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.

5160 E Karen Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$615,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,592 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778445
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
COME CHECK OUT YOUR NEXT HOME! This single level home in Scottsdale has a beautiful recently renovated kitchen with quartz counters and lots of cabinet space. This home has a split floorplan with a larger Owners' suite. It has a new vanity with a granite top in the owners' bathroom and a tiled walk-in shower. There is a patio door to the courtyard for enjoying your morning coffee or a glass of wine. Bedrooms 2 and 3 are split from the owners' suite. Bathroom #2 has a new vanity with a granite top as well. Tile and laminate floors throughout. Enjoy the spacious private yard with a detached 2 car garage. NO HOA.

7752 W Mary Jane Lane Peoria, AZ 85382

$615,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,515 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774496
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Pride of Ownership! Situated on a spacious corner lot, this beautiful haven offers a 3-car garage, RV gate, & NO HOA! Discover an inviting living room & a desirable great room paired w/wood flooring, gas fireplace, & French doors that create a seamless indoor-outdoor transition. Tall vaulted ceilings add to the airy feel, complemented by ceiling fans & plantation shutters. Fabulous kitchen displays coffered ceilings, recessed lighting, a custom island w/a breakfast bar, granite counters, plenty of cabinets & built-in appliances. The main bedroom ensures a peaceful retreat, showcasing plush carpet, two-toned paint, an ensuite w/dual sinks, & 2 walk-in closets. Tranquil backyard includes a covered patio, storage shed, & a refreshing pool for year-round enjoyment. Come check out the beauty.

5372 S Cat Claw Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$615,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,320 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785100
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing, spacious 3 bedroom/2 bath PLUS a dedicated office with built-in desks and storage. Light, open floor plan with over 2300 square feet for relaxing, entertaining, and personal space. Bay windows in primary room and kitchen. Air conditioned Arizona room with huge windows and 2 separate indoor access doors, one from primary bedroom and another from the kitchen, then out to the patio to grill using gas stub. The 2.5 garage has wall to wall storage and a work counter with it's own cabinets for tools; there is also a charger for electric vehicle. This is a vibrant 55+ adult community with so many activities to get involved: Year round community pool and spa, 2 golf courses, Tennis courts, Pickleball, Pottery patio with kiln and a Monthly calendar filled with various activities.

41670 W Barcelona Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$615,000
6 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,149 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783411
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Home, sweet home! This wonderful 6 bed, 4.5 bath residence is looking for its new owners! A stunning facade w/stone accents, low-care landscape, a 3 car garage, and a paver driveway are just the beginning. Discover a spacious great room and formal dining area w/elegant wood-look tile flooring, plantation shutters, dazzling light fixtures, and custom palette throughout. The fabulous kitchen is comprised of white cabinetry w/crown moulding, granite counters, SS appliances, and an island w/a breakfast bar. Continue upstairs and into the cozy loft w/soft carpet, where you can spend a relaxing Sunday afternoon! You'll also find not one, but two primary bedrooms, each one boasting a private ensuite w/dual sinks and a walk-in closet! Double doors open up to a cozy den, ideal for an office. Lastly, the expansive backyard w/its covered patio, is a blank canvas w/tons of potential to become your own personal oasis! Your new home is waiting for you, hurry and act now!

18232 N 19th Place Phoenix, AZ 85022

$615,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,362 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786276
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home on a spacious lot with a charming Tuscan-style courtyard. Inside, enjoy an open floor plan with wood tile flooring, built-in living room cabinets, and a chef's kitchen featuring new stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and upgraded lighting. Recent updates include freshly painted interiors and exteriors, new cabinet finishes, and updated tile flooring in the kitchen and baths. The master suite boasts a renovated shower, while all bedrooms feature new plush carpeting. The irrigated backyard offers a covered patio and pergola, perfect for entertaining. Conveniently located near the 51 and 101 freeways, this home provides quick access to dining and shopping. This home is a must see!

4046 E Pinto Lane Phoenix, AZ 85050

$615,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,849 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6778057
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Easy living, single-story home on a corner lot in the quiet and conveniently located Tatum Highlands Community. This home offers a great floor plan, with two living spaces, a backyard with private pool and spa, covered patio for relaxing and entertaining. Bright and spacious family room, kitchen, living, and dining room areas. The kitchen has granite counters, stainless steel appliances, tile floors, a large pantry, and skylights. The primary bedroom is your retreat with a walk-in closet, ceiling fan, ensuite bathroom with double sinks and bathtub. Plantation shutters throughout the home. New heat pump and AC, painted inside and out. Near John W. Teets Park and Desert Ridge shops and restaurants.

20340 N Canyon Whisper Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$615,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,950 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769126
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
One of the most coveted models in The Grand. Borgata offers a split bedroom floorplan. In addition this home has a detached casita with a 256 sq. ft. guest quarters. As you enter the paver extended patio courtyard, you will instantly feel the privacy ready for your enjoyment. As you enter the front you will feel the openness of the expanded Arizona room complete with gas fireplace. Granite counters in the kitchen.

