What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 20, 2016

Whats Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week January 18 2016Mortgage rates fell after Federal Reserve policymakers decided not to raise the Fed’s target federal funds rate. The Federal Open Market Committee cited ongoing concerns over global financial and economic developments and slow jobs growth as factors in its decision not to raise rates. Fed Chair Janet Yellen emphasized the committee’s decision-making process is not predetermined and said that ongoing review of current and developing news is significant to monetary policy decisions.

Last week’s economic news also included the NAHB Housing Market Index, the monthly inflation rate and retail sales along with weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

Home Builder Confidence Rises in June

According to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index, Home builder confidence rose one point to a June reading of 60. May’s reading was 58 and analysts expected a reading of 59. June’s reading broke a four-month streak of unchanged readings. Sub-readings used to calculate the Housing Market Index were one point higher at 64 for current market conditions. Builders had higher confidence in market conditions for the next six months. June’s reading was five points higher at 70. June’s reading for buyer traffic remained below the benchmark of 50 at 47. The NAHB gauge of buyer traffic in new homes hasn’t hit 50 since the peak of the housing bubble.

National inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index was lower in May at 0.20 percent as compared to April’s reading of 0.40 percent; analysts expected a reading of 0.30 percent. Core inflation held steady at 0.20 percent; the core reading excludes volatile food and energy sectors, but energy prices, fuel prices and food are major components of household budgets.

The Federal Reserve has set an annual inflation rate of 2.00 percent as a benchmark reading for its consideration or raising the federal funds rate. Readings have remained consistently lower in recent years, which contributed to the Fed’s decision not to raise interest rates.

Mortgage Rates Fall as Jobless Claims Rise

Freddie Mac reported lower average mortgage rates for fixed and adjustable mortgages last week. 30-year fixed rate mortgages dropped f six basis points to an average of 3.54 percent. Rates for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage averaged

2.81 percent, which was also six basis points lower. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was eight basis points lower at 2.740 percent. Lower mortgage rates are welcomed by first-time and moderate income homebuyers as home prices continue to rise.

New jobless claims rose to 277,000 as compared to an expected reading of 270,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 264,000 new claims. Analysts attributed the jump in new claims to seasonal influences including new claims filed by school workers eligible for benefits when classes aren’t in session.

What’s Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic reports include reports on new and existing home sales along with weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. A monthly reading of consumer sentiment will also be released.

32561 Felix -- San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,680 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739254
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Exceptional Home with Pool, Casita, Storage Shed & carport on over 1.3 acres. Welcome to this exceptional property, where comfort meets versatility in a stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom primary residence. This home is perfect for those seeking a blend of relaxation, functionality, & additional living space with a country living feel yet not too far from amenities. Step into the inviting main residence, where an open layout & modern design create a welcoming ambiance. The spacious living room features large windows that bathe the space in natural light & provide beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with sleek appliances, quartz countertops, & ample cabinet space & a large walk in pantry. A large island provides additional prep space & a casual dining area. Adjacent to the kitchen is a comfortable dining area that opens to the backyard, perfect for alfresco dining. The main bedroom is a serene retreat with generous closet space a & an en-suite bathroom featuring a double vanity, separate shower & storage. Two additional well-sized bedrooms share a 2nd full bathroom, designed with modern fixtures and a stylish aesthetic. The expansive backyard is a true highlight, featuring a sparkling pool with water feature, slide & surrounded by a spacious travertine deck, ideal for sunbathing & entertaining. A well-maintained storage shed (40x30) offers practical storage solutions for outdoor equipment, supplies & can be used as a garage plus a 20x40 carport. This property also boasts a charming casita, providing a private & versatile space that can serve as a guest suite, home office, or artist's studio. The 12x24 casita is thoughtfully designed with its own entrance, ensuring privacy & comfort for its occupants. Other features include established landscaping, pavers, & fenced yard. This unique property offers a rare combination of features, including a main residence, pool, casita, shed & carport making it a standout choice for those seeking both comfort & versatility. Move away from the big city & be amazed at all the stars! Don't miss the opportunity to make this exceptional property your new home!

