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.

27476 N 125th Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$629,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,885 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765803
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located in Trilogy at Vistancia, Peoria's premier 55+ community. Situated on a professionally desert-landscaped 14,205 sq ft corner lot, the home has been meticulously maintained and highly upgraded. Upon entry, you'll be welcomed into an open kitchen and great room featuring freshly painted cabinets, custom epoxy countertops, an oversized island, a pantry, a stainless-steel appliance package, and a wine fridge. The family and dining rooms showcase modern light fixtures, a fireplace, built-in surround sound, and large windows that provide plenty of natural light. The split floor plan includes an oversized den, perfect for a home office or man cave, and the primary suite, complete with a spacious walk-in closet, dual sinks, a walk-in tile shower... ...and a private toilet closet. Additional features and upgrades include a private patio with a water feature, interior laundry, a heated and cooled garage with LED lighting and custom storage shelves, a tankless water heater, and a 3-zone wireless Honeywell HVAC control system. Reach out for the full list of upgrades. This home has so much more to offerdon't miss your opportunity to own this gem! Get your private tour today and experience it for yourself.

16111 E Kingstree Boulevard Unit 3 Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$629,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,139 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761289
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover a rare fully-renovated gem in the heart of Fountain Hills! This stunning single-level, end-unit patio home is part of an exclusive enclave with only six units, offering a serene and private living experience. With breathtaking mountain views, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom property combines luxury with tranquility. Enter through a private courtyard into an expansive great room featuring a cozy fireplace, perfect for relaxing evenings. The formal dining room seamlessly flows to both the back and side patios through elegant sliding doors, ideal for indoor-outdoor living. The split floor plan provides privacy for the spacious master suite, which boasts a spa-like bath with a double-sink vanity, separate tub and shower, a large walk-in closet, and direct access to your private enclosed backyard oasis. Enjoy the community amenities, including a relaxing hot tub and pool, surrounded by the natural beauty of Fountain Hills. This vibrant community offers something for everyone, from the iconic Fountain and the winter concert series in the park to scenic walking trails, a farmers market, and dining options that will delight your family and guests. Experience the perfect blend of luxury and lifestyle in this meticulously remodeled home. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity!

17691 W Cottonwood Lane Goodyear, AZ 85338

$629,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,202 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6722226
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home!!! This gorgeous 3 bedroom 3 bath home with a Casita at the desirable 55+ active community of CantaMia/Province at Estrella Mountain Ranch in in a fantastic location. Close to restaurants, shopping, parks & golfing at the Golf Club of Estrella. As soon as you step into this gated community home, you can see the pride of ownership with all that has been done. This elegant kitchen offers granite counter tops, a large island/breakfast bar for extra prep & storage, black appliances, filtered water, a pantry, full height travertine backsplashes & stunning crown molding cabinetry. Your spacious master suite offers a plethora of natural light from your bay windows, a walk in closet, dual vanity, a walk in shower & soaking tub to enjoy, as well as direct access to your backyard oasis . This gated community home also offers paid for solar (owned/no lease), upgraded ceiling fans & lighting, a casista with a full bathroom, a neutral paint scheme with accent walls, a den/office area to utilize, a 2 car garage with a water softener & central vacuum system, as well as a backyard oasis that includes a large covered patio, extended travertine pavers, mature desert landscaping & a sparkling heated pool to enjoy all year round. Your community at CantaMia has so much to offer to it residents. There is a state of the art fitness center with massage & spa rooms, an indoor & outdoor pool, a billiards room, library, lounge, numerous crafts & workshops, a cyber cafe & a demonstration kitchen, a dog park, as well as outdoor activities such as: pickleball, bocce ball, horseshoes & tennis courts are available at Estrella. This gem in the desert is a Great Buy & a Must See!!! **Furniture is available on a separate bill of sale.

21275 N 65th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$629,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,164 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6781942
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeously renovated 4 bed 2 bath home in Arrowhead Ranch with stunning golf course views! This house has everything - newly installed luxury vinyl plank floors throughout, an entertainer's dream kitchen, and bright & airy spaces to dine, relax and watch the Arizona sunsets. Open concept kitchen features vaulted ceilings, new shaker cabinets, white quartz countertops, & large peninsula complete with breakfast bar & extra storage. Spacious primary bedroom has large walk-in closet and spa-like renovated bathroom. 2+ car garage will fit all your toys. Backyard is an outdoor oasis with covered patio, new irrigation, and steps from the driving range. Big ticket items completed recently include full roof replacement (2016) & HVAC (2023).

18228 N 60th Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$629,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,362 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6778436
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
***RARE FIND*** RV Garage with LIFT Plus a 3 Car Garage, Large Lot, Pool & NO HOA!!! Don't miss out on this fantastic tri-level home with excellent location at Sunset Vista! Showcasing great curb appeal, RV gate, and a no-fuss landscape. PLUS! A detached RV garage with a lift and split AC unit! The interior boasts vaulted ceilings, wood-look floors, carpet in the right places, and plantation shutters. Discover bright living and dining rooms. Continue into the impeccable kitchen to find track lighting, ample wood cabinets, tile backsplash, granite counters, SS appliances, and an island. The lovely breakfast room overlooks the spacious family room, outfitted with a wood burning fireplace, wet bar, and backyard access, promoting easy entertaining. The owner's suite has a lavish ensuite featuring high-end details, including a granite vanity, freestanding tub, and a walk-in shower with a double wall-mounted shower panel. Outside, the side yard hosts a workshop with epoxy floor. The backyard offers a cozy covered deck, multiple covered patios, fire pit, artificial lawn, a fenced pool with grotto/waterfall, and a hot tub under the pergola. This beauty has it all! Run, don't walk to see this gem!

