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. 

13600 N Fountain Hills Boulevard Unit 903 Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$624,900 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in La Strada Condominium, Fountain Hills
Open House
$624,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,196 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6699821
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home nestled in the gated community of La Strada, offering not just a residence, but a lifestyle. This meticulously crafted abode boasts 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms spread across a spacious 2196 square feet. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by breathtaking mountain views that serve as the backdrop to your everyday life. The home exudes elegance and modernity with remodeled bathrooms and kitchen featuring updated cabinets, luxurious Quartz countertops and no-fingerprint stainless steel appliances that elevate your culinary experience. The 2-car epoxy floor garage not only provides ample space for your vehicles but also offers convenient storage solutions. Inside, the living space is adorned with updated flooring and an inviting electric fireplace, perfect for cozy... evenings with loved ones. The primary suite is a sanctuary unto itself, boasting a huge rain glass shower and no-slip oversized tile, along with meticulous organized closets featuring built-in storage solutions. For the connoisseur, a built-in wine refrigerator awaits, while the custom coffee bar ensures your mornings are off to a delightful start. The kitchen features a sleek graphite sink, adding a touch of sophistication to your culinary endeavors. Entertaining is a breeze with a powder room showcasing a custom driftwood countertop and vessel sink. Additionally, the she-shed offers versatile space that can be transformed into an office, fitness area, or craft space, catering to our every need. Beyond the confines of your home, the gated community of La Strada offers resort-style amenities, including a pool. Centrally located, you're just a short walk or drive away from shopping, restaurants, and the famous fountain, allowing you to indulge in the vibrant lifestyle this community has to offer.

41216 N Prestancia Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$624,900 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Anthem Unit 38, Anthem
Open House
$624,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,082 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764616
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fall in love with this wonderfully upgraded and updated Telluride model in Anthem Country Club. Wonderful floor plan with multiple entertaining spaces. Enter the home from the front courtyard to a cozy living room and formal dining room. Kitchen has it all with tons of cabinets, beautiful granite counter tops and awesome island/breakfast bar. Main bath has been remodeled and is a must see and the secondary bath has granite counters and dual sinks. The family room off the kitchen and is where everyone hangs out and you can exit to the wonderfully landscaped backyard with built in BBQ and beautiful golf, mountain and sunset views awaiting you!! This home is the perfect size for full time living or locks and leave for the summer. Cozy up to the outdoor fireplace on an elevated patio to watch the magical AZ Sunset! WELCOME HOME! Anthem Country Club is home to two 18 hole championship golf courses with two restaurants, 2 work out rooms, 2 pools, tennis, pickle ball, bocce ball and lots of fun people!

4690 Sidekick Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$624,500
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,150 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748703
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in picturesque Wickenburg Ranch, on a corner lot, this exquisite home offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and serene desert living, with an open floor plan; featuring 2 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 well-appointed bathrooms, with sizeable den/office space. The upgraded kitchen has a large island with ample seating, state-of-the-art appliances, and extended counter space and cabinets. Custom shutters adorn the windows providing both privacy and an elegant touch to the home's interior. Indoor outdoor stereo speakers. A fully fenced yard where the backyard is perfect for both relaxation and entertaining with beautiful desert landscaping and a sparkling pool to create a tranquil retreat. This home is a true gem in Wickenburg Ranch, offering a lifestyle of comfort & convenience.

15221 N Clubgate Drive Unit 1023 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$624,500
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,401 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768194
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Open and bright floor plan with spacious great room with wood look flooring and freshly painted. Perfect for entertaining home with eat in kitchen overlooking the great room and easy access to the patio area surrounded by lovely landscaping. The Master Suite is spacious with a walk in closet. Oversized 2 car garage. The community pool, spa and exercise facility exudes a resort feeling to relax and enjoy. Walking distance to the Westin Resort and golf course, the high end shops and restaurants of Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter. Living the life of Kierland, urban lifestyle and conveniences with a resort atmosphere.

2113 E Kempton Road Chandler, AZ 85225

$624,500
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,279 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772214
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Motivated Sellers! Right between Downtown Chandler and Gilbert, easy access to freeway, across the street from brand new state-of-the-art park for the kids! Perfect starter home, 2nd home, or investment! Single level, split floor-plan, with expansive open lay out! Low landscape backyard with large covered patio, enough grass for the kids and dogs, diving pool with new variable speed pump, and mature landscaping with orange tree make this the ideal backyard for all buyers! Brand new AC unit!

1467 County Rd 3140 -- Vernon, AZ 85940

$624,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,840 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750877
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
LOCATION, LOCATION, A Hunters Dream. gorgeous 5 acres border national forest with lots of ponderosa pines. QUIET area and great VIEWS from 2nd story, Kitchen for a chef- large cabinets (lights top & bottom), double ovens, freezer, and large pantry with electric outlets, Handicap accessible-doors & hallway. Enjoy the fresh air with Double hung windows. Grow your own vegetables in the greenhouse and use the chicken pen for your eggs. Also enjoy 7 apple trees, blackberries, rhubarb and so much more. Two car garage (fits 2 large trucks) or for your toys. No HOA. 20 degrees cooler than Phx. Act fast before this gem is gone. Want another 5 ac next to this? see MLS #6756610.

