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.

20051 W Pasadena Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$634,500
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,987 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6776214
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful home on over an acre of land! Enjoy mountain views from your front patio and a new AC unit replaced this year! This home features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, updates throughout, and an open great room layout. You will love this stunning kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a kitchen island with a breakfast bar. The soft neutral tones and elegant wood-look flooring throughout the home create a clean, cohesive aesthetic .The primary suite is spacious with an ensuite featuring dual sinks, a soaking corner tub, a separate shower, and a huge walk-in closet! The remaining 2 bedrooms have walk-in closets and ceiling fans. The laundry room has added upper cabinets for additional storage! The private backyard is fenced and offers an extensive covered patio with extensions. Enjoy easy care landscape with artificial grass. Beyond the back gate you will find a huge yard with plenty of room for horses and a 24X35 Insulated metal workshop/garage generator attached! Additional features include lifetime sunscreen film applied, insulated garage, gutters, Security doors on both patio doors, and pull-out shelves in kitchen. Do not miss out on this home!

5101 E Terry Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$634,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,649 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713504
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BRAND NEW ROOF on this immaculate home on a corner lot conveniently located near the community pool, tennis courts and Greenbelt in highly desirable Paradise Manor. This charming home offers a private courtyard, vaulted ceiling in the light open living room with fireplace, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and kitchen with NEW Dishwasher, SS appliances and granite countertops. Primary bedroom with large walk-in closet opens to the private covered back patio and main suite bathroom has separate shower and tub and double sink vanity with granite countertops. In addition, this superior Scottsdale location is just a few minutes drive to Kierland Commons/Scottsdale Quarter, Paradise Valley Mall, and numerous restaurants and shopping. Great opportunity to make this home with NEW water heater your own.

1436 E Rosemonte Drive Phoenix, AZ 85024

$634,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,955 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750566
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully renovated residence in North Phoenix, with the option of an ASSUMABLE LOAN with 4.25% interest rate. Just moments away from the Loop 101, I-17 & 51 freeways, and the vibrant shopping and dining hubs at Desert Ridge & High Street! Thoughtfully designed 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home featuring soaring vaulted ceilings, wood plank porcelain tile flooring, a stunning custom-tiled two-sided fireplace, and two distinct living areas! The recently revamped kitchen showcases elegant white shaker cabinets, gray quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, subway tile backsplash, and ambient under-cabinet lighting. A few of the many recent upgrades are: all new upstairs carpet, master shower and tile renovation, 4 bathrooms faucet installation, new built-in Microwave, and new heat pump and air handler. The generously sized master suite is a haven, featuring a dual sink vanity, an expansive custom-tiled shower, white & grey veined quartz countertops, and exquisite designer accents. Embrace the scenic mountain views and sunsets from the primary suite balcony! Outdoors, discover a spacious covered patio complemented by a sparkling pebble tec swimming pool and synthetic grass, creating a delightful retreat. Noteworthy features include designer lighting, remote-controlled ceiling fans, Porter Barn Wood accents, a two-tone interior paint scheme, berber carpeting, wood beam ceilings, French doors, skylights, and custom cabinetry & shelving in the laundry room and garage, among an array of other features that make this home truly unique. Don't miss the chance to experience this exceptional property!

2528 W Coyote Creek Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$634,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,803 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770980
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This expansive home is nestled on a premium lot backing onto a wash, boasting mountain vistas and featuring 4 sizable bedrooms and 2.5 baths across more than 2800 Square Feet, which includes a separate casita! The layout encompasses two living spaces on the ground floor with plank tile floors and a neutral color scheme throughout. The kitchen is equipped with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, including a double oven range, cabinets with pull-out shelves, a two-door pantry, an island with extra storage, and recessed lighting. All bedrooms are located upstairs. The primary bedroom includes a sitting area and an attached bathroom with a dual sink vanity, separate tub and shower, linen closet and a walk-in closet. Additionally, two secondary bedrooms come with walk-in closets. The private backyard is a haven with a covered patio featuring a ceiling fan, a heated pool and spa, ample flagstone-style decking, a firepit, low-maintenance desert landscaping, and fencing that provides views of the desert and mountains. The separate casita, complete with a wall-mounted AC unit, is perfect for use as a pool house, office, or gym. Other highlights are the recently updated A/C units, a laundry room on the main level, a guest powder room, and a two-car garage. Anthem Parkside presents exceptional amenities for the whole family, including over 30 parks and a community center with a gym, indoor basketball/volleyball courts, a 10-court pickleball complex, and an outdoor water park.

3476 E Pinto Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296

$634,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,702 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764649
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your oasis in Lakeview Trails at Morrison Ranch! This like-new, meticulously maintained home, built in 2019, features 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 luxurious baths, a versatile den and an additional bonus space. Upgraded throughout, the home boasts beautiful wood plank tile flooring that enhances its modern charm. The heart of the home is a large, open kitchen with a massive island, perfect for gatherings and culinary adventures. Step outside to your backyard paradise, complete with low-maintenance artificial grass, a built-in BBQ, and a cozy fire table for memorable evenings. With built-in permanent LED holiday lighting, your home shines year-round. Enjoy serene lake views, multiple playgrounds for the kiddos, and walking paths throughout this welcoming community with friendly neighbors. This gem won't last long-come see it today!!