10919 S Dreamy Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$629,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,328 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782189
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spacious two-story home just steps from the scenic South Lake in Estrella Mountain Ranch! Perfectly situated on a premium view lot backing to a natural wash, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers luxurious outdoor living with a heated pebble-tec pool. Inside, enjoy soaring vaulted ceilings in the Grand Entry and Master Suite, where breathtaking sunrise and sunset mountain views await from a private balcony. An expansive 3-car garage provides ample parking and storage. Explore a scenic 2.3-mile lakeside path, plus thrilling hiking, mountain biking, community pools, and workout facilities. Nearby, the world-class Golf Club of Estrella—a Troon-managed, Nicklaus Design course—completes this exceptional lifestyle.

20417 W Bradley Road Wittmann, AZ 85361

$629,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,191 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6721052
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful home in West Bradley Road, Wittmann, Arizona.

3800 S Cantabria Circle Unit 1067 Chandler, AZ 85248

$629,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,218 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782150
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Experience COUNTRY CLUB living in this stunning gated community! This home boasts breathtaking views of the Community Lake and Golf Course. Enjoy the scenery from inside or the back patio and master balcony, perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Upstairs, you'll find a spacious loft, a guest room(2nd master), and the master suite. Each room boasts it's own balcony. Downstairs features a gorgeous great room with soaring ceilings and a gas Fireplace. Luxury kitchen with Stainless Steel appliances and view. One HVAC unit is only 6 years old, while the other remains original but works great. Units have been serviced annually. Live in luxury and comfort with the best of both worlds! The roof was replaced in 2021 and the HOA will be painting the exteriors of all units in 2025. the downstairs bedroom is being used as a Den and has no closet. But with a full bath downstairs, this is an easy bedroom for guests or mom on the ground floor!

21520 W Watkins Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

$629,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,644 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730156
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful well-cared for 3-bed/2-bath on 1-ACRE, IRRIGATED LOT WITH HORSE PRIVILEGES. Quality constructed CUSTOM HOME with 2 x 6 framing, NEWER ROOF (2020), ALL NEW LOW-E WINDOWS (2024), TRANE 18-SEER Variable Speed A/C (2016), Porcelain faux-wood tile throughout living space, upgraded custom closets in all closets. Fully fenced back yard with a fenced off area and shade structure for horses. Water available at horse shade with conduit run for electric. RV Parking w/30-AMP hook-up. 3-Car Extended Length Garage. 10' X 14' Tuff Shed Storage w/ upgraded floor and radiant roof barrier for extra insulation. Nestled in a quiet, established neighborhood with *NO HOA*. A short drive from Costco, New Banner Hospital (planned for 2025), schools and I-10 freeway. See Docs for nearby horse arenas.

3122 E Windmere Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

$629,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,104 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753762
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home! This beautiful residence is in the gated Estates at the Ranch, an exclusive single-story home Community in the award-winning Mountain Park Ranch. Offering 4 beds, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage, & a low-care landscape. Discover a large living/dining room combo and a separate family room w/fireplace & surround sound! Tall ceilings add to the airy feel, complemented by plantation shutters, & tile flooring in common areas. The kitchen boasts built-in appliances w/cooktop elec, granite counters, recessed lighting, ample wood cabinets, and a breakfast area. Carpeted double-door main bedroom has outdoor access and an ensuite with dual sinks, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Enjoy the entertainer's backyard with a covered patio, firepit, built-in BBQ, & a sparkling pool!

12375 S 181st Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$629,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,700 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764643
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FURNISHED home! GATED community 4 bed, 2.5 bath residence is the one for you! Featuring a stunning façade w/stone accents, low maintenance landscape, & a 3 car garage! Discover an elegant interior boasting graceful archways, plantation shutters, recessed lighting, soft carpet in all the right places, and warm palette throughout. The formal dining room, w/its dazzling chandelier, is sure to delight your guest! You'll also find a spacious living area w/a dry bar and a fireplace to keep you warm during the winter months. The gorgeous kitchen is equipped w/everything the aspiring chef needs, staggered cabinetry w/crown molding, a pantry, granite counters, tile backsplash, SS appliances such as a wall oven, an island complete w/a breakfast bar, and a breakfast nook. #Location is ideal!! You'll love the primary bedroom, boasting private outdoor access, a large walk-in closet, and a lavish ensuite w/dual vanities & a makeup table with spa amenities- SNAIL shower and Garden tub. Laundry room includes built-in cabinetry and a convenient utility sink. Finally, the wonderful backyard showcases a covered patio, extended paver seating areas, an attached pergola, and a built-in BBQ perfect for a cookout w/friends & loved ones! Split Floor plan / with Front Courtyard & a Gated golf course community (THE FAIRWAYS at ESTRELLA MOUNTAIN). ahh.. have peace of mind with energy efficiency- Brand NEW HVAC system installed April 2024! WOW - SOLAR savings..$$$!!. Cul De Sac private street- What are you waiting for? Act now

6780 W Yearling Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$629,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,658 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776511
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous Fully Remodeled Home with all the upgrades: Gourmet Kitchen with Granite Counters, Brand New Stainless Steel Appliances, Gas Range and Refrigerator Included. New Interior Paint, and Carpeting. All New Light fixtures and Ceiling Fans. New Blinds. Sparkling Play Pool, Large 2.5 car garage, Fireplace. High Efficiency TRANE A/C units installed last Year. This home is a must see!!