What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – May 23, 2016

You Ask, We Answer: 5 Ways That You Can Proactively Build and Improve Your Credit ScoreLast week’s economic news included the NAHB Housing Market Index, reports on housing starts, building reports and existing home sales. Minutes of the Federal Reserve’s last FOMC meeting were also released.

Homebuilder Confidence Unchanged, Housing Starts and Building Permits Increase

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported that builder confidence held steady with a reading of 58 in May. Analysts projected a reading of 58 and April’s reading was also 58. Builder confidence in market conditions could be slowing due to concerns over acquiring skilled labor and a shortage of developed lots. Demand for homes remains high, but a slim inventory of available properties and builder emphasis on higher-priced homes contributed to sidelining moderate income and first-time buyers.

Commerce Department reports for April Housing Starts and Building Permits issued suggest that tight housing inventories may receive some relief. April housing starts rose from a revised March reading of 1.099 million to 1.170 million starts. Housing starts increased by 6.60 percent in April. Housing starts have slowed as compared to the year-over-year period from April 2015 to 2016; housing starts increased by 10 percent for the same year-over-year period in 2015. While any increase in home construction is welcome, some analysts said that they did not expect a huge increase in home construction in coming months.

Construction of multifamily housing units rose by 10.70 percent, while single-family home construction increased by 3.30 percent. Rising rents and millennials delaying home purchases were seen as fueling multifamily home construction. As homes become less affordable, would-be buyers are continuing to rent, which places higher demand on rental units.

Pre-owned Home Sales Rise in April

Sales of previously owned homes rose by 1.70 percent in April to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.45 million sales. Sales increased by 12.10 percent in the Midwest, where homes are most affordable, and fell by 1.70 percent in the West, where homes are most costly. This development suggests that rapidly rising home prices have or will soon reach maximum levels in high-cost areas. Home prices in many areas rose rapidly in preceding months as short inventory and high demand created bidding wars and keen competition for available homes. A lack of affordable single family homes has caused some buyers to buy condos while others have put buying on hold.

Mortgage Rates Rise, New Jobless Claims Fall

Mortgage rates rose for 30-year fixed rate mortgages rose by one basis point to 3.58 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was unchanged at 2.82 percent and the average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rose by two basis points to 2.80 percent. Discount points were 0.60, 0.50 and 0.50 percent respectively. Analysts are watching the Fed closely for any indication that it will raise the target federal funds rate in June, although concerns over the possibility of Great Britain leaving the European Union could cause the Fed to hold off on raising the rate. If the Fed raises the target federal funds rate, loan rates for credit cards and mortgages would also increase.

New jobless claims fell last week to 278,000 new claims against expectations of 279,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 294,000 new claims. Analysts said that a telecommunications strike caused the prior week’s raise in claims as striking workers who are replaced during a strike are eligible for jobless benefits.

What’s Ahead

This week’s scheduled economic releases include new and pending home sales along with weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

8128 E Greythorn Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$1,290,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Replat Greythorn Village @ Superstition Foothills, Gold Canyon
New
$1,290,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,488 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6789435
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacular Superstition Mountain views and golf course frontage are just the icing on the cake for this perfect Villa in desireable Greythorn Village. 36 Hole Jack Nicklaus Golf Course, work out facility, pickleball, pool, tennis, bocce, clubhouse and active social scene. Secluded detached Villa with HOA maintainance. Covered patio provides evenings with unobstructed 360 degree views of Superstion Sunsets. 3 bedrooms all with ensuite bathrooms, one of which is a casita with a separate entrance. 9 foot ceilings throughout, 8 foot solid Alder doors and Viking appliances are just a few of the components reflecting the high quality workmanship in this Lyle Anderson construction. Furniture available on a separate bill of sale. Buyer to verify all pertinent facts. ACT FAST THIS IS UNIQU

