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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23038 E Twilight Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,243 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763396
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your New Home in the prestigious master-planned lake community of Harvest Queen Creek! This beautiful property has over $40k in builder & seller upgrades! It features an open floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a versatile flex space perfect for a playroom, office, or teen retreat. The Great Room is highlighted by a builder-upgraded kitchen, complete with a gas range, an oversized island, and tasteful Roman shade window coverings. Modern light fixtures and ceiling fans add elegance and comfort throughout the space. Expansive 12-foot sliding doors open to an extended covered patio, overlooking one of the largest lots in Hacienda at Harvest, spanning 8,281 square feet. The Primary Suite offers privacy with a split-floor layout, featuring a spacious walk-in shower and a walk-in closet. Both secondary bedroom include walk-in closets and share a full bathroom. The home's exterior has an upgraded paver driveway, walkway, and entrance, leading to a 3-car tandem garage equipped with a commercial-grade, non-slip floor, backed by a lifetime warranty. As part of the Harvest community, you'll enjoy access to a variety of amenities, including a heated pool, children's playground, and scenic walking and biking paths around the catch & release lake. The home is within walking distance to Schnepf Elementary and is conveniently located near shopping, dining, and fun seasonal events. This property is a blank canvas, ready for you to transform into your dream indoor-outdoor oasis. Refrigerator, Washer, and Dryer are included! The Seller is willing to install rocks at backyard for the right Buyer. Furniture & household items also available for purchase on separate bill of sale.

2856 N 71st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,478 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770564
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Location, Location, Location! A charming home situated in the Heart of Scottsdale! Close to Old Town, Tempe, shopping, dining, & entertainment. NO HOA! This preferred, split, Great Room floor plan shows very light & bright and exudes a cool vibe. The crown molding is a nice accent! Perfect for entertaining or Family/Friend time. A Guest Bedroom offers a separate entrance. The updated Kitchen features a gas stove, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, tiled backsplash, and a skylight. French doors lead to a large screened in Arizona Room/Patio. The Primary Bedroom is sizable and offers a walk-in closet. French doors provide an escape to a quaint Private Patio. The Primary Bath boasts a beautiful tiled walk-in shower. NEWER A/C! NO CARPET HERE, just lovely wood-look plank tile floors throughout. Relax in the spacious, private Backyard with mature shade trees & Mountain views. This home is move-in ready and a must-see!

7031 W Morrow Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,800 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759901
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 3-bedroom home with a blue pool in Arrowhead Ranch exudes charm and comfort! A grassy front yard, 2-car garage, brick veneer, and code entry box in the front door are just the beginning. Discover an open layout with all-new double-pane windows and doors, vaulted ceilings, sunny bay windows, and a two-way fireplace. The kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, plenty of honey oak cabinets, granite counters, and tile backsplash. The main bedroom features backyard access, a fireplace, and a lavish bathroom with a jetted tub, glass enclosure shower, dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. In the backyard, you'll find a swimming pool with a heater and chiller, green grass, two covered patios, and a pool house with a/c. Plus, the roof is only 3 years old! You won't be disappointed!

6812 S Hardy Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$575,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,237 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770066
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible 4 bedroom home on a 1/3 acre lot in a quiet Tempe neighborhood. Upgrades include Alder wood cabinets and slab granite counters. Newer stainless steel appliances. Tons of tile. Split bedroom plan, roomy master closet with built ins. 4th bedroom is 11 x 20 den option or 5th bedroom. Huge back yard with citrus trees and a great view of South Mountain. Close to all the major freeways, shopping/dining, Sky Harbor and ASU. SPA IS NOT OPERATIONAL AND CONVEYS AS IS

10910 E Oro Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$575,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,922 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766561
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the perfect retirement lifestyle in this inviting 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a den, located in a sought-after 55+ community in Mesa, AZ. Designed with comfort and ease in mind, this home offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere ideal for those looking to enjoy their retirement years. This active adult community boasts incredible amenities, including a 27-hole executive golf course, perfect for both seasoned players and those just looking to enjoy a leisurely game. You'll also have access to top-tier recreational facilities, with clubs and activities tailored to your interests—whether it's Pickleball, Tennis, or Softball, there's something for everyone. Enjoy a vibrant social life, meet new friends, and participate in a variety of clubs and programs that keep your retirement to the fullest. This is more than just a homeit's your gateway to a fulfilling and active retirement!

804 N Wilderness Circle Payson, AZ 85541

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,686 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762747
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautifully maintained and updated home is located in the Woodhill subdivision on a quiet cul-de-sac. The home offers large rooms, a split floor plan, a generous primary suite with an oversized closet, hickory extended cabinets, a breakfast bar, vaulted ceilings, and a large screened covered patio. It has new exterior paint, a new Electric Heat Pump, water heater, primary bathroom shower, beautiful luxury vinyl plank flooring, a roof replaced two years ago, and much more. You do not want to miss out on this perfect place to call your home!