17040 W Echo Lane Waddell, AZ 85355

$633,999
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,529 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769239
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ask about seller contribution for 2/1 interest rate buy down!! Don't miss this beautifully upgraded home featuring a full 3 bed/2 bath residence and an attached guest space w/ full kitchen, full size washer and dryer, separate bedroom and full bath... and sparkling pool to top it all off! This floor plan is perfect for multigenerational living, visiting family or friends or it can offer a great opportunity for rental income! This home is so light and bright and features an open floor plan with lots of windows and tastefully upgraded tile floors in all the right places. Both kitchens have beautiful quartz counters tops, 42'' cabinets, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances and added open shelving. Bathrooms have quartz counter tops and showers with floor to ceiling tile. Outdoor spaces are low maintenance with paved decking, river rock and astroturf. The backyard is perfect for entertaining with a large covered patio and refreshing pool. The lighted pool and patio area create a serene evening oasis ideal for Arizona living. Northern Crossing is a gated community with walking paths and green parks for larger gatherings. All of this in a convenient location near grocery shopping, restaurants, and a hop skip and a jump away from the 303 for an easy commute.

848 W Flatiron Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$633,990
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,664 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750683
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender plus additional 2% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available to be used toward closing costs, pre-paids, rate buy downs, and/or price adjustments. This elegant single-story Parklane floor plan features four bedrooms and a spacious flex area, perfect for use as an office, TV room, or study. The home includes front yard landscaping and will be move-in ready by October. Conveniently located near community parks, grocery stores, and dining options.

4931 W Weeping Willow Way Laveen, AZ 85339

$633,935
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,475 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772638
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This amazing 5 Bedroom, 4 bath home with a 3-car garage home is on a large lot with a large, covered patio and plenty room for a wonderful pool and more. It has a highly sought-after full bedroom & bath downstairs, with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths & a loft upstairs & a 3 car garage. Wonderful Kitchen has a beautiful large island with Quartz countertops and a custom backsplash, walk in pantry & butler's pantry, This open kitchen is perfect for entertaining. All bedrooms are spacious and have walk in closets and connected with a wonderful upstairs loft. Master suite has his & her closets, separate tub & shower along with separate vanities. This beautiful home is under construction and will be ready in December. SELLER IS OFFERING CLOSING COST OR RATE BUY DOWN ASSISTANCE.

4946 W Weeping Willow Way Laveen, AZ 85339

$633,892
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,300 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763282
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW HOME WITH AN RV GARAGE ON AN OVERSIZED LOT. This new home has 3 bedrooms + a den. Gourmet Kitchen has a wonderful island that opens to the large great room. Kitchen has Staggered,' upgraded painted cabinets, quartz countertops & stainless-steel appliances with double ovens, gas cooktop and designer hood. The den is perfect for that home office, work out room or kids play area. Home has beautiful wood plank tile throughout except the bedrooms. Master suite is split from the other secondary rooms. Don't miss the amazing over 40' RV Garage along with the 2-car garage. Perfect for all your toys. This community is surrounded with mountain views. This lot is 10' deeper than the standard lots and 5' wider. Come make this one yours. Completion date early 2025.

1901 E Woodsman Place Chandler, AZ 85286

$633,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,164 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750755
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this charming and spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, thoughtfully designed to offer both privacy and comfort. From the moment you step inside, you'll appreciate the inviting atmosphere and well-planned layout. The split floor plan ensures everyone has their own space to unwind, while the cozy office/den provides a quiet retreat for work or study. A standout feature is the eat-in kitchen, perfect for meals or gatherings, connecting to the living area. Outside, discover a private oasis with a covered patio and a refreshing pool. A new A/C unit installed in September 2024 ensures year-round comfort. The home also offers a handicap sink and a roll-in shower for added accessibility. Spacious 3-car garage.

10029 E Lakeview Circle Mesa, AZ 85209

$633,000
6 Beds
3 Baths
3,435 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774588
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wonderful move-in ready home in The Villages of Eastridge. Upon entering you will notice the well-designed floorplan featuring a separate living area, elegant dining room, spacious family room, and large eat-in kitchen. One bedroom and full bath are conveniently located on the first floor, while the second level has an additional 5 bedrooms and a versatile loft. Huge 6th bedroom offers endless possibilities - a game room, bonus living space, theater room, etc. Large primary bedroom has a vaulted ceiling, and the primary bathroom features a separate tub and shower with dual raised vanities. Recent updates include exterior paint, interior paint, new carpet, washer/dryer and dishwasher. Solar has been paid off so you can enjoy significant savings on your electric bills for years to come. The backyard has a great pool with a waterfall and the patio is wired for outdoor speakers - ideal for entertaining. The community contains many parks and playgrounds, basketball court and picnic areas. Easy access to Loop 202& 60 freeways. Great neighbors!

22437 E Cattle Drive Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$632,999
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,096 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6701362
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
THIS HOME IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION. POPULAR GREAT ROOM-4 BEDROOM , 3 BATH, INCLUDES WINDOW COVERINGS , CEILING FANS, PAVER DRIVEWAY AND WALKWAY, GAS TANKLESS WATER HEATER, ETC.! BUYER TO SELECT CABINETS, FLOORING, COUNTERS, SINKS ETC.. ALL THIS IN THE NEW PREMIER MASTER PLAN COMMUNITY IN QUEEN CREEK, FEATURING A 22 ACRE LAKE. THIS IS THE CENTERPIECE OF THE COMMUNITY. KAYAKING, CANOEING, AQUATIC CENTER WITH LAP WITH LAP AND SPORT POOL, SPLASH PAD, BOCCE BALL, PICKLE BALL. BOARDWALKS AND RAMADAS THROUGHOUT AND MUCH MORE...KATHERINE MECHAM BARNEY SCHOOL IN THE COMMUNITY.