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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36600 N Cave Creek Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$579,500
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,558 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765704
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Cave Creek! This beautifully designed residential condo features 2 spacious primary bedrooms, each with en-suite bath. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an open-concept living space that flows from the kitchen to the living room, perfect for entertaining or relaxing with family. Large sliding doors out to the balcony offer breathtaking views of the iconic Saguaro, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning desert landscape. The kitchen comes equipped with stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, and an inviting breakfast bar. Enjoy your meals with a view on your private patio, where you can soak in the tranquility of your surroundings. Residents of this community can take advantage of the fantastic amenities, including a sparkling, heated community pool available year round; with hiking trails literally right outside your door! Whether you are relaxing by the water or exploring the nearby hiking trails and local shops, you'll find plenty of ways to enjoy the serene desert lifestyle. This condo offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and location. Dont miss your chance to own a piece of paradise in Cave Creek!

15170 W Corrine Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$579,500
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,928 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746709
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning home in the highly desirable Marley Park neighborhood combines charm, functionality, and energy efficiency with owned solar. The quintessential Marley Park front porch, accented with stone and a picturesque sidewalk, leads to a spacious interior designed for modern living. The primary suite is conveniently located on the first floor, featuring a luxurious bathroom with upgraded tile shower and bath surround, frameless glass shower door, dual sinks with granite counters, and two separate walk-in closets. Upstairs, four spacious bedrooms provide ample room for everyone, with two sharing a Jack-and-Jill bathroom and the other two enjoying a hall bathroom. Three of these bedrooms feature walk-in closets, ensuring plenty of storage space. The main living areas are adorned with white wooden shutters and beautiful flooring, with no carpetjust tile and high-quality wood-look laminate. The heart of the home, the kitchen, is a chef's dream with a large island, custom pendant lighting, quartz counters, white cabinets, a custom tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. A butler's pantry adds extra storage and convenience, complete with additional cabinets, a spacious food pantry, and a separate beverage refrigerator. A large den/office/bonus room near the front door offers flexibility for various uses, while the built-in organization nook with shelves, hooks, and a sliding barn door keeps clutter hidden. The laundry room, also located downstairs, features extra storage cabinets, a quartz counter, utility sink, and an additional storage closet. The home's powder room has been tastefully updated with a new vanity, mirror, and fresh paint. The backyard is a true oasis, featuring a heated pool with a pebble finish, custom LED resort lighting, and a tranquil water feature. The travertine pool surround and stone planter lined with mature ficus trees offer both beauty and privacy. Additionally, the side yard is equipped with artificial turf, perfect for pets. The home's 3-car tandem garage, with spotless epoxy flooring, built-in cabinets, and an overhead storage rack, along with an extra-long driveway, ensures ample parking and storage. With owned solar, this home offers energy efficiency to match its exceptional style. All of this located in the amazing community of Marley Park, featuring three community pools and 21 unique parks connected by an Arbor Walk and within walking distance to schools.

5128 E Roberta Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$579,500
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,943 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6720024
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Great value for this Tatum Ranch Gem. Discover your dream home on this private corner lot with breathtaking mountain views! This meticulously remodeled gem boasts a modern interior featuring sleek new cabinets, luxurious quartzite countertops, and elegant engineered hardwood floors. Indulge in spa-like retreats with the completely updated bathrooms. Brand new stainless steel appliances, fresh paint, and plush turf in the backyard complete this turnkey masterpiece. Enjoy peace of mind with a 4-year-old A/C system. Perfectly located near shopping, dining, and major freeways for ultimate convenience. Don't miss this opportunity!

16026 W Alameda Road Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,378
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,674 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6649950
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MOVE IN READY, BRIGHT GREAT ROOM PLAN , QUICK CLOSE!! 4 BEDROOM PLUS LOFT, 3.5 BATH , 9'CEILINGS, GOURMET KITCHEN LAYOUT, UPGRADE CABINETS , GRANITE KITCHEN TOPS, SPA SHOWER, TILED FLOORING. 2'WHITE BLINDS, CEILING FANS, FRONT YARD LANSCAPING COMPLETED, ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED HOME, INDOOR AIR PLUS. A SHORT DISTANCE FROM THE COMMUNITY POOL AREA, PICNIC AREA, TOT LOTS, BASKETBALL, PICKLE BALL COURTSAND SO MUCH MORE.

Show Low AZ 85901

$579,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,065 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6716176
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous New Home on the Fairway! You will love the open concept floor plan conveying furnished. Offering beautiful laminate flooring, 11ft granite kitchen Island, lg pantry, 8ft interior doors, stone gas FP, Master BR w/sitting area/office, granite in both baths, Trex decking, fenced, landscaped & more.

22261 W Ocupado Drive Wittmann, AZ 85361

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,900 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6763926
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Are you wanting to live in a no HOA area? Would you love to have an RV garage? How about a BRAND NEW Home? Located close to Grand Ave. This home will be done before the holidays. This gorgeous home features 3 great size bedrooms, the master has a stunning huge tiled walk in shower. Custom cabinets through out home (Buyers choice from samples) and Beautiful granite countertops. There is wood look tile though out. The layout of this home is great, there is a walk through laundry with a wash station. The home also sits North/South which is highly desired. Builder will consider putting up a block wall around backyard. This can be negotiated into the purchase price. PHOTOS ARE FROM COMPLETED HOME!!

