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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22685 E Saddle Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$579,990
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,506 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740903
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**This is a TO-BE-BUILT LISTING, this home is ready for personalization and can be built on your choice of homesite. This is an advertisement of our base price for this elevation and lot premiums may apply** Welcome to Ashton Woods newest community in Queen Creek - Madera Marquis - which features outstanding community amenities and convenient access to the 24 freeway and shopping. The open concept Topaz plan is highly sought after and is the decorated model floorplan with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Options for structural upgrades include adding a butler's pantry, teen room, 12'' sliding glass door and so much more. This home includes an open concept kitchen with granite countertops, 42'' upper cabinets, and stainless steel appliances . Amazing spa like primary suite with dual vanities, ample linen storage and separate tub and shower. This floorplan is accompanied by an oversized den and sizable secondary bedrooms. This home comes standard with 10' ceilings, front yard landscaping, paver driveway, and much more! ~There is a minimum option spend requirement on new build homes, please reach out to the sales office for additional details.~

32405 N 122nd Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$579,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,373 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748747
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6748747~January Completion! The Erikson floor plan at Mystic Discovery exemplifies open concept living and is perfect for entertaining on both floors! The first floor is the heart of the home, with an open main living area that holds a spacious gathering room with a casual dining area and an open kitchen. The designer kitchen features a large island and step-in pantry. A downstairs guest bedroom is located at the front of the home which is perfect for overnight guests. Upstairs, the owner's suite features a garden tub and shower and a spacious walk-in closet. A loft and two additional bedrooms and the laundry room round out this lovely home. Structural options include: paver front porch, 2' garage extension, super shower at owner's bath, and soft water loop.

16728 W Saguaro Park Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,990
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,529 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770954
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender. The Parklane floor plan offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a 4' garage extension, no-step walk-in shower, and 8' interior doors. Additional highlights include built-in appliances, quartz kitchen countertops, a gas stub in the kitchen, a backyard perfect for BBQs, and a gas dryer connection in the laundry.

16405 W Desert Mirage Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$579,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,623 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754285
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the stunning Topaz with 4 bedrooms + study and 3 full baths. Multi slide door off the great room that leads out to the extended covered patio. Stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop, wall oven, micro, and hood. Barnett Maple ''Boulder-(Gray) cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers, pull out trash drawer with two bins. AZT Hana Sky quartz countertops in kitchen and at the enhanced kitchen tops. Stainless steel under mount single bowl sink in the kitchen. DT Broxburn Gray 6x24 plank floor with 5'' baseboards and 3 1/4'' door casings. 8' garage door with two remotes and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

16421 W Desert Mirage Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$579,990
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,224 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784421
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! Crimson floor plan sitting on a lot that is north/south exposure and backs to landscape area - NO two story homes on either side. Great room concept with 3 bedrooms + den with 2.5 baths and a 3 car garage. Paver drive, walk and entry. Extended covered patio perfect for entertaining. Bay window at owner's suite. Sonoma Maple Linen-off white cabinets with matte black hardware, 42'' kitchen uppers and a pull out trash drawer. Stainless steel gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop, wall oven, micro and hood. AZT Quartz tawny countertops in kitchen and all baths except powder bath. Upgrade flooring includes Beaumont Olmo 7x24 plank tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets and so much more. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

29317 N 31st Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$579,990
5 Beds
3 Baths
1,953 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746684
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ask about special financing with preferred lender. This single-story home features ample space for growing families. Four bedrooms are lined up in a neat row, including the owner's suite, while an additional bedroom near the entry offers an ideal space for overnight guests. An open floorplan hosts the kitchen, dining room and Great Room with a spacious covered patio attached. Photos are renderings of a model home, not the actual home. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

