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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22337 E Via Del Palo -- Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$550,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,162 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765247
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover a stunning two-story home nestled within the prestigious Villages at Queen Creek Golf Course community. This corner lot residence offers breathtaking mountain views, a refreshing community pool, and a spacious interior designed for comfortable living. Key features include:Prime Location, Enjoy easy access to the 60 and 202 freeways, as well as a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Enjoy the convenience of a full bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor. Modern Updates include new tile, and updated cabinets and granite countertops. The expansive open concept living space features vaulted ceilings, a large kitchen with an island, and a generous pantry. Don't Miss this opportunity to make this house yours!

36843 W Indian School Road Tonopah, AZ 85354

$550,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,969 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6694104
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wow, fantastic opportunity to own a residence with 2,969 SqFt of construction on a 1.1-acre lot! The impeccable interior boasts a warm palette, neutral tile flooring, recessed lighting, tall ceilings, and a sizable den ideal for an office or a formal living room. The bright & ample great room promotes a greater traffic flow & maximizes space. This open floor design makes entertaining a bliss! The kitchen features white shaker cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom has a full ensuite with a step-in shower, a jetted tub, a dual sink vanity, and a walk-in closet. The vast exterior offers endless landscaping potential to get creative, with room for RVs, a pool, & space for horses to roam. Take a tour today!

7604 W Molly Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,882 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6708257
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful home in the gated community of Rock Springs featuring 3 Bedrooms/Den/2 Bathrooms and Pool! Don't miss this opportunity to purchase this low maintenance, upgraded, modern gem. Located on a corner lot, North/South facing, extended driveway are all exterior bonus features. The interior showcases an open-concept Great Room, modern kitchen with spacious island for entertaining, and recessed entertainment wall. The den or flex-room is located off of the Great Room and the two other bedrooms are split from the Master Bedroom. The upgraded garage has storage cabinets, overhead storage, and space for refrigerator. Energy efficiency and low utilities are other features of this well built home.

17780 W Canto Bonito Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$550,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,019 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6721721
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your ideal home awaits in the vibrant 45+ community of The Grand. This meticulously maintained Sierra model blends luxury and functionality. Updated in 2019, it features laminate plank flooring and tile in the bathrooms and laundry. The kitchen offers granite countertops, a glass backsplash, a center island, Maytag SS appliances, recessed lighting, and bay windows overlooking the courtyard. The oversized primary bedroom boasts bay windows, a walk-in closet, and a tiled shower with a frameless glass door. Enjoy a split guest bedroom, spacious den, new 2024 HVAC, and North/South exposure. Relax in your private courtyard and explore all The Grand has to offer!

14634 W Wethersfield Road Surprise, AZ 85379

$550,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,298 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725415
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This gem will surely impress you! Beautiful 4-bedroom property adorned with stone accents, a 2-car garage, and a welcoming front porch is the one! Inviting hallway ushers you to the captivating open layout, featuring tall ceilings, plantation shutters, a trending palette, and stylish tile flooring. The immaculately designed kitchen is fully equipped with an electric cooktop, double wall ovens, and a pantry. Sleek quartz counters, tile backsplash, white shaker cabinetry with crown molding, and an island with a breakfast bar elevate the space. French doors open to the sizable den! Primary retreat has plush carpeting, a private bathroom, and a walk-in closet. The home's elegance extends outdoors to the backyard with a covered patio, artificial turf, and a gazebo. Hurry! Don't miss out!

2944 N Meadow Lane Avondale, AZ 85392

$550,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,630 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741750
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Garden Lakes Basement Home!! Discover your next home in the Garden Lakes community of Avondale, AZ. A true oasis in the desert landscape, Garden Lakes offers its residents the opportunity to boat, fish or just take in the view. This two-story residence with a basement boasts 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a 3-car tandem garage, situated on a desirable corner lot. With over 3000 sq. ft. of living space, the interior features granite countertops, a primary suite on the main floor with a Jacuzzi tub, and a wet bar in the basement. Recent upgrades include a new roll comp patio roof, newer tile roof with warranty, exterior paint, and AC units all replaced within the last 5 years. Ideally located near I-10 and 101 freeways, this home offers space, comfort, and convenience.

2045 E Orange Street Tempe, AZ 85281

$550,000
6 Beds
2 Baths
1,752 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730083
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully renovated home, boasting a brand new facade with fresh exterior paint that exudes curb appeal. Step inside to discover a large open living space, freshly painted interiors and new flooring, creating an inviting atmosphere throughout. The kitchen showcases sleek quartz countertops, new appliances including a refrigerator and electric stove. Retreat to updated bathrooms boasting new vanities, and updated shower tiling completing the luxurious feel of this home. Step into the backyard ready for limitless possibilities and an RV gate! No HOA to tell you what you can or cannot do with your home! This residence epitomizes turnkey living at its finest, come see it for yourself !