5336 N 20th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,965 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775489
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Perfectly positioned between North Central and Biltmore, this beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 2 bath townhome offers the perfect blend of modern upgrades and timeless charm. The front courtyard is perfect for quiet moments or entertaining guests, and leads to a great room with expansive celestory windows that bathe the living space in natural light. Enjoy a modernized kitchen with quartzite counters, shaker cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Relax in fully updated bathrooms, including a jacuzzi tub in the primary suite. Enjoy peace of mind of ownership with major replacements already having been performed; HVAC (2020), roof (2022), windows & sliding glass door (2023). Situated in the highly sought-after Madison School District blocks away from Phoenix's top entertainiment options

22 Pine Del Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,704 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6638531
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Huge Price Reduction, will go quick! Discover your new haven in the Pines! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home boasts an open living area with luxury vinyl flooring throughout and cozy new carpet in all the bedrooms. Enjoy the comfort of new windows and a brand-new central heating and AC system. The modern kitchen features stainless steel appliances and stunning quartz countertops. With new lighting fixtures and fresh paint both inside and out, this mountain retreat is move-in ready!

5161 N Scottsdale Road Eloy, AZ 85131

$595,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,249 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6666215
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ideally located within the Robson Ranch golf course community, this CALABRIA model boasts an upgraded private entrance & courtyard complete w/ a tranquil pond & gas fireplace, a serene space complete w/ a charming guest casita. Integra-Block construction, new A/C unit, 4 ft. garage extension w/ cabinet built-in & ample attic storage. INTERIOR FEATURES: Extended bedroom nooks, plantation shutters, mood lighting, hardwood flooring throughout den, hallways, living room. Gas appliances. EXTERIOR FEATURES: Outdoor kitchen, BBQ, misting system, covered & enclosed patio, hot tub off master, gas firepits, pond w/ footbridge, separate garden enclosure area with grape vines & citrus trees. Owner/agent.

7700 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 103 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,104 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6705937
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome Home to Sunset Cove in the guard-gated community of Gainey Ranch! This single-level, 2-bedroom, 2-bath furnished, move in ready, townhome offers easy living in an excellent location. The Gainey Estate Club is just a short walk away, perfect for a quick swim, workout, tennis, or game of pickleball. You'll also be close to all that Scottsdale has to offer, including hiking, biking, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. This home has been updated over the years, with the current seller adding many upgrades. Features include a gourmet kitchen, BBQ patio, spacious bedrooms, and a private patio off the primary bedroom. The home also includes a detached one-car garage and extra parking. Welcome Home

41355 N Salix Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$595,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,741 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6699464
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
In the heart of the Taylor Ranch community in San Tan Valley lies a haven of tranquility and luxury. Welcome to this stunning 3741 square foot residence with a thoughtfully designed floor plan with 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths , 3-car garage + a den/office offers the perfect retreat for productivity and focus. Don't miss the huge loft area for a great game room or craft area. Discover the backyard oasis, featuring a fenced pool that beckons you to take a refreshing dip on warm Arizona days or gather around the outdoor fireplace on cool evenings. Updated A/C units were installed in 2020, to ensure year-round comfort and energy efficiency. Closely located near the new Costco at Ellsworth Rd and EZ freeway access to the new I-24. Come see how much this wonderful home has to offer.

2323 W Kachina Trail Phoenix, AZ 85041

$595,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,719 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6703483
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful single level home with mountain views located in the immaculate Southern Highlands gated community. This incredible home has an open great room and split floor plan with 4 bedrooms (and a den that could easily be converted into a 5th bedroom) PLUS 3.5 BATHS AND TWO MASTER SUITES! The master bedroom has two separate walk-in closets. The home flooring features beautiful wood, tile, and carpeting throughout. The island kitchen has granite counter tops, 42'' stair step cabinets, walk-in pantry, stainless steel gas range, built in microwave / convection oven, and a breakfast nook in addition to the formal dining area. There are soft water & RO water treatment systems. See Supplemental Remarks for continuation of features The backyard is extremely private, and is currently a blank slate ready for landscaping according to the new owner's preferences. The backyard also features a covered patio, a watering system front & back on timer, and an available gas stub. The two car garage has an expoxy coating. The home is located in close proximity to downtown Phoenix.

