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.

22908 N Las Vegas Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$639,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,145 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739579
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
REDUCED!! Welcome to this exceptional Lakeside model featuring three bedrooms and a spacious 2.5-car garage. Ideal for owners with full-size trucks, this home boasts stacked stone accents trimming the front, along with a pergola and a covered back patio. Numerous updates throughout provide modern convenience. Additional amenities include an extra refrigerator in the garage and a prepaid solar lease. Positioned along the 5th hole of the Desert Trails golf course, this residence is nestled within Sun City West, renowned for its nine golf courses, four recreation centers, and numerous pickleball courts.

17667 N 54th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$639,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,596 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783835
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the highly sought-after Touchstone Community! This inviting 4-bedroom residence w/a 3-car garage is perfect for entertaining & creating lasting memories. Discover the bright & airy living room, raised formal dining room, & a sizable family room. A blend of tile & wood-look flooring, soaring vaulted ceilings, & ceiling fans are worth mentioning. Well-appointed kitchen offers recessed lighting, built-in appliances, a handy pantry, granite counters, a center island w/a breakfast bar, abundant cabinetry topped w/crown moulding, & a breakfast nook. You'll LOVE the carpeted primary retreat, featuring an ensuite w/dual sinks, make-up desk, & a walk-in closet. Additionally, this haven includes a den/office & bonus room ideal for an extra bedroom or recreation center. Serene backyard will impress you w/a covered patio, exterior fireplace, play area, & a refreshing pool. This gem is sure to sell fast!

3817 E Irma Lane Phoenix, AZ 85050

$639,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,782 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743565
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Explore your dream home in Wildcat Ridge with this 4-bedroom gem that backs onto an open, unobstructed area. This property features vaulted ceilings, wood and tile floors, and plantation shutters. The spacious living room and bright great room offer perfect spaces for relaxation and entertainment. The kitchen is a chef's delight with white cabinetry, built-in appliances, a pantry, sleek granite counters, and a center island with a breakfast bar. The main suite provides a serene retreat with a private bathroom boasting dual sinks, a soothing tub, and a walk-in closet. Added convenience comes from a laundry room with extra storage. Outdoors, enjoy a covered patio, paver patio, and ample space for gatherings. It won't disappoint! Experience this captivating abode yourself! Easy access to Desert Ridge Marketplace, High Street, Marriott, Golf, American Express, Mayo Hospital and ASU medical campus. Then jump on the 101 for easy access to Scottsdale, Spring training, airport and more.

23081 E Camina Buena Vista Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$639,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,308 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6765773
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SEE THE BEST HOME ON TOUR! Over $100k in today's value for upgrades w/ pool, spa, turf, corner lot, fireplace, wine bar, & much more! This 4-BR, 3 Bath SS popular floor plan has easy access to Meridian Rd & the 24. Wainscoting accent walls take you to the immediate views of the pool with rock waterfall located through the huge multi-slide door! Great room & Kitchen features custom built ins, wine bar, huge island w/ front storage, back splash, & upgraded 42'' upper cabinets with lighting. gas stove, & all stainless appliances. Large owner suite includes a barn door, large walk-in shower, double sinks, and huge closet. Split floor plan has 1 BR near full bath and 2 other BRs separated by den and full bath. RO, H2O Softener, driveway extension, tankless H2O heater. Highly desired community!

10260 E White Feather Lane Unit 2003 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$639,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,381 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6591799
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Gorgeous mountain and golf course view from this 2 bd townhome in the coveted Troon Ridge gated community. Excellent quality in the upgraded rich cabinetry with granite tops and nicely appointed kitchen. Split bedroom layout perfect for guests or office, ample great room with space for large dining table and hutch. Bright and clean this property has been a single owner home and very lightly used. A convenient way to sojourn in the desert surrounded by green golf fairways, mountain vistas, abundant desert landscape and the unique rocky boulder formations specific to Troon. This private gated hidden community has a heated pool, spa, workout facility, tennis clubhouse, plus easy access to Troon North Golf. Close to 101 and the plentiful Scottsdale amenities, restaurants & shopping

4072 E Las Colinas Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$639,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,220 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766016
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Built in 2022, this stunning single-level home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a spacious 2,220 sq ft layout. The open-concept design features a gourmet kitchen with white shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, and a large eat-up island. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living with a 20' multi-panel sliding glass door opening to a private courtyard. The master suite also includes a sliding door to the courtyard, a tiled shower, and a large walk-in closet. 10 ft ceilings throughout home. Recent upgrades includes motorized roller shades for 20' sliding door and custom shutters throughout home. Don't miss the community pool, playground, and green spaces. This home is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience!