26264 N 43rd Place Phoenix, AZ 85050

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,508 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733415
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW PRICE! Lowest in Tatum Highlands, WITH a pool included! NEW ROOF being installed and has already been bid. Come see this recently updated home in desirable Tatum Highlands. Backing to natural wash area for added privacy and quiet, this home has a sparkling pool for those hot Summer days! 3 well sized bedrooms with new carpet plus an additional den space make this home feel larger than it is. Vaulted ceilings welcome you into the home with a gas burner fireplace and open concept floor plan. Dining area leads into the well appointed kitchen with brand new appliances just installed for new owner. New paint, carpet, lighting and more are all finished. Come see this home today!

2939 W Plum Hollow Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$550,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,957 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738833
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the guarded and private Anthem Country Club, this lovely 3 bedroom and 3 bath home features a 216 sq. ft. Casita and a 1,741 sq. ft. main house with two bedrooms plus a den. The secondary bathroom boasts an upgraded shower, while the primary suite offers double sinks, a separate tub and shower, and a walk-in closet. Hardwood floors adorn the bedrooms and den, and ceiling fans are installed throughout. The kitchen is equipped with stainless appliances, including a gas range and microwave, and skylights brighten both the master bedroom and kitchen. Additional amenities include a laundry room with gas and electric hookups, a two-car garage, and a low-maintenance backyard with no rear neighbors, making it an easy lock-and-leave property. See more info about the community... Residents of Anthem Country Club enjoy a luxurious lifestyle with resort-style amenities. Professionally managed by Club Corp, members get reciprocal privileges around the world. The club features two 18-hole golf courses (Golf membership not included) and two member restaurants. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the two state-of-the-art gyms, two pools, two spas, and several tennis courts. All surrounded by stunning mountain and golf course views. This guarded community offers an unbeatable combination of location and luxury, making it a must-see for those seeking a an elevated lifestyle.

2522 N 11th Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,111 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742322
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MOTIVATED SELLERS!!! Discover your dream home in the Coronado Historical District. This newly renovated gem features new windows, flooring, and tile throughout. The stunning kitchen boasts custom Euro-style cabinetry, quartz countertops, and new stainless steel appliances. Enjoy updated bathrooms and an enclosed laundry room with cabinetry and a built-in seating area, perfect for an artist studio or more. Open French doors for seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining in the courtyard. The home also offers a brand-new roof with a 10-year warranty, a new hot water heater, turf grass, and front-yard irrigation. Located on a quiet street, yet close to downtown, Roosevelt Row, and Phoenix Country Club. Modern comfort meets historic charm!

14867 W Windsor Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$550,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,098 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744603
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Get ready to fall in love with this spacious 4-bedroom home boasting 3 full baths, a versatile loft (easily convertible to a 5th bedroom), and a 3-car garage. Nestled in the beautiful Rio Paseo Community in Goodyear. This gem is right in the heart of an entertainment district, surrounded by fantastic restaurants, a theatre, shopping hotspots, walk/bike paths, waterfall pond, parks, and top-notch schools. Step inside to discover a formal living and dining area, a large open kitchen featuring a breakfast bar, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances (including a refrigerator). Downstairs you'll find a convenient bedroom with a full bath. Home is complemented by stylish touches such as stone decor on the kitchen island, a single bowl kitchen sink, new blinds and laundry room with built-in cabinets. Upstairs, you'll be greeted by 3 generously sized bedrooms, including an expansive retreat with double doors, a remodeled ensuite with a separate soaker tub and a spacious walk-in shower, double sinks, and a large walk-in closet. The backyard offers a full-length covered patio, providing ample space for your creative vision. Not to mention, several upgrades have been made between 2022 and 2023, including partial roof replacement, new flooring, water heater, water softener, AC units, upgraded kitchen, and remodeled bathrooms. Conveniently located near the I-10 and Loop 303 Freeways. This home is move-in ready and waiting for you to make it your own!

4565 S Merriman Way Gilbert, AZ 85297

$550,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,793 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747135
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to 4565 S Merriman Way, a beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering an inviting living space. The open-concept kitchen features modern appliances, a spacious island, and ample cabinetry. Relax in the elegant master suite with a walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom. The highlight of this home is the entertainer's dream backyard, complete with an outdoor BBQ kitchen, gazebo, fridge, and sink. Enjoy community amenities such as playgrounds, walking paths and tennis courts. Conveniently located near shopping, schools and major highways.