What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – May 31, 2016

What's Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week - May 31, 2016Last week’s economic reports included new home sales, pending home sales along with weekly mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

New Home Sales Surpass Expectations

Sales of new homes surpassed expectations and the prior month’s reading. April’s reading of 619,000 sales exceeded expectations of 523,000 new homes sold and 531,000 new homes sold in March.  New home sales rose by 16.60 percent on a seasonally adjusted annual basis, which was the highest increase in 24 years. 

Analysts said that April’s new home sales indicate that builders are increasing production of new homes to meet high demand for homes. Short inventories of available homes are credited with driving up demand and home prices. Buyers seeking family homes are contending with investor buyers and cash buyers in popular markets.

With affordability becoming limited in many cities, first time and moderate income homebuyers aren’t buying as many homes as they once did. This development contributes to slowing markets, as move-up buyers generally rely on first time buyers to purchase their homes. 

Shortages of available homes has pressured home builders to break ground on new home construction projects, but builders continue to cite labor shortages and a lack of buildable lots as reasons why they aren’t building homes as fast as homes are needed. 

Pending Home Sales Numbers Suggest Peak Buying Season Returns

Pending home sales were also higher than forecast in April with a reading of 5.10 percent as compared to expectations of 0.80 percent for April and the March reading of 1.60 percent. Pending home sales gauge future closings for home sales and reached their highest level in 10 years and posted a year-over-year gain of 4.60 percent. 

Three of four regional readings for pending home sales posted gains, with home sales in the Midwest posting slower growth. On a year-over-year basis, he South posted a gain of 6.80 percent and the Northeast posted a gain of 1.20 percent. The West saw a jump in pending sales with a reading of 11.40 percent after posting a negative reading in March. 

April’s expansion in new and pending sales suggests that the peak home buying season is back.

Mortgage Rates Rise; New Jobless Claims Fall

Freddie Mac reported higher average mortgage rates. The rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was six basis points higher at 3.64 percent; the rate for a 15-year mortgage rose eight basis points to 2.89 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rose seven points to 2.87 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for all mortgage types. 

New jobless claims dipped last week to 268,000 as compared to an expected reading of 275,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 278,000 new claims. Analysts said that New York school employees that were eligible for benefits boosted jobless claims earlier in May due to a non-typical law that allows some school workers to draw unemployment during school closures such as spring break or labor disputes.

Whats Ahead This Week

This week’s scheduled economic news includes Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, construction spending and reports on inflation, core inflation and consumer sentiment. No reports were scheduled for Monday due to the Memorial Day holiday. 

2549 W Shinnecock Way Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,495,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,736 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782138
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
STUNNING CITY LIGHT, SUNSET & MOUNTAIN VIEWS!! This updated Castile floor plan offers 3 en suite bedrooms, den & 3.5 baths. Remodeled Chef's Kitchen includes huge island, granite counters, stainless KitchenAid appliances including gas cooktop, wall ovens & built-in refrigerator. Kitchen opens to spacious family room. Primary suite includes sitting area, private patio, dual vanities, oversized tub, walk-thru shower & double walk-in closets. Backyard features new limestone pavers, synthetic turf, spa with ramada & elevated sitting area!

38424 N 69th Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,495,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,205 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6769291
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
DON'T MISS THIS STUNNING & IMMACULATE CUSTOM HOME IN TOWN OF CAVE CREEK! STUNNING & IMMACULATE 4 BD/4 BATH/3+ CAR GARAGE IN GREAT LOCATION OF CAVE CREEK! SOARING CEILINGS!GREAT ROOM FLOORPLAN! ALDER WOOD CABINETS & DOORS;FIREPLACE IN GR;GRANITE COUNTERTOPS;CHEF'S KITCHEN WITH SS APPLIANCES!PANTRY;EAT UP BAR;EAT IN KITCHEN & FORMAL DR W/BUILT IN BEAUTIFUL HUTCH.SPRAWLING PRIMARY BR /SPLIT FLOORPLAN ~ ALL ONE LEVEL. ON DEMAND HOT WATER;UNBEATABLE MOUNTAIN & SUNSET VIEWS! BACK PATIO IS PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINMENT;BUILT IN BBQ;HEATED SPOOL;JACUZZI HOT TUB; HUGE COVERED PATIO W/TV~SITTING AREAS. LUSH LANDSCAPING!FRUIT TREES!OVERSIZED 3CG W/BUILTINS & SHOP AREA- CLOSE TO TOWN FOR ALL THE AMMENITIES YOU COULD WISH FOR!

