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.

706 W Curry Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$560,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,208 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6757486
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the sought-after Mission Valley neighborhood of Chandler! This spacious single-level home features a desirable split master bedroom floor plan, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a versatile den perfect for an office or guest room. Sitting on an expansive lot, featuring lush, mature landscaping, creating a private oasis complete with a sparkling pool, perfect for entertaining or relaxing. The 2.5 car garage provides ample space for storage or a workshop. With its prime location near top-rated schools, parks, and shopping, this home is perfect for those seeking comfort and convenience in a peaceful setting.

1228 E Wesleyan Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$560,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,486 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6758491
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Prime Tempe Location! This stylish 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with 2-car garage is just minutes from ASU and the freeways. The kitchen boasts sleek stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and seamlessly flows into the dining area. Enjoy the additional living space in the separate living room which opens to the backyard. Recently updated with new flooring installed in 2024, this home features a distinctive and modern look. The backyard is perfect for entertaining, with a covered patio, misting system and a refreshing diving pool. The property is situated among single-story homes, offering added privacy. New roof. No HOA. Come see it today!

6850 N 15th Place Phoenix, AZ 85014

$560,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,906 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6710157
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Charming 3-bed, 2-bath home on a spacious corner lot with ample storage and an RV gate. The pride of ownership is evident as this home has been with the same family since it was built. Enjoy stunning mountain views from your front porch. Recent updates include a roof replacement just 2 years ago. Don't miss this opportunity!

22443 E Munoz Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$560,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,301 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731713
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home! Situated in the coveted Meridian neighborhood this property comes highly upgraded and professionally designed. Stunning laminate flooring throughout, marble kitchen backsplash, oversized island and new carpet freshly installed. All upgraded pendants and dining lighting is included, also pre-wired for surround sound. This is a 3 bedroom plus spacious office/playroom and 2 bath home. Front and back yard are connected to an automatic watering system for easy maintenance. Post tension slab included along with tankless water heater. Meridian offers lots of green spaces, parks and a luxury community pool.

17831 N 130th Avenue Sun City West, AZ 85375

$560,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,394 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6703110
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come see this completely renovated 4 Bedroom/2 Bath home with paid off solar! No detail was missed in this stunning 2394 square foot property. All work was permitted and completed by licensed contractors. Updates include: New Windows, Electrical, Plumbing, Fixtures, Paint, Flooring, ductwork, outdoor upgrades, and Appliances. From the new flooring to the kitchen upgrades, you don't want to miss out on the opportunity to tour this home! Seller to pay the $5000 SCW Asset Preservation Fee if COE by 12/31. Enjoy all of the amenities Sun City West provides! The new owner(s) will be able to pick out their new backsplash for the kitchen and installed by our contractor.

10913 W Chino Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$560,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,746 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719018
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICE ADJUSTMENT! Beautiful Lakefront Home in Ventana Lakes 55 + community! It has everything you want, 2 bedroom, 2 baths, 3 car garage, Living room, separate great room, and an Office. You will enjoy the morning sunrises and evening sunsets from the patio and backyard. Ventana Lakes is one of Peoria's premier 55+ communities. The community features 9 lakes, some with waterfalls, and great fishing! 4 pools and spas, recreation and fitness room, billiards, fine arts and crafts and quilting rooms, handball, tennis courts, Bingo games, etc.

26916 N 52nd Glen Phoenix, AZ 85083

$560,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,927 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749367
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience luxury living in this stunning resort-style retreat featuring a fenced Pebble Tec saltwater pool and spa, heated and self-cleaning with a variable speed pump. The professionally landscaped yard boasts a pomegranate tree in the front, a synthetic grass backyard, and a covered patio with extended cool decking—perfect for outdoor relaxation. Nestled in a cul-de-sac, this home offers privacy and direct access to a greenbelt and walking trail, all framed by picturesque mountain views. Inside, enjoy a formal living and dining area, along with a spacious family room that flows seamlessly into an open-concept kitchen designed for entertaining. The kitchen is equipped with a large island and sink, a breakfast bar with ample seating, a gas oven/range, a pantry, and a reverse osmosis system. Modern touches include updated light fixtures, surround sound wiring, ceiling fans, and a combination of tile and laminated flooring. The master suite is a serene retreat with dual sinks, an updated walk-in shower, a spacious walk-in closet, and a private toilet room. This smart home is equipped with a programmable thermostat, security system, and an owned solar system with a loan assumption. Additional features include garage storage cabinets, overhead storage racks, a water softener, and an automatic garage door opener. With great curb appeal and a welcoming front porch, this home is conveniently located near top-rated schools, shopping, dining, Deem Hills Recreation Area, and major highways including I-17, Loop 101, and 303.

