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. 

41521 N 75th Place Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$10,500,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
7,250 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753754
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The Six Shooter residence seamlessly floats in harmony with the natural landscape through carefully selected rustic materials, such as rubble stone, concrete and raw steel. Perched high on the gentle hillside, this home offers panoramic views and ultimate privacy amidst ancient saguaros. The lower 7-car show garage not only serves as a focal point, but elevates the home even higher, transcending the hillside for commanding views. The great room is an open-concept space that seamlessly connects the front terraces with mountain vistas unfolding before you. The private primary suite, strategically hovering above the desert, offers utmost seclusion and astonishing views. The guest wing and lounge open up to the pool and terrace area, creating an oasis for relaxation and social gatherings.

6512 E Hummingbird Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$10,400,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
6,990 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6652037
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This magnificent Paradise Valley estate takes its inspiration from traditional Mediterranean style while celebrating the clean lines and open floor plan of a modern design. The unrivaled design includes a grand light well connecting the main level to a lower living space featuring a theater, lounge, and custom handcrafted bar. As you enter the estate, a welcoming courtyard for guest parking will lead to the grand entrance. A secondary secluded auto court and 4 car garage is situated at the back west end of the property. Indulge in a private backyard oasis offering ultimate privacy and a state-of-the-art indoor-outdoor kitchen. The 64 feet lap pool and spa is perfectly situated for entertainment and enriches the design coupled with a large lawn and room for furry friends. With defined custom home knowledge alongside a tradition of quality and attention to detail, BedBrock has successfully developed luxury communities that have exceeded expectations for value and quality across the Valley. The award-winning team offers a seamless design-build process in-house. Renderings are made for illustration purposes only. Changes to the renderings and the plans are subject to change.

5939 E Quartz Mountain Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$10,300,000
5 Beds
8 Baths
8,320 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702883
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Modern Mediterranean architecture w/ spectacular city light & mountain views! The floorplan is ideal for empty-nesters or seasonal owners w/ an updated full guest casita below the main house...perfect for a visiting family or caregiver. Serenely & intimately perched on the prestigious north slope of Mummy Mtn, the 5600 sf main house was recently completed w/ the best construction methods including 15'' thick steel & concrete walls, floor to ceiling walls of glass supported by steel I-beams & interior wall insulation. Design finishes include stone floors, wood beams, quarried stone accents, a reclaimed trough sink, marble & quartz slabs at the kitchen & baths, home automation wiring & high-end lighting throughout. The abundant mature landscaping is as captivating as the incredible view!

9108 E Grapevine Pass -- Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$10,000,000
5 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,945 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6628320
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FULL GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE TO BUYER AND READY TO TRANSFER UPON APPROVAL FROM DESERT MOUNTAIN CLUB AND A SUCCESSFUL CLOSE OF LAND AND HOME BUILD CONTRACT. Sexy, sleek contemporary encapsulating modern luxury with the natural surrounding beauty of the Sonoran Desert and private 25 Acres. Nestled at the end of a winding road, perched into the hillside where the horizon paints an exquisite blend of colors during the sunrise and sunset. Featuring elements of stone, glass and wood this home will come together harmoniously to create an elegant symphony of textures and forms. The heart of the home is a great room space / open kitchen with floor to ceiling windows that will capture the panoramic vistas, inviting the outside in. The patio spaces an extension of the home's grace, boasting an infinity-edge pool that will seemingly blended with the horizon, bar/bbq along with dining area for al fresco meals, and a fire pit where stories will be shared under the starlit skies. This floorplan allows for 100% single level living with main floor featuring split primary bedroom, two private guest en-suites, wine room, study and 5 car garage. Lower level encompasses a large game /bonus room and two private en-suites. Perfect for a couple or entertaining groups of family and friends this 7945 square foot 5 bedroom, 5 car garage home with a total of 14,320 square feet under roof is waiting for you. Black Stone Development and designer Graffin Design have successfully designed and built over 55 properties in Desert Mountain. Ground breaking can occur in as little as 2 to 3 months. Lifts can be added in garage for additional car storage.

