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.

240 W Dorado Circle Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$569,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,672 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743546
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in the highly sought-after neighborhood of Old Litchfield Park. This exceptional property offers NO HOA and is short-term rental friendly, making it an ideal choice for both homeowners and investors. The home features exquisite Spanish-inspired touches throughout, offering a unique blend of elegance and comfort. In 2024, the kitchen and bathrooms were fully remodeled with designer touches that elevate every space. The heart of the home is the spacious eat-in kitchen, perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. It boasts a walk-in pantry, a convenient pot-filler faucet over the stove, and ample space for all your culinary needs. Adjacent to the kitchen is a separate office, ideal for remote work or as a quiet study. The primary suite is a true retreat, featuring a remodeled bathroom with a large, luxurious shower that adds a touch of spa-like serenity. The living area is highlighted by a beautifully designed fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Step outside to discover two stunning new pergolas on both the front and back patios, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation. The property also features a beautifully crafted designer side gate that enhances the home's curb appeal. The large diving pool offers a perfect oasis for relaxation and entertainment. This home has been maintained, with a newer flat roof, hot water heater, and pool pump all replaced in 2020, ensuring peace of mind for years to come. Located just a short walk from Stagg's Park, Litchfield's Lake, the Recreational Center, and the iconic Wigwam Resort, this home offers a perfect balance of luxury and convenience. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exceptional property your own!

5720 S Wildrose -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$569,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,818 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731718
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover elevated living in the stunning 55+ Encore community. This Manhattan model home is nestled on a desirable corner lot beside a tranquil park. From the moment you arrive, curb appeal captivates with lush surroundings. Inside, soaring ceilings and an extended great room create a sense of openness, while the private study offers a perfect space to unwind or work. The gourmet kitchen boasts a massive island and walk-in pantry, ideal for any culinary endeavor. Outside, relax on your extended porch or covered patio adorned with travertine, or challenge yourself on the 4-hole putting green. The 2.5 car garage, with epoxy floors and built-in cabinets, completes this thoughtfully designed retreat.

9238 E Diamond Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$569,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Oakwood Country Club - Active Adult 40/55+ / Sun Lakes Unit Thirty-four, Sun Lakes
Open House
$569,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,763 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768385
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED! Light and open single-level home with vaulted ceilings. Completely new modern kitchen with white cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances including new gas oven/range. New plank flooring throughout. 2 bedrooms plus a den/study (could be 3rd BR). 2 recently updated bathrooms. Extended 2 car garage with GOLF CART SPACE, extra storage and new epoxy floor. Home water purification system. Covered patio & spacious back yard. Brand new roof (new tiles too)!) --- Oakwood Country Club is one of Arizona's premier Active Adult communities. Guard-gated entry. 45 holes of beautifully maintained championship golf. 2 community restaurants. 7 community pools. Fitness Center. Tennis & Pickleball. Walking trails & much more! - Just move in and enjoy the Oakwood Country Club lifestyle!

2015 W Wescott Drive Phoenix, AZ 85027

$569,000 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Green Meadows No. 3, Phoenix
Open House
$569,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,779 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774277
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home in desirable North Phoenix! Featuring fresh interior paint, brand new carpeting, and upgraded kitchen countertops, this home is move-in ready. With two master bedrooms, there's plenty of space for everyone. The second floor offers a versatile space that can be used as a master suite, private apartment, perfect for guests or additional living quarters. Step outside to a lush, grassy backyard with a raised garden bed, perfect for cultivating your own vegetables, and relax in the hot tub under the shaded gazebo. With easy freeway access, this home combines convenience with comfort, making it an ideal North Phoenix retreat! 2 ACs new in 2019.

2947 N Sonoran Hills Mesa, AZ 85207

$568,995
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,087 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779124
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning open floor plan in the gated Desert Creek community at Las Sendas set on a premium lot close to the community pool! Recent upgrades including Monte Carlo fans, new tile showers, & updated main flr powder room. Full wall sliding glass doors reveal a low maintenance yard, ideal for gathering. The beautiful kitchen with stainless steel appliances & quartz countertops with abundant storage in the double stacked cabinets & walk-in pantry. Expansive primary suite features two walk-in closets, balcony & nook perfect for a home office. Second bedroom features updated ensuite full bathrm. Wood-look tile flooring throughout. Smart features include Ring cameras, August locks & Nest thermostats. The two car garage has 220v, ideal for potential EV charging, & storage with large ceiling rack. Conveniently located near the 202 freeway, shops, and restaurants, with easy access to Tonto National Forest, Salt River and Saguaro Lake. Welcome to your new home!

