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.

2110 Leisure World -- Mesa, AZ 85206

$559,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,666 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785475
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is an amazing, golf course property that you can not miss. The home sits on the 14th fairway of Coyote Run and faces south for the winter sun. The back patio has a large covered area with an outdoor kitchen and pavers all the way out to the wall for a huge area to entertain. This split floorplan has high vaulted ceilings in the main living areas and primary bedroom and bathroom. The kitchen has newer stainless steel appliances and opens up to the back patio. The home comes with all the furniture inside and out and even a golf cart. All this in the Premiere Active Adult Community of Leisure World with 36 holes of private golf, new tennis complex, pickle ball, swimming pools, library, state of the art fitness center, theater, arts and crafts, billiard room, and much more!

4125 W Bradshaw Creek Lane New River, AZ 85087

$559,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,851 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770710
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Circle Mountain Ranch. This Stunning 2019 Built Single Story Home Features a Pool and Split Floor Plan. Upon Arrival You Are Greeted with a Professionally Landscaped Yard, Paver Driveway and Gorgeous Entry. This Home Has 4 Bedrooms and 3 Bathrooms, and Just Over 1850 Sq Ft. The 2.5 Car Tandem Garage with Built In Ceiling Storage and Water Softener is Sure to Wow! The Kitchen Features Quartz Countertops, Dark Cabinets, Stainless Steel Appliances, Gas Stove and Full Pantry. The Primary Suite Offers Upgraded Luxury Vinyl Flooring, Full Bathroom with Separate Tub and Shower, Oversized Closet and Access to the Patio and Pool. Enjoy the Pool and Turf Area to Cool Off and Enjoy The Beautiful Views Anthem Community Has to Offer. Enjoy the Amenities Anthem has to offer - walking/hiking paths, parks, shopping, dining, golf & more all with EZ freeway access.

26001 S Drifter Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$559,900
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,979 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6635749
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacularly remodeled 2 bdrm+Den & 2.5 bath home on HUGE corner lot w/ low maintenance yard, large covered patio, & a beautiful fountain w/new pump. New cabinets & quartz counters throughout home w/ HUGE Kitchen Island. Ample storage incl. HUGE pantry w/barn door! Large beautiful wood-burning fireplace. New AC unit on roof & new Split-System. New roof w/ transferrable warranty. Solar panels prepaid w/nearly 8 years left on FULLY prepaid solar assignable lease. All floor-level windows are new. Brand new SS appliances incl. fridge, drawer microwave, & wine/soda fridge convey. New plank tile floors throughout. New water heater. Both showers are newly tiled w/lge glass enclosure in master & separate tub for soaking. All new fixtures + ceiling fans w/remotes! Fresh paint in/ out. OWNER/AGENT

21955 S 219th Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$559,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,429 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6696421
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
$35,000 UNDER APPRAISED VALUE. Oversized private lot. Come see this well-maintained original owner home in Crismon Heights that sits on a premium oversized homesite with no backyard neighbors! This floor plan offers 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths in 2429 SqFt with an open great room layout. The kitchen features staggered white cabinets with crown molding and a built-in desk, granite counters, tile backsplash, stainless appliances including a gas range with double ovens, a walk-in pantry, an island with breakfast bar, and a spacious dining area with new large picture windows overlooking the backyard. Glass French doors in the great room let in tons of natural light and lead out to the covered patio and beautifully landscaped backyard. The extensive paver patio provides lots of room for entertaining, and the backyard also has grass for kids and pets to play on, a tranquil fountain, and side yard with lemon and lime trees and a double gate. The primary bedroom has a charming window seat, and a private en-suite bath with dual sink vanity with granite countertop, separate tub & shower, and a big walk-in closet. Other features include a spacious laundry room with upper/lower cabinets & sink; tile, luxury vinyl, and laminate flooring throughout (no carpet!), vaulted ceilings, and an oversized 3 car tandem garage with service door. Great location close to parks and trails within the community, and just a short bike ride to the upcoming Queen Creek Aquatic center opening soon!

13447 W Ballad Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$559,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,618 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6696003
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You are going to love this home! Briarwood CC Golf Course Corner lot. Remodeled 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath home with a convenient double front door entry, vaulted celing in the Front Room/Dining Room. New granite countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms. New Stainless Steel Appliances and tile and carpet flooring throughout. All cabinets have been painted and popcorn ceilings have been removed. Master Bedroom has a dressing table, walk-in closet and private entry adjacent to the Rose Garden. Back Porch is an enclosed Arizona Room. The Back Porch/Garage floors have been coated and sealed. 2.5 car garage (room for a golf cart) is a handyman's delight with workbenches and lots of storage cabinets. Enjoy this Sun City West treasure! Comes with a CC membership. ARMLS CMA value of $600,270