1424 E Arabian Court Gilbert, AZ 85296

$1,495,000
6 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,639 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776166
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exceptional multi gen living in central Gilbert, on a culdesac! Single level luxury home on almost an acre with guest house, pool w/ rock waterfall, additional spa/pool, gas fire pit, sport court, and more. 3 car garage w epoxy floor. PLUS, detached 2+ car garage / shop & FULL 950 sq. ft. casita (incl. in sq ft). Pavered walkway / side drive. Double front doors open to formal living room & separate dining room with plantation shutters. 10 ft ceilings & crown molding throughout. Dream kitchen with stainless steel appliances, double ovens, trash compactor, oversized island, walk-in pantry, breakfast room and white raised cabinets. Separate bar, complete with wine refrigerator. Master suite w/ French doors + private exit. Master bath has brand new tiled shower, quartz counters & Jacuzzi tub. Newly remodeled secondary bathrooms have never been lived in! Secondary baths also include quartz countertops w/ double sinks. Use front bedroom as a home office or a bedroom. Middle bedrooms complete with desks, cabinets and closet built-ins. Back bedroom functions as either a home theater (screen & projector convey) or bedroom. RV gate is electric / solar powered. Newer solar tubes provide additional interior light. Guest house / casita / pool house was built in 2017 and includes: cork flooring throughout, granite countertops, a murphy bed / shelving in the living room, built-in desk in master bedroom, tankless hot water heater and full laundry room (washer / dryer convey). Beautiful full-wall slider leads to pool. Horse privileges allow for up to 3 horses to be kept on property and / or house up to 2 horses at the community stables (at 435 S. Granite St.) for a small fee. Unique equestrian community in the heart of Gilbert, complete with bridle paths for walking and / or riding horses. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!!

10959 E Kora Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,495,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,787 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6720593
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This single level home is located within private guard gated Cimarron Hills. Its split floor plan includes a separate living and dining room and family room that opens to the center island kitchen w/Alder cabinets. The primary suite includes a nice bath with separate ceramic tiled shower, tub, double sinks and a walk-in closet. The home includes plantation shutters and a computer work or study station outside the guest bedrooms. The covered patio overlooks the low maintenance yard with a heated pool and spa. The 3 car garage includes built-in storage cabinets.

3513 N Pinto Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,495,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,511 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769877
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
If it's lifestyle you are looking for, this is the place for you! This exquisitely remodeled home in Scottsdale is walking distance or a short bike ride from all the best shops and entertainment in Old Town Scottsdale and all that Arcadia has to offer! Attention to detail is the hallmark of this gorgeous 3 bedroom/3 bath home, and at over 2500 feet, it lives like a resort. This chef's kitchen is not only beautiful but functional and features quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large kitchen island where everyone gathers. The luxurious primary suite is an ideal retreat with a large walk-in closet and bathroom that feels like your own private spa featuring double vanities, free-standing tub and dual shower heads. The bonus family room with a built-in bar makes for great entertaining/tv space and opens to the private oasis in back! The resort-style backyard with built-in barbeque, sparkling heated pool and hot tub make for the perfect gathering space, ideal for entertaining and enjoying Arizona's sunny weather. Find yourself living your best life in this immaculate Scottsdale jewel!

7475 E Timberlane Court Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,495,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,502 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783120
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Designed to the Nines in the Eastwood enclave of Gainey Ranch! Step through the beautiful IRON GLASS front door to discover a COMPLETE REMODEL THAT BECKONS WARMTH AND LUXURY. A gorgeous kitchen features a stunning textural backsplash, wood accents, large entertainer's island, soft-close SOLLID Cabinetry and quartzite counters. Multiple living spaces marry inclusivity while offering the right amount of separation between rooms. Details envelop this home through designer lighting, spa-like baths with marble tile and statement-making hardware such as crystal doorknobs throughout. Highly upgraded flooring, windows, window treatments and doors accentuate this knockout turnkey home that will appeal to those looking at lock and leaves or the 3 C's schools. Gainey Ranch, and the surrounding McCormick Ranch area, offers convenient and fabulous restaurants, parks, and shopping. Come experience this exceptional home in this serene neighborhood.

