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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2008 E Stacey Road Gilbert, AZ 85298

$550,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,959 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728969
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your beautiful home in this exclusive community! This stunning 3-bedroom plus den residence features breathtaking mountain views, three upgraded bathrooms, and a spacious three-car tandem garage. Inside, enjoy an open-concept living area, a connected kitchen with newer appliances and butlers walk-in pantry, and a versatile den perfect for an office, playroom, or can be made into a 4th bedroom. Primary suite at back of the home for privacy has expanded walk in shower and closet. Step outside to a beautifully landscaped yard and expansive paver patio, ideal for entertaining. Community amenities include parks and walking trails, fostering a vibrant atmosphere.... Special Incentive for the right buyer!!

4323 W Villa Theresa Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$550,000
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!

818 N 87th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,628 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6761025
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION! Welcome to this spacious home, nestled in the heart of South Scottsdale, and ideal for someone looking for a home improvement project. With some modern updates, this home will easily return to its full potential. It has great bones and a fabulous layout with both a family room and a living room, spacious kitchen, and a pool that's serviced weekly behind a new wrought-iron fence and a newer variable speed pump and filter. New'ish SS appliances are staying, along with the W&D. An atrium off the family room is a perfect place for a flower garden or water feature. This is your opportunity to put your own touches and style on an affordable home in a prime location with a LOW HOA near the 101 and 202, and a 7 minute drive to both Old Town Scottsdale and ASU.

17378 W Pima Street Goodyear, AZ 85338

$550,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,999 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738856
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller Open to Negotiations of Buyer Concessions! Why wait for new construction? This fully updated 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home in Goodyear, AZ offers all the modern upgrades you've been searching for! With a new roof (2023) and HVAC system (2014), this home provides peace of mind and modern comfort. The beautifully updated kitchen features sleek quartz countertops, while all bathrooms have been tastefully remodeled for a contemporary feel. Step outside to your private backyard oasis, complete with a sparkling pool and waterfall, newly redone cool decking, a safety gate, and low-maintenance astroturf grass—perfect for families. A downstairs bedroom and full bath make it ideal for guests or multi-generational living. The freshly painted interior and exterior brighten the space, and the 3-car garage provides plenty of room for storage and hobbies. Located in a family-friendly neighborhood with top-rated schools and parks nearby, this home is the perfect blend of style, space, and convenience. This move-in-ready home stands out with its fully upgraded featuresdon't miss out on this incredible opportunity!

2749 E Bellerive Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$550,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,759 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759037
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this METICULOUSLY maintained north/south facing 4-bedroom, 2-bath home. Located on a quiet street in the highly sought-after community of Adora Trails in South Gilbert. Featuring the popular Lily floor plan, this home boasts an UPGRADED kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, a gas stove, and a pantry. The spacious dining area and large breakfast bar make mealtimes a delight. This split floor plan showcases wood-look tile in all main living areas and neutral paint throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The upgraded 9' ceilings throughout and impressive 12' vaulted ceilings in the family room add to the sense of space and elegance. Enjoy the beautiful Arizona weather from your front porch with a lovely sitting area or retreat to your backyard covered pavered patio equipped with an outdoor TV, perfect for entertaining. The low-maintenance backyard is ideal for those who prefer relaxation over upkeep. Storage is plentiful with upgraded full cabinets in the laundry room, Monkey Bar shelving, and two large suspended ceiling racks in the garage, ensuring you have space for all your belongings. This home is move-in ready with washer, dryer and refrigerator. Have peace of mind knowing that the AC and heating have been under an annual inspection and service contract. All this nestled in the highly sought-after Adora Trails community, residents are treated to an exceptional lifestyle enriched by a variety of amenities. Enjoy beautifully maintained parks, scenic walking trails, and state-of-the-art recreational facilities, perfect for both relaxation and active living. The community clubhouse is a hub of activity, featuring a fully equipped gym, spacious meeting rooms, and a modern kitchen for gatherings. Residents can also take advantage of the inviting pool, which boasts lap lanes, a wading area with a splash pad, and is heated during the winter months for year-round enjoyment. With an on-site elementary school and a calendar full of community events, Adora Trails fosters a vibrant, active lifestyle that brings neighbors together. Discover the perfect blend of convenience, community, and fun in this desirable neighborhood!

