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. 

19151 W Coolidge Street Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$625,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,649 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781424
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come and see this beautiful home with a Next Gen Suite and a plethora of upgrades!! This home has an extra living space that includes its own Bedroom, Bathroom, Laundry Area that comes with a washer and dryer attached garage, Kitchen and dining/living room area!! This extra living space is perfect for family and friends! The main living quarters has 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and a big kitchen ready to host all of your events! Enjoy the low maintenance backyard with beautiful green turf and plants making it a great area to relax while enjoying the White Tank Mountain views to the west!

25451 N 164th Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$625,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
3,021 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781462
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in Surprise, AZ! This nearly brand-new 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom home, built in 2022, offers a spacious open-concept layout perfect for families and entertaining. The **gourmet kitchen** features a gas cooktop, abundant cabinetry, and a large island with pendant lighting. The **primary suite** is a true retreat with a spa-like bathroom and walk-in shower. Upgrades include an **enhanced sound system** and a **remodeled backyard** with custom pavers, desert landscaping, and a gas stub for grilling. Conveniently located near the 303 Freeway, this home offers the ideal blend of luxury and comfort. Don't miss out!

7585 W Tumblewood Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$625,000
5 Beds
2 Baths
2,444 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782727
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this 5 bedroom 2 bath house with a fantastic floor plan and located in a very desirable community! Equipped with a relaxing pool, great yard and RV Gate. Situated in a corner lot right next to a grass park. This home is nestled wonderfully to enjoy all of the amenities from shops, entertaining and dining that P83 has to offer. Schedule your showing today.

3918 E Wildhorse Drive Gilbert, AZ 85297

$625,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,019 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784693
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ideally located on a nice-sized, interior homesite in the highly desirable San Tan Ranch community, this wonderful, well-maintained Gilbert home offers 4 bedrooms; 3 car garage; spacious dining/living areas; vaulted ceilings; open floor plan; beautiful cabinetry; main suite with separate tub/shower, dual sinks, walk-in closet, and exit to covered patio; and resort-style rear yard perfect for relaxing/entertaining with an amazing pool, rock waterfall, and stacked stone built-in BBQ! Approximately $50K in recent updates/upgrades (travertine patio/pool deck, outdoor cooking area, kitchen appliances, wood look flooring, 5 Ton 14 SEER HVAC system, tankless water heater, etc.). Convenient freeway access and close to shopping, dining, sport courts, parks, playgrounds, and more. Move-in ready!

5055 S Clancy -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$625,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,142 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6766078
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a 3-car garage located in the highly sought-after Keighley Place subdivision of Mesa. Move-in ready and filled with upgrades, this home welcomes you with an oversized living room and formal dining space. The remodeled kitchen boasts granite countertops, refinished cabinets, a stainless steel sink and appliances, new fixtures, and a custom pantry door. The open-concept family room features a charming wood accent wall and offers easy access to the resort-style backyard, complete with a travertine patio, heated pool, lush landscaping, a built-in gas firepit, and a BBQ island, perfect for outdoor entertaining. The primary suite is a retreat of its own, featuring hardwood floors, an oversized walk-in shower, granite countertops, vessel bowl sinks, and updated fixtures. Additional highlights include updated flooring throughout, fresh exterior paint, garage cabinets with a workbench and storage, an RV gate, and low-cost fixed solar. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity....request a private tour today!

6502 N Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85012

$625,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,880 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6757231
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
This beautiful mid-century penthouse, designed by renowned architect Starkovich, seamlessly blends historic charm with modern living. Situated along the iconic, tree-lined Central Ave in one of Phoenix's most sought-after neighborhoods, this original 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home boasts breathtaking north-facing views of Piestewa Peak and stunning sunsets, framed by an impressive wall of windows. Just steps away, the scenic Murphy Bridal Trail offers a perfect escape for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Bathed in natural light, the bright and airy interior creates an inviting atmosphere. The spacious great room is perfect for hosting gatherings or simply enjoying a peaceful morning coffee as the sunrise fills the space with warmth and light. HOA replaced roofs 2023, A/C & Heat piping 2024 they will also be redoing the wrap around patio. HOA includes utilities: cooling, heating, water, trash, sewer, cox cable and cox internet Owner only pays for electricity (minus heating and cooling) Complex was also just approved as Historical landmark which decreases homeowners' property tax as long as they are owner occupied

5554 S Hawthorn Street Gilbert, AZ 85298

$625,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,917 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6762890
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully home, where luxury meets comfort in a resort-like setting. The expansive backyard features a private heated pool complete with serene waterfalls and a relaxing hot tub—perfect for unwinding or entertaining. Inside, you'll find an array of incredible upgrades, including elegant 20'' tile flooring, plantation shutters, and stylish ceiling fans throughout. The front & back security doors invite in refreshing breezes, enhancing your outdoor living experience. Step out onto the large patio equipped with sunshades, offering breathtaking views of the San Tan Mountains. The low-maintenance artificial grass adds a touch of greenery without the hassle. ((CONTINUED)) The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting staggered 42 maple cabinets, gorgeous granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious kitchen island for all your culinary creations. Need a quiet workspace? The office features built-in maple cabinetry and a cozy window seat, providing both functionality and charm. Plus, the garage has been upgraded with insulation and a mini-split AC unit for added comfort. Roof, landscaping and pool heater have been upgraded in the last 2 years. This home is ready for it's next owner!

