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. 

20251 W Catalina Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$584,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,456 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747889
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the Amethyst floor plan with 3 bedrooms + study, 3 full baths and 3 car garage. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Large walk in shower at owner's bath. 12x8 sliding glass door that leads out to your extended covered patio. Sonoma maple Linen-off white cabinets with hardware in kitchen with 42'' kitchen uppers and pull out trash drawer with two bins. AZT Tawny Quartz countertops in kitchen and at the enhanced island. Kitchen sink is a black under mount single bowl sink. 8' tall interior doors. Upgrade flooring includes Beaumont Olmo 7x24 plan tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. Dual sink at bath 2. Soft water loop, gas stub for future BBQ. Please verify information with onsite agent. Thank you!

3438 E Betsy Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$584,990
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,909 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739064
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Now with a strategic price adjustment—this opportunity is too good to pass up! This move-in-ready 4-bedroom beauty in Higley Park won't last long! The versatile floor plan offers THREE EXTRA living spaces—ideal for a den, home office, or cozy loft—giving you endless options to suit your lifestyle. The sellers have meticulously prepared this home, and it shows. With fresh paint, a new AC unit, and abundant storage, this home combines comfort, style, and functionality. You'll love the expansive primary suite featuring a grand bedroom, luxurious bathroom, and an oversized walk-in closet that's truly a must-see. Step outside to enjoy tree-lined streets, parks, walking trails, and a refreshing community pool. Located just a short stroll from Agritopia and Gilbert's Epicenter, where fantastic dining and shopping await. With close proximity to Loop 202, San Tan Mall, and excellent schools, this location is unbeatable. Take advantage of this newly priced gem tour today and make it yours!

262 S 164th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$584,990 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Mirada Crossing, Goodyear
Open House
$584,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,510 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754928
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the Jade floor plan with 4 bedrooms all with walk in closets. 3 full baths. Everything is large in this home. Lot large enough for an 8' gate. Large owner's entry (mud area) as you walk in from the 3 car garage. Multi slide door off the spacious great room. Owner's bath has a large walk in shower with tile surrounds and floor. Pavers at drive, walk and entry. Stainless steel gas appliance package with 30'' cooktop, wall oven, microwave, canopy hood. Barnett painted Boulder cabinets. AZT Hana Sky quartz countertops at kitchen and expanded kitchen island. Dual sinks at bath 3. DT Broxburn gray 6x24 plank tile in all areas of the home except closets and bedrooms. Dual sinks at bath 3. Please verify all information with onsite agent. Thank you!

4827 Raven Circle Happy Jack, AZ 86024

$584,950
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,760 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6674098
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful log cabin located in Happy Jack, escape the heat and busyness of your life. This great home sits on an acre with pines, oaks and junipers, great 3/4 wrap covered composite deck. Main floor has beautiful hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling, great brick fireplace, master bedroom/bath, office/den or extra living area, great room and an amazing kitchen and dining area. Great wood plank stairs lead upstairs to 2 bedrooms, bath and a great cozy playroom for the kids. This custom home offers many upgrades on the kitchen cabinets, windows, wood beams and more. You will fall in love sitting inside looking at the great interior or sitting on the covered patio watching the wildlife and listening to the peacefulness of Happy Jack. Bring your buyers, motivated seller.

16006 W Electra Lane Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$584,930
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,229 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764927
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New home ready for immediate occupancy! This single level 2225 SF single level 3 BR, 3. BA home is located on a north south facing home site. Surrounded by single level homes, no 2 stories. Exciting included features include white cabinets, upgraded granite tops, tile Kitchen backsplash, plank tile on the floors, 10' ceilings, 8' interior doors, 3 car garage, gourmet kitchen, garage service door, tank less water heater, Front Yard landscape, and so much more. Neighborhood includes, tree lined streets, Community Aquatic Center, Picleball Courts. Certified Energy Star and Indoor Air Plus for more energy savings.

18411 N 46th Place Phoenix, AZ 85032

$584,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,748 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783837
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this spacious 2-story home offering 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The home features a bright and airy main level with a spacious living room, kitchen, and a separate dining area. Just a few steps down, discover an inviting family room and convenient half bath, ideal for family and friend gatherings! Upstairs, you'll find the master suite with fireplace complete with a private ensuite bath, alongside additional bedrooms. You can enjoy the convenience of a two-car garage. This home provides ample parking and storage options. Lastly stepped into your backyard that has a brand new pool that the homeowner designed with endless taste and design. Set up your showing today and lets get you into your new home.

1300 W 7th Street Tempe, AZ 85281

$584,900
6 Beds
4 Baths
2,441 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733783
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**AMAZING 6bd/4bath HOME ON A HUGE LOT IN THE HEART OF TEMPE & NEAR ASU!** This is the perfect investment or rental property! Featuring: 2441 sq.ft of Living Space, Fresh Interior Paint, easily maintained Tile, Formal Living Room, Massive Family Room, Dining Area, Kitchen with Refinished Cabinets, Gas Stove, Refrigerator & Dishwasher, 6 Good Sized Bedrooms, 4 bathrooms (1 Newly Remodeled)+ A HUGE FLEX ROOM (potential 7th bedroom), Upgraded Dual Pane Windows, Custom Fans & AC is serviced regularly. Washer/Dryer & additional Refrigerator included. Flex Room at the back of the home also has separate entry. The Giant Family Room is perfect for a large game room/office/home theater and has 2 additional closets for extra storage. NO HOA, perfect for AIRBNB, Rental or a Large Family Home! This home is perched on almost a 10,000sf lot and has and additional storage shed on a slab in the backyard that provides tons of extra storage space. Your extended driveway has enough slab spaces in the front to park at least 7 cars. Location is walking distance from Mill Ave shops and restaurants/entertainment + ASU! This is a must see property!!!

