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.

870 W Shellfish Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

$574,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,035 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751826
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Centrally located in the highly desirable Gilbert Islands community, this home offers both modern amenities and an eco-friendly lifestyle. Equipped with solar panels and an EV charging station, it's perfect for the environmentally conscious homeowner. This charming residence features a spacious layout with 3 bedrooms plus a loft/den, a large family room, and a well-appointed kitchen with stainless steel appliances and new granite countertops. Enjoy the serene ambiance of a quiet street across from the lake, with a private backyard that backs to a treed park—no neighbors directly behind. The resort-like outdoor space includes a large pool, ample gardening area, and side-yard storage for your toys. Great access to local amenities, schools and shopping.

406 E Glenhaven Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

$574,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,303 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762786
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come see this beautiful, upgraded 4 bed, 3 full bath home in a quiet section of The Foothills. The kitchen features custom upgrades including Wellborn cabinets, quartz countertops, island, and pendant lighting. The guest bedroom is downstairs, with full bath. The owner's suite features vaulted ceilings, shutters, and a private balcony to enjoy the gorgeous mountain views. The attached bonus room can be used as an office, nursery, or workout room. The owner's bath has a custom tile shower, huge vanity with quartz countertop, dual sinks, and upgraded flooring. The custom closet has a built-in dresser and shelves. Both secondary baths have been updated with new vanities, quartz countertops, fixtures, and paint. The private north-facing backyard is perfect for entertaining or unwinding while taking in the gorgeous mountain views. New refrigerator and dishwasher installed this year. Roof and HVAC are less than 6 yrs old and will give you years of enjoyment without worry or cost.

9136 E Plata Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$574,900
5 Beds
2 Baths
2,167 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764130
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Better than New!! Welcome to this Stunning Fully Remodeled 5-Bedroom 2-bathroom Home with100k in Quality Upgrades you wont find in a new build! This beautiful residence is meticulously updated. Home features appliances, custom cabinetry, Barndoor, lighting, and generous counter space perfect for both cooking and entertaining. Spacious living area flows into 5 well maintaned bedrooms, 5th bedroom used as a bedroom but could be a den, provides a great space for family and guests. Bathrooms have been beautifully updated, with modern finishes and fixtures. New landscaping in both front and back yards include sleek pavers. The backyard is designed for entertaining with welcoming lush synthetic grass complete with an above-ground pool, ideal for summer. See doc tab for generous list of upgrades

2218 W Curry Street Chandler, AZ 85224

$574,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,040 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774650
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Your Dream Family Home! Fall in love with this stunning North Chandler residence featuring 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, and a Sparkling Pool—perfect for Family Fun and Relaxation! This beautiful Home boasts impressive Curb Appeal with a Spacious 2-Car Garage and an RV Gate for all your toys and adventures. Step inside to discover a Bright and Inviting Interior, highlighted by a completely remodeled Chef's Kitchen. Enjoy Upgraded Premium Cabinetry, a large Kitchen Island, Granite Countertops, and a cozy Eat-in Dining area, all complemented by elegant Tile Flooring and Soft Carpet in just the right places. The welcoming Living Room features French doors that lead to your own oasis—a Crystal-Clear Pool surrounded by a Covered Patio. The Oversized Main retreat is a true sanctuary, offering His and Hers Closets, a resort-style Ensuite Shower, and easy access to the backyard patio through more French Doors. Additional highlights include a Soft Water System, Dual-Pane Windows, recent Attic Insulation, and a Drop-Down Ladder in the Garage for extra storage. Both front and backyards are equipped with a Sprinkler System, and the New Turf creates a low-maintenance, green space. Enjoy modern conveniences with a 3-Stage Efficient Pool Motor, an Outdoor Hot and Cold Shower by the Pool, and Wi-Fi-controlled A/C thermostat and Garage Door. Located in a peaceful neighborhood, this home is surrounded by Parks and Common Areas, perfect for family outings and community fun. Don't miss this incredible opportunity....this gem is priced to sell!

12827 S Hermit Road Buckeye, AZ 85326

$574,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,161 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6729702
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome into your beautiful spacious horse property with a pool located on just over an acre! The property is fully fenced and has a 2 car garage. You'll love this spacious floor plan, with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and has tons of natural light throughout with vaulted ceilings. The gorgeous kitchen has custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances and a breakfast bar. The owner's suite features tons of space, with a large master bathroom that has a separate tub and shower and double sinks. Out back you'll find a fenced pool with a large baja step and is surrounded with travertine decking. The extended covered patio makes for great entertaining space. This oversized lot has tons of space to build horse stalls, storage sheds etc. Home is located in a non HOA community. Come out to see it!

4570 S Felix Place Chandler, AZ 85248

$574,900 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Parkview Place, Chandler
Open House
$574,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,983 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757381
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Parkview Place, a beautiful GATED Ocotillo community. This home has been meticulously maintained by original owner and shows like a model! Fabulous floor plan features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths PLUS a large open LOFT and 2 car garage. Modern Craftsman design features 42'' white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, quartz kitchen countertops, wood plank style tile, upgraded carpet in bedrooms, white blinds, satin nickel fixtures and finishes, 8' four panel sliding patio door and much more. Artificial turf in yard and sparkling community pool with BBQ area.. At Parkview Place, convenient, low maintenance living meets exceptional design & innovation. Snedigar Park and the Fulton Ranch walking paths and lakes just steps away. Fabulous lock and leave opportunity!

