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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5255 N Peach Lane Pine, AZ 85544

$550,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,426 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6781018
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Tucked away among the whispering pines, this charming cabin invites you into its warm embrace with a delightful covered patio. Every corner of this beautifully reimagined retreat exudes comfort, from the inviting indoor spaces to the serene outdoor living areas. You'll find hickory floors sweeping gracefully throughout, while the living room captivates with its elegant stack-stone fireplace, cozy window seat, and soaring vaulted tongue-and-groove ceiling. The kitchen beckons with granite counters and a handy pantry for all your culinary needs. Venture upstairs to discover a snug loft, perfect for leisurely afternoons or perhaps an additional sleeping nook. The main level houses a quaint bedroom and bath, while the upper level offers a second bedroom and bath for added privacy. Have delightful gatherings or simply unwind on the spacious, wrap-around Trex deck, enveloped in nature. A chain-link fenced yard ensures a safe haven for kids and pets to play, while a garden area, fruit trees, two storage sheds, a dog run, and RV hook-ups cater to your every need. The oversized two-car garage not only accommodates your vehicles but also features a workbench, laundry hook-ups, and a convenient half-bath. With central heating and AC, this cozy haven promises year-round comfort and tranquility.

3417 N Kalarama Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,458 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6784285
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --

12610 N 45th Drive Glendale, AZ 85304

$550,000
5 Beds
2 Baths
2,697 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6785080
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home, where modern upgrades meet timeless comfort. Boasting 5 bedrooms, a versatile den, and 2 bathrooms, this property offers the space and functionality you've been searching for. Step inside to discover a thoughtfully designed layout, perfect for families or hosting guests. Recent upgrades enhance the charm and convenience of the interior, creating a move-in-ready haven. Outside, the resort-style backyard steals the show. Dive into relaxation in the updated pool, surrounded by a stunning travertine pool deck that exudes elegance and durability. The low-maintenance synthetic grass ensures you spend more time enjoying the yard and less time working on it. Gather under the gorgeous gazebo, complete with an outdoor kitchen. New roof 2022 + a plethora of more updates are listed in the documents tab.

9254 E Milagro Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$550,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,924 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780804
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and style in this beautifully remodeled home with extensive landscaping ideally situated on an oversized lot. Citrus trees and privacy hedges create a beautiful and quiet oasis. The home features newer wood-look tile and carpeting throughout. The modern kitchen features sleek white cabinets with stylish hardware, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances, making it a chef's dream. Enjoy the spacious owner's bath, complete with a separate shower and tub for your relaxation. The expansive covered patio is perfect for entertaining, featuring a beautiful Pebble-Tec pool, recently remodeled with tile and travertine that promises endless summer fun. The yard offers plenty of space for outdoor activities, with a gate for your convenience.... Located within the vibrant community of Augusta Ranch, you'll have easy access to the golf course and an elementary school right within the subdivision. Don't miss the chance to own this exceptional property that combines elegance with outdoor living at its finest!

4107 S 109th Avenue Tolleson, AZ 85353

$550,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,649 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767165
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Must see large single story, Next Gen home! Versatile floor plan has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Three car garage. Attached casita for varies uses, this home is only a year old, beautiful home inside and out with many modern amenities. This home is conveniently located near schools, stores, shopping, gas stations, restaurants, highways and much more. Open concept floor plan with oversized master suite and split bedrooms for individual privacy.

3237 W Glenrosa Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85017

$550,000 - 6Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Indian Gardens, Phoenix
New
$550,000
6 Beds
3 Baths
2,928 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787792
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This unique block single story open floor plan home that showcases 6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms sits on an unbelievable 19,602 square foot lot is ready for all your decorating and remodel ideas. This is a terrific opportunity for investors or buyers looking to create their perfect home. The home an unheard of size lot for the area and has many mature citrus trees and huge grass backyard with RV gates and driveway to store all your entertainment toys!