146 E Riviera Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$624,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,638 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6748461
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*Seller willing to offer concessions towards rate buy down or closing costs* Experience the refreshing vibes of Tempe in this gorgeous completely remodeled, move-in ready basement home! All new flooring and baseboards, new 5-ton HVAC, new roof, new white shaker kitchen cabinets with ample storage & under cab lighting, new quartz counters and backsplash, stainless gas range & hood, farmhouse sink w/touchless faucet, all updated lighting and fans throughout. Nest thermostat, all new interior/exterior paint, massive finished basement w/Galaxy Concrete coating. Bathrooms are remodeled w/modern tile, walk-in rain shower upstairs, new tub, new fixtures, new toilets and sinks! Step outside through the new French doors to an oversized backyard & sparkling blue pool w/ new variable speed pump. All new rock and turf too! Come experience this corner lot north/south facing next to the Tempe bike corridor and just 2 mi to the light rail. The neighborhood utilizes the Tempe Orbit shuttle that goes straight to ASU or the light rail! This home is walkable to nearby restaurants and breweries with immediate freeway access. Central location near water activities on Tempe Town Lake and Papago Mountain Bike Trails. This city intertwines laid-back vibes with an active lifestyle in a place where everyone is welcome and community is at the core!

30317 W Roosevelt Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$624,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,659 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730388
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to this 3 bedroom, 2 baths, horse property nestled on an over 1-acre lot! Inside, you will be welcomed by the striking vaulted ceilings, tile flooring, Y neutral palette. The spacious great room enjoys plenty of windows & backyard access for a bright and airy entertaining experience. The eat-in kitchen features plenty of wood cabinets w/crown mouldings, SS appliances, granite counters, & a peninsula w/breakfast bar. Have a great night's sleep in the main bedroom boasting soft carpet & an ensuite w/dual sinks & a walk-in closet. The sizable backyard provides a relaxing covered patio storage shed, above-ground spa, corral & stalls for horses. Lighted riding arena with an RV plug. Do not miss this vast lot, perfect for all your projects or RV parking. Don't wait til its too late

170 W Midway Street Payson, AZ 85541

$624,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,150 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718786
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A little over an acre with great panoramic views of the Rim. Wonderful house with plenty of storage space. Very cozy front room with vaulted ceilings and a great fireplace. Kitchen with walk-in pantry. Large rooms with plenty of storage. Spiral staircase off the front room leads to a loft space above.

3135 W Molly Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$624,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,985 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741058
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Priced below others in the area for quick sale, this highly upgraded home has a play pool, heated spa, built in bar in the living room with a wine chiller and a liquor cabinet for entertaining, formal dining convenient to the kitchen, easy to maintain, like new real wood floors throughout, and granite kitchen and bathroom counters. The Large Master bedroom is upstairs with a huge walk-in closet a master bath with a separate shower, jetted tub and a bidet. A spacious loft which could be converted into a bedroom. An office, half bath, with upgraded vanities and all living areas are down stairs. all bedrooms are upstairs. Has two AC units for lower utilities. Window shades, BBQ Island with Fridge and Fire pit Come and see. You will love it.

6718 N 59th Drive Glendale, AZ 85301

$624,000
6 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,624 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748306
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Motivated Seller!! NEW Built, NO HOA. Main house has 4 bedrooms with 2.5 baths and a guest house with 2 bedrooms and 1 bath. The delightful kitchen includes refrigerator, dishwasher, range, a central island with a breakfast bar for casual dining, and granite countertops that extend to bathrooms. Highly desired Glendale area close to restaurants, shops and State Farm Stadium. Additionally it has an RV gate in the front AND the back next to the guest house.

3614 W Alyssa Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$624,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,744 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6737844
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Become the proud owner of this gorgeous residence in Riordan Ranch! Fantastic curb appeal featuring great curb appeal, meticulously maintained landscape, and stunning mountain views. Discover an inviting living room with soaring ceilings, clerestory windows for ample natural light, and a blend of carpet and wood flooring. The great room has sliding doors leading to the backyard w/sparkling pool. The kitchen boasts granite counters, ample wood cabinetry with crown moulding, recessed lighting, SS appliances, a pantry, and a peninsula w/ a breakfast bar. Downstairs features a complete private Guest suite w/bedroom, den & bathroom perfect for in law, guests, nanny etc. Close to 1-17 & 303 & fabulous shopping, dining, movies, schools, medical, short hop to new TSMC plant. The backyard oasis is highlighted by a covered patio, a pristine lawn, and a refreshing pool for cooling down on hot summer days. Make this gem yours!