9255 W Buckskin Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,290,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,089 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6708890
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your custom retreat on 1.2 acres in Peoria, ideally located near Lake Pleasant and featuring an impressive 1900 SF RV/Boat Garage. This home offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, providing ample room for your multi-generations. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with high-end appliances and finishes, and flows seamlessly into a great room with a breakfast bar, cozy breakfast nook, and formal dining area. Entertain effortlessly in the indoor/outdoor living spaces, which include a putting green, basketball hoop, covered patio, BBQ area, spa, and a sparkling pool that invites relaxation and enjoyment. The spacious layout also features a large workout room with an adjoining steam room, perfect for maintaining your fitness routine. For those who need extra storage or workspace, the property includes a 1900 SF detached RV garage with a large garage doors, one for your RV and the other to store your beautiful boat to take to Lake Pleasant. This garage has ample storage, a workshop, and can accommodate up to 4 additional cars, making it ideal for car collectors or hobbyists. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional property that combines luxury, functionality, and ample space for all your needs.

17518 E Whitethorn Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,290,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,651 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6735190
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on a peaceful road among breathtaking mountain vistas, this home offers unparalleled resort-style living in serene Rio Verde. A thoughtfully designed split floor plan allows for privacy with the primary bedroom split to one wing, away from the other 2 bedrooms in the main house. An attached 1bed/1bath casita is accessible from the back patio. Entertain effortlessly in the great room with a cozy fireplace, a huge built-in entertainment center, a sophisticated built-in bar, and game room with space for a pool table. Adjacent is the chef's kitchen with a large island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a walk-in pantry. Versailles pattern travertine & engineered wood floors as well as other beautiful finishes throughout the home. The deluxe master has an oversized bath suite with an adjoining room that can be used as an office, workout space, or an extra closet. Stunning views of the Tonto National Forest serve as a picturesque backdrop while you're relaxing in the sparkling pool or in the new above ground hot tub among beautiful landscaping and wide-open skies. Additional upgrades in addition to the new hot tub include 2 new A/C units in 2022, an RV Hookup with it's own separate breaker, and an extensive critter fence installed around the perimeter. Don't miss this invitation to luxurious living here in Rio Verde!

27832 N Silverado Ranch Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,290,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,532 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752926
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the tranquility of mountain vistas and the Sonoran Desert with this stunning home! This highly sought-after Whistler plan by Taylor Morrison is nestled in the esteemed Northlands community of North Peoria. Revel in nearby hiking and ATV trails, nearby Lake Pleasant, and breathtaking sunsets. Located in the prestigious Summit Section, this home backs onto the magnificent Calderwood Butte, offering sweeping panoramic views. With exceptional curb appeal, this home is bathed in natural light. The gourmet kitchen boasts upgraded quartzite waterfall countertops, white pinstriped cabinets, and stainless steel appliances, flowing seamlessly into a coffee/wine sitting area looking out to the amazing view. *BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE* The kitchen is open to the spacious family room with a large built-in entertainment center. The generous primary bedroom features a custom closet with ample storage. With three additional bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, there's plenty of space for family and guests. Unwind under the extra-wide pergola, savor the views, enjoy a cocktail, and listen to the soothing sounds of your pool's waterfalls. Whether you love hiking, spending a day at the lake, or simply enjoying the tranquility of your surroundings, this remarkable home offers it all. Don't miss out - come see it today!!

9344 E Via De Vaquero Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,290,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Dc Ranch Parcel 1.13, Scottsdale
Open House
$1,290,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,769 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6727480
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in the highly sought-after DC Ranch community, this move-in ready Terraces West home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, with the master bedroom conveniently on the ground floor. The open floor plan, complete with separate living, dining, and family rooms, is perfect for entertaining. Situated on a north/south cul-de-sac lot with no homes across the street, this home provides stunning views of the McDowell Mountains. If you're looking for a DC Ranch property in The Terraces, this is the perfect opportunity to make it yours!

