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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10433 S 46th Way Phoenix, AZ 85044

$550,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Spanish Mountain Estates, Phoenix
New
$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,795 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787232
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your Spanish-style dream home, just minutes from South Mountain trails! This single-level beauty features 3 bedrooms, an office/den, and no HOA—because who needs rules? The huge great room w/ a cozy fireplace is perfect for Netflix (or Netflix and wine). Vaulted ceilings make you feel like royalty, and large windows let in tons of natural light so your plants can live their best life too. The dining room has built-in cabinets that scream, ''I'm organized, but I still have room for a bottle of tequila.'' The kitchen has ample counter space, modern appliances & a breakfast nook to enjoy your morning coffee. The spacious primary suite includes dual vanities and a walk-in shower because who needs a spa when you've got a shower big enough to house your dreams. Outside, enjoy a enjoy low-maintenance and spacious lot where you can paint your door whatever you like - just remember it is best to make friends with your neighbors if you ever need borrow eggs or milk. Don't miss this opportunity. Grab your hiking boots and come see it today!

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.

10709 E Knowles Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$550,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Villages Of Eastridge Unit 4, Mesa
New
$550,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,161 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787305
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated home, offering luxury and comfort at every turn. The spacious kitchen boasts sleek stainless steel appliances and elegant slab granite countertops, making it perfect for both cooking and entertaining. The expansive master suite provides a peaceful retreat with plenty of room to relax. Step outside to your private oasis featuring a sparkling pool. With a 3-car garage, there's ample space for vehicles, storage, or a workshop. This home combines style, space, and functionality—don't miss the chance to make it yours!

2603 S Playa -- Mesa, AZ 85202

$550,000 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Laguna Shores Amd, Mesa
New
$550,000
5 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,823 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786635
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
5 BR 2.5 BA single level home in prestigious Laguna Shores of Dobson Ranch. What a find at just under $195/sq ft. The possibilities are endless for a family or investor. From the moment you walk in, you will feel at home w/spacious rooms, a flexible floorplan, & the most private tranquil back yard. Enter thru the double door entry w/formal LR on the Lt & formal DR to the Rt. Down the hall is a half BA, 3 lg secondary BR's, a hall BA, & the primary BR. Primary BA has dual sinks & upgraded tile shower. KIT has been updated with SS appliances & flows into the FR w/wood burning FRPL, lg Bonus Rm & 5th BR (perfect for BR, office, or playroom). French doors lead to the backyard. This home has so many possibilities for any buyer's lifestyle. It is full of charm & warmth w/Saltillo tile floors & baths w/Capelo sinks from Guanajuato. Private backyard w/lush landscaping is ideal for entertaining friends & family. Large grass area w/patios, RV gate, newer A/C's, & roof resealed in 2024. Ample storage, walk-in KIT pantry, & inside laundry w/built-in cabinets. The home is a true bargain, located on one of the most desirable streets in Dobson Ranch. Lake access down the street for your boating adventures. Saratoga Park & Laguna Park around the corner. Dobson Ranch amenities include community pools, clubhouses, pickle ball, planned family activities, 8 lakes, public golf course & library, and easy access to #60 & #101 freeways. This home won't last!

2673 W Ivanhoe Street Chandler, AZ 85224

$550,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Raintree Ranch, Chandler
New
$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,794 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786111
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Prime Location! Close to the 101 & 202, walking distance to Whole Foods, restaurants/shopping. Beautiful home in a lake community w/3 beds, 2 baths, newer AC & water heater, mature landscape & a 2-car garage w/cabinetry. Discover the large living & dining room and the separate family room with a media niche. Vaulted ceilings add to the airy feel, complemented by custom paint & tile flooring t/out for easy maintenance. The kitchen boasts built-in appliances, recessed lighting, a pantry, and ample wood cabinetry. Enter the main bedroom to find a walk-in closet and an ensuite with dual sinks. The Arizona room, with multi-sliding doors merging the inside/outside activities. Two open patios & a citrus tree complete the large backyard. Located in the heart of Chandler - easy access to the Valle

14916 W Piccadilly Road Goodyear, AZ 85395

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,962 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6622880
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
$60,000 BELOW RECENT COMP. see MLS#6608783 Welcome to luxury living of Goodyear, nestled within the prestigious guard-gated community of PebbleCreek! As you enter, you're greeted with soaring ceilings in the grand foyer. The Cambria plan revolves around a spacious great room with vaulted ceilings, bar area, chef's kitchen with granite counters, large breakfast area flowing seamlessly to the outdoors. The primary suite is accompanied by a relaxing sitting room, walk-in shower, make-up with a dual sink vanity. This home is ready for your touch! Lastly, step out back to a covered patio and a professionally landscaped low maintenance backyard. The community offers golfing, restaurants, social clubs, fitness center, indoor/outdoor pools, tennis, trails and so much more!

15213 N Cameo Drive Sun City, AZ 85351

$550,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,800 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6682424
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SHORT SALE OPPORTUNITY- Welcome to your dream home nestled in the desirable community of Sun City! This stunning property at 15213 N Cameo Dr offers the perfect blend of elegance and relaxation with its prime location overlooking the golf course and serene lake views. Boasting 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, this premium lot home features a spacious layout designed for comfortable living. Step inside to discover a light-filled living space with picturesque views of the lush greenery and tranquil waters. The kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with modern appliances and ample counter space. Retreat to the master suite, complete with a private en-suite bath and scenic vistas. Enjoy Arizona's outdoor living at its finest in the expansive backyard oasis, where you can soak in the breathtaking sunsets from your Arizona Room/ patio. With its proximity to shopping, dining, and recreation, this home offers the ultimate lifestyle experience. Don't miss your chance to own this piece of paradise - schedule your showing today!'

9345 W Pasadena Avenue Glendale, AZ 85305

$550,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,136 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6690752
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICE REDUCTION ....This stunning two-story property exudes charm and elegance from the moment you arrive! You'll be greeted by a meticulously manicured front yard and pull into the spacious two-car garage with extension for a 3rd car.Upstairs you will fine the large master suite featuring a bonus room can be a living room or baby room. Also has a large family room.Spacious gourmet kitchen with island, granite countertops and a large pantry. The property is in a fantastic location near restaurants, shopping, and easy access to the freeway. This is a formal model home with lots of upgrades.SELLER IS MOTIVATED.

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!

1108 E Carter Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$550,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,396 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6716917
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Heated saltwater pool and spa in Tempe! Wood burning fireplace. No HOA. Storage closet in garage. Listing Broker has vested interest in home.