home. Three bedrooms including an extra flex space, perfect for remote work or hobbies, an extended garage that provides ample space including built in garage cabinets for your recreational gear. The outdoor living space is a true highlight, showcasing a cozy gas fireplace and mountain views both from the backyard and gated front courtyard. The stylish furnishings and decor can be included with a full price offer, making your move seamless and stress-free. Don't miss this opportunity for you in Victory!!