8720 N 182nd Lane Waddell, AZ 85355

$615,000
6 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,067 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775498
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful spacious home located in a lovely neighborhood near the mountains, yet still close to the freeway and shops! This beautifully updated home features a brand new patio slider that opens to a spacious backyard complete with a new hot tub, perfect for unwinding. Inside, enjoy fresh paint and updated flooring throughout, creating a modern and inviting atmosphere. The massive master suite provides a peaceful retreat, complemented by very large additional bedrooms. A bonus den and separate office space offer endless possibilities for work, play, or relaxation. Don't miss out on this one!

5418 N Annie Court Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$615,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,961 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780462
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Luxury Living. Move-in ready NOW - NO waiting on construction delays or dealing w/the dust/noise, and the enormous expense of Professional Landscaping & Costly Builder upgrades. Ready to Enjoy today & Priced Competitively to Sell. This home checks every one of your boxes on your wish list: Custom Sparkling Pool w/Calming Sheer decent water feature, Gas Fire Pit w/ seating area, Low maintenance Lush Extensive/Expensive/inviting landscape w/Mountain Views on a 1/4 acre lot! 3000 sqft, Single level, 3 car-garage on a quiet/friendly corner cul-de-sac lot. Split floorplan, Great Room living for Family & Entertaining Friends. Upgraded Kitchen w/Gas cooking, Extended/Upgraded Cabinetry. HUGE Primary bedroom en-suite that includes His/Her Closets, soaking tub & Walk in Snail shower

2629 W Quick Draw Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$615,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,498 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780392
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
THE HOME YOU'VE BEEN WAITING FOR! This dream home features Elegance, pride in ownership, a backyard oasis & upgrade throughout! Enjoy your spacious home which includes 4-bedroom's, a 3-car garage, RV gate, Interior boasts an inviting living & dining room, wood-look flooring, and tall vaulted ceilings that add to the airy feel. Desirable great room bathed in natural light is perfect for hosting lively get-togethers. Open-concept kitchen provides recessed lighting, abundant cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, a center island with a breakfast bar, subway tile backsplash, and a walk-in pantry. You'll surely love the spacious main retreat, showcasing an ensuite with dual sinks, an enclosed glass shower, and a walk-in closet. The backyard Oasis is every homeowner's dream! Oversized backyard won't disappoint, offering a covered patio, gazebo, storage shed, and a sparkling pool with water features. Seize the opportunity while it's still available!

6979 S Wilson Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$615,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,137 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787032
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home to this gorgeous single-level, move-in-ready home in South Chandler. As you enter through the custom steel security screen and front door you are greeted with a neutral color palate, clean lines, and a view straight through to the backyard. This well-cared for two-owner home features a large master bedroom and bathroom with a walk-in closet, water closet, dual sinks, and a separate tub and shower. This master bedroom is split from the 2 guest bedrooms that are located on the opposite side of the house. The flex room, located near the front entrance, offers endless options. The beautiful kitchen has been updated with stainless steel appliances, freshly painted white cabinets, and has reverse osmosis water at the kitchen sink. The cozy gas fireplace is the perfect addition this Welcome Home to this gorgeous single-level, move-in-ready home in South Chandler. As you enter through the custom steel security screen and front door you are greeted with a neutral color palate, clean lines, and a view straight through to the backyard. This well-cared for two-owner home features a large master bedroom and bathroom with a walk-in closet, water closet, dual sinks, and a separate tub and shower. This master bedroom is split from the 2 guest bedrooms that are located on the opposite side of the house. The flex room, located near the front entrance, offers endless options. The beautiful kitchen has been updated with stainless steel appliances, freshly painted white cabinets, and has reverse osmosis water at the kitchen sink. The cozy gas fireplace is the perfect addition this time of year not just for ambiance but to quickly heat the house as well. Throughout the house you'll notice all new door hardware, faucets, light fixtures, baseboards, and electrical outlets. In 2022, two brand new AC units were installed followed by new interior and exterior paint, new carpet and baseboards, and a new 50-year roof in 2023. In 2024, the seller replaced the sunscreens and backyard irrigation. He also added artificial grass to the front yard. The 3-car split garage offers flexibility and includes side-mounted electric openers with battery backup that control insulated doors, tons of electrical outlets, built-in storage, and access to the attic and the backyard. When entering the backyard from the family room or master bedroom you'll find a covered patio with epoxy-coated stamped concrete and an electric rolling shutter perfect for hot summer evenings, cold winter mornings, and those dirty summer haboobs. Past the patio, you'll find beautiful green grass and a mixture of trees, shrubs, and rocks. If that's not enough, this home also includes Ring security devices, a washer & dryer, and all kitchen appliances. The only things you'll need to make this home yours are furniture and clothes. Welcome Home.

2747 N Fairview Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86004

$615,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,476 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6785006
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
HURRY! These golf course lot Townhouses don't come on the market that often. This is your opportunity to own a home in the popular Continental Country Club community. Literally step off your back deck onto the golf course, located adjacent to the 9th green. Also, a very short walk to all the amenities, pool, pickle ball & tennis courts, golf shop, fitness center, including remodeled - The Oakmont restaurant. HOA membership includes the Bear Paw Recreation Center. In 2021 new roof and remodeled kitchen with stainless steel appliances, white cabinets and granite countertops and luxury vinyl tile. Sit and relax on your private deck or from the inside next to your cozy fireplace, while enjoying the beautiful panoramic golf course and mountain views. Vaulted ceilings! Furnished! Hiking trails!