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.

1701 W Frier Drive Phoenix, AZ 85021

$635,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,310 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6761449
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully upgraded 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled in the heart of Northern Star. This property boasts an open-concept floor plan, perfect for entertaining, with a spacious new kitchen and wine bar area featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large island. The primary suite offers a private retreat with a walk-in closet and luxurious en-suite bathroom with a custom wet room. Step outside to enjoy the patio, ideal for relaxing or hosting summer barbecues. Located just minutes from Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Light rail system and Orangewood Elementary School, this home offers the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity. Listing Agent is Part Owner of LLC. Spacious secondary living room featuring a cozy fireplace, perfect for relaxing on chilly days while enjoying your favorite shows. This versatile space also provides an ideal setting for hosting large gatherings and entertaining guests or making the perfect office space. All wood flooring has been freshly refinished and cleared coated that will last a long time.

9060 E Captain Dreyfus Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$635,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,440 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6761855
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller offering $5,000 in closing cost. Welcome to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, complete with a 2-car garage featuring a new garage door installed just a year ago. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by soaring vaulted ceilings and a spacious great room, highlighted by a cozy wood-burning fireplace with an elegant stone mantel that extends to the ceiling. The new vinyl flooring adds a modern touch throughout. The updated kitchen boasts Quartz countertops, brand-new stainless steel appliances, recessed lighting, and self-closing drawers for added convenience. The primary suite offers a serene retreat with high ceilings, a sliding door to the backyard, and an ensuite bathroom featuring a dual-sink vanity, a tiled shower, and a walk-in closet. Bedrooms 2 and 3 feature ceiling fans, new vinyl flooring and closet space. The second bathroom has been tastefully updated with a tiled shower, new vanity, and toilet. Outside, the backyard offers a covered patio, a grass area, and a second patio with an above-ground jacuzzi just off the primary suite. Additional highlights include a 5-year-old roof and a backyard drip system. Don't miss out on this stunning, move-in-ready home! This home has a fantastic North Scottsdale location! You'll enjoy a vibrant mix of outdoor recreation and upscale amenities. Just minutes away, explore hiking and biking trails in the McDowell Mountain Preserve or golf at renowned courses like TPC Scottsdale. The area also offers top-notch shopping at Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter, as well as dining at a variety of high-end restaurants. With easy access to cultural hotspots like Old Town Scottsdale and the Taliesin West architecture tour, there's always something to experience nearby.

1954 E Missouri Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

$635,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,492 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6775008
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Probate settled - seller ready to sell! 20th ST & Missouri Ave! Complete renovation of this red brick, 3 bed, 2 bath home situated an oversized 10K SF irrigated lot. This floor plan is a true entertainer's delight! The wall of glass is a beautiful transition to the outdoor living space surrounding a sparking pool nestled amongst mature fruit bearing citrus trees. The home boasts stained concrete floors, quartz countertops, re-finished cabinetry, new stainless appliances. Even a water softener! New recessed lighting and fixtures throughout the home. New garage door, entrance and interior doors, exterior gates and all fixtures. Flood irrigation keeps grass green year round for $150/yr! Panel upgrade. Treat yourself to a twilight sunset showing, views of Piestewa Peak are breathtaking

5473 N Dakota Drive Eloy, AZ 85131

$635,000 - 2Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Robson Ranch-arizona Unit Twenty Two Lots 67-84, 1, Eloy
Open House
$635,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,070 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778944
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Highly upgraded Fresco model with partial mountain views. Enjoy soaring 10- and 12-foot ceilings, tile flooring, 8-foot doors, and plantation shutters, with views of the beautifully landscaped backyard. The kitchen features upgraded cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a farmhouse sink, full-height backsplash, and quartz countertops. The spacious family room includes a built-in bar area, perfect for gatherings. Additional storage is built into the laundry room and garage. Step out back to a private oasis with a built-in BBQ area, Blackstone grill, extended pergola, and 15x30 turf for relaxation and entertainment. Don't miss this gem!

2524 E Christy Drive Phoenix, AZ 85028

$635,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Shea Heights, Phoenix
Open House
New
$635,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,910 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6789393
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A true Shea Heights Stunner! With fresh curb appeal - new exterior paint and new 2023 landscaping, lush with aloe vera, agave, and your own rare saguaro cactus with an architectural dream front entry backdrop, additional cacti, and a pergola style coved patio, bringing in sunlight and style plus sunset views from the kitchen! Pocketed between Kierland Commons, Paradise Valley Village, and framed by Phoenix's most iconic mountain views. Inside, the mid-century modern upgrades set the tone, with wide plank wood-look tile flooring, upgraded quartz countertops, subway tile backsplash, shaker cabinets, new light fixtures and true brick floor to ceiling fireplace. Step outside to the private oasis with sparkling, pebble tec diving pool, modern pavers, turf and a gated, pool fence installed in 2021 for peace of mind. Plus, no 2 story neighbors and the perfect space for a grill with unobstructed views of Lookout Mountain and Piestewa Peak! With a re-foamed roof in 2019, new gas hot water heater and kitchen appliances in 2019, new interior paint and garage openers in 2020, this is your opportunity to get into the coveted, active Shea Heights community! Stroll the sidewalks and admire the view to Christy Cove Park and playground or the Mountain Preserve trailhead for a hike you didn't even have to drive to! This active Shea Heights neighborhood has all these perks, walkable to impressive schools, no extra costs and NO HOA! All with easy access to state route 51 and the 101 loop.