15635 W Montecito Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$579,990
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,083 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738508
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your DREAM home is here in Palm Valley! Bright & light interior showcases neutral paint, recessed lighting, and tile & soft carpet t/out. Featuring a spacious living/dining room and a separate family room w/SURROUND SOUND, you have ideal spaces for relaxation or gatherings! The large kitchen boasts granite counters, a walk-in pantry, a breakfast bar, cozy nook, wood cabinetry w/crown molding, & courtyard access. All bedrooms await upstairs! Oversized main bedroom has a double-door entry, BALCONY access, & a SEATING room! Its ensuite includes dual sinks, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Discover the entertainer's backyard with a covered patio, lush lawn, well-laid pavers, & a fenced pool for year-round enjoyment! Plenty of room for ALL your TOYS w/ and RV GATE & 3 CAR GARAGE. WOW!

1205 W Golden Ore Pass Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$579,920
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,575 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765389
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
REDUCED! Experience the unique offerings of this home and buying journey. Welcome to Mariposa at Blossom Rock. The single-story Agave design, presents an open-concept floorplan featuring an inviting kitchen and a bright great room with a separate dining area that seamlessly connects to the private, covered outdoor room. The 3-car garage leads to a convenient drop zone, flex room/office, and more. $57,000 in upgrades are included. ***Special financing options are available.*** Blossom Rock's amenities are designed to inspire outdoor living, including community parks, miles of trails, beautiful lakes, signature events, and more. Moreover, perfect blend of tranquility and adventure to enrich your everyday life.

26966 N 168th Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,422 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780140
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FORMER MODEL HOME! This exquisite 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom, single story gem boasting an open concept layout, spacious study, gourmet kitchen, and a center meet 12ft sliding glass door, inviting you out to a fully completed backyard, perfect for entertaining and relaxation! This home is beautifully finished with high-end details throughout, showcasing the latest in modern design. Smart Home technology enhancements that promote comfort and convenience, allowing you to control your environment with ease. Don't miss the chance to own this stunning model home, offering both luxury and functionality in every space! Furniture is not included, but may be offered for an additional fee.

3487 E Delcoa Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$579,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,595 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738440
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wow this stunning and turn key home offers all the bells and whistles. home was used as a secondary residence and highly successful short term rentals with the reviews and revenue to prove it. home features updated kitchen, flooring, pool, jacuzzi, designer touches throughout and owner willing to sell with all furniture making this a turn key property.

20616 N Ventana Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$579,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,019 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750555
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
2024 OWNED solar! Years w/free electricity & NO loan pmt; 2024 NEW Roof underlayment. 2021 NEW HVAC. Invitingly spacious & delightfully updated home featuring 2 bedrooms w/walk-in closets, 2 updated bathrooms (new walk-in shower in Primary Bath) plus ofc/3rd bed. Filled w/light, elegant finishes & many extras! A tranquil interior pallet of natural hues & tones provides an ideal setting to enjoy the SW lifestyle. Live the Arizona dream as you view stunning sunrises & sunsets from your backyard, surrounded by vibrant colorful landscaping, covered tile patio, exquisite fountain, landscape lighting & misting system that will compliment any outdoor experience. Updated kitchen w/SS appliances, RO, pull-out shelves, island w/drawers, soft close cabinets. Whole home water filtration/softener. Residents in the Ventana Lakes Community enjoy friendly neighbors, four pools, jetted spas, fitness center, sports courts, catch and release fishing & a variety of clubs and activities.

11337 E Unger Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,074 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771730
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover modern living with stunning mountain views in this beautifully upgraded Ashton Woods home at Destination at Gateway, built in 2022. Boasting 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 full baths, plus a versatile den/flex space, this home offers everything you need. The open-concept design features wood-like tile floors throughout, a large center sliding door for seamless indoor-outdoor living, and kitchen includes sleek shaker cabinets, built-in Roku lighting, and quartz countertops. Why wait for a new build when this home is move-in ready and feels brand new? Ideally located near the new Fry's, and major freeways (24, 202, and 60), with access to excellent school districts. A must-see in a prime location!