2521 W Pumpkin Ridge Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,289,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,290 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780784
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious Anthem Country Club! This stunning 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom Sonoma model sits on an elevated lot, offering sweeping views of the 17th hole of the Persimmon Golf Course, lush desert, majestic mountains, and twinkling evening lights. The spacious 3,290 sq ft layout includes a versatile den and a 3-car garage, all set on a serene 0.254-acre lot. Inside, a gourmet kitchen awaits with gleaming granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and rich dark wood cabinetry. The open-concept layout flows seamlessly into the cozy family room and dining spaces, perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying the view. The owner's suite is a true retreat, featuring a luxurious tile walk-in shower and ample space for relaxation. Step...CONTINUE READING... ...outside to the backyard oasis where you'll find an expansive patio with an outdoor BBQ/bar area under a pergolaideal for al fresco dining. Unwind in the negative edge spool, heating up to 104°, with a tranquil cascading water feature. Whether you're soaking in the vibrant sunsets or hosting friends, this low-maintenance, meticulously landscaped yard offers the best of Arizona outdoor living. Experience resort-style elegance every day in this breathtaking Anthem Country Club home!

16779 W Holly Street Goodyear, AZ 85395

$1,287,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,134 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773405
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful Cristall 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers 3,134 sq ft of luxurious living space with golf course view. The home features a stacked stone exterior, a beautiful custom front door and front courtyard. The resort-style backyard is perfect for entertaining with an extended covered patio, lighted pergola, lounging areas with Tiki torches, a built-in BBQ island, 2 firepits, a water feature, and above-ground spa—all overlooking the 14th hole of Tuscany West. The gourmet kitchen is ideal for hosting, featuring a large island, upgraded cabinets, granite countertops, GE Monogram stainless steel appliances, a butler's pantry, and walk-in pantry. The spacious great room offers a stone fireplace and custom media center, with views from the great room, dining area, and main and bedroom. Off the kitchen is a cozy morning room that provides a perfect spot to relax. The primary bedroom offers a serene retreat with an ensuite bathroom featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub, walk-in shower, and large walk-in closet. A second bedroom includes a private bath, while the third bedroom near the front could double as a den or office. Additional features include a 3-car garage, owner-owned 34 solar panels, and a spacious laundry room. Located in the PebbleCreek active adult community, enjoy golf, swimming pools, pickleball, tennis, fitness center, and more.

22633 N Clubhouse Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,286,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,582 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6627247
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This significant golf property located in the highly desirable Pinnacle Peak Country Club in North Scottsdale overlooks the 11th fairway with a spectacular view of Pinnacle Peak. The property is ideal for those looking for an easy-care full-time residence or a lock-and-leave vacation home. All on one level this open flowing floor plan has been updated with new paint, new tile and low-pile carpet floors, kitchen and bath remodels and much more. Using today's modern finishes, this discerning home imparts the move-in-ready aspect. The home is entered from a stone pavered walk-way with room for front patio seating. Through the double door steel framed glass doors, the great room impresses with a vaulted beamed ceiling, iron chandelier, floor to ceiling tiled fireplace, wet bar, and glass sliders that lead to the patio. To the south the chef's kitchen is fully equipped with new granite countertops and appliances, a spacious island with a waterfall side, pendant lights and bar seating. The adjacent casual dining area extends convenience and outdoor access. The serene primary suite, in the North side of the home, features a double door entry, sitting space and patio access. Enjoy the ensuite bath with new double sink vanity, walk-in shower with floor to ceiling tile surround and a walk-in closet. For guests the sizeable second bedroom ensuite opens to the guest bath with tub and shower combination, also opening to the hall. The den or office, off the great room, has a double barn door entry and can easily be used as a third bedroom. The outdoor patio is delightful with views of the golf course and the actual Pinnacle Peak. The vaulted with beams covered patio space mimics the design of the great room inside. An outdoor fireplace, dining ramada, and beautiful mature desert landscape, including citrus trees creates the sought after outdoor Arizona casual lifestyle. Overall, this updated golf property is an excellent opportunity to own a prime location in North Scottsdale's Pinnacle Peak Country Club.

