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.

4721 N 177th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$553,490
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,530 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779778
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BRAND NEW, energy-efficient home available in GATED COMMUNITY! The showstopper single-level Bailey floorplan boasts a charming front porch, 5 bedrooms each with a spacious walk-in closet and a 3-car garage! This home has umber cabinets with white quartz countertops, wood-look tile flooring with beige carpet. ALREADY INCLUDED - washer, dryer, window blinds (except slider), refrigerator, soft water loop and MORE!!!! Enjoy EXCLUSIVE amenities right at your doorstep including parks, pickleball, soccer, play area, walking trails, basketball court, ramada with outdoor kitchen, gas grill and fireplace, and more!!! Each home is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you ENJOY more SAVINGS!

10231 E Ulysses Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$553,418
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,994 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769957
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this BEAUTIFUL 2024 home in the highly sought-after Medley at Avalon Crossing! Over $82k in UPGRADES! This GORGEOUS home combines modern elegance + thoughtful living spaces! GOURMET kitchen features quartz countertops + Whirlpool stainless appliance suite! The great room is perfect for entertaining, while the upstairs loft offers additional living space. Private primary suite w/ensuite bath! Balcony! Situated in a BEAUTIFUL community, residents can take advantage of wonderful amenities including a heated pool, playgrounds, bocce ball courts, and scenic walking paths lined with trees. Perfectly designed for modern living, this home offers luxury, comfort, and community all in one! WELCOME HOME!

2389 W Spaulding Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$553,300
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,273 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761575
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
3 car garage!! The Courtland floorplan offers a spacious and well-designed single-level living experience, encompassing 2,273 square feet. You are welcomed into an open-concept living area that seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and family rooms. The kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with modern gas appliances, ample counter space, and a large island that serves as the heart of the home, ideal for meal preparation and casual dining. The adjacent dining area provides ample space for family meals and entertaining guests, while the family room is perfect for relaxation and gatherings. This community features resort like amenities including a large pool, splashpad, park & clubhouse with fitness center!

17149 N Stonebluff Road Maricopa, AZ 85139

$553,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,922 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6666798
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
This beautiful new Champion home, on an expansive, gated lot of 4.55 acres, is on a paved road with stunning mountain views and unforgettable Arizona sunsets. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home has more than enough room to entertain and make unforgettable memories. A 30x35-foot enclosed shop with a concrete floor and convenient gravel driveway offers plenty of room for projects or storage. This home is built for Arizona, with upgraded 2''x6'' exterior walls with R-19 insulation, R40 roof insulation, well water, and unheard-of power availability consisting of two 400 amp panels for your home, shop, electric vehicles, or anything else you choose to build. This is a uniquely attractive home with numerous upgrades that you won't want to miss, and no HOA to limit your possibilities

825 S Henry Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$553,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,529 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758655
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home nestled in a prime corner lot in Gilbert! This spacious 2-story, 2,467 sq ft property boasts a versatile loft and a den/office, perfect for work-from-home setups or additional living space. The main floor features elegant hardwood flooring, complemented by gorgeous plantation shutters throughout the home. The kitchen is a chef's delight with cherry 42-inch cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Enjoy outdoor living with your private courtyard, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. The 3-car garage provides plenty of space for vehicles and storage. The HOA maintains the front yard and offers access to community pools, making maintenance a breeze. With easy freeway access, and close proximity to shopping and shopping and restaurants, this home combines comfort, style, and convenience in one perfect package.

19702 E Arrowhead Trail Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$553,000
5 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,040 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730181
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Check out this home in the heart of Queen Creek. It's just over 3,000 square feet with 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. This home offers a large and spacious great room as you enter. The kitchen and living area is an additional space that is large and open giving you all the space you need. The backyard is low maintenance and the turf makes it feel like you have a yard minus the hassle. There is an extended patio in the backyard that can help shade you when temperatures begin to increase. There is one room located downstairs and the remaining four bedrooms and laundry room are located upstairs. The master bathroom has large his and her walk-in closets. The seller is open providing concessions to buy down the rate and allowing you to reduce your monthly payment

10852 E Texas Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$552,888 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in La Mira Discovery, Mesa
Open House
$552,888
5 Beds
3 Baths
1,960 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761136
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6761136 November Completion. Welcome to the Harlow at La Mira! This charming single-story home greets you with a cozy front porch. Just steps away, the open-concept kitchen with an island seamlessly flows into the dining and gathering rooms, creating an ideal space for entertaining. The private owner's suite boasts a corner-entry bathroom with dual sinks and a generous walk-in closet. Three equally sized secondary bedrooms share a full bath, providing ample comfort for everyone. Structural options include: bedroom 5 and bath 3, garage service door, raised bath vanity at bath 2 and 3, paver front porch, soft water loop, and garden tub in primary.

3454 E Jasmine Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$552,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,530 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752588
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You'll love this beautiful ranch-style home in the desirable Community of Bella Vista Farms! With 5 beds, 3 baths, & a 2-car garage, this 2024-built gem offers comfort & style! Inviting hallway ushers you to the spacious open layout enhanced by tall ceilings, wood-plank tile flooring, multiple exits, & recessed lighting t/out. The impeccable kitchen is outfitted with sleek SS appliances, granite counters, rich wood shaker cabinetry with crown molding, & a sizable island with a breakfast bar. The grand main suite has plush carpeting, a pristine ensuite, a walk-in closet, & outdoor access. The home's elegance extends outdoors to the serene backyard that comes with a extended covered patio, artificial turf, & pavers. Enjoy amenities like a community pool, playgrounds, sports fields, etc.

3131 N Central Avenue Unit 3021 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$551,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6585352
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.

4417 S 111th Drive Tolleson, AZ 85353

$551,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,524 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780759
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A rare find! You'll surely love to own this beautiful 4-bedroom residence in Tolleson! Meticulously maintained interior boasts a desirable great room graced with bountiful natural light, wood-look tile flooring, and neutral paint that creates an inviting vibe. Impeccable kitchen offers recessed lighting, glossy stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, stylish tile backsplash, plenty of white cabinetry with crown moulding, and a peninsula equipped with a breakfast bar. Romantic primary bedroom provides a private ensuite with dual sinks, a sit-down shower, and a walk-in closet. As a bonus, this gem includes a fully equipped guest's quarter! Spacious backyard features a covered patio, pergola, and artificial turf. Seize the opportunity while it's still available!

4634 N 177th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$551,190
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,530 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769363
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BRAND NEW, energy-efficient home available in GATED COMMUNITY! The well-designed Bailey is perfect when a bit more space is needed. Each of the five bedrooms in this floorplan features a spacious walk-in closet. White cabinets with quartz countertop and grey tile flooring and carpet in bedrooms. ALREADY INCLUDED - washer, dryer, window blinds (except slider), refrigerator, soft water loop and more!!!! Residents will enjoy future amenities right at their doorstep including parks, pickleball, soccer, play area, walking trails, basketball court, ramada with outdoor kitchen, gas grill and fireplace, and more!!! Each home is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you enjoy more savings!

11417 S 50th Avenue Laveen, AZ 85339

$550,995
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,380 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755226
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The notable Elderberry plan boasts four bedrooms, including a relaxing primary suite with a spacious walk-in closet and a private bath. At the heart of the home, you'll find an impressive great room, a dining room, and a well-planned kitchen showcasing a center island and a generous walk-in pantry. An upstairs loft and covered patio offer additional versatility. A convenient laundry room is also included. This home will be built with a main-floor bedroom with a full bath