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. 

40937 N Majesty Way Anthem, AZ 85086

$595,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,469 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6750370
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*VA ASSUMABLE LOAN AT 3%. LEASED SOLAR PAID OFF.* Location is everything! This home is settled in a quiet neighborhood with a trail entrance right next door connecting you to 13 miles of lush desert trails, 2 parks within a 5-minute trail walk, and the K-8 elementary school is just blocks away. Not to mention the one-of-a-kind comraderie and sense of community this neighborhood offers. This spacious ''Tradition'' floor plan is coveted for it's vaulted ceilings throughout the living space, and fluid layout perfect for hosting and family-time. The large kitchen island, pantry, and wall of cabinets creates the ultimate culinary experience. Conveniently located on the main floor, the extra large primary suite has private backyard access and a large walk in closet. Maintaining privacy, the 3 additional bedrooms and full bathroom are located upstairs. With the 3-car garage, overhead garage storage, multiple walk in closets, custom built-in bookcases, storage under the stairs, and an RV-gate, this property provides all the storage a family could need! This property is on a premium lot where you can enjoy the beautifully designed and low-maintenance backyard with synthetic grass, pavers, a large extended covered patio, and a view fence showing off stunning desert scenery and colorful sunsets!

7701 E Palm Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,575 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6767591
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Well cared for, a 3 bedroom home with 2baths ,2 car garage ,that is move in ready or ready for you to update to your liking! New AC and water heater in last 24 months, seller even had the sewer pipes sleeved as a preventative measure in the last year. Ample living space inside the home and a beautiful flagstone patio with built in grill and all around new patio covering . Wonderful opportunity in a highly desired Scottsdale subdivision brought to you at a bargain price. You cannot find a better price for a home in this condition with a wood burning fireplace to boot. Shopping within walking distance, and very near Old Town Scottsdale. Walk your dog, ride your bike, or play sports at El Dorado Park across the street. Owner occupied only. See lister for more details

656 W Minton Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$595,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,187 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6768583
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Move in ready super clean two-story home. Cheery and bright throughout with no carpet! This home has been freshly painted, and updated with new granite countertops, new kitchen sink, new light fixtures and faucets replaced. Great 3 bed 2.5 bath open spacious light & bright floorplan. Family room open to kitchen separate Formal living and dining. Ample storage space, Upstairs loft area with built in desk and shelving. Well laid out backyard with mature landscaping, pool and spa. RV gate and extra concrete slab on side of home. Home has a whole home water filtration system to be able to drink from any faucet. Must see home in a fabulous Tempe location near ASU, the I-10, the 60, the airport, and just minutes from Downtown, convenience is at your doorstep.

7674 E Whispering Mesquite Lane Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,922 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6774751
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in the desirable Mountainbrook Village community, this home offers stunning golf course and mountain views. This beautifully updated home features two primary bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, massive windows, and a spacious layout with high-end finishes like granite countertops and plantation shutters. Enjoy outdoor living with a tiled courtyard, covered patio, and air-conditioned garage with a separate workshop. With a central vacuum system, soft water, and RO systems, this home blends comfort and convenience, perfect for enjoying the best of Gold Canyon living. Mountainbrook Village is a scenic golf course community set against the stunning Superstition Mountains. It offers beautifully designed homes and resort-style amenities, including a golf course, fitness facilities, and social clubs. With a relaxed yet active lifestyle, it's perfect for those seeking a peaceful desert setting with plenty of recreational opportunities.

7838 E Buena Terra Way Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$595,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,485 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6775629
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This gorgeous single level, move-in ready townhome has a split floor plan with two oversized bedrooms both ensuite, a gorgeous shady patio, 2 car attached garage, excellent curb appeal with a gated private front patio. Home is located directly next to the heated community pool and spa. Newer water heater (2020) roof has been completely resealed (2020), New A/C (2020) The updated eat-in kitchen offers upgraded cabinetry, quartz counters, tile backsplash, chrome hardware, and newer appliances and hood. The open great room has a vaulted ceiling with painted beams, fireplace, and wet bar with upgraded cabinetry and quartz counters. Other features include hexagon tile flooring, luxury vinyl flooring, upgraded porcelain tile bathroom flooring. No carpet throughout. Gorgeous lush patios.

8874 S Grandview Drive Tempe, AZ 85284

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,794 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781939
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to this beautifully remodeled single-story property in Warner Ranch, designed with style and comfort in mind! This 3-bed, 2-bath, 1,794 sq ft residence highlights modern upgrades and an inviting layout with vaulted ceilings, a decorative stone fireplace, and spacious bedrooms. The NEW ROOF and NEWER HVAC unit provide invaluable peace of mind and energy efficiency, ensuring comfort for years to come. Additional improvements most recently completed encompass fresh paint, new quartz countertops in the kitchen and baths, elegant tile backsplashes, updated tiled tubs and showers, new flooring, and stylish plumbing and lighting fixtures. The private backyard is perfect for relaxation, while the HOA maintains a lush front yard. Located in the highly regarded Kyrene School District, this home is part of a quaint community with beautiful walking trails, a pool, and easy freeway access to I-10, 101, and 202, offering a seamless commute. Experience the perfect blend of convenience, charm, and modern design in this Warner Ranch gem!