6298 S Dean Road Buckeye, AZ 85326

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,639 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6720711
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this charming home that offers modern comfort on a quiet private street. This open floor plan concept has stainless steel appliances with a large kitchen island and rear covered patio sitting on 2plus acres! Conveniently located close to Sundance & Canyon Trails Towne Centers, schools, parks, and shopping, golf and more! Est. completion date Feb. 2025.

1282 S Norbert Lane Lakeside, AZ 85929

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,501 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746098
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your charming chalet-style retreat nestled in the serene woodlands of Woodland Park! This picturesque home offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comforts, with a prime location boasting access to a private community lake and the stunning natural beauty of the nearby national forest. Step inside this cozy abode and be greeted by the warm ambiance of wood accents and vaulted ceilings, characteristic of the classic chalet design. The main level welcomes you with two inviting bedrooms and a well-appointed bathroom, providing comfortable accommodations for guests or family members.

18225 W Paseo Way Goodyear, AZ 85338

$579,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,058 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760115
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 5-bdrm, 3-bath Ashton Woods home is nestled within the highly coveted Estrella Mtn. Ranch community. It offers over 3,000 sqft and is adorned with updated laminate flooring, lighting, ceiling fans, and stainless appliances, creating a modern and inviting atmosphere. This residence boasts a first-floor bdrm or office and full bath, complemented upstairs by a split primary suite, three additional generously proportioned bdrms, and a versatile loft space that can be customized to suit your needs. Out back there's an oversized covered patio with pergola, overlooking a mature landscaped backyard with a tranquil fountain and fireplace with large flagstone seating area. Home is a short distance from schools, grocery, residents club & lakes! Don't miss out on this one!

26990 W Burnett Road Buckeye, AZ 85396

$579,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,961 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760185
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Delightful 2-bedroom residence on a golf course lot! Be greeted by a 3-car garage, an impeccably designed front yard, & courtyard entry. The inviting family room boasts high ceilings, recessed lighting, a built-in media center, & surround sound speakers. Enjoy gourmet meals in the eat-in kitchen featuring granite counters, staggered cabinets w/crown moulding, stylish backsplash, pendant lighting, built-in appliances, a pantry, built in wine rack & an island w/breakfast bar. The primary bedroom offers an ensuite w/double sinks & walk-in closet. Den with French doors. Spend quiet afternoons in the enchanting backyard boasting a covered patio w/travertine tiles, a built-in BBQ w/dry bar, a warm firepit w/sitting areas, low-maintenance artificial turf & serene golf course views.

21527 N 78th Lane Peoria, AZ 85382

$579,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,078 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768859
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN THE FORMER MODEL IS NOW AVAILABLE AND LOADED WITH EXTRAS/ EXCELLENT FLOORPLAN WAS DESIGNED FOR FAMILY LIVING W/ SPACIOUS FAMILY & LIVING ROOMS/ BAY WINDOWS IN BOTH DR & LR/ CUSTOM DISTRESSED WOODWORK AND DECORATIVE STONE ACCENTS GIVE THIS HOME THE ''FLETCHER FARMS FEEL''/ CUSTOM PLANTATION SHUTTERS COVER ALL OF THE WINDOWS/ TILE AND LAMINATE COVER THE FLOORS EXCEPT THE CARPETED BEDROOMS/ KITCHEN HAS UPGRADED CABINERTY, GRANITS TOPS, SS APPLIANCES, GAS STOVE, W/I PANTRY AND GREAT BREAKFAST BAR/ OTHER EXTRAS INCLUDE FANS IN ALL ROOMS, 9' CEILINGS, SECURITY SYSTEM, R/O & SOFT WATER, GAS HOT WATER & HEAT & SUNSCREENS/ THE 3CGARAGE HAS EPOXY FLOORS AND ATTACHED GARAGE CABINETS/ EASY CARE DESERT FRONT YARD AND GRASS REAR FOR THE KIDS/ NICE STORAGE SHED W/ ELECTRIC/ SPACIOUS PAVER PATIO WITH OVERSIZED GAZEBO/ YOUR OWN PARK IS DIAGONAL TO THE HOME A BALL THROW AWAY/ THIS HOME IS MOVE IN READY

16136 W Birdsong Court Surprise, AZ 85374

$579,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,889 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773602
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your dream cul-de-sac property is within reach! This 3-bedroom gem features a 3-car garage for ample parking. Inside, you'll find a spacious great room with a neutral palette, plantation shutters, stylish wood-look flooring, and sliding doors that lead to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. The delightful kitchen comes with quartz counters, white shaker cabinets with crown moulding, chic pendant/recessed lighting, a subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, a pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar for casual meals. The primary bedroom boasts a quaint sitting nook, an ensuite with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. Outdoors, you'll find a covered patio with an attached pergola for enjoying the warm Arizona weather. Make it yours!