860 E Paradise Lane Phoenix, AZ 85022

$559,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,786 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741464
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*HOME INTERIOR IS BEING PROFESSIONALLY PATCHED AND PAINTED IN NEXT 2 VWEEKS!*Exceptional value on this turn-key, fully remodeled desert ranch home. Greentrails is special enclave in Moon Valley that offers outdoor enthusiasts walking/jogging paths and access to mountain trails right inside the community, along with a private park, playground and sprawling greenbelt just steps away. This home captures the essence of AZ living with gorgeous surroundings, remodeled interiors and charming outdoor spaces, located on a cul-de-sac lot. Exceptional curb appeal with easy-care landscaping, slump block exterior and entry courtyard. The fresh remodel brings luxe finishes and modern appeal, in an open floorplan. Wood plank tile flooring is paired with neutral paint throughout. The updated kitchen features white shaker-style cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, granite counters and a breakfast bar. This home features an open floorplan and no interior steps. Retreat to the split primary suite which opens to the rear patio and features a large walk-in closet and remodeled private bath with fully-tiled shower, double sink vanity, dual flush toilet and tile flooring. The hall bath is also fully-remodeled. All bedrooms have closet organizing systems and ceiling fans. Whether you are dipping into the renovated pool ('20) or entertaining under the spacious covered patio, you'll find that the rear yard offers opportunities for year-round enjoyment. The pie-shaped lot provides room for potentially adding a casita, which is now legal in Phoenix. A side parking slab leads to an RV gate and gravel parking area beyond. Home is located in the Paradise Valley school district and is nearby many local staples/destinations along with the best culinary, retail, and entertainment epicenters.

10129 S 43rd Lane Laveen, AZ 85339

$559,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,539 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752936
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Custom home in the gated community of Vaquero Estates with mountain views & breathtaking sunsets! Light & bright open concept floor plan features soaring ceilings, well-maintained tile flooring & carpeting in all the right places. The chef's kitchen boasts granite counters, an island with a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, reverse osmosis, & opens to the family room - ideal for entertaining. Primary retreat is split from guest bedrooms for ultimate privacy. Impressive bath has dual sinks, free standing tub, & walk in shower. Enjoy the AZ heat in your incredible backyard with a large covered patio (35' x 12'), turf, & mature landscaping. Also featured, a 2-car garage. You'll love this private community with an amazing central location minutes to schools, shopping, dining, & more!

7032 S 38 Place Phoenix, AZ 85042

$559,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,766 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757238
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Here's an opportunity to live in the charming, gated golf course community of The Pines at the Raven. Breathtaking golf course & mountain views. This single level home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with a desirable split floorplan, is located in a cul-de-sac backing to beautiful golf course. Chef's kitchen is open to the family room. Ceramic tile in the entire house. Fireplace in the great room and much more! Community Amenities Include Pool/Spa. Close to Restaurants, Shops, Golf, freeways and Airport,

22510 E Via Las Brisas -- Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$559,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,202 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775767
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The search is finally over! This stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a 2-car garage, tasteful brick accents, and a welcoming front porch. Has both an office and team room. Discover a spacious great room with high ceilings, Brand new carpet and paint throughout. Kitchen comes with granite counters, abundant wood cabinetry with crown molding, pendant/recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar for casual meals. You'll also find a cozy den ideal for an office or lounge. The primary bedroom offers plush carpeting, an ensuite with double vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. Enjoy outdoor moments in the quaint backyard, showcasing a covered patio, pristine artificial turf, and a refreshing pool.

11520 E Kiva Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$559,900
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,993 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776202
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the highly desirable Adult Community of Sunland Spring Village, where your retirement home becomes a reality! Discover this gorgeous home, boasting stone accents, a desert front yard, a 2-car plus a golf cart garage, and an inviting front patio. The lovely interior impresses you with a spacious living/dining room, vaulted ceilings, designer paint, a kitchen hutch, and wood-look tile flooring. Kitchen is fully equipped with ample counter space, panel lighting, wood cabinetry, and a breakfast nook with a bay window. The primary retreat has tray ceilings, plush carpeting, an immaculate ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Attached workshop for your creativity! Unwind under the covered patio in the tranquil backyard with artificial turf and colorful vegetation. Act NOW!!

9812 E Pampa Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$559,900
5 Beds
2 Baths
2,472 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6752414
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 5 bedroom single level home is ready for new owners! With an oversized guest quarters/living space this property is perfect for multi generational living or an oversized office/game room. Equipped with NEW AC Units and a bright open floor plan you will love the layout of this well cared for home. The kitchen has a large island, tons of cabinet space and a large dining table for gathering. With a walk in pantry and oversized laundry there's plenty of room for storage. The oversized 3 car garage is air conditioned and has plenty of room for a workshop or gym. In the backyard you'll find a covered patio, garden with citrus and pomegranates, a water retention system and irrigation, as well as chicken coop! With quick freeway access you will love this location!

22408 N Las Vegas Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$559,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,033 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745215
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step inside this beautifully updated 2-bedroom plus a den, home in the sought-after Sun City West community. Freshly painted throughout & featuring brand-new wood-look tile flooring in the main living areas. The kitchen is showcasing sleek quartz countertops, white wood shaker cabinetry, chic shiplap backsplash & stainless steel appliances. The primary suite is boasting a generous walk-in closet & plush new carpet. The bathroom features unique mosaic tile, a black vanity, & a quartz countertop, creating a sophisticated & spa-like environment. The spacious 2 car garage is equipped w/ ample storage cabinets. The backyard has a covered patio, ideal for relaxing & enjoying the beautiful desert landscaping that surrounds it. To top it all off, this home also features a brand-new roof & HVAC.