5921 S Tobin -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,832 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762561
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located within the thriving community of Encore at Eastmark, this 1832 sq. ft split floor plan with 3 bed, 2 bath, extended 2 car garage, and great room is immaculate! Beautiful upgrades include: extensive wood plank tile, grey cabinetry, granite countertops, eat-in kitchen with a large island, stainless steel appliances with a gas range, walk-in pantry, tiled master shower and more! The backyard is private with low maintenance landscaping, a covered patio connected to the paved and turf yard. The 55 plus community features a 15,000 sq. ft clubhouse with a state-of-the-art fitness center, cardio room, fitness and dance studio, classroom, arts and crafts studio, library, internet café, billiards area, and a resort style pool with spa.

4323 W Villa Theresa Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,098 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763477
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The search is finally over! This coveted corner lot property greets you with a 2-car garage, an RV gate, a tasteful brick facade, and a paver walkway. You'll find a living room with new paint, a charming bay window, and new wood-look flooring. The great room has an inviting fireplace for relaxing evenings. Cook delicious meals in the kitchen, equipped with granite counters, ample wood cabinetry, a tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a handy pantry. You'll also find a versatile den ideal for an office. The main bedroom includes sliding door access to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living, a wakj0ub closet, and an ensuite with dual sinks. The backyard boasts a covered patio, pristine natural turf, and a pool for endless summer fun. Make this yours!

15021 S 47th Street Phoenix, AZ 85044

$575,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,846 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763249
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fall in love, this North-South-facing Former Model Home on a corner lot, offering stunning Sunrises & Sunsets in the desirable Ahwatukee Foothills neighborhood, w/ no HOA! Step inside to Vaulted Ceilings in the living room with Natural Lighting with all New Vinyl Windows Installed (2021). Custom Tile/Wood Flooring throughout flows to the open kitchen featuring designer backsplash tile, granite countertops, an eat-in bar that flows into the great room, w/ easy access to the backyard that has a covered patio, awnings, pavers, newer pebble tech pool (2018) upgraded pool equipment (2023). All the bedrooms have ceiling fans for efficient living The primary bedroom offers a large walk-in closet and a spacious bathroom has granite counter tops, stand-up shower, plenty of Linen cabinet space a sliding door leading to a backyard. This Home is Conveniently located near freeways, shopping, dining, and featuring a new HVAC Air Conditioner installed (2021)

6063 W Pinon Way Pine, AZ 85544

$575,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,200 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765502
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Pine Creek Canyon at the Portals II nestled in the Ponderosa Pines! The majestic views are breathtaking. This cozy 2 bedroom 2 bath home comes furnished. Extensive paver work recently done makes the entry to the home inviting and gives a fresh updated look. There is a newer AC/Heat Pump as well as a stone fireplace. You will have access to Portal II amenities such as basketball courts, shuffleboard, and tennis courts.

3549 W Denali Court Anthem, AZ 85086

$575,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,704 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764368
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in Anthem Parkside! This refreshed 4-bedroom residence combines elegance and functionality, featuring vaulted ceilings and a freshly painted interior. The modern kitchen showcases stainless LG appliances, a gas range, quartz countertops, and a walk-in pantry—perfect for any cook. Relax in the cozy family room by the fireplace or enjoy the inviting backyard with artificial turf, an extended patio, and an outdoor fireplace, ideal for entertaining. Upstairs, discover all four bedrooms, a hall bath with double sinks, and a convenient laundry room. Located in a quiet cul-de-sac, just steps from a pocket park and a short walk to the Daisy Mountain Trailhead, this home is a must-see!

4429 E Del Rio Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$575,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,460 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767453
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A beautiful 4 bed, 2.5 bath in Laredo Ranch is now for sale! Nestled on a premium corner lot and boasting great curb appeal, a manicured landscape w/lush natural turf, and a 2 car tandem garage! Come inside to discover spacious dining & living areas w/tile flooring and trending palette throughout. Prepare delicious meals in this chef's kitchen comprised of staggered cabinetry w/crown moulding, granite counters, mosaic tile backsplash, pendant lighting, stainless steel appliances, and an island complete w/a breakfast bar. Upstairs you'll find a sizeable loft w/soft carpet, where you can spend a relaxing Sunday evening! Double doors open up to the primary bedroom, showcasing a mirrored walk-in closet, and a full ensuite w/dual sinks for added comfort. Don't forget about the large media room w/custom coffered ceilings! Lastly, the expansive backyard includes a covered patio, mature shade tree, and a sparkling blue pool! This is sure to be the home you've been looking for, hurry and act now!