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.

1260 Haisley Road Prescott, AZ 86303

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,739 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6778214
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on an elevated homesite in the pines of Prescott's Haisley Homestead, this single-level home feels like your own private, luxurious treehouse. The open, split floor plan welcomes you into a bright and inviting living room, where vaulted ceilings and a gas fireplace with a marble surround and wood mantle create a warm, elegant focal point. The well-appointed kitchen features new granite countertops, lots of cabinets, and a 4-burner gas cooktop, along with a separate oven and microwave. Enjoy your meals in the breakfast nook, at the breakfast bar, or in the dining room, offering space for both formal & informal dining. The spacious master suite includes a large walk-in closet and a luxurious ensuite bath with a dual-sink vanity, walk-in shower, & soaking tub, perfect for unwinding. Two additional bedrooms, each with ceiling fans and ample closets, are flanked by a full bath, offering comfort and privacy for family or guests. Outdoor living is just as appealing, with a bright and airy front patio for enjoying the fresh mountain air, and a private, covered back patio for more intimate gatherings. Additional features include new carpet and wood flooring, a tile roof, a low-maintenance stucco exterior, concrete patios, and a 2-car garage. This home perfectly blends luxury, comfort, and the beauty of its natural surroundings.

6788 W Rose Garden Lane Glendale, AZ 85308

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,779 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6771051
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with OWNED SOLAR, nestled in a picturesque lake subdivision! Step inside to a spacious interior featuring new flooring (2022) and abundant natural light streaming through dual-pane windows. The kitchen features white cabinets, granite countertops, stylish backsplash, stainless steel appliances and an island with breakfast bar seating. The separate den is complete with custom-made office cabinets and desk. Recent updates enhance this home, including a newly coated pebble tech pool, variable speed pump, new roof 2020, new water heater 2024, and newer A/C in 2018. The outdoor oasis boasts a large covered patio overlooking a beautifully landscaped, low-maintenance yard with synthetic grass, a sparkling private pool and above ground spa. Convenient access to the 101 freeway, a 2.5-car garage with ceilings storage racks and epoxy floors, and an RV gate complete this fantastic home!

21051 W Sage Hill Road Buckeye, AZ 85396

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,934 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6773396
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home, boasting incredible curb appeal with a charming front porch sitting area perfect for enjoying the serene surroundings of Verrado's Main Street District. This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom plus den residence offers well-designed features and valuable updates throughout. Step inside to find painted interiors, beautiful blinds throughout, and ceiling fans to keep you comfortable year-round. The family room boasts built-in speakers, perfect for entertaining, and wooden built-in shelving adds elegance to the living room. The kitchen is a delight, featuring granite countertops, a double ceramic sink with a convenient pull-out faucet, a reverse osmosis (RO) system, stainless steel appliances, including a gas stove and refrigerator, and plenty of space for culinary.. creations. Enjoy complete privacy in your backyard oasis, with no neighboring homes in sight. Relax in your sparkling pool, complete with a new pump and filter (2021), in-floor cleaning system, and a gorgeous Pebble Tec resurfacing (2021) and sun self for those relaxing pool days, cantilever umbrella included. The pool area is complemented by cool decking and a gas stub for BBQing, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings. Additional highlights include a newer Trane AC unit, brand new water softener 2024, owned solar system ($30K value), and a well-equipped garage with epoxy floors, washer and dryer included, ceiling fan, and a garage door opener. Verrado offers top-notch A+ schools in the neighborhood. Take a stroll around Verrado and enjoy the tree lined streets, resort style pools, fitness center, over 78 gorgeous parks, hiking and biking trails, golf courses, shopping, and dining just steps away from Main Street. Community events are hosted throughout the year, creating a vibrant and connected lifestyle. Future developments include outdoor shopping, a medical center, and more restaurants to choose from. This home is a rare find, blending modern convenience with classic charm! Don't miss your chance to make it yours!

25820 N Langley Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$575,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,631 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6775210
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this beautifully designed home featuring a clean, modern aesthetic with neutral interior paint and white plantations style window shutters. The spacious kitchen boasts a gas range, subway tile backsplash, light colored glazed cabinets, recessed lighting and stylish pendant lighting over the island—perfect for entertaining. Enjoy the ease and durability of large tile floors on the main level, while contemporary luxury vinyl wood plank flooring adds warmth upstairs. Step outside to discover your personal paradise! The extended patio is perfect for outdoor entertaining, overlooking a pristine pool and lush synthetic grass that provides a low-maintenance, year-round green space. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a newer home that offers style, comfort, and outdoor living.