10405 W Patrick Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$635,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Ironwood Phase 2b, Peoria
Open House
$635,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,313 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719383
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
REDUCED! DON'T MISS THIS AMAZING UPDATED HOME! Absolute pride of ownership in the popular Ironwood community in Northwest Peoria. Open kitchen with white upgraded cabinets and quartz counters. Large and spacious bedrooms. Updated bathrooms and showers. Custom crown molding and barn door. Sparkling private pool perfect for entertaining. Spacious lot tucked back in the neighborhood. Epoxy flooring in the garage and plenty of storage. AC duct upgraded to solid to solid material. Top rated Peoria schools and close to Candeo, Great Hearts, and Basis. Don't miss this meticulously maintained home in one of the best established communities in NW Peoria. Additionally to the garage there are 3 driveway spaces.

12122 N Finch Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$635,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Morningside At Lakeside Village, Fountain Hills
Open House
$635,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,794 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753161
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Super clean and well maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath patio home in the Morningside at Lakeside community.You will love the bonus room off Primary Bedroom too. Home has newer windows, updated kitchen & bathrooms. Vaulted ceilings make it feel much larger than it is. Private fenced backyard with trees. Attached 2 car garage with new epoxy flooring & direct access to home. Polished Travertine tile throughout, No Carpet. Low maintenance yard and home. Perfect for lock and leave or full time residence. You will appreciate the location to as its Close to the Fountain park, hiking trails, dog park, skate park. Community features a heated community pool, spa, ramada plus a small picnic park.

2242 W Myrtle Drive Chandler, AZ 85248

$634,999
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,241 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747941
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in the heart of the desirable Ocotillo area, this amazing home on the double fairway offers stunning views of an award-winning golf course & your private heated spa with a waterfall. Featuring 3 bedrooms plus a loft, this home has been freshly painted inside and out using premium paint. The first floor boasts newly installed modern and durable 12mm-thick waterproof vinyl flooring, while the upstairs is outfitted with brand-new carpeting and elegant wooden shutters throughout.The gourmet island kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring classic cabinets, granite countertops, and a stylish tile backsplash. Additionally, the garage is equipped with ample storage cabinets, ceiling shelves overhead, board wall organizers, and a work station, ensuring all your organizational needs are met.

2930 N 154th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$634,999 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Pebblecreek Unit Eight, Goodyear
Open House
$634,999
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,614 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6722894
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This gorgeous 3 bed/2.5 bath home located in the lovely adult golf course community of Pebblecreek just underwent substantial updates and renovations for you to enjoy and call home! Beautiful updates include painted kitchen cabinets, new paint throughout interior of home, new vinyl flooring, fresh New cool deck paint, landscape timer. golf cart garage was converted to an A/C controlled gym. Family room has vaulted ceilings, a fireplace, and built in niche. This home has so much space to enjoy with its over 2600sf, Sparkling private Pebble-Tec pool and above-ground hot tub. 2-car garage has built in storage cabinets, There are outside storage cabinets on one side of the home and a shed on the other for additional storage. Leased solar as an added bonus! You don't want to miss this one!

20223 W Hollyhock Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$634,995
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,390 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6698304
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home to the Estates at Arroyo Seco, our newest Buckeye Community. This Deacon floorplan includes an attached RV garage, plus a tandem two car garage that includes a 220 V 50AMP, pre-plumb for utility sink, soft water loop, garage service door and an RV cleanout. Inside a well-appointed gourmet kitchen with 42'' upper white cabinets, brushed nickel cabinet pulls, quartz countertops, tile backsplash and GE Plus Stainless-steel appliances with a chimney hood and 36'' gas cooktop, includes a walk-in pantry and is flanked by a great room and a dining room with center meet sliding doors leading out to a covered patio. You'll also appreciate the versatile flex-room, two secondary bedrooms with shared access to a full bath with dual vanities, and a primary suite with a private bathroom featuring a deluxe tiled shower with rain shower, dual vanities and ample walk-in closet space. A mudroom and walk-in laundry room round out the interior of the home. This home also includes two-tone paint, 9 x 35 tile flooring throughout and carpet in the bedrooms only. Ceiling fan prewires at all bedrooms, great room, flex room and covered patio; a gas stub at the patio; pre-plumb for a sink at the laundry room; pendant lighting at the kitchen island; exterior coach lights; paver driveway and walkway and front yard landscaping complete the home. This home is situated on an 8760 square foot North facing lot with a double side gate.

21771 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$634,995
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,390 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702179
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Light Sky Ranch and the Pinecrest plan! This home is 2390 square feet of meticulously crafted living space. With three bedrooms, two and a half baths, and a dedicated study, every corner of this home is designed with purpose. The gourmet kitchen stands as the heart of the home, boasting quartz countertops, upgraded shaker cabinets, and a central island that doubles as a culinary hub and gathering place. The owner's suite is a serene haven, featuring dual closets, a lavish soaking tub, and the added convenience of a private door leading to the covered patio. Outside, both a single-car garage & a 2-car garage offer ample storage for vehicles, outdoor gear, and more, ensuring both convenience and practicality. With amenities like a tankless water heater for efficiency and a charming paver driveway, this home harmoniously blends convenience and sophistication.

35568 N Lodestone Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$634,995
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,980 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769242
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Check out this stunning move-in ready home! The inviting entry features elegant features and vaulted ceilings that immediately makes you feel at home. A chef's dream kitchen comes complete with marble countertops, stainless appliances, and gas cooktop. Embrace relaxation in the sun-filled great room that is bursting with natural light and is adjacent to the kitchen and casual dining area. The outdoor patio offers pristine views of the community as well as additional dining space that is perfect for social gatherings. Discover what luxury living truly means and come visit today!