What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 29, 2016

Last week’s economic reports included readings on new and existing home sales, a speech by Fed Chair Janet Yellen, and a report on consumer sentiment. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released.

New Home Sales Rise in July as Pre-Owned Home Sales Fall

Sales of new homes jumped in July to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 654,000 sales, which surpassed expectations of 579,000 sales and June’s downwardly-revised reading of 582,000 sales. This was the highest reading for new home sales since 2008 and represented a 31.30 percent increase since July 2015.

Builders were seen by analysts as addressing the need for more affordable homes; this trend contributes to a healthy housing market by supplying homes for a wider range of buyers. First-time buyers play a vital part in housing markets as their purchases enable current homeowners to buy larger homes or relocate.

Sales of pre-owned homes fell 3.20 percent to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.39 million sales as compared to expectations of 5.59 million sales and June’s reading of 5.57 million sales. Year-over-year, sales were 1.60 percent lower. Limited inventories of available pre-owned homes have narrowed buyer options; increasing prices and narrow choices were seen as factors contributing to lower sales. There was a 4.60 month supply of available homes in July. Real estate pros typically consider a six months a normal reading for homes on the market.

Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors®, noted that a slowdown in home appraisals may have contributed to July’s lower sales reading for pre-owned homes. Low mortgage rates prompted a surge in refinancing which created a backlog in home appraisals. While low mortgage rates may entice home buyers, stricter mortgage requirements can also keep prospective buyers at bay.

Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen indicated that the stage could be set for a federal rate increase as early as next month. If the Fed hikes its target federal funds rate, interest rates for consumer credit and mortgages can be expected to rise.

Mortgage Rates Hold Steady; New Jobless Claims Fall

Freddie Mac reported that fixed mortgage rates for 30 and 15-year loans were unchanged at 3.43 and 2.74 percent respectively. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage was one basis point lower at 2.75 percent. Discount points averaged 0.60, 0.50 and 0.40 percent.

New jobless claims were lower last week. 261,000 new jobless claims were filed against expectations of 264,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 262,000 new claims filed. Declining jobless claims can indicate strengthening labor markets, but can also indicate that workers are leaving the labor markets.

Consumer sentiment declined slightly in August due to concerns over the upcoming presidential election. Analysts expected a reading of 91.0 for August, but the reading for August was revised from 90.4 to 89.80.

What’s Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic news includes reports on pending home sales, inflation, construction spending and consumer confidence. National unemployment, non-farm payrolls and ADP payrolls are also scheduled.

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3408 W Via Del Deserto -- Phoenix, AZ 85086

$639,500
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,011 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763352
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Pride of ownership shows in this beautiful home located in the desirable Tramonto subdivision. This home sits on a premium lot with common area to the East and North. One of the 4 bedrooms is on the lower level making a great office, guest suite or playroom. The large loft works also works great for those work-from-home individuals. The exterior of the home has a fresh coat of paint, and the entire home has been meticulously maintained by the original owners. Location in the community is perfect and in walking distance to school for your k-8th graders. You don't want to miss this great opportunity!!

8338 N 180th Drive Waddell, AZ 85355

$639,500 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in White Tank Foothills Parcel 10 Amd, Waddell
New
$639,500
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,594 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788916
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this gorgeous home in White Tank Foothills! As you pull up you will love the charming curb appeal with a gated front courtyard, a 3-car garage, and a perfectly manicured front yard. This split floorplan is well-thought-out with 4 bedrooms, an office, and 3 FULL bathrooms. This stylish kitchen boasts sleek granite countertops and backsplash, stainless steel wall appliances, and pendant lighting illuminating the peninsula breakfast bar, creating a perfect blend of elegance and functionality. Enjoy surround sound in the family room! The primary suite is spacious with a bay window and a lavish ensuite with a soaking tub, a separate shower, a dual sink vanity, and a custom walk-in closet with built-in cabinets and shelves. The remaining bedrooms are move-in ready! Escape to your private backyard oasis with White Tank Mountain views, featuring a sparkling pool surrounded by elegant travertine pavers that seamlessly flow to the expansive covered patio, complete with dual ceiling fans for year-round comfort. Mature fruit trees and a manicured grassy lawn provides a serene retreat perfect for relaxation or entertaining. Additional features in the garage include epoxy floors, cabinets, and a sink. Do not miss out on this well-maintained home! White Tank Foothills is a desirable community nestled near the breathtaking White Tank Mountain Regional Park, offering outdoor adventures close by like hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking amidst stunning desert landscapes. Located just a short drive from Hidden Lake, residents can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, and vibrant live music events, blending tranquility and recreation in one ideal setting.

