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.

3149 W Golden Lane Chandler, AZ 85226

$585,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,231 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740031
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers modern amenities and spacious living. The primary bedroom is conveniently located on the main floor, providing ease and privacy. The kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a large island, stainless steel appliances, including a microwave, range, and dishwasher, and seamlessly opens up to a generous living space, perfect for entertaining. The fully finished basement expands the living area with a large bonus room, an additional kitchen with refrigerator, and three more bedrooms, making it ideal for guests, extended family, or potential rental income. Washer/dryer combo units for main level and basement. This home combines comfort, functionality, and style in every detail.

4499 E Jones Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$585,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,962 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779168
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning model- like home on the Market in Cooley Station! The paver walkway leads you up to the Cobblestone front and travertine covered porch entry. What an inviting space to sip your morning coffee. Three spacious bedrooms and a den complete this floorplan. This home is loaded with upgrades everywhere. Owners suite is spacious and you will appreciate the jetted spa tub in the owners en-suite. The gourmet kitchen is spectacular offering a farmhouse sink, shaker cabinets, SS appliances, large custom island for dining and elegant hardware and lighting. Spacious family room for gatherings and custom built in shelving and storage. Speaking of storage- this home has a lot of it! Large pantry off the kitchen and dedicated storage and sink in the laundry room as well. You will enjoy the added design touches of plantation shutters all throughout the home and custom farmhouse valiances in the living area. Secondary bathroom has double sinks and separate door to the tub shower area. Custom batten board in the 2nd bedroom and designer paint work in the 3rd bedroom. Both of these bedrooms have large walk in closets as well. You will love the outdoor patio area with travertine and low maintenance turf with a beautiful water feature with custom lighting and gorgeous stone work surround. There is a dedicated space for a grill, shed or whatever you want near the back of the lot. Large two car garage with additional storage space near the back. Water softener, R/O system, epoxy in the garage and since this home is newer (2017) so is the roof and AC unit. Cooley Station is a unique place to live and offers 2 community pools, community events, tot lot areas, lots of green space, basketball courts, many walking/biking paths and the Legacy Traditional School within. High end restaurants and shopping are nearby at Verde and the new Fry's is just around the corner. Put this home on your list and check it out today!

2124 E Nighthawk Way Phoenix, AZ 85048

$585,750
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,134 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754360
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Charming Ahwatukee Foothills home that offers the best of everything. The spacious 4-bedroom home was just updated with new carpet, paint, landscaping and some new lighting. The unique floorplan includes a downstairs bedroom, a large loft and a balcony off the oversized master overlooking the mountains and your resort style backyard with heated pool and spa. All of this in an ideal location only blocks away from the lower 202 for an easy commute to anywhere in the valley. Restaurants, shopping, high end golf courses and a resort casino are all minutes away. The quiet, safe, stable neighborhood has an elite school district and a shocking low HOA of $218 Annually!! This house checks all of the boxes you are looking for.

4098 S Lois Lane Sierra Vista, AZ 85650

$585,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,380 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787249
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning brand new build in the highly desired Sierra Reserve subdivision. This property has majestic views outside. Along with a perfectly positioned covered patio to enjoy them. Constructed with every detail carefully thought out. High end metal roof atop this 4 bedroom and 2 and a half bathroom home. Primary bedroom has its private bath with a stand alone soaking tub and separate shower along with a large walk in closet. Open concept living room to kitchen with vaulted ceilings makes the entry exceptionally grand. Finishes to this home are equally stunning to the counter tops and cabinets to the floors and fixtures. Who doesn't want a new home for Christmas? View this one today and be the first to call this home.

11590 N 170th Lane Surprise, AZ 85388

$585,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,467 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6633496
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6633496 Ready Now! The Appaloosa at Paradisi Venture is a single-story floor plan that boasts 2,467 sq. ft., 3 beds, 2.5 baths, a 2.5-car garage, and a study. A captivating paver courtyard, enclosed by the home, offers privacy for relaxation or entertaining. The foyer leads you to secondary bedrooms, study and into the living area. The open layout of the gathering room, kitchen, and dining area forms the heart of the home. The gourmet kitchen features upgraded 42'' maple cabinets with undermounted lighting, white quartz countertops, & gas cooktop with double oven. The owner suite features walk-in closet, double sinks and countless design upgra Structural options include: pavers at courtyard, garage service door, gourmet kitchen, and gas line for future outdoor kitchen.

14450 N Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 216 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$585,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,421 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6727148
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Stunning 26 foot ceilings in this modern and elegant townhouse. Conveniently located off the 101 and Raintree with access to great shopping and all that Scottsdale has to offer. Two bedrooms and two bathrooms with updated kitchen, appliances, and bathrooms. 1 car attached garage with extra storage. Spacious loft perfect for a home office. Beautiful community pool and heated spa. Very private and quiet.

