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.

10721 E La Junta Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,500,000 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Artesano At Troon Canyon, Scottsdale
Open House
$4,500,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
7,208 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754692
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Indulge in the epitome of luxury at Artesano Grande, a sprawling estate meticulously maintained and upgraded with remarkable elegance. A connoisseur's dream awaits in the gourmet kitchen, featuring Viking appliances, a butler's pantry, multiple ovens, and two dishwashers. Seamlessly flowing into the great room, this culinary dream kitchen creates an ideal setting for elegant entertaining, including a stunning temperature-controlled wine room. The Multiple living areas offer versatile spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation, complemented by a dedicated home office, a serene wellness room, and a home gym/yoga studio. Each private bedroom is an oasis of comfort, complete with ensuite bathrooms and ample storage. Step outside to discover an expanded covered patio, perfect for alfresco dining and entertaining. The outdoor kitchen and shade structures create an inviting ambiance, while the new, transformed pool, featuring a spacious Baja shelf and captivating fire and water features, beckons for refreshing relaxation. Immerse yourself in breathtaking city-light and sunset views and the allure of a nearby country club. Enjoy substantial energy savings with a 2014 grandfathered whole-home solar system. Modern conveniences abound with two EV chargers, ensuring effortless charging for electric vehicles. The home is equipped with four HVAC units for optimal climate control, while the central vac system simplifies cleaning and maintenance. Discover the unparalleled lifestyle awaiting you at Artesano Grande.

11988 E Larkspur Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$4,500,000 - 6Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Ancala, Scottsdale
Open House
$4,500,000
6 Beds
6 Baths
8,904 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6671869
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into your exquisite sanctuary nestled within the esteemed gated Ancala Country Club golf community. This exceptional custom home is perched on a sprawling hillside lot, commanding awe-inspiring views of the city lights below. Indulge in the artfully crafted interior, where every detail exudes sophistication and elegance. From the high-end finishes to the opulent amenities, no expense has been spared in creating a space that is as luxurious as it is inviting. With six bedrooms, an office, a theatre, bonus room, and fitness center that can easily be converted to an in-law suite, five full baths, three powder baths, this home is designed to exceed every expectation of comfort, style, and luxury. Retreat to the sumptuous primary suite, a haven of relaxation boasting a spa-like bathroom, spacious his and her walk-in closets, and a private balcony offering a serene escape with breathtaking views. Outside, a resort-style paradise awaits, featuring a glistening pool, a tranquil spa, a cozy firepit and fireplace, gas bbq, perfect for unwinding or entertaining guests against the backdrop of the stunning landscape. Located up the mountain in Ancala Country Club, where you have the option to join the club if you wish, including a social or full golf membership.

4861 E Marston Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,499,999
4 Beds
4 Baths
5,892 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742885
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER MAY CARRY! No rental restrictions! Priced under $800/sqft, this elegant home sits on a large lot with stunning views of Camelback Mountain and Camel's Head. It features soaring ceilings, marble floors, and a private courtyard surrounded by lush landscaping. The resort-style backyard offers a sports court, putting green, cactus garden, and pool with new plumbing and digital pumps. Recent upgrades total $150k including paint, concrete finishes, and a new irrigation system. The gold leaf front door and chandeliers appraised & insured for $200k+. 4-car garage with carport make this home a rare find!

6902 N Highlands Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$4,499,999
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,509 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753805
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
THE BEST KNOCKOUT VIEWS AT A STEAL OF A PRICE! Where else can you get ALL THIS: One-of-a-kind hillside with UNOBSTRUCTED panoramic views of Camelback, Phoenix Skyline, Mummy Mountain, and PV fireworks. Your family and guests will be amazed by 5 view decks and the heated infinity pool & spa that let you feel like you're swimming into a limitless Arizona horizon. Perfectly positioned for privacy: no neighbor directly on top of you. Quiet dead-end street. And the desert hillside is a fortress that naturally shades & cools the house in the afternoons. All bedrooms are en suite with balcony/patio access including TWO Primary Suites! Floor-to-ceiling windows, two-story waterfall, 3 fireplaces, 2 wet bars, and temp-controlled pantry/wine room. WATCH THE VIDEO and SEND YOUR OFFERS! *** 8 AVMs (Automatic Valuation Models) value this home at an average of $5.05 MILLION! (Accessed 9/1/24: ATTOM, Movoto, Chase, Home Valuation, Realtordotcom, Public Data, Pennymac, and Wells Fargo). Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a premium trophy location in Arizona's most prestigious ZIP code at a HUGE discount.

