What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 25, 2016

Housing Starts, Building Permits Issued Rise

Commerce Department reports on housing starts and building permits issued were released Tuesday. Housing starts rose to 1.189 million in June against expectations of 1.165 million starts and May’s downwardly revised reading of 1.135 million starts, Housing starts rose by 4.80 percent on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis. This is good news for housing markets, but analysts said that demand for homes continued to exceed available supplies.

Building permits issued also rose in June to 1.53 million as compared to May’s reading of 1.136 million permits issued.

Existing Home Sales Increase: National Association of Realtors®

Sales of previously-owned homes rose three percent year-over-year and reached their highest level since February 2007 in June. Existing home sales rose by 1.10 percent in June to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.57 million sales. Analysts forecasted a reading of 5.48 million sales of pre-owned homes based on May’s reading of 5.51 million sales.

Analysts said that first-time home buyers are returning to housing markets and helped boost June sales and cited changing buyer demographics that suggest a return to owner-occupant home sales. First-time buyers accounted for 33 percent of pre-owned home sales in July, which was their highest reading since 2012. First-time buyers are important to housing markets as their purchases of existing homes enable current homeowners to sell their homes to buy larger homes or to relocate.

Mortgage Rates Rise, New Jobless Claims Fall

Mortgage rates rose across the board last week according to Freddie Mac’s weekly report. Rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage averaged 3.45 percent, which was three basis points higher. The average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage also rose three basis points to 2.75 percent; rates for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage averaged 2.78 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for fixed-rate mortgage and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.

New jobless claims sustained their streak and fell last week to 253,000 against predictions of 260,000 new claims filed and the prior week’s reading of 254,000 new claims filed. Analysts hailed declining jobless claims as a strong indicator that the economy and labor markets continue to improve. New jobless claims have remained below the key reading of 300,000 for 73 weeks. The four-week rolling average of new jobless claims fell by 1250 claims to 257,750. This reading is considered less volatile than week-to-week readings and offers evidence of steady improvements in labor markets.

What’s Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic news includes the S&P Case-Shiller Housing Market Index, readings on new and pending home sales and the FOMC committee’s post-meeting statement on Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions. Analysts widely expect the Fed to hold firm on its current federal funds rate of 0.25 to 0.50 percent.

Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will be released along with a reading on consumer confidence.

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!

25809 S Cloverland Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$579,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,127 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773972
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home!!! This gorgeous 3 bedroom 2 bath home at the desirable 55+ active adult community of Cottonwood Palo Verde at Sun Lakes is in a fantastic location. Close to restaurants, shopping, parks, multiple golf courses & easy access to the I-10 Fwy. You'll love the layout of this home. Your kitchen offers stainless steel appliances (new dishwasher), tiled granite counter tops, a breakfast bar, filtered water & plenty of cabinetry for storage & organization. Your spacious master suite offers a plethora of natural light, a dual vanity & a tiled walk in shower w/grab bar. This golf course lot home also offers ceiling fans, a dry bar, a 2 car garage with epoxy flooring, a water softener, a work bench & cabinets for extra storage & organization. Your low maintenance backyard offers extended pavers & a view fence that looks out over the 6th hole of the Cottonwood Country Club. Your active adult community offers a clubhouse, golfing, tennis & pickleball courts, a fitness center, lap & swimming pools to enjoy, as well as many clubs & social activities to be apart of. This gem in the desert is a Great Buy & a Must See!!! **Furniture is available on a separate bill of sale.

13148 N 153rd Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,588 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768920
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful move-in ready home in Marley Park Community is now on the market! Offering an excellent curb appeal w/manicured front yard, a 3-car garage, & a relaxing porch! Take a look at the updated interior to discover tall ceilings, stylish tile flooring, recessed lighting, and a bright living room w/accented wall. The family room comprises a media niche, backyard access, & a cozy fireplace perfect for the cold winter nights. Enjoy a delightful meal in the formal dining room! Impeccable kitchen showcases wood cabinets w/crown molding, built-in appliances, granite counters, mosaic tile backsplash, & a 2-tiered peninsula w/a breakfast bar. Flexible den is ready to make it your own. Oversized primary retreat features a soft carpet & a pristine ensuite w/dual sinks. 3% to buyers agent.

