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.

1415 E Princeton Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85234

$615,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,733 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6701061
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spacious home located near Gilbert's renowned downtown. Tons of dining and shopping just down the street. Bright living room featuring carpet flooring & on-trend palette throughout. The perfectly flowing great room provides backyard access & an inviting fireplace. Gorgeous, updated kitchen with built-in appliances, shaker cabinetry w/crown moulding, a stylish backsplash, granite counters & pantry. Double doors reveal the primary retreat, boasting large picture windows & an ensuite w/dual sinks, a separate shower/tub, & two walk-in closets. Newer AC! The charming backyard showcases a relaxing covered patio, a spa, & sparkling pool, offering the perfect setting for enjoying the warm Arizona weather.

1202 W Davis Way Flagstaff, AZ 86001

$615,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,667 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730477
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your home in Coconino Estates close to downtown, schools, skiing, and the Flagstaff Urban Trail System! This charming single-level home has 4 bedrooms & 2 baths, an inviting open floor plan, a wood-burning stove and huge windows for tons of natural light. In the backyard you'll find mature trees, Koi pond and covered patio. Other features include new roof in 2019, large storage shed, tons of parking and a view of the beautiful San Francisco Peaks. A perfect place to call home, whether it's your full-time residence or a vacation home in the mountains. Walking distance to downtown Flagstaff, parks, Coconino Center for the Arts, bus stop, schools and Flagstaff Urban Trail system. Access to the ''Ditch Pool'' with voluntary HOA.

3357 E Derringer Way Gilbert, AZ 85297

$615,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,834 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765583
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Location, Location! Stop and take a look!! You'll love the new floors (installed in 2024). In addition to all of this, the home features an impeccable eat-in kitchen, great room, and formal living room. Enjoy afternoons in the beautiful backyard with a covered patio, cozy firepit, and sparkling pool. This is a value you won't want to miss!

1202 E Palo Verde Drive Phoenix, AZ 85014

$615,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,782 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762575
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this classic, single level, 3 bed, 2 bath home with no interior steps located in the desirable Escondido Hermosa neighborhood of North Central Phoenix. Beautifully remodeled throughout in 2021, the spacious floor plan features a large kitchen with an open eating area, flowing seamlessly into the expansive outdoor patios perfect for entertaining. The primary suite offers a cozy seating area, wood-beamed ceilings, walk-in closet, remodeled bathroom, and direct patio access through sliding doors. Highlights include skylights, block construction, a 2-car garage, and Tesla leased solar panels, keeping monthly energy costs low. Ideally located within walking distance of local dining and retail, and just minutes from the airport, hiking trails, and the Biltmore and Arcadia corridors. and the Biltmore and Arcadia corridors! The HVAC unit is an eight year old Trane and the flat roof was re-coated in 2022. Also, the tile roof underlayment was replaced in 2020!

1775 W Green Tree Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$615,000
5 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,577 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763012
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to this spacious 3576 sqft 2 story house with 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Brand new carpet and vinyl floors throughout the house. Separate living room and family room, formal dining. Kitchen with solid wood cabinets, kitchen island, brand new microwave and range. Shutters throughout the house. Huge loft upstairs. It's located next to the community park. Schools nearby. Within 30 minutes from Queen Creek Olive Mill.

10520 W Patrick Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$615,000
5 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,094 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764118
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Get ready to make this beautifully maintained home in a well sought after Peoria neighborhood your new home! Priced below appraised value, featuring a 3 car garage & RV Gate, this unique layout will not disappoint. Walk into your open floor plan with upgraded granite kitchen counters. Relax in your downstairs master suite with a deep closet & custom master bath. Upstairs boasts a well laid out floorplan to include a landing that can be used as a second family or game room. 4 oversized bedrooms with walk in closets, access to the above attic with standing room & a roomy full bath make this second floor feel custom built! Did I mention the solar that is paid in full, the brand new AC's or that there is no HOA?! One of the largest homes in the neighborhood is move-in ready & priced to sell!

