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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15625 N Jerry Street Surprise, AZ 85378

$570,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,455 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787673
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully stunning 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom single level newer built surprise home. This home has upgrades throughout including marble floor throughout with no carpeting, upgraded baseboards, 9' ceilings and archways throughout, upgraded doors, fixtures window blinds and ceiling fans. This open floor plan home has a large living room and formal dining area with access easy access to the backyard patio. Stunning kitchen features granite countertops, tile backsplash, breakfast bar, upgraded soft-close cabinets, large island, separate walk-in pantry, gas range, dishwasher and refrigerator.

28715 N 64th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85083

$570,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,820 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6784043
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't miss this open airy 3BR, 2BA floorpan with many modern amenities such as upgraded blackout shades throughout entire home. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring elegant white cabinets, a wall oven, microwave, gas stovetop, farmhouse sink, rounded quartz island & quartz countertops with a walk-in pantry. Included are a refrigerator and washer/dryer. Luxuriate in the spa like owners bathroom suite with an oversized tiled walk in shower w/bench, double sinks, and a large closet. Bedrooms are carpeted & tile flooring flows through main areas. A large coat closet & gas tankless water heater complete this inviting home! Enjoy outdoor living with a sliding door leading to a low-maintenance backyard with turf and brick accents, surrounded by mountain views and overlooking a scenic canal

2135 S Bristol -- Mesa, AZ 85209

$570,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,883 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6709098
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the heart of coveted Augusta Ranch, this home epitomizes elevated living. With its spacious open-concept floor plan boasting four bedrooms and three baths, it's an entertainer's dream. The family room and inviting kitchen areas are ideal for hosting gatherings. Enjoy the beautiful low-maintenance backyard, complete with a large pool that can be enjoyed year around thanks to a gas heater addition (2023). Updates like a new roof (2023) and renovated bath fixtures add modern convenience, while the community's amenities, including an executive golf course, bar/grill, abundant events, parks, and a school, ensure a lifestyle of comfort and enjoyment. This home is a must-see!

44562 W Sedona Trail Maricopa, AZ 85139

$570,000
6 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,019 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6720344
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --

18531 W Thistle Landing Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$570,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,593 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761534
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Tucked within the breathtaking Estrella Mountain Ranch, this Next Gen home seamlessly blends privacy, elegance, and modern living. Situated on a private lot with serene views of a peaceful common area, this home offers a rare opportunity for multigenerational living with two homes under one roof. Thoughtfully designed, this Lennar® Next Gen model includes a separate suite complete with its own entrance, kitchen, living room, bedroom, and bathroom—ideal for extended family, guests, or even a private office. The possibilities are limitless! Located in the expansive 20,000-acre master-planned community of Estrella in Goodyear, residents are welcomed into a lifestyle defined by natural beauty and world-class amenities. Estrella features over 500 acres of parks and open space including 72 acres of lakes for boating and fishing. Residents enjoy exclusive access to the Starpointe Residents Club, two fitness centers, a refreshing water park, and miles of scenic hiking trails and bike paths. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and tennis courts. For golf lovers, the nearby Jack Nicklaus-designed championship course at The Golf Club of Estrella is a dream come true. And for those seeking relaxation, Estrella's resort-inspired atmosphere, surrounded by the Sierra Estrella Mountains and the Sonoran Desert Valley, offers a peaceful retreat just 17 miles from downtown Phoenix. This home offers more than just a place to liveit opens the door to the unrivaled lifestyle Estrella Mountain Ranch is known for. This community truly has something for everyone.

11541 E Corbin Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$570,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,373 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767202
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is located in the highly desirable Warner Enclave subdivision in Mesa. With 2,377 sq. ft. of upgraded living space, this 2-story home offers a bright and open floor plan perfect for entertaining. The kitchen features stunning Valhalla granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, a large pantry, and stainless steel appliances, including a gas range. The primary suite boasts a spacious walk-in closet, dual vanities, and a separate tub and shower. Additional features include a cozy upstairs loft, a dedicated office space, and a convenient upstairs laundry. The home is ENERGY STAR certified with a low HERS rating of 51, ensuring excellent energy efficiency. Outside, you'll find a well-maintained desert landscape with a covered patio, perfect for outdoor relaxation. Located near top-rated schools such as Queen Creek Unified District, this home also offers quick access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Plus, with no rear neighbors, you'll enjoy added privacy. Don't miss out on this gemschedule your tour today!