6112 E Cortez Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$4,499,900
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,266 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769489
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
STUNNING ESTATE in the exclusive 24/7 Guard gated community of Equestrian Manor! This gorgeous designer infused remodel features an amazing open floor-plan with vaulted ceilings, wide plank white oak wood flooring, an exquisite kitchen with custom Rift White Oak cabinets, Babylon Quartzite counter-tops, updated lighting, coffee bar and high-end appliances, marble wrapped fireplace with real wood beams in the family room, all secondary bathrooms have decorative marble flooring, Rifted White Oak Cabinets with Quartz and Caesarstone counter-tops and mosaic tile & marble wrapped showers, formal living room has oversized bar, fireplace and grand sliders to the back patio, unbelievable primary bathroom with a HUGE tile wrapped shower and separate stand alone soaking up, dual vanities with Casablanca Quartzsite counter-tops, his and her separate toilets, spacious walk-in closet with endless custom shelving, new roof, synthetic stucco, fresh interior & exterior paint, designer millwork throughout, New Pella windows and doors, new paver circular driveway, new garage R18 insulated doors and more. The backyard boasts Greenwich Herringbone laid brick on patio, extended patio awning with tongue and groove wrapped patio ceiling, Sparkling Pebble Tech pool with travertine pool decking, Ramada with exterior fireplace and BBQ, basketball court, synthetic turf in the front and back yard, front and back yard perimeter installed Ficus columns for added privacy, new landscaping water system and LED landscape lighting and this house is on sought after Cul-De-Sac lot on the one of the best streets in the community! Motivated Sellers!

8760 E Hackamore Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,499,500 - 4Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Bronco Estates, Scottsdale
Open House
$4,499,500
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,240 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6726473
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this luxurious 4-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom home with a separate guest house, located in a stunning Scottsdale location. This exquisite property boasts sprawling wood floors and offers breathtaking city light and mountain views. The main property sits at 5,371 square feet w/ a gorgeous guest house that is 869 sqft The interior is adorned with numerous upgrades, including elegant wainscoting and a huge kitchen featuring a massive island with granite counters, custom fixtures, and top-of-the-line Sub-Zero appliances. Step outside to your resort-style oasis, complete with a stunning pool, travertine patio decking, and a built-in patio area, perfect for entertaining and relaxing. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional home in one of Scottsdale's most desirable areas

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 1010 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$4,499,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,047 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752037
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on the 17th Tee box on the world-renowned Jack Nicklaus Golf Course, & with Pinnacle Peak Mountain practically in the backyard, this exquisite Desert Highlands residence embodies the pinnacle of luxury living in North Scottsdale. Built in 2003 by Casa Del Oso & completely reimagined in 2022. Spanning a generous layout with 4 ensuite bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, & a 3 car garage, this property, offers an unparalleled lifestyle with full golf & tennis membership. Every inch of this estate has been meticulously redesigned for luxury, comfort, & entertainment. From the culinary dream kitchen featuring a 48-inch six-burner Wolf range with a griddle, custom cabinetry, 2 Subzero refrigerators, coffee bar, appliance pantry, California Faucets, spacious kitchen island with prep sink... leathered granite & quartzite counter tops, & all this with mountain & golf course views. You will be mesmerized by the breathtaking views in the large great room with dining area, gas fireplace, & custom bar inspired by New York's finest restaurant which features a marble countertop, custom cabinetry, custom lighting & beverage fridge. The primary suite is a sanctuary of tranquility with sliders out to the pool & spa, fireplace, standalone tub, stunning shower, dual vanities, make up area, & 2 walk in closets. There is a dedicated office, bonus room with sliders out to the backyard oasis, & modern designed powder room. Ownership includes full membership to Desert Highlands' Golf Club with $150,000 fee, which grants access to the golf course, the state-of-the-art tennis club, putting course, bocce ball, pickle ball, catch & release pond, & dog park. This home is an entertainer's dream with the outdoor spaces designed for year-round enjoyment, blending seamlessly with the stunning views & landscape. There are multiple patios, courtyards, and balconies including an outdoor kitchen with views, 2 outdoor fireplaces, a fire pit, putting green, pool & spa. The mountain views are second to none with views of Pinnacle Peak, Troon Mountain, & the McDowell Mountains with the property positioned to maximize the sweeping mountain vistas & city light views. Enjoy privacy, security, & the convenience of being minutes away from fine dining, shopping, and the natural beauty of the Arizona desert. Enjoy playing the world class course which was named as one of the top desert courses in the Nation. Home has an abundance of storage and a whole house water filtration system. Embrace a life where luxury meets the pinnacle of outdoor living. This Desert Highlands gem is more than a homeit's a masterpiece designed for those who demand excellence and exclusivity.

