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.

657 S Buenagua Road Payson, AZ 85541

$635,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,335 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752167
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enjoy cabin life in the desirable Kohls Ranch community with this furnished cabin with a large loft and fireplace! Separate entrance on the first level opens to a studio cabin apartment with one bedroom and bathroom that can be used as guest quarters and/or extra rental income possibilities. The 2nd level main cabin provides a full bedroom, walk-in closet, 1.5 bathrooms, laundry room and a LOFT with additional beds currently used as a 3rd bedroom. Double lot has fruit trees (cherry, peach, and apple), a child treehouse, deck, shed, and a private ''quad road'' to drive to the deck and main cabin level from main road. Come see this cherished cabin and envision the memories you can make for yourself.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

6754 W Andrea Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$634,990 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Aloravita North Phase 3 Parcel 10, Peoria
Open House
$634,990
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740369
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ready now! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'Barstown' floorplan features 3 full bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes Burlap Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 8' doors, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. Interior photos of similar spec home, options will vary

1785 S Nebraska Street Chandler, AZ 85286

$634,990
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,847 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773414
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience luxury living in this stunningly remodeled home, nestled on a generous quarter-acre corner lot. The heart of the home is a chef's dream kitchen, boasting gleaming stainless steel appliances, crisp white cabinetry, an expansive island, and chic granite countertops complemented by a stylish tile backsplash. Relax in the opulence of the fully updated master suite featuring a garden tub, a walk-in shower, and dual sinks. With a versatile bonus room, your options are endless. Transform it into a home office, game room, or formal living space.. Neutral two-tone paint and elegant plantation shutters adorning the windows, create a serene backdrop throughout the home. Parking for up to 6 vehicles in the attached 3-car garage and driveway.

7432 W Quail Track Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$634,900 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Aloravita North Phase 3 Parcel 4, Peoria
Open House
$634,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755381
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
October completion! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'Barstown' floorplan features 3 full bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes White Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 9' ceilings, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. Home is under construction, photos of similar spec to show layout, options may vary**