7016 E Grand View Lane Gold Canyon, AZ 85119

$1,495,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,821 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6723961
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MOUNTAIN VIEWS in this desert paradise custom built for the entertainer, cook, or outdoor enthusiast (a quick hike to the Broadway Trailhead)! Enjoy rooftop sunsets, relax in your soaking tub next to the two-way fireplace, take a shower in the moonlight, or kick back with a cocktail from the built in wet bar. Guests will love the huge casita with full bath or secondary owner suite, and the yard is built to enjoy w/ outdoor fireplace and 5 covered patios! Gourmet kitchen w/ 2 dishwashers, 2 sinks, Wolf Gas French Cooktop, 2 wall ovens, Sub Zero Frig & Freezer Drawers, Built in Coffee / Espresso, cast iron farmhouse sink, & massive island. Southwest style handmade Mana Pottery tiles, Travertine, 2x6 construction, spray foam attic, fresh exterior paint! Huge lot with room to customize!

1410 W Sandpiper Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

$1,495,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,172 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733283
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning luxury lakefront home with private dock! SELLER FINANCING AVAILABLE. AVAILABLE FURNISHED! This property offers luxury living with breathtaking views. Nestled on a private cul-de-sac lot, this expansive residence boasts nearly 4,200 sq. ft and is one of the largest lake frontage lots in the area. Additionally, you'll find an extended patio, large private balcony, expansive primary suite, pool with spa, gourmet kitchen, huge windows, and breathtaking vaulted ceilings. All of this while being just minutes from Downtown Gilbert - The Heritage District. This is a must see as homes like this do not come on the market often!

3009 S Tourmaline Drive Unit 22 Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$1,495,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
1,891 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742480
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Experience luxury living in the prestigious Pine Canyon Golf Community with this stunning single-level condo. This highly upgraded new build boasts 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, accompanied by a charming 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom casita, perfect for guests, office or private retreats. The home is exquisitely upgraded throughout, offering elegance and modern conveniences at every turn. Enjoy serene, filtered views of the driving range from the beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces, perfect for relaxation or entertaining. The attached 2-car garage provides ample storage and convenience. Nestled within Pine Canyon's sought-after community, this residence is a rare gem that combines comfort, style, and a prime location. See attached upgrade list.

3181 E Berridge Lane Phoenix, AZ 85016

$1,495,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,745 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762515
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience luxury resort living at its finest at the exclusive 24/7 guard-gated community of Biltmore Greens! This 3BR/3.5 BA w/2 car garage 2745 sqft split floorplan home is adorned w/soaring ceilings & wood beam accents which provide an appealing flow from the formal living & dining area to the kitchen & family room. Duel Primary suites w/walk in closets. Remodeled kitchen with granite & stainless-steel appliances. Remodeled Baths. Most of the rooms wrap around a meticulously manicured patio w/fountain & spa. Take the spiral staircase to the observation deck where there are breathtaking 360-degree views of the city & mountains. Ideal for entertaining, this lock & leave house is in a Prime location just minutes from the Historic Biltmore Hotel, Golf Courses, Shopping & 5-star restaurants

34508 N 99th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,495,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,712 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6699305
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A Contemporary Home in the Prestigious Gated Legend Trail. Located on the 13th hole of the Golf Course. While sunning at the new pool and spa with water feature or just taking in the sunset views, this home is a stunner! The high ceilings and large expansive floor to ceiling windows capture the gorgeous views at the living room, great room and owner's suite; all overlooking the backyard and perfect for entertaining. This spacious home with private owner's suite and spa-like bath with floating lit vanity cabinetry, beautifully tiled glass shower, separate free standing soaking tub and 2 walk-in closets is fabulous! Also, an additional ensuite bedroom can easily transform into a casita. Legend Trails is among Top 100 Facilities by Golf Magazine/Best Places to Play by Golf Digest Magazine

1822 E Washington Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85234

$1,495,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,596 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6765461
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Prepare to be amazed! This beautifully FULLY remodeled home is located in one of Gilbert's top desirable neighborhoods-Circle G Ranches. This home is situated on a corner lot with nearly an acre of irrigated land. Whether you are dreaming of building a casita, a shop, a place to store all your toys, or even a sports court, with no HOA the possibilities are endless. Do you love to have space to entertain? If so, this homes layout is for you! Offering a family room and not just one, but two living rooms! And if this home couldn't get any better, it is located just minutes from downtown Gilbert!