11674 W Parkway Lane Avondale, AZ 85323

$550,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Alamar Phase 1, Avondale
Open House
$550,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,311 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784222
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful 4 bedroom 2 bathroom single level home featuring a climate controlled 4 car garage with a roll up door pass through to the backyard! Garage also has polyaspartic epoxy flooring, built in workbench, and custom storage shelves. Explore inside to an open layout showcasing wood like tile flooring, plantation shutters, and a custom electric fireplace feature. A remarkable gourmet kitchen with all the upgrades including wood shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances including a gas stove, and a large walk-in pantry. Unwind in the master suite featuring a shiplap accent wall, private bathroom with dual vanities, extra storage cabinets, large walk-in shower and a huge walk-in closet. Enjoy the outdoors in your low maintenance backyard with paver walkways, artificial turf, and an insulated covered patio.Other features include whole house water softener/RO filtration system, tankless water heater, and spray foam insulation. Pre-plumbed to add a sink in the garage, gas line for a bbq in the backyard as well as an outlet for a jacuzzi/hot tub. Lets make this your dream home! (Amazing 2.875% assumable loan also available for Veterans only)

5089 S Louie Lamour Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$550,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Gold Canyon East, Gold Canyon
Open House
$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,670 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6777908
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW! Fabulous, FULLY FURNISHED, Turn-Key 3 Bedroom UPDATED HOME with DEN & HEATED POOL plus DOUBLE MOUNTAIN VIEWS of Superstition & Dinosaur Mountains! ***You'll LOVE the HIGH-END UPDATES throughout including....FULL KITCHEN REMODEL with GORGEOUS GRANITE & Cabinets, Plantation Shutters, Complete Updates of BOTH BATHROOMS with Travertine Showers and Granite & more! *** You'll also appreciate and enjoy the QUIET & PRIVATE BACKYARD OASIS with 11,000 Gallon Pool (2012) plus... HVAC (2017), Exterior Paint (2022), PVC Irrigation (2022), Water Softener (2021), Water Heater (2021), Tile Flooring through-out (ZERO CARPET) & More - Must See! *** GOLD CANYON EAST is ... Gold Canyon East is a popular community of 647 homes located in the foothills of the Superstition Mountains. In addition to panoramic mountain views, residents enjoy walking and hiking paths through-out the community and championship golf courses, dining, spa services and more at the Gold Canyon Golf Resort next door!

287 N Scott Drive Chandler, AZ 85225

$550,000 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Fire Rock Ranch, Chandler
Open House
$550,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,575 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6768264
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
If you are in search of a residence that combines effortless maintenance with an exceptional location, then this property is for you. Nestled conveniently just 3 miles from downtown Gilbert, 3 miles from downtown Chandler, and a mere mile and a half from the 202 freeway, this home offers unparalleled accessibility. Boasting four bedrooms, a loft, and three full bathrooms. Notably, one of the secondary bedrooms is conveniently situated on the first floor, accompanied by a full bathroom for added convenience. This residence has an inviting open floor plan, with soaring 9-foot ceilings, and ample closet space throughout. The kitchen is adorned with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and exquisite tile accents that lend a touch of elegance to the space. The primary suite stands out with its generously proportioned room, complete with double sinks, an over sized shower, and an expansive walk-in closet, ensuring a luxurious daily retreat. Moreover, the community offers an array of amenities, including a refreshing pool, picturesque parks, and access to top-tier schools. This residence is truly a gem that should not be overlooked. We invite you to seize this exceptional opportunity and make this house your cherished home.

24 County Road 3153 -- Vernon, AZ 85940

$549,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,160 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760518
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Looking for an affordable modern-day Ranch on 5 acres in the White Mountains? Consider this well-maintained ranch-style 3-bed/2-bath, 2,160 sq ft. triple-wide manufactured home on 5 acres fully fenced, covered with 100+ Juniper/Pine trees set off with a Ranch-Style entrance, only minutes from the National Forest, accessible on well-maintained roads, making it the ideal horse/prepper property with no HOA's, just 25 minutes from Show Low. Property features include: an oversized Steel/Hanger building 30' X 60' with partial living quarters inside, a fully enclosed two-story barn structure 21' X 33' for RV storage, two storage sheds, and two full-size carports—major landscaping with fenced-in areas, separate enclosed/covered dog area w/direct access from the home, large garden area, large steel fire pit area, and a roundabout driveway. That's just the beginning. This home features a covered front deck, a recently replaced roof, an open kitchen floor plan featuring a center island with new countertops/appliances/workstation sink, a large separate dining area, Great Room style living room with a pellet stove for efficient heating, a split-bedroom master suite that includes an oversized closet with two-doors allowing access from the bath or bedroom, Dual-pane windows, vaulted ceilings, a full-size utility room, forced Heating and Air Conditioning (new), a large back storage area, and an abundance of cabinets providing plenty of storage space. Also included is the Starlink hardware for fast Internet.