13408 W Lariat Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$570,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,781 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769987
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 2022 3bdrm 2bath home is on one of the larger lots in Rancho Cabrillo. The home includes an additional bonus room, extended driveway pavers, and a large side vehicle gate. The kitchen opens up to the great room and dining room. Four panel sliding glass doors open up to the backyard entertaining area which includes a covered back patio, built-in BBQ, pool with water feature, and sun deck. The pool deck is surrounded by travertine pavers. The backyard also includes a fire pit and artificial turf. You will enjoy plenty of pool parties, and BBQ's in this beautiful backyard. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind gem! Seller is related to Listing Agent.

26322 W Firehawk Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$570,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,381 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772955
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
HIGHLY UPGRADED Serenity model w/Owned Solar & Updated 19 SEER Amana HVAC! Rare opportunity to own a 3 bedroom, 2 bath + Den home w/a Screened in Patio. You will be greeted by the Tuscan elevation & the Gated Paver Courtyard. Upon entering you will be impressed by the architectural touch of the tray ceilings throughout. Tile flooring leads you into the Chef Lux kitchen w/under cabinet lights, Granite counters, Tile backsplash, Pull-out shelves, Soft close drawers, Pendant lights & Walk-in Pantry. Cozy Gas Fireplace in the family room. Owner Suite w/a Bay window & Barn door that leads into the Bath w/dual sinks & Modern Walk-in Tiled shower for a spa like retreat! Enter the fully Insulated temperature-controlled garage w/cabinets, epoxy floors updated water softener & tankless water heater

3121 W Pima Street Phoenix, AZ 85009

$570,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,471 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6760103
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Investment opportunity! This property has many different potential uses. Fix up the houses and flip them, or even rent them. Depending on your desired outcome, you could remove the homes and build something else on the property. This property is zoned R-3 multifamily medium density. If you are looking for your next investment opportunity, you should look at this one.

13607 W Springdale Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$570,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
3,291 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768546
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Great Opportunity To Own This Popular San Carlos EXPANDED Model: Allowing for the extra square footage to total 3291l. This 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2.5 Car Garage (GOLF CART GARAGE), is fantastically located off of the 4th Teebox, perfect run with the cart! The spacious living room, AZ room, primary master bedroom & bath, guest bedroom, bath count with expansions. Home boasts an arrays of room to entertain your friends, family and other guests. Enjoy the nice seasonal weather and relax in your new home, coupled with an enclosed patio with gorgeous views of the mountains & golf course. North/South sun exposure limits direct sunlight. Great moment to capitalize to make this property your own, at current pricing structure! Buyer to verify all.

714 W Mesquite Street Gilbert, AZ 85233

$570,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,962 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750995
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fantastic opportunity! Welcome to this stunning residence featuring a 3-car garage and a convenient RV gate. Discover a welcoming living room with vaulted ceilings, clerestory windows for natural light, contemporary track lighting, and tile flooring. The great room has a cozy fireplace for quiet evenings. The delightful kitchen boasts a charming breakfast nook, granite counters, abundant wood cabinetry, built-in appliances, recessed lighting, a pantry, and a two-tier island with a breakfast bar. The den is perfect for an office or study. The main bedroom includes French doors leading to the backyard, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The enchanting backyard displays a covered patio and a sparkling pool for cooling down on warm days. Make this gem yours!

29810 W Bellview Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$570,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,900 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777916
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come and see this beautiful house with neutral tones through out, open floor plan, lots of natural light in the living area. Huge island in kitchen. Split floor plan, the back patio is huge, this house has pleanty of land, over 1 acre ready for you to give it your personal touch.