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.

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.

21042 E Camina Buena Vista Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$632,482
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,222 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760268
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't Miss Out on this CLOSE OUT & FINAL OPPORTUNITY for this beautiful inventory home located in desirable Hastings Farms. Plus Builder/Lender Financing Incentive Available when financing with builder's preferred lender(s) of up to $25K towards closing costs or interest rate buydown. Located close to Queen Creek Marketplace Shopping, Dining & Entertainment, this Community has Parks, Soccer Field, Basketball Courts, & 8-Mile Walking Trail. This Beautiful home backs to common area with no homes directly behind and is also adjacent to the park/common area. Beautiful upgrades include Smoke cabinets, Gourmet Stainless Gas Cooktop, Double Wall Ovens w/Microwave, Quartz Kitchen Countertop, Tiled Kitchen Backsplash, Plank Tile Flooring, & Window Blinds. Don't Wait, Come See This Home Today!

5462 W Geronimo Street Chandler, AZ 85226

$632,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,248 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775164
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning single-story home in a highly desirable Chandler neighborhood, previously a model home! This spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence boasts a split floor plan, featuring a luxurious master suite with French doors opening to a large covered patio and backyard oasis, complete with a sparkling heated pool and spa, resurfaced in 2020. The master bath has been beautifully remodeled with a jetted jacuzzi tub and separate shower. Enjoy newer amenities, including a Trane AC, roof underlayment, appliances, and water heater. The 3rd car tandem garage has been converted to a versatile additional room, perfect for a den, office, or game room, w/ easy conversion back to a garage. Fresh exterior paint in 2022 adds to the home's curb appeal. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity.

5704 W Larkspur Drive Glendale, AZ 85304

$632,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
4,052 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6712194
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
****HUGE PRICE IMPROVEMENT**** POOL INCLUDED*** Absolute charmer on a LARGE corner lot w/ a spacious 3-car garage! You will be impressed w/ the 5 bed, 3 bath 4052 sf home, harmonious interior offering gleaming wood-look floors, a designer color palette, plantation shutters, a convenient media niche, & a delightful fireplace. The impeccable kitchen boasts white cabinetry, mosaic backsplash, recessed lighting, large walk-in pantry, SS appliances, & a center island w/a breakfast bar. Double doors open to the oversized main suite, soft carpet throughout, private bathroom w/dual sinks, a large walk-in closet, & a generously sized sitting area adorned w/a two-way fireplace. The amazing backyard is perfect for entertaining guests, with a sparkling swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, covered pati & swaying palm trees, this is a gem you cant miss and i promise you wont be disappointed!

21050 E Camina Buena Vista Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$631,608
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,222 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760428
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't Miss Out on this CLOSE OUT & FINAL OPPORTUNITY for this beautiful inventory home located in desirable Hastings Farms. Plus Builder/Lender Financing Incentive Available when financing with builder's preferred lender(s) of up to $25K towards closing costs or interest rate buydown. Located close to Queen Creek Marketplace Shopping, Dining & Entertainment, this Community has Parks, Soccer Field, Basketball Courts, & 8-Mile Walking Trail. This Beautiful home backs to common area with no homes directly behind and is also near the park/common area. Beautiful upgrades include Natural Maple Cabinets, Gourmet Stainless Gas Cooktop, Double Wall Ovens w/Microwave, Quartz Kitchen Countertop, Tiled Kitchen Backsplash, Plank Tile Flooring, & Window Blinds. Don't Wait, Come See This Home Today!

2121 W Sonoran Desert Drive Unit 45 Phoenix, AZ 85085

$630,995
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,854 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728641
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This beautifully crafted villa offers 1,854 square feet, 2 primary suites, and 2.5 baths. Tall windows in the great room allow for an abundance of natural light. Designer-appointed features throughout. Contemporary neutral paint colors throughout makes this home ready for you to add your personal touches. Explore everything this exceptional villa has to offer

20431 W Lost Creek Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$630,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,856 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774424
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Charming Engle Alvarado home with private backyard. Welcome to your dream home! This meticulously maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence perfectly blends mid-century charm with modern convenience. Upon entering, you'll find a bright and secluded office, ideal for remote work or study. The heart of the home features a spacious kitchen with a large center island, perfect for meal prep or casual gatherings. Sliding glass doors and multiple oversized windows make the space in this home light, bright and airy. Would you like multiple storage areas in your new home? This house has that! Coat closet, pantry, large laundry room and oversized linen closet. The single stall third car garage shares three interiors walls, offering additional storage space. Step outside to the interior courtyard, perfect for al fresco dining just off the kitchen. The expansive backyard features low-maintenance landscaping and offers a private oasis for hosting family and friends. This tidy home is a true gem and will not last long. Located in the Main St district of Verrado, with winding tree-lined streets where front porch parties happen organically and community celebrations just keep bringing people together. With over 26 miles of hiking and biking trails, there are plenty of opportunities for kids and adults of all ages to get out enjoy everything from a casual morning stroll to an ambitious summit hike. Verrado's walkable Main Street district means shops and restaurants are only minutes from your door. Five highly performing schools and more than 86 neighborhood parks are yet another part of what makes Verrado so special. However you decide to spend your days, you can rest assured you'll end each one with an unforgettable White Tank Mountain sunset.

15743 W Sierra Street Surprise, AZ 85379

$630,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,035 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6701423
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This impeccably upgraded home features freshly painted walls and new carpeting, enhancing its already charming appeal. From the stylish tile, cabinets, and granite countertops to the welcoming loft and game room, every detail exudes modern elegance. The master bedroom boasts luxury amenities, including a separate large tub and shower, double sinks, and not one, but two master closets. Additionally, there's a cozy den, perfect for relaxation or work. The expansive formal dining area adds to its allure. With its refreshed interiors and upgraded features, this home offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication for tenants to enjoy.