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.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

9315 E Arrowvale Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$564,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,842 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779048
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home! This 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a 2-car garage, a paver driveway, and a well-maintained front yard. You'll be delighted by the living/dining room with vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, and durable tile flooring. The gourmet kitchen boasts a breakfast nook, granite counters, custom wood cabinetry with crown moulding, recessed lighting, built-in appliances, a pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. You'll also find a versatile den ideal for an office or study. The main bedroom offers plush carpeting, a quaint sitting nook, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Enjoy relaxing outdoor moments in the backyard, showcasing a covered patio and abundant space for hosting memorable gatherings with loved ones. Make it yours today!

16426 S 180th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$564,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,779 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777616
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this energy-efficient residence located on a desirable corner lot in the sought-after 55+ Cantamia Community! Enter to find a harmonious open floor plan featuring wood-look tile flooring & neutral palette that complements any décor. Well-appointed kitchen boasts abundant cabinets topped w/crown moulding, tile backsplash, butler's service area, recessed & pendant lighting, a prep island w/a breakfast bar, granite counters, & high-end SS appliances such as cooktop gas & a wall oven. The main bedroom is a serene retreat, offering plush carpet, plantation shutters, an ensuite w/dual sinks, & a walk-in closet. Flexible den provides additional space, perfect for an office or library. Discover the expansive backyard, complete w/an extended covered patio & a refreshing pool. LAKE VIEW! *$$$SOLAR SAVINGS$$$* / GATED community / DEN-FLEX ROOM can be easily converted into 3rd BDRM. NEAT Bucher Block counter in Butler area- AC Minisplit in the Garage.

11840 N 59th Lane Glendale, AZ 85304

$564,850
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,523 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6673649
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully Designed Single Level Multi-Generational Home with Split Floorplan located in The Gated Community of Cholla Cove. Two Master Bedrooms, Two Additional Bedrooms, Spacious Den/Office, Wide Hallways, and comes with Plenty of Storage. Relax out by the Saltwater Play Pool or Enjoy the Plush Grass. *Solar Panels are Owned* Home is monitored by ADT, Vacuflo Central Vac, Envirotec Water Softner System, Large Tile, Granite Countertops, Epoxy Garage Floors, Professionally Landscaped, and many more upgrades included with this property. Home is located across the street from the Mailbox and Green Belt with Ramada where it sits on an Interior Lot in a Quite Sought-After Community,

2023 E Willow Wick Road Gilbert, AZ 85296

$564,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Finley Farms South Parcel 15, Gilbert
New
$564,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,877 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6789158
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A beautiful 4 bed, 2 bath property in Finely Farms South is now for sale! Featuring great curb appeal, an easy-care landscape, and a 2 car tandem garage. Discover sizeable dining & living areas w/vaulted ceilings, pre-wired surround system, graceful archways, soft carpet in all the right places, and neutral palette throughout. The AC system is only 2.5 years old! The elegant kitchen is equipped w/shaker cabinetry, a pantry, granite counters, and all the built-in appliances you'll need for home cooking. Double doors open up to the primary bedroom, boasting a walk-in closet, private outdoor access, and a full ensuite w/dual sinks. Also including a wonderful backyard w/a covered patio and a sparkling salt water pool, washer/dryer and refrigerator is included. This home is a dream come true!

10539 E Corbin Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$564,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,788 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786971
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience luxury in this gorgeous 3-bedroom home in the highly sought after community of Eastmark! Minutes away from grocery stores, restaurants, and shopping. The elegant stone-accented exterior and 3-car tandem garage with workshop set the stage for sophistication. Inside, you'll find wood porcelain tile, shutters, and a neutral palette complementing the great room's charm, all enhanced by pre-wired surround sound. The sleek kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring stainless-steel appliances, wall ovens, granite counters, a mosaic backsplash, a pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar.The main suite offers a spa-like retreat with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. Relax in the tranquil backyard with a covered patio and cozy fire pit. This is an amazing home-don't miss it!