49947 N 26th Avenue New River, AZ 85087

$560,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,784 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739056
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
360 VIEWS! This charming home sits atop a mountain on a HUGE 1.4-acre corner lot, offering unmatched scenery & privacy. Providing 3 beds, 2 baths, & a 2-car garage. Bright & light interior showcases carpet & Saltillo tile flooring t/out and vaulted ceilings that add to the airy feel. Discover the living/dining room and a cozy family room w/fireplace! The kitchen features SS appliances, oak cabinetry, a pantry, & a garden window. Primary bedroom boasts French doors to the back and an ensuite with dual sinks, a separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Relax under the back full-length covered patio while enjoying the unobstructed vistas! Want MORE? Bring your toys, RVs, horses, & other animals—this property has plenty of space! What a GEM!

27478 W Tonopah Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$560,000 - 2Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Sun City Festival Parcel S1, Buckeye
Open House
New
$560,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,998 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786670
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exceptional Opportunity at Sun City Festival in this highly upgraded Preserve model, located in the sought-after Sun City Festival community. This stunning home is truly move-in ready and offers a host of impressive features. Enter through the custom iron entry door and see well over $100,000 in thoughtful upgrades throughout. Open concept kitchen / dining / living. Two spacious suites, a primary and a guest, each with its own bathroom. An additional tiled and HVAC connected utility / hobby room off the laundry room brings living space up closer to 2,100 square feet. Step outside to the extended, beautifully paved patio, complete with a charming pergola with built-in fireplace and BBQ, perfect for entertaining or relaxing in style. Pride of ownership shines at this lightly used home.

3406 E Libby Street Phoenix, AZ 85032

$560,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Parque Vista Estates Unit 7, Phoenix
Open House
$560,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,560 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6717614
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated three-bedroom, two-bath home nestled in a prime location backing directly onto a beautiful golf course. This open-concept floorplan boasts a bright and spacious layout, The kitchen flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas, ideal for entertaining. Step outside to your private oasis which features a view fence that showcases the golf course, a large putting green, and a chipping area, perfect for golf enthusiasts. Enjoy evenings by the firepit, soaking in the serene surroundings of AZ. Best of all, there's NO HOA, offering you unparalleled freedom and flexibility.

16972 W Alice Avenue Waddell, AZ 85355

$560,000 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Northern Farms, Waddell
Open House
$560,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,788 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763393
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This better-than-new 4-bedroom + Den, 3-bathroom home is nestled in a peaceful community with no homes behind, offering ample privacy. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and entertainment, you'll have everything you need just minutes away. Whether you're looking for a primary residence or an income generating property, this home is perfect - currently operating as an established Airbnb. It features a family room and upstairs loft, highlighted by fresh interior paint, soft carpet and wood-look tile flooring. The oversized primary bedroom on the main floor has an oversized ensuite bathroom with double sinks and a walk-in shower. The kitchen offers a pantry, granite countertops, a kitchen island and an eat-in dining area. The exterior features a covered patio and lush real grass!

3839 N St Elias Circle Mesa, AZ 85215

$559,999
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,181 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766638
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to 3839 N St Elias Cir, nestled on a quiet cul-de-sac with mountain views in the highly desirable Red Mountain Ranch community of Mesa, AZ. This 3 bedroom home, plus a spacious den, offers not only a beautifully maintained interior but also a lifestyle that embraces Arizona's natural beauty. The peaceful backyard is a private retreat with a large, extended covered patio, perfect for dining, surrounded by vibrant landscaping. From your kitchen window, enjoy the view of blooming flowers and frequent hummingbird visits. The cozy gazebo offers a shaded sitting area, making it the ideal spot to savor your morning coffee. Inside, the home features soft, clean carpeting with upgraded padding, providing comfort underfoot. High ceilings and very large energy efficient windows invite an abundance of natural light, creating a bright, airy atmosphere throughout. The kitchen overlooks the living room and is designed with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and soft close cabinetry, blending style and function. The den, larger than a standard bedroom, is equipped with custom shelves and drawers, offering versatility for work or leisure. Living in Red Mountain Ranch means more than just a home; it's a lifestyle. With access to world class golf courses, fitness centers, hiking trails, and more, there's always something to enjoy. Plus, located just minutes from the Red Mountain 202, the home's location provides easy access to local dining, shopping, and entertainment. This well maintained property combines comfort, convenience, and a true sense of community. With its move in ready condition and prime cul-de-sac location, this home is a perfect sanctuary for those looking to embrace both relaxation and an active lifestyle.