40 N Biltmore Estates Drive Phoenix, AZ 85016

$10,000,000
6 Beds
7.5 Baths
14,554 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6736578
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Here at the prestigious Biltmore Resort, the Estates within the circle are majestic. This setting is exceptional on the golf course at 1.3 acres of breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain backdrop. A grand motor court welcomes you to a stately foyer, leading to expansive living and dining areas that epitomize opulence. The kitchen is a culinary marvel, boasting generous pantries and an extensive laundry suite. The private master suite offers a serene retreat, while additional rooms include a sophisticated office, an elegant library, and a refined bar room. Descend to the lower level to discover a magnificent paneled game room, an impressive wine cellar accommodating thousands of bottles, a chic bar, and a luxurious theater room. The verdant backyard, overlooking the golf course, features an outdoor kitchen perfect for alfresco dining and a charming two-bedroom guest house. This estate exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship, architectural brilliance, and an unrivaled location, making it a true masterpiece of luxury living.

5739 E Cactus Wren Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$10,000,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,322 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774047
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Iconic and Timeless: Two words that capture the essence of this masterfully curated trophy residence, brought to life by world renowned architect Mark Candelaria. Nestled into the gold coast of Paradise Valley; perfectly situated in between Camelback and Mummy Mountain, this signature view estate is privately gated on a 1 acre cul de sac lot, boasting sprawling head to tail Camelback Mountain views from every room. With 5,574 sq ft of perfection in the main residence and an additional 748 sq ft in the detached casita, the property offers privacy and sophistication. Timeless and elegant finishes are carried throughout the home, seamlessly blending the best of Arizona luxury indoor/outdoor living. Comfortable entertaining spaces and courtyards fully open to create...SEE MOTION VIDEO an effortless flow to this one of a kind masterpiece. Highest quality of construction throughout, the main residence has 4 generously sized en suite bedrooms, a flex space, office nook, music/piano room, and a walk in wine room. The detached casita is perfect for accommodating guests featuring; A kitchenette, main living space, full bathroom and separate bedroom. The Chef's Kitchen, equipped with a Butler's Pantry and large center island, opens to the main living space and bar area, with retractable windows for indoor/outdoor serving and soaking in the majestic views. With an abundance of green space and 360 degree mountain views, the entertainer's dream backyard embodies elevated resort living and offers an abundance of privacy, while perfectly framing Camelback Mountain and the Praying Monk. Just seconds from world class resorts, dining, and shopping; We welcome you to preview and explore this 1 of 1 opportunity, to acquire a truly special property in one of Paradise Valley's most exclusive, established and coveted locations.

9743 E Madera Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$10,000,000 - 7Br/9Ba -  for Sale in Desert Mountain, Scottsdale
New
$10,000,000
7 Beds
8.5 Baths
11,625 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785584
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
With Available Golf Membership: Experience luxurious desert living in this stunning Southwestern architectural masterpiece by renowned designer Lee Hutchinson. This exceptional estate features a flowing, organic Pueblo design, harmonizing seamlessly with the natural desert landscape. Encompassing an impressive 9,085 sq. ft., the main residence, built by Shiloh Homes, offers five spacious en-suite bedrooms. A hallmark of southwestern elegance, the home boasts six fireplaces, creating warm, inviting spaces throughout. Multiple living areas, expansive covered patios (totaling 4,000 sq. ft.), and sweeping views provide a blend of comfort and grandeur. Built in 2013 by Arnet, the guest house spans 2,540 sq. ft. and offers two en-suite bedrooms, a full kitchen, a spacious great room, laundry facilities, and a three-car garage. The guest house also features three fireplaces, its own hot tub, and generous outdoor living spaces, making it a private retreat within the estate. With a total of seven garage spaces, car enthusiasts will appreciate the climate-controlled four-car garage in the main house and an additional three-car garage in the guest house. Both garages provide extra-large storage rooms for ample space and organization. Situated on three expansive lots totaling 2.2 acres, this estate offers 490 feet of golf course frontage within the Desert Mountain Village of Lone Mountain II. Revel in unobstructed green fairway views and the majestic mountain panoramas that stretch across the horizon. The grounds also feature a cozy outdoor fire pit and beautifully landscaped areas designed to maximize outdoor relaxation and entertainment. This residence is a true oasis, combining privacy, luxury, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Explore this remarkable estate with the attached motion video to capture the full essence of its unique design and breathtaking views.