6428 N 190th Drive Waddell, AZ 85355

$568,990
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,229 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745700
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful home back towards the White Tanks Mountains on large homesite with no neighbors behind you. The beautiful Irwin floorplan has a 3 tandem garage, 3 bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. 9' ceilings, wood plank style tile floorings throughout the home, 8' interior doors, gourmet kitchen package, kitchen tile backsplash and huge island makes this home the perfect spot to entertain! This home is built zero energy ready with spray foam insulation, 2 x 6 construction and 85% offset solar system included giving you a HERS rating in the single digits! This home is ready now!

3131 N Central Avenue Unit 3016 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$568,933
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6596296
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
*Construction completed* 5% BUYER INCENTIVE! Introducing Edison Midtown Phase 2 with 60 new construction condominiums. This spacious two bedroom condo offers ten ft. ceilings, an open floor plan, and large master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Chefs kitchen offers expansive cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances including a gas range. Edison Midtown features incredible amenities for that perfect Urbanite lifestyle. A beautiful pool and lap pool, 2000 sq. ft. fitness center and lounge, and gated parking garage.

2232 E Blanche Drive Phoenix, AZ 85022

$568,500
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,826 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6736754
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller will consider contributing to buyer's loan costs and/or Interest rate buy down with the right offer! Stunning move-in ready 4-Bedroom, 2-Bathroom Home in beautiful North Phoenix with NO HOA! Welcome to this tastefully updated, turn-key residence in a quiet North Phoenix neighborhood. This home boasts four spacious bedrooms and two modern bathrooms, mountain views, offering comfort and convenience. Enjoy a fresh, contemporary interior with stylish finishes throughout. Perfectly situated close to hiking at Lookout Mountain, shopping, dining, and close freeway access, this home combines practicality with a taste of luxury. Close to Costco, Sprouts, Aldi and more! Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity!

12386 W Cassia Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

$568,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,374 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752908
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your dream home in this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom gem. With a spacious loft and a covered patio, this home offers plenty of room to grow and entertain. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring modern finishes and a stylish herringbone pattern backsplash that adds a touch of elegance. The beautiful wood-like tile flooring in high traffic areas adds warmth and durability. The unfinished backyard has mountain view and is a blank slate, ready for you to customize and create your perfect outdoor oasis.

20323 E Happy Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$568,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,080 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754931
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Spacious and bright 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom modular home on just over an acre of land in Queen Creek, AZ with large bedrooms, walk-in closets and large storage closets. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) installed throughout entire house in 2019. New roof installed September 2021. Acre is perimeter and cross fenced and within riding and walking distance of Santan Mountain Regional Park. 16' x 32' galvanized steel 2-stall shed row for horses and huge paver patio for outdoor enjoyment yet property is minutes away from Equestrian Center, Fry's Grocery, Fat Cats, Caldwell County BBQ and more.

2438 W Hearn Road Phoenix, AZ 85023

$568,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,344 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739186
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 2344 SQFT home has been completely renovated, featuring all-new cabinetry and quartz countertops throughout the house. The open-concept living area is perfect for entertaining, and the brand-new kitchen shines with its modern design. All bathrooms have been redone with beautiful new tile work and contemporary finishes. The four spacious bedrooms offer ample storage and natural light. Enjoy the low-maintenance landscaped yard. Conveniently located next to the I-17 and close to amenities, schools, and parks.

16612 N 151st Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$568,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,856 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6710976
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning two-story home warm and inviting from the moment you step through the door. Home featuring so many upgrades you won't believe this beauty, from exquisite diagonal tile flooring that runs throughout the entire first floor, leading into a gourmet eat-in kitchen with upgraded Cherry Wood 42-inch cabinets, granite countertops, large kitchen island, great for entertaining. The kitchen overlooks the backyard oasis with a sparkling pool. Second floor master suite with walk-out deck overlooking mountain views. Enormous master bath with garden tub and separate shower, large walk-in closet. All other bedrooms are abundant in size. Enormous game room can be converted into two extra bedrooms The home also features a downstairs office and can be converted into a fifth bedroom. We are just minutes away from schools, shopping, restaurants, Surprise Stadium-Spring Training, outdoor Recreation center, Surprise Aquatic Center, events and Festivals and hotels. You will enjoy this highly upgraded exquisite home, conveniently located few minutes away from the downtown Heritage district where the family fun begins.