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.

8870 E Greenview Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$585,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,850 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765808
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome To Gold Canyon's BEST Views % A STUNNING Remodeled Single Level Townhome In Premier Gated Fairway Views! Golf & Mountain Vistas In The Rear Greet You From The MOMENT You Enter The Front! GORGEOUS Travertine Flooring T/O, Including Front & Back Exterior, Vaulted Ceiling, Fireplace, Great Room Design, Granite Slabs in Kitchen & Corian Slabs In Baths, Skylights, Stainless Steel Apps, Custom Closet, Expanded Laundry/Pantry & More! NEW Roof in 2018, NEW H2O Heater in 2023 and NEW Softener in 2024! Patio Includes More Beautiful Travertine, Sparkling Fountain, Built In Bar & BBQ And The VIEWS That Go On Forever Showcasing #11 Green Of Gold Canyon Sidewinder Course, Dinosaur Mountain & Superstition Mountain! Home Offered Turnkey Furnished & 1 Year Home Warranty Provided To Buyer!

2425 W Red Range Way Phoenix, AZ 85085

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,131 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777834
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Carefree Crossing...your serene desert retreat in North Phoenix, where convenience meets tranquility. Perfectly situated near Norterra shopping and dining, freeway access, hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts, and just 4 miles from TSMC. Step into this well maintained home with an airy, open-concept layout and 10' ceilings. Top that off with a split primary suite with patio access. The third bedroom offers flexibility as a home office or additional guest space. And a bonus room, which is just that, a bonus with a multitude of uses! With coveted N/S exposure, a private pool and spa and a covered patio, this home is designed for year-round enjoyment of Arizona's beautiful weather. Freshly painted inside and out and move-in ready, make Carefree Crossing your new home today!

2355 N Cabot -- Mesa, AZ 85207

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,738 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780778
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Desert mountain views await you in this desirable gated community in NE Mesa. Great schools, easy access to freeways, shopping, hiking, biking, and water sports. This 3br plus office/den is detailed with beautiful Travertine stone flooring in all but 3 bedrooms with new carpet. Brand new quartz countertops, sinks and faucets in kitchen and both bathrooms along with refinished cabinets. New window blinds throughout. Six inch crown molding top and bottom in all rooms. Features living/dining room plus family room open to kitchen. Enjoy this corner lot with a lovely heated pool and spa with easy maintainable landscape. Garage with custom floor to ceiling cabinets, work bench and epoxy flooring.

8445 E Aloe Vera Circle Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$585,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,340 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779682
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome To This STUNNING & Completely REMODELED&REDONE GEM Filled w/High End Finishes & Gorgeous Surprises Around Every Corner!Entry Charms w/Porcelain Plank Floors, Designer Accent Paint&Vaulted Ceilings Which Beckon Through 2 Immaculate Kitchen Feat. Granite Slab Counters, Chocolate Glaze Cabs w/Brown PinStripes, Quartz Sinks,Cstm Travertine BackSplash, Cstm Lighting&Beamed Ceiling, Highly Upgr.Stainless App Package (F/W/D ALL Incl)&Brushed Nickel Hardware!Updated Baths Feat. Granite, Quartz, Brass&Mother Of Pearl Hardware, Cstm Fixtures&More! Mstr Suite Feat. Ext. Att.Sitting Room, Beautiful Barn Door Wall 2 Patio, Cstm Shower&Tub w/Water Proof ShipLap Wall! Ext.Patio Incl. Cstm Wrought Iron Gate,No Homes Directly Behind&Artificial Turf Sideyard!New Paint 2024!INCREDIBLE Front MTN VWS!

13518 W Sola Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$585,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,095 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782063
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The Encanto is a favored floor plan in Corte Bella Country Club. Uniquely designed for that entertainer's lifestyle. This home has so many upscale extras that you will enjoy. Features include designer front door, updated lighting, soft welcoming paint, smooth surface tiled flooring, 10' ceilings, great room, shutters, recessed lighting, 8 ft. Island in kitchen & 2 bedrooms plus Den. Split floorplan. Primary bathroom has a remodeled walk-in shower, oversized walk-in closet & two sinks. Great room includes cozy fireplace & open view into kitchen. The kitchen has high-end cabinets, granite counters, induction cooktop, breakfast bar & casual dining. Extended length garage. Exterior features include fenced bk yard w/covered patio, front covered patio & centrally located w/in Corte Bella.

5595 W Mercer Lane Glendale, AZ 85304

$585,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,348 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784014
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home! Nestled in a tranquil cul-de-sac with no HOA, this property has everything you need and more. Step inside and be greeted by an open-concept entertaining floor plan with vaulted ceilings and new LED can lighting that illuminates every corner with warmth and style. The fully remodeled kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring brand-new cabinetry, modern appliances, and a convenient pot filler that makes cooking a breeze. New laminate flooring flows seamlessly throughout the home, offering both beauty and durability. Cozy up by the fireplace in the spacious living room, or enjoy the peaceful view of the mature trees from the large windows with elegant plantation shutters. You'll find ample storage space throughout, perfect for keeping things organized and tidy. Outside, the good-sized yard is a blank canvas just waiting for your creative touch. Imagine the possibilitiesa garden, play area, or custom outdoor oasis. With a lemon tree ready to provide fresh fruit, you'll love the potential this space offers for entertaining and relaxation. This beautifully updated home is move-in ready and waiting for you to make it your own. Don't miss outon this home!

