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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9230 N 82nd Lane Peoria, AZ 85345

$564,990 - 6Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Roundtree Ranch, Peoria
Open House
$564,990
6 Beds
3 Baths
3,156 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785062
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning two-story property in Peoria! Fully remodeled with fresh paint inside and out, this 6-bedroom, 3-bathroom home features a low-maintenance front yard, a 2-car garage with an RV gate, and exceptional flexibility for various living arrangements. The home boasts two fully equipped kitchens, two laundry areas (one on each level), and separate access to the upper floor from both inside and outside, making it perfect for short-term or long-term rental opportunities. This beautifully updated property is a must-see!

2772 S Betty Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$564,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,067 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785326
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning, only lived in one year, 4/3 with all appliances in great location with community pool. Easy care yard, stainless appliances, granite counters, ceiling fans and much more! This one is a must see on any list! Come and see me today!

4226 N Turnberry Court Florence, AZ 85132

$564,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,039 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746069
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MAKE A SPLASH! Enjoy the tour of this stunning, nearly new ''Pursuit'' model in the highly sought after Legends community in Sun City Anthem at Merrill Ranch. Your new home offers an abundance of upgrades that include a chefs kitchen with beautiful and highly upgraded granite, stainless appliances, ample cabinets, large island, triple sliding glass door and soaring 10' ceilings. The primary bathroom offers the same upgraded granite countertops, large walk-in tiled shower and large walk-in closet. Additional upgrades include ceiling fans, beautiful flooring, surround sound and much more. The outdoor living space features a gorgeous swimming pool w/sheer descent water feature, expansive travertine decking w/gas fire pit and professionally manicured landscape. A MUST SEE HOME!! Take advantage of the Anthem Grille, The Poston Butte Golf Club, a learning center and all the festivities, activities and amenities a Sun City community has to offer. Remember you are buying a lifestyle that goes beyond the homes property lines.

10345 E Rimrock Loop Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$564,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,536 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772762
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Upgraded home, VIEWS and a Resort Style Backyard with a Newer Heated Pool! Superstition Mountain views from the front patio to the Dinosaur Mountain View in the backyard, this comfortable open floor plan has tons to offer with the well designed newer flooring, kitchen counters/cabinets, windows, bathrooms, Pool with heater, Alumiwood pergola, synthetic grass, paint, pavers, light fixtures, epoxy garage floors, garage cabinets, water softener, concrete patio coatings, and more. This home feels like new and it is maximized for relaxing! From this location here in Gold Canyon East with just a $24 per month HOA you are close to many great golf courses, walking trails, hiking, off road trails, mountain biking, local restaurants, and more. This home has options to be purchased furnished.

854 S Del Rio Court Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$564,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,367 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781016
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This remodeled home is just like walking into a new build model home! It is situated in an intimate small neighborhood that is conveniently located to shopping and restaurants. Freshly painted interior in beautiful grey tones, updated custom kitchen cabinets and new granite counter tops plus all new flooring. New turf lawn front and back. An open floor plan that includes 12+ foot ceilings in great room and plantation shutters plus new blinds. Private owner's suite boasts large walk-in closet, separate tub/shower and dual sinks. Secondary bedrooms have convenient jack and Jill bath with individual vanities. Backyard is an entertainer's delight, built-in barbecue/bar area, fire pit, and full length patio. All one one level plus a three car garage!

4082 N Monticello Drive Florence, AZ 85132

$564,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,352 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784576
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This immaculate 2 bed, 2 bath, w/den ''Concord'' model has all of the upgrades and options one would want. Your new home is located on an arroyo lot with no neighbors directly behind or to one side. Close the electric shades and enjoy cool winter nights on your spacious paver patio. Inside your new home is as amazing as out. The kitchen has staggered cherry cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, pull out drawers, R/O, pendant lights and a breakfast nook. The spacious primary suite has a separate tub and shower, dual sinks and walk-in closet. More features of the home include plantation shutters, ceiling fans, extra storage in laundry/garage, epoxy floors, 3-car GARAGE w/4 FT EXTENSION, water softener, solar shades, service door, and OWNED SOLAR! SIMPLY A MUST SEE HOME!!