14686 S Country Club Way Arizona City, AZ 85123

$549,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,027 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763659
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
It is hard to list all the improvements made by the present owners in the last 7 years, but you can experience same luxurious living in this stunning, recently painted in and out 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with breathtaking curb appeal. While taking in the mountains in the distance, you will make your way (admiring palms, saguaros, flowering bushes, and cacti) to the hand-made gate, and the newly installed paved patio leading you to the main entrance. You will see the old fashioned speak-easy door and find yourself inside your new home with same, tiled floor throughout. Gourmet kitchen is featuring new granite island, counter, and one piece backsplash (same granite in both bathrooms, and outdoor kitchen,) upgraded cabinets (with extra row and antique glass,) all SS appliances with new stove, pull out cabinet shelves. The split floor plan includes upscale main suite, lavish master bathroom where everything was rebuilt: the shower (moving the wall and liquidating the garden tub,) the double sinks, the hardware. There is a professional wardrobe, too. A luminating bay window in the bedroom has a new glass, like all the windows in the house. The inside also has two guest bedrooms, a wash room, and an extra room which can serve as a library, office, dining room, or 4th bedroom (adding the closet.) There is also a huge living room that the owners divide into living and dining area. A family room is by the kitchen. Next, you will step outside to your resort-style backyard with a sparkling pool and spa, oversized yard, all rocked, with an RV gate, and three sheds. His and Her sheds are insulated, electrified, sheet-rocked, and tiled. The third one serves as storage. All are secured to the cement pads. There are also citrus trees producing grapefruits, oranges and lemons. This custom home has a lot of amazing features including TRIPLE pane windows (Symington,) PLANTATION shutters on all of them, CROWN MOLDING with hand made corbels throughout the house. The house sits on the #16th hole on the GOLF course, and has a block fence for added privacy. No HOA, this elegant, and very practical property is a dream come true.

12078 W Dos Rios Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$549,999
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,111 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6768037
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*VA ASSUMABLE LOAN!* // This spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bath, two-story home is located in a highly sought-after community with no age restriction! Offering an impressive 3,111 sq/ft of living space, the open floor plan features tall ceilings and large windows that flood the family room with natural light. The kitchen boasts of granite countertops, a center island, and beautiful maple cabinets, plus both formal and eat-in dining options + a breakfast bar. Upstairs, the master bedroom offers a full bath for comfort and privacy. In the backyard, step out to a covered patio overlooking a low-maintenance yard with lush grass. Additionally, a versatile bonus room downstairs could easily be transformed into a fifth bedroom!

7725 E Hazelwood Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$549,999
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,508 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6772268
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to 7725 E. Hazelwood St., a beautifully renovated 2 bedroom 2 bathroom plus den/office townhome located in the highly desirable Old Town Scottsdale area. With its modern upgrades, spacious layout, and prime location, this home offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience. This exquisite property features a functional floor plan with modern finishes, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The chef's kitchen is a highlight, boasting sleek quartz countertops, bar seating area, gorgeous flooring, and ample storage. It's the perfect setup for cooking gourmet meals or hosting gatherings. Step outside to your own backyard oasis, featuring a covered patio. mature pink grapefruit and Valencia orange tress, and plenty of room for outdoor dining and relaxation. The low-maintenance yard is ideal for enjoying the Arizona sunshine year-round. Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, this home is within walking distance not only to the community pool, but also world-class dining, shopping, entertainment, and cultural attractions. Enjoy the vibrant local lifestyle and easy access to everything Scottsdale has to offer. Rate Relief Rebate Program: Benefit from a 2% seller credit to reduce your mortgage payments by Approximately $551/month in year 1 and $282/month in year 2. This exclusive offer makes homeownership more affordable now, while you await potential rate decreases. Buyers currently living in Maricopa or Pinal County ask about an ADDITIONAL $7,000 home buyer credit available via the Community Promise Program.