1560 Vista Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$575,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,952 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6642660
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Great investment opportunity!! This two-story home boasts 1,952 square feet of living space on a sprawling 3.6-acre corner lot, offering privacy and panoramic sunset views. Step inside to discover a warm and inviting atmosphere with a large family room, creating the perfect space for gatherings and relaxation. The well-designed layout features ample natural light, highlighting the beauty of the desert landscape that surrounds your home. The heart of this residence lies in its open concept kitchen, seamlessly flowing into the dining and living areas. Picture yourself preparing meals in the well-appointed kitchen while enjoying the company of family and friends. Sliding glass doors lead to multiple patios, creating an indoor-outdoor living experience that is perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying the tranquility of your expansive backyard. Venture outside to discover a private oasis that includes a sparkling pool, perfect for cooling off during warm Arizona days. The vast 3.6-acre corner lot provides plenty of room for your horses to roam, and there's ample space for RVs and toys, making this property a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

4227 W Escuda Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$575,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,566 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6776457
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Become the proud owner of this gorgeous 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home with NO HOA! Fantastic curb appeal boasting a 3-car garage, an RV gate & hook up, & a well-maintained front yard. Fall in love with the enchanting interior, starting with the lovely living room showcasing soaring ceilings, clerestory windows that bathe the space with natural light, blinds for privacy, and a harmonious blend of soft carpeting and durable tile flooring. Gather loved ones in the inviting great room for relaxing evenings. The delightful kitchen comes with tile counters, ample wood cabinetry, subtle recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a center island for additional prep space. Upstairs, the versatile loft provides extra living space, ideal for an office or an entertainment room! The primary bedroom includes plantation shutters, an ensuite with double sinks, and a walk-in closet. Enjoy stunning mountain views in the backyard, complete with a covered patio, a play area, a charming gazebo with a dry bar, and lush natural turf for outdoor activities. Make this gem yours today!

3512 N Citrus Cove Mesa, AZ 85213

$575,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,294 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6776608
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled in a serene, gated community! Fully updated and move-in ready, this home shines with fresh interior paint, brand new carpet, a new water softener, water heater, and AC system. The gorgeous kitchen is a showstopper with upgraded cabinets, sleek granite countertops, and a spacious island that flows effortlessly into the dining and great room—perfect for entertaining! A full bedroom and bathroom on the first floor provide the ideal setup for guests or multigenerational living. Upstairs, unwind in the luxurious master suite, complete with an en suite bathroom and a huge walk-in closet. The community offers beautiful walking paths, play areas, and is just minutes from the Red Mountain 202 Freeway and a quick 20-minute drive to Sky Harbor Airport!

13313 N 84th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85381

$575,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,336 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6780747
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Check out this home on 1/3rd of an acre with NO HOA!..3 car garage with epoxy flooring, RV parking with electric hookups, travertine front patio leads you into to the spacious front living room, updated kitchen features granite countertops, white cabinets and double ovens, formal dining with patio overlooking pool area, family room with stacked stone fireplace, and a bedroom with full bath downstairs, two more guest rooms upstairs, large primary suite with updated primary bath. Huge backyard with turf, pavers, fruit trees and sparkling swimming pool to entertain family and friends. Don't miss out on this one!

10015 E Mountain View Road Unit 1004 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$575,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,792 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749416
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to a charming oasis in the heart of Scottsdale Ranch, where elegance meets comfort. This exceptional home offers a spacious living area perfect for relaxation and entertaining, highlighted by a cozy fireplace that invites warmth and charm. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring custom cabinetry, gleaming quartz countertops, and state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances. Unwind in the expansive Primary Suite, your personal retreat, complete with a spa-like bath designed for ultimate relaxation. Discover luxury living at its finest in one of Scottsdale's most sought-after neighborhoods!

955 S Henry Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$575,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,539 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783385
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this lovely 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence in Cooley Station North! Discover a charming living room with high ceilings, half-moon clerestory windows, and wood-look flooring. The inviting family room is perfect for relaxing moments with loved ones. Cook delicious meals in the gourmet kitchen, equipped with granite counters, warm wood cabinetry with crown moulding, pendant/recessed lighting, and a large serving window with a breakfast bar. You'll also find a versatile den ideal for an office or study. Upstairs, the size-able loft provides additional living space. The main bedroom offers plush new carpeting, a walk-in closet, and an ensuite with double sinks. Outdoors, you'll find a covered patio for al fresco dining and a rear-entry 3-car garage. Make it yours!

5605 N 206th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,528 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786833
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in Victory, an exclusive age-restricted community nestled next to the White Tank Mountains in Buckeye. This stunning residence, built in 2023, offers the perfect blend of modern luxury and an active lifestyle. Step inside to discover a beautifully upgraded home. Three bedrooms including an extra flex space, perfect for remote work or hobbies, an extended garage that provides ample space including built in garage cabinets for your recreational gear. The outdoor living space is a true highlight, showcasing a cozy gas fireplace and mountain views both from the backyard and gated front courtyard. The stylish furnishings and decor can be included with a full price offer, making your move seamless and stress-free. Don't miss this opportunity for you in Victory!!

2930 W Laredo Lane Phoenix, AZ 85085

$575,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,788 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784835
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Meticulously maintained home with extensive builder updates in a gated community. The owner selected timeless, soft-grey custom upgraded cabinetry (48'' in upper cabinets) with gorgeous granite and coordinating glass back splash, charming farm sink, range (ALSO PLUMBED FOR GAS) and stainless steel appliances. The open floor plan flows perfectly and has a living room/den positioned toward the front which is perfect flex space. Split master floorpan with a spacious walk-in closet, dual sinks and natural light. Upgraded flooring, window coverings, custom paint, crown molding. The backyard has a covered patio and artificial turf for the ultimate in low maintenance. Newest home in the subdivision and more current finishes. This home is spectacular.