3869 S Dew Drop Lane Gilbert, AZ 85297

$550,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,163 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785765
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Highly Updated in Power Ranch! - You Will Fall in Love with this 4BR 2.5BA + Loft - All Newer: Flooring, Kitchen, Baths, Quartz Countertops, Interior Paint, Stainless Steel Appliances, Water Softener, Water Heater, R/O System - The Master Bedroom is Downstairs - Great Gilbert Schools - The Community Includes: Fishing Lakes, Community Pools, Parks Throughout, Basketball Courts, Playgrounds, Trails, Clubhouse, & MUCH MORE!! Power Ranch is One of THE Premiere Neighborhoods in Gilbert/ East Valley! See This Beauty Soon!!

18627 E Superstition Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$550,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,913 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779260
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this delightful 4 bed/ 2 bath home in the beautiful community of Cortina just around the corner from the community park & Cortina elementary school! This home offers a spacious floor-plan with a formal living/dining room, tile and vinyl floors in all the right places, neutral custom paint, & window shutters. The kitchen is spacious & features Corian counters, Island & pantry. The master bedroom boasts a large retreat along with a remodeled en-suite that includes separate tub & shower, dual sinks, private toilet room & walk in closet! Love entertaining? The backyard is perfect for just that! Relax under the extended patio & enjoy relaxing in the low maintenance backyard! Community boasts a children's playground and large pool/spa and clubhouse for family entertainment!

2486 W Dapple Gray Court San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$550,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,211 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780694
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible opportunity to own a stunning home. Owner added almost $100,000 towards upgrades above comparables, 2024 NEW HVAC Lennox with variable speed, NEW gas Pool Heater, NEW gas water heater, NEW OWNED 22 panel Solar. New EV plug in garage, NEW insulated garage door (with all new hardware) and NEW wifi garage door opener. Heated pool with pop-up cleaners, variable speed pump, artificial turf. In the backyard, along with bull nosed travertine decking! This house is turnkey! POOL FENCE and EV Charger included in sale. Your Arizona Lifestyle rear grounds are complete with an oversized patio with a wall mounted television and kitchen design complete with outdoor refrigerator/sink/BBQ Area. Spend warm summer nights in your sparkling pool with ambient lighting. Spend your winters by the fire feature with a cozy heated pool! Conservative additional $80,000 in back yard landscaping alone! Designer kitchen and bbq island complete with plumbed water/drains for sink, electric, and natural gas for the BBQ.

17302 E Oro Grande Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,493 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750848
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A beautiful, well-kept home in a highly sought after areas of Fountain Hills. The inside has been very nicely updated. Enjoy the family area with beautiful flooring and a fireplace. The master bathroom has been redone to be handicap friendly. Enjoy spectacular mountain views from your kitchen window, the master bdrm and the patio/Arizona room. You can even see four peaks from the huge backyard. The landscaping is done. The back is on a partial watering system. There are native Desert Willows that thrive even in drought and cold and Meyer Lemon Trees. There is no HOA. There is an RV gate and lots of room out back for an RV, boat or whatever you like. The home is in a highly rated school district with plenty of shopping nearby. You won't be disappoint

4936 E Coronado Road Phoenix, AZ 85008

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,821 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784981
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2- bathroom home! This property boasts a spacious front and backyard, complete with citrus trees and green plants, a 2-car garage, an RV gate, and a covered patio for outdoor enjoyment. Inside, you'll find tile flooring throughout, with a family room featuring laminate flooring perfect for entertaining guest. The freshly painted interior complements the kitchen's cream-colored cabinets, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and an island ideal for enjoying meals. Both bathrooms have been fully remodeled with modern tile backsplashes, glass doors, and sleek black faucets and shower heads, Conveniently located near freeway access, shopping centers, the Phoenix Zoo, and Papago Park, this home offers both comfort and accessibility.

22870 W Sunset Lane Congress, AZ 85332

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,933 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6771222
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't let the lot size fool you! This easy to manage horse property is strategically set up to accommodate horses, LQs and RVs. Step into the warmth of this enchanting home where every room whispers tales of tradition and heritage. The home is the perfect size for a full time retreat or a winter get away. With wooden beams and handcrafted accents, this home is unlike any other. Enjoy picture perfect sunsets as you unwind in the front courtyard. Out front is a red barn with water and electric offering endless possibilities for horse enthusiasts or those seeking additional storage. The property does have income potential and is turn key. It is fully fenced with an electric gate and all pens have automatic waterers. A portion of the turnouts can be removed and enlarged into a riding arena or