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.

16089 W Electra Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$549,950
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,354 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757844
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER IS OFFERING CONCESSIONS W/ A SUCCESSFUL COE BEFORE 12/31/2024 ON this Luxuriously Upgraded Fulton home, built 2021. Spectacular spacious Open Floor Plan w/ 3 Bdrms + Den/Movie Rm(or convert to a 4th bed), & 3 Bths located on N/S facing Home Site. 4 Car garage w/ built in storage! Upgraded Kitchen Cabinets, Quartz Counters w/ Tile Back Splash & pendant lighting. Double oven, gas cook-top, stainless hood vent, walk-in Pantry, LVP Wood flooring. 96'' doors, Upgraded Accent walls, Coffered ceiling in Primary Bed, Big Spa Shower double heads in Primary Bthrm. Large Laundry w/ cabs + Lndry Sink. Beautiful fixtures throughout. Atrium like Slider leads to Xtnd Covered Patio w/custom 16K upgraded auto screens! 55K backyard includes pad 4 Ramada & one 4 spa. Water softener, Hot H2O on deman Escalante master planned community is nestled in the thriving Surprise area, conveniently located near new shopping centers, the Loop 303 freeway, and US 60. Embrace the Escalante lifestyle, complete with exceptional community amenities like an enormous neighborhood aquatic center, pickleball courts, bocce ball, frisbee golf, winding walking trails, thrilling zip lines for children, and vast open spaces.

2429 E Alameda Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$549,950
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,560 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769559
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing remodel, this home is like new! Let's start with the new paint and landscaping that greets you. All new doors, windows, garage door, and air conditioning. You'll love the wood look tile floor, modern interior colors and oversized baseboard. Bathrooms are completely new and gorgeous. Then feast your eyes on the chef's kitchen that includes a pantry closet, new stainless appliances, sparkle quartz countertop along with modern pendant lighting. It has a split floorplan along with a large indoor laundry area and extended 2 car garage. Alley access is available with a large RV gate. The house comes with 6 security cameras already installed. It's situated in a quiet cul-de-sac with friendly neighbors. Owner/agent

3021 N Randolph Road Phoenix, AZ 85014

$549,950
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,620 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6679115
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Motivated seller. Low maintenance yard front and back. All new electrical wiring, relocated electrical panel and 2 AC units. Tankless gas water heater. Modernized with addition of a permitted split master bedroom with bathroom and large closet. LED lighting throughout. Beat the heat with your own private pool. Many hospitals in the area could be a good STR or medium term rental to serve people needing that service. Great access to Highways and to downtown Phoenix. NO HOA

28201 N Granite Avenue San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$549,950
5 Beds
3 Baths
4,157 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770166
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This immaculate, highly updated 5BR, 3BA POOL home feels like a model and is move-in ready! This house is full of custom updates, including a kitchen with granite countertops, subway tile backsplash, updated cabinets, all newer appliances, and a huge pantry. All APPLIANCES INCLUDED! Downstairs features all tile flooring, while upstairs boasts beautiful wood plank floors. The fully renovated master bath is stunning! All bedrooms are spacious with walk-in closets, including a large downstairs bedroom and full bath. The backyard is an oasis with a sparkling pool, pavers, firepit, covered seating areas, and shade structures (included!). No neighbors behind or on one side for added privacy. The community offers a heated pool, spa, gym, and a nearby park! SO MANY DETAILS - YOU HAVE TO SEE IT!

19806 W San Miguel Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$549,913
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,862 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730962
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wow! Better than new and available today with Amazing mountain views! This home is placed on a 70' wide lot and offers an RV gate for your toys. Resort backyard with heated spa under beautiful pergola, pavers and more. As you enter this highly upgraded single level with upgraded elevation of stone and gated front seating area, you will notice over sized 24X12 tile floors, large open kitchen with island open to the great room, walk in pantry, built in microwave and more. Large master bedroom has two walk in closets, separate shower and tub and double sinks. Don't forget to notice the flex teen space or office area. North South exposure and washer, dryer, refrigerator and spa convey with sale. To show is to sell!

175 N Holly Road Globe, AZ 85501

$549,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,177 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6737307
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is a new home!! This spacious home is newly constructed home by one of Globe's premier builder. This home is a definite must see!! There are 4 large bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The master bedroom is on the main level and has separate soaking tub and walk-in shower, a great walk-in closet and custom cabinetry. Also on the main level, you'll love the open concept with a great kitchen with plenty of counter space, soft close cabinets, and quartz countertops. The kitchen opens up into the dining room and living area that is perfect for entertaining. There is also a 1/2 bath downstairs. Upstairs you'll find 3 more bedrooms, all good sized, and another full bathroom.