6310 E Ludlow Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,286,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in La Paz At Desert Springs Unit 1, Scottsdale
Open House
$1,286,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,448 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786546
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located minutes from Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter, and top-rated schools, with no HOA, this home offers convenience and peace of mind. From the moment you enter through the striking custom pivot door, you'll sense the refinement that awaits inside. The open-concept floor plan blends comfort and style, creating an inviting and intimate atmosphere, bathed in natural light that highlights the vaulted ceilings and exposed beams. The heart of the home is the grand kitchen, boasting brand-new cabinetry, stunning quartz countertops, a sprawling 10-foot island, and top-tier stainless-steel appliances. Throughout the home, timeless oak plank flooring and premium finishes—including Delta eco-friendly fixtures, Bedrosians tile, designer light fixtures, and soft cashmere paint finishes The primary suite offers a serene retreat with dual vanities and his-and-hers showers for a spa-like experience. Set on a desirable corner lot, the property offers beautiful curb appeal, generous parking for vehicles, boats, or RVs, and an expansive backyard oasis. The outdoor space is impeccable, with lush landscaping, ambient lighting, and an efficient irrigation system. A paver patio, enhanced pool area, and charming gazebo create the perfect setting for serene evenings or outdoor entertaining. A detailed list of upgrades and warranties s available in the documents. Schedule your private showing today to experience a haven of cozy, modern living at its finest.

26720 N 156th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,285,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,633 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773995
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Tucked in off the main roads sits this beautifully maintained home on 2.26+ acres w/ lush desert foliage. So many flora colors & different plants feels like a desert oasis. Bring your toys & horses & enjoy the temperature-controlled man cave/shop/extra garage, 2-stall mare motel w/ good sized arena. Lots of room to give you extra privacy & room to add more features. Relax on the patio & enjoy the peacefulness of the desert, watch the sunrise over Four Peaks & take a dip in the gated pebble tec pool w/ waterfall for that unmatched AZ experience. Great open kitchen w/ plenty of room for the chef to entertain guests. Generous cabinets/countertop space & eat-in kitchen along w/ a nicely sized formal dining space. A final bonus: a timed-irrigation raised bed layout for that gardener who.... loves home-grown vegetables & flowers. If you're looking for a spacious desert retreat that's also very quiet & private, this one is a must-see.

4710 N 65th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,285,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Phoenician 2 2nd Amd, Scottsdale
New
$1,285,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,630 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788121
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is a gorgeous 2 BR/2 BA luxury Villa in Phoenician East. Located on the Phoenician golf course, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the renowned Camelback Mountain. The residence features soaring 12' ceilings, fireplace, large back patio with gate to the golf course. The two master suites have their own bathrooms and large walk-in closets. The kitchen features upgraded Jenn Air Appliances. This is a perfect home for enjoying a lock and leave life. This ideal ultra convenient location is near world class shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square. Plus, dozens of dining options from fine dining to casual dining spots within a 2 mile radius.

30407 N 54th Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,285,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,884 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6686219
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This luxury Toll Brothers home in the highly sought after gated community of Montevista in Cave Creek is just a short walk from the community park, with sport courts and a children's playground! An exquisite 5 bdrm, 3.5 bath residence with professionally designed landscaping, Travertine pathways & a grand courtyard entry! The turreted entry opens to the formal dining room & large media room with a 135-inch movie screen. The core of the home lies in the spacious great room which provides gorgeous backyard views and ample space for all social gatherings. The chef's kitchen is warm and welcoming and features stainless steel appliances, granite counters, dining area, breakfast bar, and a convenient desk area for studying or office work. The split primary suite is located downstairs and is a retreat that boasts soft carpet, a lavish ensuite w/dual vanities, large 6-ft soaking tub, oversized shower, and a spacious walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms are also downstairs, currently being used as offices, and share an updated Jack-and-Jill bathroom. That's not all! There are two more bedrooms and another updated bathroom upstairs, with a cozy loft area. That backyard oasis is a dream, featuring a refreshing 8-ft deep Pebble Tec pool with water feature, paved covered patio and low maintenance landscaping, including mature citrus trees! Close to highly rated Cave Creek schools and short drive to shopping/dining in Old Town Cave Creek and Carefree to the north and Desert Ridge Marketplace to the south.