6850 N 39th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$10,000,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,965 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6749840
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
EPIC City Lights, Camelback Mountain VIEWS inside the Guard Gated community of Paradise Reserves. Just under 2.2 hillside acres, seamlessly crafted between newly built custom homes. Discover every luxury upgrade one can imagine; intricate tile-work, cascading stone waterfall, 25-ft great room, custom glass underlit bar, effortlessly merge its outdoor spaces, and infinity-edge pool with your interiors. The chef's kitchen, with a geo-lux quartz island, complements the entertaining lifestyle. The elegant primary suite, custom closets, private balconies, 7 car Garage and theater contribute to refined living. Inside this guard-gated Paradise Valley community minutes from premier shopping and dining, Tatum & Lincoln, HWY 51, this residence offers unparalleled privacy, elegance and security.

8185 E Alameda Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$9,999,000
5 Beds
11 Baths
5,950 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6593970
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Boasting nearly 10 acres of land, this gated estate includes a stunning Spanish-style main house, a full equestrian facility, an entertainment pavilion with attached theater, 2 standalone casitas, 2 staff apartments & a 1200 sqft multi-use building. The 5,950 sqft main home was renovated in 2021. Vaulted, wood beamed ceilings, engineered hardwood floors & statement luxury light fixtures through-out the home. The primary suite presents a seating area, balcony & spa worthy ensuite. The backyard has an outdoor kitchen, a heated pool, spa & putting green. The 5,000-SF, entertainment pavilion has a game room, full bar, kitchen, gym, yoga studio & 3rd-level deck with 360º mountain and city views. The equestrian facility encompasses 15 stalls, 2 arenas, 3 turnouts & 2 RV parking.

9204 E Grapevine Pass Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$9,996,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
7,718 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6608449
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
DESERT MOUNTAIN GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE-Modern Mediterranean Luxury Living meets Fantastical Fun on one of the highest elevated estate sites in the premier community of Desert Mountain. Situated atop all of Desert Mountain on 12.2 acres with views of the entire valley. Entering the estate through the privately gated drive gives you the first sight of prominent elegance. The stone exterior with Cantera stone arches and accents, the forged metal details and limestone pavered entry greet you upon arrival. The 9 X 12 arched rain glass and iron scrolling door open to a brick mosaic lined rotunda with dazzling crystal chandelier. The elegant livability is instantly felt with the open and light great room split floor plan that blends seamlessly through the pocketing telescoping glass glass doors to the outdoor living space with linear spa and firepit offering unimaginable vistas in every direction. The Gourmet kitchen with large island, Alder wood cabinets, premium appliances and oversized walk-in pantry is every chefs dream. For the finest dining experience step through the circular entry defined by scrolled iron work, into the dining room with spectacular elevated views. The decadent Master Suite is well appointed with a stone wall backdrop, Cantera fireplace, dry sauna, spa like bath with glass tile shower, heated floors, free standing tub and designer closets. The Office, Guest Suite, Powder and Laundry each are statements in design and functionality. In the mood for some fun head downstairs to the whimsical bonus room with semi circular bar, work out room, home theater, and 2 additional guest bedrooms. The fanciful decor; bright colors, unique tile and fun finishes will make you smile. Head outside for more fun, relaxing and all your AZ outdoor entertainment needs; multi leveled patios, putting green, boulder waterfall cascading into the negative edge pool, sunning patios, outdoor kitchen and alfresco dining, Outdoor living room with fireplace, pool bath and outdoor shower. The separate entrance Casita charms every guest with the private patio, fireplace and unstoppable views. Car lovers will be astounded over the impeccably finished 5-car garage with garage vacuums, hot and cold water faucets, shoe closets and extra storage. The finest of organic finishes are throughout the home: wood and stone floors, wood, stone and tile wall details, brick mosaic and wood beam truss accented vaulted ceilings, stone counters and vanities, metal hand made iron work and the impressive steel great room grand fireplace. Additional details include smart home with Control 4 system, 44 solar panels, tankless water heaters, 2-inch water lines, 50 amp RV service and so much more! Ideal south facing backyard capturing maximum winter sun on the patio areas, along with tremendous sunsets, city lights and surrounding mountain views by day and mountain silhouettes by night. Bike or hike from your home to the nearby Desert Mountain Trails with over 20 miles of multi-use trails. Chiricahua and Cochise Geronimo Clubhouses are nearby for quick access to dining and golf. Sonoran Fitness center located within a short drive from this home. Golf Membership to the Desert Mountain Club available.

