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.

6631 E Jasmine Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$549,900 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Pomeroy Estates, Mesa
New
$549,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,858 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787199
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Impeccably Remodeled Home with RV Gate, New Roof and No HOA! This stunning home offers modern updates, a spacious layout, and a prime location! Situated on a large lot with an RV gate, this property has been thoughtfully upgraded to provide both style and convenience. Step inside to find a welcoming interior featuring 3 generously sized bedrooms, 2.5 updated bathrooms, and a cozy family room complete with a charming fireplace. The kitchen and bathrooms have been fully remodeled with brand-new cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and elegant tile flooring. The primary ensuite is a true retreat, showcasing a beautifully tiled shower, ample storage, and private access to the backyard. Outdoors, enjoy the extended covered patio—perfect for entertaining or relaxing while overlooking your expansive backyard. Recent updates include a new roof (2024) and new A/C unit (2022) for added peace of mind. Conveniently located just minutes from the Loop 202, shopping, and dining, this home truly has it all!

5117 N 81st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$549,900 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Chateau De Vie 7, Scottsdale
New
$549,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,216 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785248
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Oasis by definition is a peaceful place in the desert or it can also be defined as 5117 N. 81st St. This designer remodeled, 2 bed/2 bath home with just over 1,200 sqft. is located in the best location in of all of Chateau De Vie and a heartbeat away from the popular attractions of Fashion Square and Old Town. This home boasts a luxury chefs kitchen highlighted by modern oak thin shaker cabinets, top tier quartz countertops with waterfall edges, and Stainless Steel Samsung Smart appliances. Luxury vinyl wood plank flooring and Berber carpet accentuate the space. Baths have been tastefully done. Take in many beautiful sunsets while relaxing on your covered patio. New dual pane windows, roof, water heater, and newer AC. Airbnb/STR approved. Don't miss out on this one of a kind property!

13608 W Remuda Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$549,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,258 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781006
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The price includes $20,000 for a rate buy-down and closing costs. This beautiful, move-in-ready home features a spacious great room that opens to a covered patio. The outdoor area boasts a heated pebble tech and travertine pool with a waterfall and jets, surrounded by palm and citrus trees. Inside, you'll find three generously sized bedrooms, each with its own full bathroom, along with a spacious dining room and plenty of storage. The main bedroom provides ample space for a sitting area or personal office, as well as a large walk-in closet and a super shower. The kitchen features granite countertops and white shaker cabinets, while plank tile flooring extends through high-traffic areas. An RV gate and a tandem four-car garage enhance the home's functionality.

20391 N 53rd Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$549,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,589 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779897
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your oasis nestled in the highly desirable Arrowhead Lakes! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a pool is situated on a premium corner lot. The vaulted ceilings create an airy atmosphere with tile and wood floors throughout the home. The kitchen features granite countertops, a nice size island, tile backsplash and stainless-steel appliances. Spacious primary en-suite has a walk-in closet, dual sinks, separate shower & roman style tub. Perfect for entertaining, the backyard features a beautiful pool with a new pool pump, a waterfall feature and a mountain view! Newer Roof & HVAC, two high-cost updates have been done! This sought after neighborhood is close to everything! Enjoy walks day or night, hiking trails nearby. Don't miss this one, move in before the holidays!