10902 E Silver Mine Road Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$585,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,838 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6724593
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
!! ASUMMABLE 4.5% Mortgage!!! Come take a look at this Immaculate home with breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains on a cul-de-sac. This 2 bedroom home with den, and bonus room, with 2 bathrooms features tile flooring, large kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and breakfast bar, updated bathrooms as well as extended garage with built in cabinets. Whether it's morning coffee or an evening glass of wine. Your very own backyard oasis will not disappoint with heated pool and spa, putting green, BBQ, and AMAZING mountain views. All this in the gated community of Peralta Trail where you are close to amazing golf, hiking trails, mountain biking trails, off roading trails and much more. Come take a look. You'll be glad you did!!

6830 N 10th Place Phoenix, AZ 85014

$585,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,401 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746114
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in central Phoenix, this beautiful 4bd/2bt split floor plan offers a great room, upgraded stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops. The house features tile flooring throughout the home, lots of storage rooms, and a beautiful green/lush backyard with a large patio. This beautiful home is in Madison school district-2nd Best Elementary School District in Arizona - Ranking Arizona: Top 10 elementary school districts for 2024.

3055 N Red Mountain Unit 77 Mesa, AZ 85207

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,571 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781421
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to this gorgeous single-story, 3BR/2BA split-level home situated on a north/south facing corner lot in the highly coveted community of Las Sendas! Enter to a light, bright and spacious home through a wide hallway leading to the extensive great room with vaulted ceilings, built-in book shelves, upgraded tile flooring and plenty of space to host family and friends. The beautiful kitchen opens to the great room and showcases a breakfast bar, gas range with dual ovens, plenty of cabinets plus an eat-in kitchen with bay window. Retreat in the evening to your expansive and stunning owner's suite w/private access to backyard and an exceptional owners bath complete with exquisitely upgraded vanity w/dual sinks, lighting and mirror; separate soaking tub & shower and a huge walk-in closet. The additional 2 bedrooms and guest bath are split from the owners suite, for maximum privacy. Plus one of the bedrooms has private access to the guest bath which exhibits a beautifully upgraded vanity, lighting and mirror. See Documents section for a complete list of home upgrades & features! Relax at days end in your private backyard oasis complete with a sparkling pool, large turf area, beautiful stamped concrete patio, large stepping stones and low maintenance landscaping throughout. BRAND NEW ROOF (Sept 2024) w/double underlayment and transferable 10-year warranty completes this amazing home! Home is walking distance to two of Las Sendas' largest parks featuring numerous amenities to suit every lifestyle. Minutes away from Saguaro Lake, Salt River, Tonto National Forest, Usury Park and Loop 202. Las Sendas offers activities for every age group, including hiking/biking trails, 2 heated pools and spas, fitness center, lighted tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, parks w/playgrounds, splashpad, bocce ball, pickleball courts, an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., and dining at the Las Sendas Patio & Grill which features breathtaking views of city lights and sunsets.

875 S Newport Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,488 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760729
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the desirable Willis Ranch community! This spacious three-bedroom, two-bathroom residence sits on a huge pie-shaped lot, offering a massive backyard that's perfect for outdoor gatherings. With ample room for gardening, play areas, or even a future outdoor kitchen, this backyard is a blank canvas for your creative vision. Located in a vibrant community with nearby parks and amenities, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and leisure. Don't miss your chance to own this gem!

4711 N Greenview Circle Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,897 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762975
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The search is over! Your dream home is here at Litchfield Greens! Inside this charming, recently renovated, 3 bedroom property, you'll find an open floor plan with soaring ceilings. It's functional design with soft paint, tile flooring, plantation shutters, stylish light fixtures, and recessed lighting promotes a modern, but comfortable feel. The elegant white kitchen showcases staggered cabinets with tall crown molding, custom tile backsplash, granite counters, SS appliances, and a dark-stained island with breakfast bar. The spacious owner's suite has direct access to the backyard and hosts a pristine ensuite with dual porcelain sinks, soaking tub, glass block window, step-in shower, and a walk-in closet. Outside you'll relax and enjoy your private pool and sitting areas. All this and walking distance to the Wigwam and downtown Litchfield Park. Attended security gate provides extra security for this prestigious community. Don't miss out. Act now!

10438 S 45th Place Phoenix, AZ 85044

$585,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,507 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766982
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home! This amazing property features 4 bedrooms 2 baths and has been completely remodeled. Brand new kitchen including cabinets, counter tops, and appliances. All the bathrooms have been tastefully updated, stained concrete flooring throughout, and fresh exterior paint. Brand new high quality windows and sliders for efficiency including owned solar which will ensure low monthly utilities costs. Garage is equipped with a 220 volt outlet for your electric charging station. Located near the beautiful South Mountain preserve perfect for hiking and mountain bike riding, restaurants and shopping near by only 20 mins to the airport for your convenience. Ahwatukee's hidden gem awaits. Don't' hesitate to see this one today!