11256 E Ulysses Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$639,900 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Destination At Gateway East Phase 1, Mesa
Open House
$639,900
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,063 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786059
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this Gorgeous 5BRs/4.5 Baths, plus Loft, 3058 Sq. feet Gem. There is a Full BR/with an Attached Bathroom downstairs for your convenience along with a Powder Bath. The Flooring consists of the Upgraded Tile in all the Right areas. Stunning Kitchen comes with Granite Countertops, White Shaker Cabinets, Stainless Steel Appliances, and a Spacious Island. Going Upstairs, you are immediately greeted with the Can't miss-Oversized Loft. All the Rooms upstairs have Walk-In Closets. The Laundry provides plenty of space for all of your Use. The Larger than Life Backyard has been given a Makeover with the addition of Artificial Turf with Plenty of Room for more Ideas. Front Drive way Pavers have been extended all the way out to the Side gate for extra comfort. Home has been extremely well cared for. Why Buy Brand New when you can have a Gently used one with all the Added Updates Minus the Extra expense.

18321 E Spring Valley Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$639,854
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,678 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765037
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful home in the Resort Collection at Trilogy at Verde River. The Valletta offers a well-thought-out layout with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an open office. The great room has a multi-slide glass door. You will love the Gourmet Chef kitchen with stainless steel wall appliances. The back patio is expansive with pavers and an extended patio. The primary suite has a lavish ensuite with a huge tiled shower and walk-in closet. Do not miss out on this home The amenities at Verde River are World Class with Tom Lehman inspired eighteen-hole Golf course, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and bocce ball, heated lap pool and Resort style swimming pool, hot tub, Afterburn fitness center, Helen's demonstration Kitchen for cooking classes and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual poolside dining at Eddy's Diner and gourmet dining at award-winning Needle Rock Kitchen and Tap, Alvea Spa with full-service Salon and Spa amenities, Art Loft and events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails.

3408 W Via Del Deserto -- Phoenix, AZ 85086

$639,500
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,011 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763352
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Pride of ownership shows in this beautiful home located in the desirable Tramonto subdivision. This home sits on a premium lot with common area to the East and North. One of the 4 bedrooms is on the lower level making a great office, guest suite or playroom. The large loft works also works great for those work-from-home individuals. The exterior of the home has a fresh coat of paint, and the entire home has been meticulously maintained by the original owners. Location in the community is perfect and in walking distance to school for your k-8th graders. You don't want to miss this great opportunity!!

19973 N Half Moon Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$639,500
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,732 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764824
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Picture yourself hosting gatherings in this spacious & versatile 2,732 sf Ironwood Estate.Discover a seamless flow between the living room, dining area, family room & kitchen, creating a perfect space for relaxing or entertaining.Gourmet kitchen with built in ovens, island, an abundance of counter top space, ample cabinets, walk in & butlers pantry.Primary ensuite retreat has a double vanity, soaking tub & walk-in shower.Cozy guest suite ensures your guests feel welcome & comfortable.Retreat to the comfort of the den for a good read.Inside utility room with sink,cabinets & W/D included. Shutters on many windows.2.5 car garage.Expansive 11, 891 square foot lot provides endless possibilities for creating your outdoor oasis.Save on utilities with Solar.Quality furnishing available separate.

18861 E Blue Sky Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$639,500
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,380 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702241
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This home is beautiful! Located in the highly sought after, Tonto Verde Country Club-Gated Community (2 Courses). Home features: 12-foot ceilings, impressive (Iron) front entry door, SS appliances, white cabinets and granite counter tops throughout home, large island w/ a breakfast bar, farm sink, open kitchen/dining and living room, split bedrooms, light paint colors, beautiful tile floors, additional storage (laundry room) and even parking for your Golf Cart! The backyard boasts a large travertine (Paver'd) patio, newly installed patio sunshade, a view fence overlooking the golf course. A true Arizona lifestyle, the backyard is beautifully landscaped and is close to Tonto National Forest. Move right in and enjoy! TURN-KEY! Quick close possible.

1906 W Lariat Lane Phoenix, AZ 85085

$639,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,567 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761420
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous home looking for a new owner! Welcoming great room with abundant natural light, wood-style tile floors, a powder room, and modern light fixtures. The open-concept kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, popular white cabinets, an island with a breakfast bar, and granite counters. Continue upstairs to find a spacious loft for entertainment and 3-sizable bedrooms! The main retreat has a bathroom with a glass enclosure shower, dual sink vanity w/makeup area, and a walk-in closet. Outside, relax under the covered patio or lovely front porch. Don't miss the 2-car rear garage. Light tree-lined streets, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and a recreation center with a resort-style pool, kiddie pool, gathering areas, etc. A must-see property!