19001 W Desert Mirage Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$574,500
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,010 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6756108
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in Surprise! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence with a den boasts impressive curb appeal, featuring a tranquil front porch. Inside, you'll find a meticulously maintained space, highlighted by a gourmet kitchen with custom cabinets, a pantry, an oversized island, and stainless-steel appliances. The open-concept design seamlessly flows to an inviting outdoor area with dual sliders, a covered patio equipped with ceiling fans and TV hookups, and a self-cleaning, heated, and cooled saltwater pool with a beautiful water feature. The owner's suite is a spacious retreat, featuring a spa-like bathroom and a custom closet. Additional highlights include plantation shutters, solar, sun screens, and an oversized garage with built-in cabinets. Come see it today!

18313 E Spring Valley Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$574,449
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,678 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758949
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful home in the Resort Collection at Trilogy at Verde River. The Valletta offers a well thought-out layout with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an office. Enjoy Beautiful Gold Landscape Package which Includes Pavers and upgraded window covering package. The kitchen is stunning with Barcelona Granite Countertops and a spacious kitchen island with a breakfast bar. The great room boasts a 12 foot multi-slide door that open to the covered patio. The primary suite has a lavish ensuite with a huge tiled shower and walk-in closet. Do not miss out on this home The amenities at Verde River are World Class with Tom Lehman inspired eighteen-hole Golf course, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and bocce ball, heated lap pool and Resort style swimming pool, hot tub, Afterburn fitness center, Helen's demonstration Kitchen for cooking classes and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual poolside dining at Eddy's Diner and gourmet dining at award-winning Needle Rock Kitchen and Tap, Alvea Spa with full-service Salon and Spa amenities, Art Loft and events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails.

14226 W Parkland Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$574,400
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,103 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761226
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this spectacular home-resort style living with a serene interior atmosphere! Meticulously updated San Carlos model featuring private, heated pool and amazing views of the 18th fairway of the Grandview Golf Course-situated on a large lot in a low tax area with no HOA fees! Come inside this luxurious dream home that features custom granite countertops throughout, upgraded GE Profile S/S kitchen appliances & updated spa-inspired bathrooms, plantation shutters T/O, popcorn ceilings removed, wall corners bullnosed, int/ext neutral paint, OWNED SOLAR BLANKET HEATING SYSTEM FOR POOL, automatic Remote-Controlled Misters on rear patio, Culligan water softener system & mature fruit trees, beautifully landscaped, Oversized utility room w custom utility sink-storage & pull-out faucet.

8762 E Posada Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$574,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,516 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732222
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Highly sought-after MOVE-IN READY single level home with 4 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms! The open kitchen features a large island, granite counters, tile backsplash, and stainlesss steel appliances- perfect for hosting gatherings with family and friends. The walk-in pantry provides ample storage space for all your kitchen essentials. Outside you will find a private pool with a waterfall feature and pergola, perfect for outdoor entertaining and relaxation. The primary bedroom is spacious with a bathroom that offers dual sinks, separate shower/bathtub, and a large walk-in closet. A new AC was installed this year, so you don't have to worry about the heat. Quick access to 202 & 60 freeways! Don't miss out on the chance to make this house your home! Gilbert Schools/Mesa taxes

20221 N 31st Street Phoenix, AZ 85050

$574,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,177 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749488
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Immaculate 5-Bedroom, 3-Bath Move-In Ready Home with Fresh Updates, and Backyard Paradise. Discover the perfect blend of modern luxury and convenience. This newly painted 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home is move-in ready and packed with features that make it an exceptional find. With two brand-new AC units installed in May 2024, you'll enjoy year-round comfort in this energy-efficient, beautifully upgraded property. Step inside to find a bright, open layout with plenty of space to entertain. The living room is prewired for a large TV, ready for your home theater setup—perfect for movie nights or watching the big game in style. The home also features a remodeled master bathroom and new flooring upstairs, adding a touch of luxury at every turn. The wardrobe in the upstairs guest room conveys with the property, offering added convenience. Outside, the backyard oasis awaits, featuring a charming pergola and fruit trees that create the perfect setting for outdoor gatherings or peaceful evenings at home. Location couldn't be betterCostco is less than a mile away, and you're just minutes from Desert Ridge Marketplace for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Plus, with easy access to Loop 101 and SR-51, commuting anywhere in Phoenix is a breeze. This stunning home checks all the boxes: space, style, comfort, and a prime location. Don't miss this incredible opportunityschedule your showing today before it's gone!

29502 N 126th Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$574,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,287 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767268
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME! As you step through the beautiful, lush front yard, you'll immediately feel at home. Inside, enter through a wide foyer and spacious living room which flows seamlessly into the family room, just off the updated kitchen. The kitchen boasts granite counter-tops, a large island with a breakfast bar, and opens into a roomy breakfast nook. This home features a split floor plan with a generous primary bedroom, a large en-suite bath, a walk-in closet, and a stylish tiled shower. On the opposite side, you'll find three additional bedrooms and a full bath. Outside, enjoy a large grassy play area and a recently installed pool, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. Three car tandem garage and spacious inside laundry room add to the efficiency of this home. See it today