26964 N 104th Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$584,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,605 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733026
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Northlands Encore in North Peoria, the best value for the money in the area, where the skies are bigger and the sunset glow fills the sky with radiant pink, orange, and purple. Step outside every morning and view the beautiful Calderwood Butte out your front door, with private backyard mountain views and the trail head right down the street, you'll get the full enjoyment of this very special home in an extraordinary community. Step inside this move-in ready 2-story Amethyst Model by Taylor Morrison, with over 2605 sq. ft. of living space, 4 BED + LOFT + 3 BATH, and a 2 CAR temp controlled garage. NEW CARPET was just installed in the living room and throughout the entire 2nd level! The main level features an open concept main living area, light and bright neutral color pallet throughout, white trim, blinds, and doors. Convenient main-level bedroom and full bath, currently used as a home gym. Open concept kitchen and dining area with light gray tile floors, can-lighting, contrasting twilight cabinets, dark gray granite countertops and island, a stainless steel GE appliance package, and a walk-in pantry for all your storage needs. The upper level features a large open loft, which can be used as another living space, office, or game area. Master suite with full master bath, featuring a tub and shower combo, double sinks, and a walk-in closet. Split floor plan with 2 additional bedrooms and a full bathroom. Step out back and take a deep breath, with no back neighbors and beautiful mountain views. Large, brick paver covered patio w/fan, outdoor kitchen w/ serving area for dining outdoors, centered green space with a play area to the side. SOLAR will be paid at closing! Neighborhood and property mountain views, close proximity to 303 freeway access, shopping, dining, entertainment, health care, and less than 20 min. away from beautiful Lake Pleasant Regional Park. A list of full updates available in the documents tab, there truly is nothing to do except move in.

8961 W Maui Lane Peoria, AZ 85381

$584,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,245 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759656
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Private lake living, priced way below market value. This home is spacious with beautiful lake views, and with remodeling of cabinets and floors, it will be spectacular. The current owners priced this three bedroom, three bath home, so the new owners can make the changes with their personal design choices. Take a look and imagine making this house not only an excellent investment, but also your beautiful lake front home.

5265 S Dante Road Mesa, AZ 85212

$584,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,020 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766105
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Just reduced and priced to sell! Don't miss this upgraded 3 BR, 2 BA home with a den/office in the desirable Bella Villa neighborhood of East Mesa. Situated on a secluded lot w/ mtn views and one neighbor, this home is move-in ready! The exterior features a custom brick paver walkway, beautiful landscaping, and a private backyard oasis. Inside, the open floor plan offers high ceilings, tile floors, new carpet in the bedrooms & ample natural light. The kitchen is a chef's dream with rich mahogany cabinets, granite countertops, a breakfast island, RO water system, walk-in pantry, and stainless-steel appliances. Great room is perfect for entertaining, w/built-in theater wall, pre-wired surround sound, recessed lighting, and plantation shutters. Low rate VA assumable loan available to non vet The master suite includes a bay window, walk-in closet, and private bath. The backyard is a retreat with an extended paver patio, solar-lit walkway, lush grass, and stunning mountain views. Bella Villa offers walking trails, playgrounds, and a dog park. Come experience the perfect blend of modern living and natural beautythis home won't last long!

4077 S Sabrina Drive Unit 63 Chandler, AZ 85248

$584,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,775 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767230
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Discover this lovely 4-bedroom end-unit townhome in the gated community of Echelon at Ocotillo! Enjoy a welcoming front patio with well-laid pavers, perfect for relaxing and watching breathtaking sunsets. The spacious great room boasts high ceilings, a soothing palette, recessed lighting, window blinds, and durable tile flooring. The gourmet kitchen features granite counters, white cabinetry with crown molding, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and an island with a breakfast bar. The well-sized primary bedroom offers soft carpeting, an ensuite with double sinks, and a walk-in closet. This smart home also provides fantastic community amenities, including a playground, picnic spots, and a refreshing pool/spa. Make this gem yours today!

6078 E Southern Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$584,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,844 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6720211
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exceptional property nestled on an acre lot, perfect for horse lovers! Near the Superstition Mountains, this BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED home offers breathtaking views & a serene environment. Providing 3 beds, 2 baths, & a 2-car garage. Highly upgraded interior showcases fresh neutral paint, tons of natural light, and wood-look flooring w/carpet in bedrooms. If entertaining is on your mind, you'll love the spacious open layout adorned w/a cozy fireplace! The renewed kitchen boasts SS appliances, quartz counters, recessed & pendant lighting, white shaker cabinetry, and an island w/breakfast bar. Main bedroom has a spotless bathroom w/tiled step-in shower. Relax under the covered patio of your expansive backyard! Plenty of room for parking, gardens, and horse/animal facilities! Move-in ready