2123 E Torrey Pines Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$615,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,159 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765321
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come and explore this beautiful single-level home in Cooper Commons! You'll be captivated by its inviting charm, featuring wood-look floors & an open-concept living/dining area. Complete with built-in surround sound, this home is perfect for entertaining. The bright family room is ideal for creating lasting memories, while the cozy den offers a quiet space for an office. The kitchen is a chef's delight, complete with stainless steel appliances, quartz counters & a center island. Retreat to the main bedroom, which boasts a private bath with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. The backyard oasis includes a covered patio, a rejuvenating spa, & a sparkling heated pool, perfect for relaxation. You'll love everything about this home so check it out before it's gone!

6614 E Portia Street Mesa, AZ 85215

$615,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,222 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767410
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Escape to Your Own Private Oasis in NE Mesa! This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 3-car garage home situated on a large lot offers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and outdoor living. Enjoy the privacy of a large, fenced-in front courtyard complete with a backyard oasis featuring a refreshing heated pool and spa with a large cover patio. No HOA: Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of owning a home without the restrictions of a homeowners' association.,room to park your toys / RV The well-maintained home features a spacious kitchen, perfect for entertaining. Key Features: Assumable FHA loan: (subject to lender approval) 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3-car garage, Private front courtyard, Heated pool and spa, Large, well-maintained kitchen, and Great schools nearby

14679 N Love Court Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$615,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,715 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773245
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
ASSUMABLE 3.5% FHA LOAN AVAILABLE, if buyers qualify. Welcome to your desert retreat in the highly sought-after city of Fountain Hills! This delightful 2 bed/2 bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort and outdoor living. Nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac, this property features ample living space, play pool, and breathtaking mountain and desert views. As you step inside, you're greeted by an airy, open-concept living space with high ceilings and plenty of natural light. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, lots of storage, and waterfall granite breakfast bar. The spacious primary suite offers direct access to the backyard. A second bedroom and full bath provide additional comfort and flexibility for guests or a home office. The true highlight of this home is... ...the backyard oasis! Cool off in your private play pool, enjoy the covered patio, and take in the stunning sunset views that only Arizona living can offer. This home is conveniently located just minutes from shopping, dining, hiking trails, and the world-famous Fountain Park. Don't miss your chance to own a slice of paradise in Fountain Hills!

3131 N Central Avenue Unit 7002 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$615,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,109 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775741
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Beautiful top level views and urban living at the exclusive Edison Midtown. This 2-Bedroom 2-Bath condo offers open living area with wood flooring throughout, large windows, 11' ceilings, with amazing daytime and evening views overlooking the courtyard and pool area. The gorgeous kitchen features white cabinets, white quartz countertops, tile backsplash, and stainless-steel Bosch appliances. A separate storage unit is also included. Edison Midtown features remarkable amenities which includes a large fitness center, pool and spa, indoor and outdoor lounges, bbq area, and gated garage parking! Don't let this beautiful condo pass you by!

16981 S 175th Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85338

$615,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,363 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6735144
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous AV Home in Canta Mia 55+ gated community resort like living at its best. The Tremolo model 2 bedroom 2.5 baths, den and casita will not disappoint. Walk into courtyard with entrance to the casita and main home that welcomes you to warm foyer overlooking the beautiful back courtyard and pool. Kitchen with quartz countertops, loads of storage, pull out shelving, double wall ovens, newer gas cooktop, built-in microwave, large kitchen island, under/over cabinet lighting. Primary bedroom has bay window, sliding glass door takes you to covered patio/pool area. Primary bathroom walk-in tiles shower. bathrooms updated quartz countertop. Ceiling fans throughout. Backyard entertainers dream .Garage 240V, Casita 20amp. Additional insulation. Solar owned.

20831 N 10th Street Phoenix, AZ 85024

$615,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,212 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6749459
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Very recent closed sale in Arroyo Rojo similar sqft, no pool, or preserve view to the back sold for $649K. Nestled in a vibrant community this exceptional home boasts 4 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms, all while offering desert preserve views. The premium lot is an entertainer's dream, featuring a built-in fireplace, plumed for an outdoor kitchen, a pool with water feature, and ample space for hosting events. Inside, you'll be welcomed by an updated kitchen showcasing Quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and dark wood grain cabinets. The main floor also includes a full bathroom and a versatile office/den with French doors. Upstairs, you'll discover 3 beds/2 bath, PLUS a versatile closed loft area/flex space w/2 closets. Convenient upstairs laundry. Leasing is allowed. 30 Day Min.