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.

16873 W Fetlock Trail Surprise, AZ 85387

$582,997
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,241 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766532
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
On the hunt for a new home? Here's a gorgeous and completed home in the heart of Sunrise. Don't wait for the builder - move in ready now! Very spacious Wrightson plan. This home is gorgeous and perfect for buyers looking for a highly upgraded kitchen and a large lot with 900 sq ft of gorgeous pavers waiting for you to entertain. Buyers spared no expense with the upgrades in the home - Soft closing drawers, smart ceiling fans, faux wood blinds, oversized pantry, coffee station option added, smart home technology, stone front elevation, double sized patio, double glass sliding doors, just to name a few. Assumable FHA current loan if buyer can meet the loan qualifications required to assume. This floorplan is no longer available, and home is almost new - don't miss out!

20625 S 228th Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$582,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,234 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764438
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
''The Sunflower floorplan is ideal for modern living, featuring an expansive kitchen with a large island, pantry, and generous dining and Greatroom areas, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying quality family time. Step into this stunning quick move-in home, offering a thoughtfully designed 2234 sqft layout with 4 bedrooms, a guest retreat, 3 full bathrooms and 2.5 car garage. The home radiates elegance with finishes from the Coastal Collection, showcasing 6 x 36 Vicinity Natural plank tile floors in the main living areas, plush carpeting in the bedrooms, and stylish 42'''' Fairview White shaker cabinets adorned with polished Chrome hardware. The kitchen is truly a showstopper, featuring Della Terra Quartz - Crisp Stria countertops and Marazi Zellige Cielo 4x4 Brick Patterned tile backsplash, creating a seamless blend of luxury and functionality. Additional highlights include 8' doors throughout, adding to its refined appeal. The spacious Greatroom is accented by a 4-panel sliding glass door that seamlessly transitions to the covered patio and backyard, making it perfect for embracing indoor-outdoor living. This home is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, including a gas range, microwave, dishwasher, and soft water loop. This Sunflower plan combines thoughtful design with elegant details, creating an inviting and meticulously finished space that is ready to welcome you home. This home is located across the park and is on a larger homesite.

3216 S Piedra Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$582,990
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,233 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786471
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A collection of brand-new single-family homes located in the master-planned community in Mesa, AZ. The community feeds into the highly rated Gilbert Public School District, making this an ideal place for growing households. There are many onsite amenities at the masterplan everyone will enjoy, including a swimming pool, basketball court, pickleball court, playground and picnic area. Commuters have easy access to Loop 202 and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport for travel accommodations. This beautiful home features our platinum package including Sonoma Maple Linen cabinets and quartz countertops. Super luxury 7 x 22 plank tile flooring. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

16699 W Saguaro Park Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$582,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,545 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770961
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender. The Gardengate floorplan offers 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a garage extension, and 8' interior doors. Notable features include built-in appliances, granite kitchen countertops, a gas stub in the kitchen, a backyard perfect for BBQs, and a gas dryer connection in the laundry.

3752 E Terrel Street San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$582,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,649 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776075
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Popular Trillium plan features a full guest suite with own private entrance. This home is situated in the amenity rich community of Bella Vista Farms. Residents enjoy an amenity-rich lifestyle with exclusive access to an onsite swimming pool, picnic area, splash park, playground, basketball court, volleyball court and greenbelt. The local area is host to the San Tan Regional Park, where locals enjoy biking, hiking, horseback riding and more. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

17727 W Carol Avenue Waddell, AZ 85355

$582,990 - 4Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Zanjero Pass Phase 1, Waddell
Open House
$582,990
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,222 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772984
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This Gorgeous NEW home has so much to offer! Primary bedroom on the 1st floor 3,222 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, loft, media room, a 3 car tandem garage on a North/south corner lot! This home features 36'' burlap shaker cabinetry, 18x18 tile, a large kitchen island, quartz counter tops, and 9' ceilings throughout. It also includes a soft water loop, dual pane low-E windows, multi-zone thermostat, window coverings and a smart home system. The exterior features front desert landscaping, a covered patio and generous backyard. Conveniently located off the 303, this community is near Costco, Safeway, and shopping. **Finishes may vary from sample photos and virtual tour.