18861 E Blue Sky Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$639,500
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,380 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702241
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This home is beautiful! Located in the highly sought after, Tonto Verde Country Club-Gated Community (2 Courses). Home features: 12-foot ceilings, impressive (Iron) front entry door, SS appliances, white cabinets and granite counter tops throughout home, large island w/ a breakfast bar, farm sink, open kitchen/dining and living room, split bedrooms, light paint colors, beautiful tile floors, additional storage (laundry room) and even parking for your Golf Cart! The backyard boasts a large travertine (Paver'd) patio, newly installed patio sunshade, a view fence overlooking the golf course. A true Arizona lifestyle, the backyard is beautifully landscaped and is close to Tonto National Forest. Move right in and enjoy! TURN-KEY! Quick close possible.

1906 W Lariat Lane Phoenix, AZ 85085

$639,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,567 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761420
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous home looking for a new owner! Welcoming great room with abundant natural light, wood-style tile floors, a powder room, and modern light fixtures. The open-concept kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, popular white cabinets, an island with a breakfast bar, and granite counters. Continue upstairs to find a spacious loft for entertainment and 3-sizable bedrooms! The main retreat has a bathroom with a glass enclosure shower, dual sink vanity w/makeup area, and a walk-in closet. Outside, relax under the covered patio or lovely front porch. Don't miss the 2-car rear garage. Light tree-lined streets, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and a recreation center with a resort-style pool, kiddie pool, gathering areas, etc. A must-see property!

7718 W Crabapple Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$639,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,982 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741362
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6741362 Ready Now! Completion! The Iris is a 1-story floor plan that comes standard with 1,982 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2-car garage, and a flex room. The only single-story floor plan at Aloravita South Discovery, this home is sure to please. The foyer brings you to a hallway with the secondary bedrooms and a full bathroom. As you continue through the home, you are taken to the open kitchen, casual dining, great room area and the flex room. Enjoy the beautiful Arizona weather from your private covered patio. The primary suite has a private bathroom with double sinks and an expansive walk-in closet and will be the perfect retreat.

1111 N High Point Drive Prescott, AZ 86305

$639,000
1 Bed
1 Bath
960 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776096
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Escape to this beautifully remodeled cabin in the serene pine setting of Highland Pines, where tranquility awaits. This charming one-bedroom, one-bath retreat offers an open floor plan, making the most of its cozy footprint. Inside, you'll find the tongue and groove beamed ceiling complemented by new wood flooring throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The top-of-the-line chef's kitchen includes quartz counters, built-in shelf microwave and a professional KUCHT range with double ovens and. The great room opens to the deck through three glass folding doors, allowing natural light to pour in. The bathroom, completely renovated with a new bidet featured toilet and high-end marble subway-tile wainscotting and shower surround. The expansive deck provides amazing, sweeping views. The unobstructed views of the Prescott National Forest and Thumb Butte, offers the perfect spot for outdoor relaxation and entertaining. The home also boasts a newer roof for added peace of mind. A major bonus is the newly installed alternate septic system, which is designed to accommodate an additional two bedrooms and another bath. Whether you choose to expand with a single-level addition or explore a split-level or multi-level design, the spacious homesite offers flexible options for future growth. This property is easily accessible via paved roads and is served by a private water company, eliminating any concerns about water supply. For the right buyer, this is an incredible opportunity to own a piece of paradise with endless potential to make it your own.

4010 S Big Horn Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$639,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,569 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777912
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
If you're in search of a home that combines a fantastic location inside the beautiful tree lined community of Old Stone Ranch, you're in luck! This loved home features 4 beds 3 full baths,+ den w/glass French doors. Cozy upstairs loft (w/full bed & bath up). Inviting kitchen opens to great rm Newer Samsung refrigerator, large island with granite counters and tons of storage through out. The oversized laundry rm has both upper and lower cabinets & even space for crafting. Low maintenance desert landscape front yard, private backyard backing greenbelt boasts artificial lawn, mature trees offer evening shade + sitting area. Equal distance to downtown Chandler and Gilbert with quick access to the 202 San tan freeway & outdoor shopping mall. Welcome home to your sanctuary!

1903 E Ayden Court Payson, AZ 85541

$639,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,610 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6757095
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the highly sought-after, newer subdivision of Chaparral Vista, in a peaceful cul de sac located off Tyler Parkway. This stunning brand-new all electric home boasts 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 luxurious bathrooms, designed with modern elegance and functionality in mind with too many upgrades to list here. To see a full list see documents. The wrap-around deck is a standout feature, providing an ideal setting for outdoor entertaining or simply relaxing while enjoying the serene surroundings. Inside, every detail has been meticulously curated with high-end upgrades that elevate the living experience. The open-concept floor plan seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating a perfect space for both everyday living and special gatherings. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring state-of-the-art KitchenAid appliances, sleek quartz countertops, and custom cabinetry. The master suite is a tranquil retreat, complete with a beautifully appointed en-suite bathroom featuring premium fixtures and finishes. The additional bedrooms are generously sized, offering comfort and versatility for family, guests, or a home office. With its blend of contemporary design, thoughtful upgrades, and a picturesque wrap-around deck, this home in Chaparral Vista offers an exceptional living experience. Buyer to verify property taxes with Gila County.