20761 W Hillcrest Boulevard Buckeye, AZ 85396

$549,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,775 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752894
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This FANTASTIC home, backing to a naturally landscaped common area and walking path, in Victory at Verrado is full of UPGRADES! BEAUTIFUL wood look tile flooring + 2023 carpet in bedrooms! CUSTOM up/down window shades + solid wood doors throughout! GOURMET kitchen w/stainless appliances, gas cooktop, wall ovens, granite counters, subway tile backsplash, island w/breakfast bar + pantry! Great room w/surround sound! Primary bedroom w/ensuite bath + large tiled walk-in shower w/bench! Separate office/den w/French doors! Step outside to your backyard OASIS w/extended covered patio w/privacy shade + trellis patio w/travertine pavers and GORGEOUS views! This is an EXTRAORDINARY LUXURY community w/breathtaking mountain views w/miles of hiking/biking trails! Amenities: pools, golf, spa, Main Street shopping/restaurants, clubs/activities + MORE! WELCOME HOME!

41758 W Cribbage Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

$549,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,485 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756759
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous, fully furnished home on the greenbelt in the Award Winning Active Adult Community of Province! This modern, great room floor plan with three full bedrooms plus den and two and a half baths is move in ready! Multi-sliding glass door out to your extended travertine patio with wonderful space for entertaining with a completely fenced yard and hot tub! 10' ceilings throughout with walk in closets in every bedroom. The kitchen is spectacular with white cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances with double ovens, gas cooktop and tons of cabinets for storage. The owner's suite has a bay window and a magnificent bathroom with a huge walk in shower and his and her vanities. The laundry room also has lots of built in cabinetry for more storage. Welcome Home!

2865 Coral Brooke Court Sierra Vista, AZ 85650

$549,900
2 Beds
3 Baths
2,540 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767350
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
ANOTHER WINTERHAVEN CUSTOM HOME...Wonderful exterior elevations, landscape, and soothing interior...this home boasts peaceful living!!! Cul-de-sac property with golf course access!!! Grandeous Entry/Foyer...Formal DR on one side, Formal LR on the other (or use for whatever you want)...Great Room w/gas log FP off Kitchen featuring SS, Gorgeous Granite, 5-burner GAS Cooktop, Breakfast Bar and Eat-In Area...Enjoy the fabulous, huge AZ room, outside Pergola covered patio, ample yard, stunning mature plantings, and impeccable Mountain Views!!! 2 Master Suites on either side of home, plus additional DEN/office w/French Doors...Huge Laundry Room w/new W/D, utility sink, outside access, and full 3/4 Bath just across...2 AC units, and pride of ownership shows!!! Come see this stunning home!!!

42201 W Rummy Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

$549,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,045 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763092
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Immaculate Waterfront Home, Fully Furnished in the Award Winning Active Adult Community of Province. Pride of ownership is eminent upon entry of this gorgeous home. Luxurious cherry bordeaux cabinets throughout with 14' ceilings at the great room and a spectacular backyard with an extended paver patio with pergola, putting green and a walk way down to the lake perfect for enjoying those gorgeous Arizona sunsets. Brand new HVAC system just installed this year including a 10 year warranty. The kitchen has rich granite countertops, black appliances with a newer stainless steel fridge and a gas range. Split floor plan with a spacious owner's suite including a bay window in the bedroom and his and her vanities in the bathroom with a nice size shower and walk in closet. Extended 4' garage extension with built in cabinets and a workbench. Additional features in this beautiful home include: a whole house water filtration system with soft water and RO system, upgraded lighting and plumbing fixtures throughout, ceiling fans and window coverings. Front paver courtyard provides another wonderful outdoor living space. The home also includes spray foam insulation and dual pane Low E windows. The home is also fully furnished including all accessories, dishes, pots and pans, linens and miscellaneous garage items. Bring your clothes and a toothbrush and Start Living the GOOD LIFE!

2532 E Aster Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$549,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,470 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764797
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing opportunity to own this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in a quiet cul-de-sac! Features a brand NEW 3.5-ton Trane AC unit with all new ductwork, installed in July. Located near restaurants, shopping, and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The living room offers wood like tile flooring, large windows, and a calming color palette. The spacious Arizona room opens to the backyard, ideal for entertaining. The kitchen includes shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, and an island with a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom features plush carpet with dual closets. Primary bath includes dual sinks and large walk in shower. The oversized backyard offers a pool, RV gate, parking, and a storage shed. Don't miss out!

1703 S Wallrade Lane Gilbert, AZ 85295

$549,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,147 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775264
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ok, these descriptions are rarely looked at, I get it, they go on forever. The bottom line is this house is incredible, ALL NEW CARPET & INTERIOR PAINT THROUGHOUT, Spacious Great Room, Large Open kitchen, Huge Kitchen Island/Bar with granite and stainless appliance Package, including the refrigerator, Beautiful, low maintenance backyard with covered patio and turf, The Primary Suite has everything you're looking for, plenty of room for a sitting area and all your furniture, primary bath boasts a double vanity, a walk-in closet, I swear could be used as a 5th bedroom, All of this is a great location and newer home, Living near San Tan Mall, Epicenter and easy access to the 202 is perfect for working from home or the office, this is a winner guys.