6311 E Phoenician Boulevard Unit 18 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$4,495,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,188 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785989
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Nestled at the foot of iconic Camelback Mountain, Ascent is an exclusive new residential enclave neighboring The Phoenician Resort—one of Arizona's most prestigious luxury destinations. This exceptional community, set in Scottsdale's most desirable location, harmonizes with the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape. This villa offers stunning views of the golf course and sweeping desert surroundings, featuring modern architecture with warm, natural materials, expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, spacious outdoor living areas with a built-in BBQ, a private elevator, and a two-car garage—creating a seamless connection to the breathtaking outdoors and a luxurious lifestyle.

37445 N 104th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,495,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
5,724 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6654477
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand new contemporary build inside the prestigious Mirabel Golf Community, construction projected to be completed 1st quarter of 2025. Extremely functional open floor plan w/ impeccable details throughout, including rich wood tones accented by luxurious marble details and fluted wood accents. The kitchen features 2 islands. The dining room conveniently bridges the space between kitchen and great room, allowing for an extended dining table. The floorplan brings the indoor/outdoor living to life w/ floor-to-ceiling folding doors that open to the extra-large covered patio, perfect for entertaining. The exquisite and unique design of the resort-like pool makes it feel as though the pool flows into the home. Walk up the modern floating staircase to take in the breathtaking views of the golf.. course, McDowell Mountains, and Brown's Butte from the 2nd floor entertainment/guest area. Easy walking distance to the beautiful Mirabel Clubhouse. There is still time to personalize some finishes in the home! The attached videos of the interior and exterior give you a look into the completed project. Finishes may be subject to change based on availability.

9673 E Oberlin Way Unit 15 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$4,495,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,414 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6708869
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Access to golf membership * Timeless contemporary architecture with south-facing golf course and Pinnacle Peak views in Estancia * Access to a golf membership at The Estancia Club is available with the purchase of this property subject to board approval * Open great room living with soaring ceilings that include tongue and groove detail, a dry-stacked stone fireplace and integrated formal dining area that is perfect for entertaining * Exterior architectural details include a convex vaulted roof treated in copper, dry-stacked stone walls and floor-to-ceiling windows * Updated kitchen with stainless steel Wolf and Subzero appliances, carrara marble counter surfaces and a cozy dining nook * The oversized Primary Suite includes herringbone-design wood flooring and access to the spa * There are two guest suites and a large office/media room * The outdoor living area includes a gas fireplace, covered patio dining area and heated pool and spa with golf course and mountain views *

12934 E Corrine Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$4,495,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,359 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759314
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The most remarkable home in Scottsdale Mountain with HUGE camelback and city views is now available. Fully rebuilt with a clean, Modern Organic pallet, this home makes you feel as though you are a part of the mountains. With no neighbors on 3 sides every room of this estate offers jaw dropping vistas. Step out back and you'll be blown away by the massive pool patio overlooking camelback mountain and the night lights. Inside, see extraordinary spaces and textures that capture the nature around you. Rift cut white oak cabinets and beautiful Quartzite, Moroccan plaster and unique tile patterns, White Oak Plank floors and floor to ceiling glass. Solid Oak doors and beautiful organic lighting. You must see this home in person to feel how it captures the romance of living on the mountain.

5625 E Exeter Boulevard Phoenix, AZ 85018

$4,495,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
5,004 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6750959
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This quintessential Arcadia home is every family's dream. This sprawling ranch, located on the coveted Exeter Blvd in the heart of Arcadia, is as grand as it is charming. Enter through a custom Dutch entry door into a home filled with vintage wood flooring, beamed ceilings, and a chef's kitchen boasting custom cabinetry, Carrera marble countertops, high-end appliances, two dishwashers, a farmhouse sink, and a walk-in pantry with a second fridge. The versatile den is an ideal space for both kids and adults or can be transformed into a spacious mother-in-law suite. The Arcadia Proper cottage-style home offers a split floor planwith five bedrooms and six bathrooms. The primary suite includes a cozy fireplace, an oversized closet, a dual sink vanity, and a luxurious walk-in shower with a... ...clawfoot tub. A wall of glass sliders opens to the magnificent grounds, featuring stunning resort-style landscaping, a heated pebble tec pool and spa, and a covered patio. There's plenty of space fora sport court, bocce ball, pickleball, or even a soccer pitch, making this home perfect for hosting birthday parties, cocktail gatherings, weddings, and outdoor soirées. Additional features include a massive laundry room, an exposed red brick wine room, and an air-conditioned garage that fits nine cars. Truly a car enthusiast's dream. The prime location offers easy access to the best shops, restaurants, and amenities in both Arcadia and Old Town Scottsdale.