17410 N Country Club Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$639,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,527 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776222
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Absolutely stunning home located on Union Hills Golf Course! Private front courtyard leads to double entry doors with views of the course and best of all: a water view! Enjoy your new carefree Sun City lifestyle in this home packed with updates! Newer kitchen, windows, master bath and owned solar! Commanding views of the golf course will inspire you to relax and entertain on your custom patio with outdoor kitchen. Enjoy the chill of the evening while chatting with your guest around the custom firepit patio table. The expansive living space indoors features a unique open concept design yet caters to those that are desiring smaller more intimate spaces. Updated custom kitchen with beautiful finishing detail! Master suite will wow with immense walk in closet & doors to patio! Don't miss this List of improvements: Outdoor Kokomo Kitchen, Island and Patio cover $24,000 Complete remodel of Master Bath & Closet $26,000 Ceiling Fans throughout home $2,000 New Dining Room lighting $2,000 Added Temperature control (AC) in Garage $800 Extended Patio Pavers $4,000 Expanded concrete driveway $4,500 Kitchen Remodel, New Countertops & backsplash $8,400 New Vinyl Flooring throughout $15,000 Expanded openings & doorways $2,500 Interior painted in 2024 $3,200 Fenced in backyard (metal) $4,200 New pavers in front courtyard $8,000 _________ Total $104,600 Features: Fully owned and paid up Solar (39 Solar Panels) -Banking Credits during Fall, Winter, Spring. Avg APS bill $10.00 Golf Course lot between 12th Green & 13th Tee on Union Hills Golf Course Updated windows, Stucco, New Roof (2021) Private Patio in front and privacy on Back Patio with Golf Course Views and Plenty of mature trees. Spa on front patio negotiable Back Yard Xeriscaping - does not require water Updated front watering system

10757 N 74th Street Unit 2012 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$639,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,932 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6707453
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Over 100k in upgrades, listed below market value!! Complete remodel. Recent comp in same complex sold July 2024 for 691k with no upgrades. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage in the perfect location. Newly updated with new plank and tile floors, new cabinets with soft close doors and drawers, all new light fixtures including LED can lights, new faucets, new sinks, updated showers with glass doors, new freestanding tub. This is a master bedroom split floorpan, open kitchen with dining area, great room with electric fireplace and electrical on wall for your flat screen TV. New 18 bottle wine fridge in kitchen, large island with navy cabinets with gold hardware, extra storage and waterfall countertops. Click for more. 2 car garage has upgraded metallic epoxy floors. New paint everywhere. Large bedrooms to fit king beds and furniture. Big fans in each bedroom with remote controls. Each bedroom has a walk-in closet with shelves, the master has and drawers with locks. Each bathroom has new cabinets, new light fixtures with new black framed mirrors. White wood shutters on the dual pane insulated windows along with insulated walls for dramatically sound reduction. There is a separate large laundry room with front load washer and dryer with new cabinets and more storage behind the door. There are 2 balconies, one is a large covered balcony big enough for a comfortable patio seating set and the other balcony is uncovered. Close to the 101 freeway, great restaurants, grocery stores and entertainment. Townhome is north south exposure. You'll love this! Community has a private community pool and common areas are always clean. Please come see and enjoy. open to offers Recent comps 6712827, no upgrades for $691k at $358.22 per sqft. 6761912, no upgrades for $550k at $388.97 per sqft.

10498 E Cochise Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$639,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,781 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6735402
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This 55+ neighborhood is in a fantastic location with proximity to Via Linda Senior Center, Scottsdale Ranch Park Tennis Club, 101 and shopping! This 2 bedroom 2.5 bath home has vaulted ceilings and skylights everywhere! There is so much natural light! The totally split floorplan makes it great for guests and the additional room could be converted to a third bedroom! There is a large inside laundry with room for folding and two car garage with built -in cabinets for your collectibles! The community has two beautiful pools and tennis courts for your enjoyment. This home is priced to sell and ready for all your personal touches. Come see this home today!

2801 E Osborn Road Phoenix, AZ 85016

$639,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,110 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761770
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This cute home is located in the vibrant Arcadia Lite neighborhood of Phoenix! This property sits on a large lot with ample on-site parking behind a secure remote-controlled gate. Inside, the home feels cozy and inviting with a large living room, featuring an updated kitchen with modern finishes and convenient bar seating, perfect for casual dining or entertaining guests. The extended garage has AC & includes a built-in workbench area, ideal for car enthusiasts or hobbyists. Enjoy the convenience of being in the heart of Arcadia Lite, just minutes from popular dining, shopping, and entertainment. This property offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and prime location!