17983 E Vista Desierto -- Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,370 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6724151
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacular 2 bedroom 2 bath home with $100,000 in upgrades in Trilogy at Verde River. Chef's kitchen features stainless steel Monogram appliances including built-in refrigerator/freezer, gas cooktop, dishwasher microwave and wall oven. Granite and quartz countertops. Magnificent glass tile backsplash. Very open great room floor plan is ideal for entertaining. Primary suite offers luxurious bath room with double sinks, built-in vanity, oversized shower. and custom walk-in closet. Private back yard with large covered patio, desert landscaping and artificial turf. Trilogy at Verde River offers an array of activities. Please visit their website for details.

3212 S Marryvale Lane Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,410 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728129
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
RARE OPPORTUNITY for a SINGLE LEVEL in Pinnacle Pines - and it even includes A/C! Come take a look at this nicely appointed 2 bedroom home with a great layout and use of space. The split floor plan design provides privacy for each of the two bedrooms while the great room combines the Living/Kitchen/Dining into an open and comfortable gathering space. A modest sized covered deck overlooking the backyard is great for spending a relaxing afternoon enjoying the outdoors. Other wonderful features include a flat, SW facing driveway, separate laundry room, lots of extra storage in the large crawl space, and did I mention A/C? Come take a look at this great home located on a quiet cul-de-sac in Pinnacle Pines!

4755 W Morin Road Mcneal, AZ 85617

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,142 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731687
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MOTIVATED SELLERS! Will consider all offers. Looking to expand your agricultural endeavors or seeking a tranquil retreat? Situated on over 90 acres, ideal for horses & livestock. This home features 3 bedrooms/2 bathrooms plus a spacious basement for additional living space & storage. Living room, formal dining, & office/den provide plenty of options for relaxation & entertaining. Custom kitchen appliances, fireplace, wood-burning stove, custom woodworking, & built-in bookshelves add character & functionality. Outside is covered parking, a workshop, barn, & storage shed, along with 5 raised garden beds. Private Well! Farm equipment(2 tractors plus box blade, brush mower, & post hole digger)can remain with acceptable offer! A perfect blend of rural lifestyle, serenity, & modern convenience.

1357 N Nebraska Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$595,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,971 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740805
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your dream home in Chandler! Situtated on a cul-de-sac lot, this main house is 1,971 sq ft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, PLUS 356 sq ft detached guest house with a full bath and kitchenette. Enjoy no HOA restrictions and a 9ft RV gate with a slab for boats, campers, and other toys. The backyard features a Pebble Tec pool with a rock water feature and slide (updated in 2017), a ramada, and an extended covered patio. The main house, guest house, and storage shed received new roofs in 2021. Main & guest house exterior paint in 2022 with 20 year warranty. Stay comfortable with two new HVAC systems installed in 2020 and a solar water heater added in 2023. This home is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience in Chandler! Be sure to ask about the energy audit & solar savings!

6812 W Firebird Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$595,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,328 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753607
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the coveted Arrowhead Ranch - Sierra Verde community! This stunning property offers 4 bedrooms + 3 bathrooms, all situated on a desirable corner lot that ensures added privacy. Step inside, you'll be greeted by soaring vaulted ceilings + a well-designed N/S exposure that bathes the home in natural light. Beautiful luxury vinyl flooring throughout (no carpet). The chef's kitchen boasts updated cabinets, ample counter space, + an ideal layout for entertaining guests. The primary bedroom offers high ceilings + a luxurious ensuite bath w/ 2 walk-in closets, separate soaking tub/shower, + dual sinks. The backyard is a private oasis with an extended covered patio, mature trees, and a grassy area. Enjoy lakes, trails, parks, dining, and shopping just steps away!