2505 W Corral Road Phoenix, AZ 85041

$564,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,406 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6751747
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER TO HELP WITH BUYER FEES TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN IF CLOSED BY 12/15/24. WALK TO SOUTH MOUNTAIN FROM THIS IMMACULATE AND WELL-MAINTAINED, LARGE 3 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATH (W/ITH DEN/OFFICE). THIS BEAUTIFUL SINGLE LEVEL IS IN A GREAT LOCATION AND NESTLED INSIDE A GATED COMMUNTY FOR PLENTY OF SAFETY AND PRIVACY. PAMPER YOURSELF, AND INDULGE YOURSELF ON A DAILY BASIS., YOU GET A SPACIOUS KITCHEN WITH GRANITE COUNTER TOPS AND LARGE STAGGERED CABINETS, WITH A WALKIN PANTRY, CENTRAL HVAC, AND PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS. TO TOP THIS PUPPY OFF, YOU GET A LARGE 3-CAR GARAGE WITH AWESOME AND HELPFUL NEIGHBORS. THERE IS A LOT OF HIKING TRAILS, BIKE TRAILS, AND HORSEBACK RIDING CLOSE BY, OR SIMPLY STAY HOME AND ENJOY YOUR LARGE BACKYARD.

296 W Burtons Lane Tonto Basin, AZ 85553

$564,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,240 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6695245
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled amidst the serene landscape of Tonto Basin, this exquisite property at 296 W Burtons Lane offers a unique blend of luxury and tranquility. Spanning over 6.14 acres of pristine land, you're guaranteed privacy with no possibility of neighbors building close by. The estate boasts a fully-equipped RV hookup, perfect for the adventurous at heart. The grounds are a horticultural delight with multiple fruit trees dotting the landscape, providing both shade and bounty. The residence itself offers phenomenal views of Mount Ord, Four Peaks, and Picture Mountain, ensuring a picturesque backdrop to your daily life. Inside, the home welcomes you with a totally remodeled kitchen, featuring Brazilian granite countertops, a spacious walk-in pantry, and all new appliances. The property also includes horse stalls, catering to equestrian enthusiasts. Also, the brand-new bridges across Tonto Creek to be finished in June.

3422 E Ravenswood Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$564,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,750 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718352
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in Seville Golf & Country Club neighborhood! 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with pool, built-in BBQ and extensive upgrades. Gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, walk-in pantry with frosted glass door, maple cabinets, island and peninsula bar top. Formal dining and kitchen nook. Family room with french door exits to backyard. Master Suite with two walk-in closets, double sinks, tile surround bathtub and shower. Backyard Oasis! Travertine pavers surround the sparkling pool. Covered ramada with built-in BBQ. Wood shutters. 2 car garage. This home resides in the prestigious Seville Golf & Country Club and close to neighborhood park! Owned Solar, enjoy low SRP bills.

3862 E Narrowleaf Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$564,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,940 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747524
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This charming home, located in the highly sought-after Bridges at Gilbert, is brimming with character and ready for its next owner. Meticulously maintained and turn-key ready, this residence features an open-concept floor plan that seamlessly combines a spacious living area with upgraded plank tile flooring, soaring vaulted ceilings, granite countertops, and modern cabinetry. The generously sized primary bedroom, tucked away at the rear of the home, offers privacy and direct access to the backyard. A Jack and Jill bathroom serves an oversized secondary bedroom, providing convenience and functionality. The split and open floor plan enhances the home's cozy yet private atmosphere. The RO system and Water softener are owned and convey with the property. With professional low-maintenance landscaping, impressive curb appeal, practical updates, community amenities, and an unrivaled location, this property is the perfect place to call home.

1020 N Blue Marlin Drive Gilbert, AZ 85234

$564,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,610 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6760750
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BRING ALL OFFERS! Assume Loan 2.75%, No HOA, 5-bed 3-bath directly across from community park. 2 new HVAC systems installed in 2021, vaulted ceilings, and abundant natural light throughout. Formal living & dining areas, wood-look floors & modern neutral tones, creating a warm & inviting atmosphere. Cozy family room just off spacious eat-in kitchen, granite countertops, stylish white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a center island & convenient pantry. Primary bedroom retreat w/ double doors, bay window, space for sitting area. Ensuite bathroom has dual sinks, walk-in closet & separate soaking tub & shower. Versatile downstairs bedroom and full bathroom provides comfort & flexibility, perfect for guests or multi-generational living. Great backyard for outdoor dining & entertaining.

18581 W College Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$564,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,279 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778682
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in the highly sought-after Sedella Community. This gem offers everything you could want, including a spacious 3-car garage, RV gate, and dedicated RV parking. Step inside and be captivated by the bright, open floor plan adorned with stylish tile flooring, a custom entertainment niche, and an abundance of natural light pouring in through large windows. The chef's kitchen is a dream come true, featuring upgraded cabinetry, granite countertops, a prep island with a breakfast bar, recessed and pendant lighting, a walk-in pantry, and stainless steel appliances, including a gas cooktop and wall oven. There's even a cozy nook, ideal for a pocket office or a special space for your furry friend. Retreat to the main bedroom, a serene haven with plush carpeting, dual vanities, and a spacious walk-in closet. Outside, enjoy a generous backyard designed for relaxation and entertaining, complete with a covered patio and built-in bar - perfect for year-round gatherings. Don't miss out on this exceptional home!