1982 W Periwinkle Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$625,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,839 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6771908
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover unparalleled lakefront living in the highly sought-after Montefino Village! This stunning lot offers breathtaking views of serene lakes, charming bridges, a tranquil waterfall, and a private park complete with walking paths. Completely Upgraded Throughout: No detail has been overlooked in this exquisite residence. Enjoy cooking with GE Profile appliances, quartz countertops, under-counter dimmable lighting, and soft-close kitchen drawers. Relax in the inviting living room featuring a gas fireplace and stunning slate flooring. Double pane windows with stylish shutters, ceiling fans throughout, and nearly new HVAC. Covered Patio with stunning views, misters and bistro lights. Schedule your showing today and seize the opportunity to enjoy your home, inside and out.

2622 E Acoma Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$625,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,306 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6775073
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
VIEWS, VIEWS, VIEWS!! Spectacular location in a very peaceful and serene neighborhood. Walk across the street and enter the preserve for a nice hike. Enjoy this unique floorplan w/updated kitchen, personal bar with built-in keg dispenser, updated bathrooms w/oversized master shower. Extended exterior deck for a place to escape while taking in the breathtaking views!

4622 E Firestone Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$625,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,255 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777232
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this gorgeous 4-bedroom home with an RV gate, thoughtfully designed and adorned with features you'll love! Discover a spacious open floor plan perfect for entertaining and everyday living, showcasing wood flooring, pre-wired surround sound, and a cozy fireplace that adds warmth and charm. Granite counters, SS appliances, recessed lighting, a pantry, a prep island with a breakfast bar, abundant cabinetry with crown moulding, and subway tile backsplash complete this spotless kitchen. Large main bedroom is a serene retreat, offering plush carpet and an ensuite with dual sinks. The Bonus room can be used an office, play space, or more! Expansive backyard won't disappoint, equipped with a covered patio, paver seating area, and a refreshing pool ideal for year-round enjoyment.

16214 E Bainbridge Avenue Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$625,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,485 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773629
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your beautifully updated and meticulously maintained home with a sparkling pool and sweeping mountain views in scenic Fountain Hills. Your remodeled kitchen has handsome stainless appliances and quartz counter tops, and it opens to the spacious great room with mountain views, a vaulted tongue and groove ceiling, fireplace, sound system, large flat-screen TV and dining area. Step outside to the amazing backyard with a covered patio, panoramic mountain views, synthetic lawn, artistic pavers and resurfaced pool (2023). Relax in your primary suite with an updated bath, walk-in closet and a door to the covered patio. Two guest bedrooms, updated guest bathroom, laundry room and 2-car garage with a storage room complete this lovely home. No HOA! Lucky you to live in Fountain Hills - a beautiful town known as an international dark sky community, with gorgeous mountain views, a world-famous fountain, a large public art collection, numerous special events, world-class golf and a mountain preserve with hiking trails. Many outdoor activities are within a 30-minute drive - hiking, cycling, boating, fishing, camping, horseback riding, plus popular areas of Scottsdale with wonderful dining, shopping, entertainment, hospitals and renowned school, BASIS Scottsdale. Sound system components, DVD player and TV in great room/family room are included in the sale, if requested by Buyer. All windows and sliders were replaced in 2013. New 14.00 SEER Trane A/C in 2016. For more information on all the updates for this wonderful home see the attached list.

920 E Mitchell Drive Unit 102 Phoenix, AZ 85014

$625,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,212 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784888
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome Home to Mitchell Lofts! Discover unparalleled luxury in this breathtaking 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhouse, ideally located in one of Phoenix's most sought-after neighborhoods. Spanning an impressive 2,200 sq ft, this sophisticated residence offers an open-concept design that seamlessly blends style and functionality. As you step inside, you'll be captivated by the soaring vaulted ceilings in the expansive living room, creating a grand and airy atmosphere. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring pristine granite countertops, sleek stainless steel appliances, a wine fridge, and custom cabinetry. The seamless flow between the kitchen and living areas makes it perfect for both intimate gatherings and entertaining guests. ((CONTINUED)) The master suite is a serene retreat, offering a spacious layout with a luxurious ensuite bathroom. Indulge in the spa-like experience with dual vanities, a walk-in shower, and a freestanding soaking tub. Every detail has been carefully crafted to create a sanctuary for relaxation. The lower level is just as impressive, with two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a spacious family room - perfect for privacy or hosting. Beautiful ceramic tile flows throughout the main floor, while luxury vinyl plank flooring graces the lower level. For those who love outdoor living, a spiral staircase leads to a stunning rooftop deck, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and beyond. Additional features include a two-car garage, storefront-style windows with custom coverings, and tasteful design elements throughout, making this townhouse the epitome of modern luxury.