7305 E Royal Palm Road Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$9,995,000
5 Beds
5 Baths
7,907 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751861
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This exquisite Santa Barbara-style estate, nestled in the prestigious Paradise Valley Farms community of Scottsdale, redefines luxury living with its seamless blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Fully remodeled in 2017, the architectural design and enhancements were guided by Jeff Doubet, a renowned expert in authentic Santa Barbara-style architecture. The result is this 7,907 sq/ft masterpiece, set on an acre of land, embodying timeless elegance and meticulous craftsmanship. Boasting 5 bedrooms, 4 full bathrooms, 2 powder rooms, an office, and a game room, this home combines the allure of classic design, with the finest modern finishes and gives any family ultimate flexibility in how the home is utilized. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a soaring foyer that leads to an open-concept living space. With solid wood flooring crafted from a historic Gin Mill dating back to the late 1800s. As you step into the family room you will be greeted by reclaimed wood beams from a barn in Quebec, Canada, along with an antique Limestone Fireplace surround. Culinary enthusiasts will adore the gourmet kitchen enriched with custom Desert Cove Cabinetry and equipped with top-of-the-line appliances including two Asko dishwashers, Scotsman nugget ice maker, 60 Wolf gas range with double griddle and electric double ovens, a Wolf steam oven, Wolf microwave, and a Miele built-in coffee maker with its own water fill. The centerpiece is an expansive marble island over 9 feet long, featuring maximum storage capacity and custom pull-out shelving inside cabinets. Additional features include built-in storage for baking ingredients, two Subzero refrigerators, four Subzero freezer drawers, and hand-forged hinges and pulls on the refrigerators to create a vintage icebox design. The double farm sink looks out to a quaint courtyard with a wood-burning fireplace and fountain that are designed with antique limestone that was reclaimed from France adding to the home's timeless appeal. The main floor offers 4 bedrooms, 2 that are en-suite and 2 that share a Jack and Jill bathroom, game room, formal dining room, spacious family room area with a custom bar for entertaining, 2 powder baths, and a laundry room with 2 washers, 2 dryers, and a dog washing station. Rounding out the exquisite main level is a custom wine cellar that holds up to 650 bottles, adorned with barrel ceilings and a custom iron door, and an expansive 4-car garage with a commercial pressure washer and ample storage for all your tools and toys. As you make your way up the stairs, the entire second floor is dedicated to the Primary Suite and his/her office. This private sanctuary features a gas fireplace, a beamed ceiling, and a spa-like bathroom adorned in custom marble with a remote-controlled jacuzzi clawfoot tub. Waterworks fixtures, dual shower heads, a marble bench in the shower, and a Mr. Steam steam shower are a few of the other appointments the bathroom offers. The oversized walk-in closet features custom built-in cabinetry, exquisite lighting, and a built-in washer and dryer for added convenience. The estate's outdoor features are equally impressive. The outdoor kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring a built-in Wolf BBQ, Wolf fryer, Green Egg smoker, built-in pizza oven, and a TV for entertaining all your guests, along with a wood-burning fireplace made from the same reclaimed Chicago brick that adorns all the patio flooring. The outdoor space also includes a built-in bar and a secret garden dining terrace. The luxurious limestone pool deck and Jacuzzi are designed for ultimate relaxation. A tennis court with an adjustable half-court basketball hoop, complete with a ball return, offers recreational opportunities for all ages and enhances the estate's grounds, leaving even the most discerning buyer wanting nothing more. This extraordinary estate is a masterful blend of historic charm and modern amenities, designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Whether entertaining guests or enjoying quiet family moments.

8412 N Golf Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$9,950,000
6 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,372 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773398
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on a serene, private street in the highly sought-after Camelback Country Club, this stunning single-level home, newly constructed by the RafterHouse, offers a luxurious blend of elegance and comfort. Designed by the acclaimed Blochberger Design, this residence boasts breathtaking views of the 17th hole and an expansive lake. The home is filled with natural light, thanks to oversized windows and sliders, perfectly complemented by the exquisite landscaping from Roots First. Featuring six spacious ensuite bedrooms, each designed to comfortably accommodate a king-size bed, the home offers privacy and luxury for every occupant. A separate, oversized game room provides additional space for entertainment or relaxation. The backyard is a true oasis, ideal for indoor-outdoor living with a custom-designed pool and spa, complete with a stunning fire feature that spans nearly the entire length of the pool. The oversized four-car garage offers ample space for vehicles and storage, making this home as functional as it is beautiful. Whether you're hosting gatherings or seeking a peaceful retreat, this property delivers the ultimate luxury living experience in a quiet, private setting.