6351 W Saddlehorn Road Phoenix, AZ 85083

$585,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,542 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783990
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exceptionally clean and lovingly maintained poolside home with 4 BR and 2.5 BA. HVAC 2020. Granite counters in kitchen and baths, travertine backsplash and FP accents. Freshly painted inside and out with new Lighting and Fans, New Carpet. Stay and play in your own backyard resort play pool (pool fence available) and mostly private. Look at the size of the bedrooms! 28x15 master has sitting room and lux bath with soaking tub and sep shower. Easy access to shopping, great restaurants, hiking and commute by way of 303, 101 and 17.

4722 N 76th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$585,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,806 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767821
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath single level charmer in highly sought after Historic Villa Monterey, Old Town Scottsdale's most desirable 55+ community. This home is truly special! Sitting on a highly desirable corner lot, right next to a green belt and across from the architecturally pleasing water fountain. Private front patio is a hidden gem for friendly gatherings; mature landscape, grape vines, and old world feel pavers. Interior is welcoming with hardwood flooring and extended livings space. The faux fireplace adds ambiance. Primary bedroom is customized with sought after walk in closet, side windows, and updated bath. Beautiful solid wood doors. Delightful backyard with custom seating accommodates sleeping under the stars! Small workshop/shed has electric for the hobbyist. Newer Trane 5 ton AC, roof recently recoated. Fresh interior paint. Villa Monterey is zoned Historic, and pride of ownership shows throughout this charming subdivision. Old style lamplights line the streets adding a real ''hometown'' neighborhood feel. Enjoy community pool and spa gatherings. Follow the canal path into Old Town for dining, cocktails, etc. Close to art galleries, spring training, car shows, Hayden Park and waterway; all the wonderful amenities of Scottsdale Living.

1711 Leisure World -- Mesa, AZ 85206

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,011 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6775404
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
AMAZING, Sparkling POOL and Resort Style Backyard, perfect for Entertaining. Enjoy this Beautiful FULLY REMODELED 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage Home! The Delightful Pavered Entry and Patio are a welcome greeting! Enter into an Open and Spacious Great Room with vaulted ceilings and Fantastic Feature Wall with Fireplace. Your Dream Kitchen w/large island, quartz countertops, induction stove, under the counter microwave & much more! The Airconditioned Arizona Room is perfect for an office, game room or craft room with views to the pool! Newer Windows, New Front Door and Sliding Glass Doors, New Paint Interior and Exterior. All this in the Premiere Active Adult Community of Leisure World with 36 holes of private golf, tennis, pickle ball, swimming pools, fitness center & much more!

1018 E Acoma Drive Phoenix, AZ 85022

$585,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,218 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6781431
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fall in love with this two-story home in Phoenix that effortlessly combines comfort and style! Inside, you'll find an inviting living room, an open den/office, and a formal dining room complete with a cozy fireplace. The kitchen displays plenty of cabinetry, built-in appliances, fluorescent lighting, and a breakfast bar. Sizable primary boasting plush carpet, direct outdoor access, a walk-in closet, and a private ensuite comprised of dual sinks and a make-up desk. As a bonus, this house includes a 2nd main bedroom with balcony access and a bathroom. Enjoy mountain views from the balcony. Spacious backyard showcases a covered patio, storage shed, and a sparkling pool for year-round enjoyment. New A/C and garage door installed this year! Don't miss this one-time opportunity

19844 W Heatherbrae Drive Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$585,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,286 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6781151
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your Dream Pool Home in the highly sought-after community of Verrado! Beautifully designed and meticulously upgraded, featuring a kitchen that any chef would envy, complete with a remarkable butler's pantry. The open-concept kitchen seamlessly flows into the Great Room and dining area, creating an inviting space perfect for entertaining. The owner's suite serves as a luxurious retreat, boasting dual sinks, a spacious walk-in closet, and a lavish shower. Step outside to discover your own backyard oasis, complete with a sparkling pool and spa—ideal for unwinding or hosting gatherings with friends. Nestled amidst a picturesque neighborhood, 26 miles of hiking/biking trails, community pools, gym, over 80 community parks. Your gorgeous and upgraded ''unicorn'' of a home awaits!

22422 N 99th Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,867 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762267
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in a sought-after community boasts recent updates and a welcoming atmosphere! Featuring updated bathrooms in 2022, this home offers modern convenience. The great room with an open floor plan is complemented by a cool paint tone, creating a cozy ambiance. The interior showcases a beautiful combination of wood-like tile and soft carpet in all the right places. The split primary bedroom offers a walk-in closet for added comfort. The kitchen includes a new dishwasher, pantry, granite countertops, kitchen island, and a breakfast bar, along with plenty of cabinets for storage. Outside, the covered back patio overlooks a low-maintenance private yard with brand new artificial turf, gravel, and trees. Community amenities include a playground, tennis courts, pool & spa, and much more!