886 S Avenida Escuela -- Sierra Vista, AZ 85635

$564,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,060 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745314
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
LARGE PRICE REDUCTION!!! Fully remodeled 4 BR 4 BA and 2 car garage. Home is on a large .88 acre lot with landscaping & pecan trees. Large fully covered front porch with beautiful metal door imported from Mexico has serious curb appeal. The back yard is fully enclosed with block walls & large covered patio. interior of the home features new custom tile floors, modern light and plumbing fixtures, fully remodeled kitchen & bathrooms. The windows are new and dual paned. The living room has a see through wood burning fireplace connecting to the dining area. The kitchen has new cabinets with granite countertops, new dishwasher & stove. The master bedroom is good size with two closets and large corner shower. Each bedroom has it's own private bathroom. .

1972 W Olive Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$564,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,910 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744573
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this captivating 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence in Montefino Village! Discover a welcoming living/dining room with high ceilings, a soothing palette, classic plantation shutters on the new Low E windows, and contemporary wood-look flooring. The inviting family room is perfect for gathering loved ones, featuring sliding doors leading to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. The gourmet kitchen comes with durable tile counters, ample wood cabinetry with crown moulding, recessed lighting, SS appliances, a pantry, and a two-tier island/breakfast bar. The main bedroom offers plush carpeting, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The backyard oasis showcases a covered patio and a refreshing pool for cooling down on hot days. This gem will sell fast!

26990 W Burnett Road Buckeye, AZ 85396

$564,000
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.

1642 E Monte Vista Road Unit 11 Phoenix, AZ 85006

$564,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,493 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6722277
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION. This ENERGY STAR® Home is Perfect for the busy professional. Lock & Leave, Maintenance Free, 11 Single-Family Attached 2-story Townhomes. Nestled between Downtown Phoenix & Arcadia, this home is in close proximity to the best restaurants, coffee shops, medical centers, and so much more! Featuring an impressive open layout with abundant natural light and showcasing designer-selected finishes including hard surface flooring, upgraded fixtures and lighting, and a great attention to the details that matter most. The primary bedroom features an immaculate ensuite with quartz dual sinks and walk-in closet. Ask for end of year Incentives!

5720 S Wildrose -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$564,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,818 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731718
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover elevated living in the stunning 55+ Encore community. This Manhattan model home is nestled on a desirable corner lot beside a tranquil park. From the moment you arrive, curb appeal captivates with lush surroundings. Inside, soaring ceilings and an extended great room create a sense of openness, while the private study offers a perfect space to unwind or work. The gourmet kitchen boasts a massive island and walk-in pantry, ideal for any culinary endeavor. Outside, relax on your extended porch or covered patio adorned with travertine, or challenge yourself on the 4-hole putting green. The 2.5 car garage, with epoxy floors and built-in cabinets, completes this thoughtfully designed retreat.

17463 N 66th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$563,980
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,832 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6645957
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FINAL OPPORTUNITY! ** LAST HOME REMAINING * * Mid-Dec 2024 completion. Our last available home in the community, nestled along the scenic Skunk Creek Trail near Arrowhead. Priced affordably with builder incentives for financing. Price includes front yard landscaping. This 3-Bedroom, 2.5 baths and 1832sq ft has no stairs or steps, with a bright, open Great Room and features a wall of sliding doors to the covered patio; Be the envy of your friends and family with this amazing Gourmet kitchen, with oversized island, walk in pantry, 42'' upper cabinets—all open to the Great Room with lots of light!

28272 N 134th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$563,906 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Sereno, Peoria
New
$563,906
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,120 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788578
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A soon to be complete single-story Sepia with a Ranch exterior elevation style. This 4-bedroom home plus a flex room offers 3 baths and a 2 car garage. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances and stylish cream-tone cabinetry with matte black hardware and beautiful white quartz countertops. Throughout the home, find upgraded baseboards and wood-like tile. The home and community are at the base of a mountain and are near Vistancia. Home warranty included.