4477 N 200th Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$582,856
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,569 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776603
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
KITCHEN: Painted Gray Cabinetry and tile backsplash, Gas GE Profile 36'' stainless steel Cooktop with wall oven, Quartz Countertops, Extended Island, Box-in for 36'' refrigerator. FLOORING: 6X36 Wood look and upgraded carpet & pad. INCLUDED OPTIONS: Spanish exterior, Bonus Room, Super Laundry Room and Pre-plumb for soft water loop. Stain Nickle door hardware with 6 panel Rockport doors.

6233 W Mescal Street Glendale, AZ 85304

$582,500
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,444 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760532
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The search is finally over! This delightful residence boasts a 3-car garage and a well-kept front yard. Fall in love with the inviting open layout highlighting vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, skylights that bathe the space in natural light, and attractive wood-look flooring. You'll also find a cozy family room downstairs, including a warm fireplace for relaxing evenings! The kitchen has granite counters, abundant white shaker cabinets, a stylish tile backsplash, recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, a handy pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar for casual dining. The main bedroom offers an ensuite with dual sinks and a walk-in closet. The backyard features a covered patio, a firepit with seating areas, and a refreshing pool for endless summer fun. Make this gem yours!

15963 W Montana De Oro Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$582,436
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,229 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6721719
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New home ready for immediate occupancy! This single level 2229 SF single level 3 BR, plus den 3. BA home is located on a north south facing home site. Surrounded by single level homes, no 2 stories. Exciting included features include upgraded cabinets, upgraded Quartz tops, tile Kitchen backsplash, plank tile on the floors, 10' ceilings, 8' interior doors, 3 car garage, gourmet kitchen, garage service door, tank less water heater, landscape credit, and so much more. Neighborhood also includes, tree lined streets, Certified Energy Star and Indoor Air Plus for more energy savings.

6073 W Caribe Lane Glendale, AZ 85306

$582,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,996 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713341
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous family home with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, no HOA, pool, and an RV gate. Currently used a short term rental and can be purchased fully furnished. Home has open layout and was completely remodeled in 2022.. Great location in Glendale family neighborhood.

4198 N Spyglass Drive Florence, AZ 85132

$582,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,989 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6701840
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come and see this beautifully upgraded home with Stunning views on the 1st fairway of the Poston Butte Golf course in Sun City Anthem. This home has SOLAR for low energy bills Enjoy two large bedrooms, two baths and a large den complete with French doors. Hunter Douglas window treatments and ceiling fans in all rooms. Enjoy a gorgeous chefs kitchen with gas range, upgraded cabinets and granite countertops. The master bath has an oversized walk-in shower with stunning custom tile, beautiful tile flooring in all main living spaces with upgraded carpet in bedrooms. A gorgeous outdoor travertine patio gives you a spectacular golf course view, complete with lovely desert inspired landscaping, garden lighting and motorized sunshades! Enjoy the beautiful view and AZ weather all year round. There is a Golf Cart garage, complete with storage area, shelving and wall slat hanging storage system with upgraded additional LED lighting. There is also a whole house RO system and water softener, and tankless gas hot water heater. This home has a freshly painted exterior as well! Located in a wonderful community with numerous amenities, there will never be a lack of activities to participate in! Golf, Pickle Ball, tennis, biking, fitness center, pools and spas, bocce ball, clubhouse and restaurant are all just steps away! Come for a visit and stay for a lifetime! See you soon!

12015 W Parkway Lane Avondale, AZ 85323

$581,995
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,480 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742829
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this ranch-style Townsend home, ready for quick move-in! Included features: a covered front porch; a relaxing great room with center-meet patio doors; a gourmet kitchen boasting 42'' cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, a generous center island and a walk-in pantry; a charming nook; a luxurious primary suite showcasing additional windows, a spacious walk-in closet and a private bath with double sinks; three secondary bedrooms, including on with an attached bath; a shared hall bath; a beautiful study; a central laundry and an inviting covered patio. This home also offers dramatic 10' ceilings, wood laminate and 9 x 35 stone tile flooring, cultured marble bath countertops, ceiling fan prewiring in select rooms, front yard landscaping and concrete pavers at the driveway and walkway. Tour today!