41961 W Lucera Lane Maricopa, AZ 85138

$595,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,283 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769687
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning home with Pool, Workshop, and 4-Car Garage in Glennwilde. PRE PAID SOLAR.. enjoy the benefits of solar without a payment! Welcome to this expansive 4-bedroom home, plus a den and a loft, located in the desirable Glennwilde community of Maricopa. This home offers a spacious layout perfect for any lifestyle. Downstairs, you'll find a formal dining room, a breakfast nook, and a large kitchen featuring rich cherry cabinets, dark granite countertops, and plenty of cabinet space. There's also a bedroom and a full bathroom on the first floor for added convenience as well as an office that could easily be converted into a 5th bedroom. Upstairs, the oversized loft provides flexible space for a home office, playroom, or anything your heart desires. The built-in desk in the hallway adds a practical touch. The oversized master bedroom include a separate sitting area, ideal for an office or additional lounging space. The master bathroom boasts a large soaking tub, separate vanities, and a massive walk-in closet. Sitting on over a quarter-acre, the backyard is one of the largest in Maricopa. It features a large pool with a seating bench and water feature, a serene rock waterfall pond, a gazebo with a cozy sitting area, a workshop, and a covered patio with pull-down shade screens. There's plenty of room to create your dream outdoor oasis. A rare 4-car garage provides ample space for vehicles, storage, and toys. Located in Glennwilde, the community offers 2 sparkling pools, walking paths, and is within walking distance of Pacana Park. Don't miss this rare find in one of Maricopa's most sought-after neighborhoods!

7610 W Orangewood Avenue Glendale, AZ 85303

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,105 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782224
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Huge lot Ranch and horse property in the middle of the West Vally. More than half an acre for your RV, boat and toys. Two way fireplace from master bedroom to living room. HOME CONVEYS AS-IS AND VERIFY ALL IMPORTANT INFORMATION NECESSARY at BUYER'S EXPENSE. HOME INSPECTION ENCOURAGED. SELLER WILL NOT DO REPAIRS OR CLEANING. NO SIGN ON PROPERTY. With some updating & proper cleanup this property will be a lot more than the asking price. Compare the price on the active listing on the same street.

1341 Leisure World -- Mesa, AZ 85206

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,882 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6787238
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enjoy this Amazingly Beautiful FULLY REMODELED 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage Home on #4 of Heron Lakes Golf Course! The front entrance with aluminum pergola is very inviting! Enter into the very open and spacious home with vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting and upgraded ceiling fans. Your Dream Kitchen w/large Peninsula style Island, Granite countertops, all 2024 Appliances is great for anyone who loves to cook and entertain! The living & Dining space have beautiful golf course views! The Large Primary Bedroom has a HUGE Closet done by Classy Closets! Enjoy Entertaining on the resort style back patio with travertine tiles. All this in the Premiere Active Adult Community of Leisure World with 36 holes of private golf, new tennis complex, pickle ball, swimming pools, library, and more!

22033 N Golf Club Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$595,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,656 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766525
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the vibrant, active adult community of Sun City West! Perfectly located near the Palm Ridge Recreation Center and surrounded by multiple golf courses, this beautifully updated home offers the ideal blend of modern comfort and resort-style living. In 2024, the home received significant updates, including sleek granite countertops, most new appliances, and upgraded light and plumbing fixtures throughout. The majority of the home features elegant tile flooring, with plush carpet in the Den and master bedroom for added comfort. The updates also include taller baseboards and fresh interior paint, giving the entire space a crisp, modern feel. As you step inside, you're greeted by a grand entrance, soaring ceilings, and a spacious open floor plan filled with natural light. This clean, bright home offers plenty of room for both entertaining and relaxation. The 2.5-car garage provides ample space for parking and storage, making it ideal for your vehicles and hobbies. The home is situated on a quiet street with minimal traffic, offering peace and privacy. Outside, the fenced lot features an array of mature citrus trees, creating your own private oasis. With its close proximity to the Palm Ridge Recreation Center and numerous nearby golf courses, this home is perfectly positioned for an active, enjoyable lifestyle. Don't miss your chance to own this stunning, move-in-ready home!

5336 N 20th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,965 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775489
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Perfectly positioned between North Central and Biltmore, this beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 2 bath townhome offers the perfect blend of modern upgrades and timeless charm. The front courtyard is perfect for quiet moments or entertaining guests, and leads to a great room with expansive celestory windows that bathe the living space in natural light. Enjoy a modernized kitchen with quartzite counters, shaker cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Relax in fully updated bathrooms, including a jacuzzi tub in the primary suite. Enjoy peace of mind of ownership with major replacements already having been performed; HVAC (2020), roof (2022), windows & sliding glass door (2023). Situated in the highly sought-after Madison School District blocks away from Phoenix's top entertainiment options

22 Pine Del Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,704 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6638531
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Huge Price Reduction, will go quick! Discover your new haven in the Pines! This beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home boasts an open living area with luxury vinyl flooring throughout and cozy new carpet in all the bedrooms. Enjoy the comfort of new windows and a brand-new central heating and AC system. The modern kitchen features stainless steel appliances and stunning quartz countertops. With new lighting fixtures and fresh paint both inside and out, this mountain retreat is move-in ready!