10637 W Eucalyptus Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$579,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,993 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778643
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fall in love with this incredible single-level residence in the highly sought-after Tierra Del Rio! The desirable interior impresses you with an inviting foyer leading to the bright & spacious open floor plan, perfect for welcoming & entertaining. With tall ceilings, trending paint, plantation shutters, classic tile flooring, Large slider to the back patio, & a practical den, 3 car tandem garage. Gourmet kitchen is equipped with quartz counters, stylish tile backsplash, white cabinetry with crown molding, & an island with a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom has hardwood flooring, a chic ensuite with a wooden panel accent, a walk-in closet, & outdoor access. Unwind in the serene backyard, offering a covered patio, pavers, a built-in BBQ, and a fire pit. This value will not disappoint

18581 W College Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$579,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,279 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778682
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in the highly sought-after Sedella Community. This gem offers everything you could want, including a spacious 3-car garage, RV gate, and dedicated RV parking. Step inside and be captivated by the bright, open floor plan adorned with stylish tile flooring, a custom entertainment niche, and an abundance of natural light pouring in through large windows. The chef's kitchen is a dream come true, featuring upgraded cabinetry, granite countertops, a prep island with a breakfast bar, recessed and pendant lighting, a walk-in pantry, and stainless steel appliances, including a gas cooktop and wall oven. There's even a cozy nook, ideal for a pocket office or a special space for your furry friend. Retreat to the main bedroom, a serene haven with plush carpeting, dual vanities, and a spacious walk-in closet. Outside, enjoy a generous backyard designed for relaxation and entertaining, complete with a covered patio and built-in bar - perfect for year-round gatherings. Don't miss out on this exceptional home!

1799 W Canary Way Chandler, AZ 85286

$579,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,080 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784885
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your new home awaits! Spacious and bright open floor plan with vaulted ceilings throughout. Large kitchen offers plenty of cabinetry, center island, and newer stainless appliances including a gas range. Luxurious primary suite with private bath featuring dual vanities, walk-in shower, soaking tub set into a bay window, and walk-in closet. New paint and carpet throughout. Covered patio overlooks sparkling play pool and grass play area. Oversized 3 car garage for additional storage and parking. Premiere South Chandler location close to shopping, dining, and freeways. A great value and a must see!

13532 N 146th Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,743 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764564
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Marley Park Beauty - 4 bedrooms 3 bath home that sits on a premium lot next to green belt. Short walk to community pool / Charter School. Shopping & dining + new Costco minutes away. Home has upgraded kitchen & flooring - this to be best home on your tour.

2118 W Hemingway Court Anthem, AZ 85086

$579,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,120 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779175
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning 5-Bedroom Home with Modern Amenities Near Parks and Schools! Welcome to your dream home! This spacious 5-bedroom, 3-full-bathroom residence offers the perfect blend of comfort and style, ideal for families and entertaining alike. Nestled in a friendly neighborhood, you'll enjoy walking distance to parks and schools, making it a convenient choice for active lifestyles. Step inside to discover an updated kitchen that will delight any chef, featuring sleek stainless steel appliances, a gas stove, and ample counter space for meal prep. The open layout flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas, creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings. The master suite boasts a private bath, providing a serene retreat after a long day. Four additional well-sized bedrooms offer plenty of space for family, guests, or a home office. With three full bathrooms, mornings will be a breeze for everyone! The three-car garage provides ample storage for vehicles and outdoor gear, making it easy to keep everything organized. Outside, the yard offers room for play and relaxation, perfect for enjoying warm evenings or weekend barbecues. Don't miss the chance to make this beautiful home yours and experience all that this wonderful property has to offer!

12687 W Paradise Lane Surprise, AZ 85378

$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,683 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6597550
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful, brand-new custom home featuring 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, including two master suites ideal for multi-generational living or added privacy. With over 2,600 sqft of well-designed space, this home is built with 2x6 construction for enhanced durability and energy efficiency, paired with a high-efficiency HVAC system to keep you comfortable year-round. The open-concept layout flows seamlessly, offering a large living area, a chef's kitchen with modern appliances, and plenty of natural light. Situated close to top-rated schools, shopping, and entertainment, this home combines luxury and convenience in one stunning package. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity

20581 N Enchantment Pass Maricopa, AZ 85138

$579,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,528 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6650676
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning home located in the highly desirable Province adult community! Original owners who have taken immaculate care of this home. This is a split floor plan and is one of the very few built with a separate entry guest house / casita room. Located across the street from a greenbelt with a beautiful open floor plan and no neighbors behind. Entertainers kitchen with granite countertops and S/S appliances. Home features newly painted inside and out, shutters throughout, upgraded doors, large laundry / utility room, upgraded installation. Home has two large AC units with three zones to control heating and cooling. Backyard is professionally designed with private patio are with pavers, fire pit, beautifully landscaped with a newly private spa - 2 years old.

1521 W Garfield Street Phoenix, AZ 85007

$579,900
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,059 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6716799
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing 2 bed, 2.5 bath home updated & reimagined by one of the members of its original family! The formal entry opens to an large greatroom. There's a spacious kitchen with 5 burner gas range, upgraded cabinetry, gorgeous granite counters, stainless steel appliances & elegant tile backsplash. A fantastic place to gather & entertain! The ground floor has an owner's suite w/ tiled shower, powder room & large office/utility room. The upstairs was designed as a second owner's suite, complete with its own ensuite & balcony. It's large enough to enclose an additional bedroom or use as a mother-in-law suite. The home has been updated with a reinforced foundation, newer roof & HVAC (mini-splits). Perfect as a SFD or multi-generational home & just minutes from downtown. Welcome home!