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. 

2117 E Voltaire Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85032

$569,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in The Agave, Phoenix
Open House
$569,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,590 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772466
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
The Agave - A rare combination of Space, Style, Quality, and Value where Design Matters. Be inspired by the warm tones and natural textures of the desert where the Sagebrush and Adobe interior color schemes boldly echo the beauty of The Agave. Modern, Flat-Panel Kitchen Cabinetry in Matte color-ways, Solid-surface, Spa-Inspired Flat-Panel vanity cabinets in natural-wood tone finishes in Bathrooms. Standard LVT flooring installed in the entire home, Quartz Countertops, and Tile shower surrounds. Standard Accent painted interior doors and jambs for a bold, effortless design touch. Ceiling fans included as well as EV prewire. This premium end location Quail Plan showcases an enclosed front patio, oversized 2 car garage, bonus loft space and second floor deck.

22807 E Stacey Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$569,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,956 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758518
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This open concept layout offers 3 bedrooms, private study, 2 baths, ample storage with a spacious utility room and two car garage. Enjoy sought after selections hand-picked by our expert designers; 12-foot slider leading you to the extended covered patio, signature ''super shower'' with upgraded tile to the ceiling in owners retreat, gourmet kitchen, stainless steel appliances with built in gas range, two tone shaker cabinets complimented by quartz countertops, and stunning kitchen backsplash. This beautiful home is situated on a desirable South Back home site. 2X6 CONSTRUCTION; NEW HOME WARRANTY.

11110 N 165th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85388

$569,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,180 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771392
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
One of the best properties in Surprise with an opportunity to assume a low interest rate! With a huge chef's kitchen and open floor plan, this home is perfect for entertaining. This home will make you feel like you are on vacation all year. This home has no neighbors behind or to the east, making this home feel like it is the only home in the neighborhood. The backyard is a desert paradise with a luxury pool, an above ground spa and a built-in gas fire-pit. This home is move-in ready and offered turn-key.

2640 E Northridge Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$569,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,913 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779810
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Imagine drinking your morning beverage next to the tranquil fountain and under the large carob tree. This home, without an HOA, is owned and cared for by the original owners. Some of the many features include a 205 square foot enclosed patio, large lot, double gates for boat or RV, built in storage room, built in Barbecue, Built in table on the patio 220 stub for Jacuzzi and much more. Save water with irrigation in both the front and back yards. The interior has an open floor plan and mostly hard surface flooring. There is a wood burning fireplace in the family room. The water heater was replaced in 2023 and the AC was replaced in 2022 and has a transferrable service plan. This home is located very close to 202 freeway for convenience.

8791 W Kathleen Road Peoria, AZ 85382

$569,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,297 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782048
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning 4-Bedroom Home with Pool in Arrowhead Shores Located in the desirable Arrowhead Shores neighborhood, this beautiful 4-bed, 2-bath home offers a private, new PebbleTec pool with updated pool equipment and a new roof. The spacious 3-car garage and open-concept living provide both comfort and convenience. The chef's kitchen features stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, while the master suite boasts a walk-in closet and spa-like en-suite bathroom. With no HOA fees, you'll have more freedom. Walk to top-rated schools and enjoy nearby shopping and dining. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Schedule your showing today and make this dream home yours!

3332 E Windsor Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296

$569,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,054 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784340
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this charming single-level 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 2058sf home in the highly sought-after Higley Park community. This home features a spacious formal living room, a cozy family room with a stone-front gas fireplace, and a split floorplan for added privacy. The kitchen boasts ample cabinets, a large island seating 3+, a gas stove, and a built-in oven. Enjoy the heated pebble sheen private pool in the quaint backyard with view fencing and no rear neighbors. The owner's suite is oversized with an ensuite offering a separate tub and shower. Recent updates include fresh interior and exterior paint, removable pool fence, and a flat tile roof. Located near top dining, schools, freeways, and entertainment, this home is in an amazing location!

2185 W Mcdowell Boulevard Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$569,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,249 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6775782
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Discover this beautifully updated 3-bdrm/2-bath home with breathtaking mountain & city views, situated next to preserved land for ultimate privacy. The home features a brand-new roof and modern appliances in a well-equipped kitchen, perfect for comfortable living & entertaining. Step outside to enjoy a spacious 52-ft covered patio, ideal for relaxing or hosting guests.For equestrian enthusiasts, the property includes 4 large covered stalls, each with its own turnout, a dedicated tack room, & covered hay storage. Additionally, a separate workshop, well house, tool shed, and ample covered storage space provide all the convenience and utility you need.This property combines luxury with practicality, offering a peaceful retreat while maintaining proximity to essential amenities.

8037 N Sage Vista Prescott Valley, AZ 86315

$569,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Viewpoint North 13, Prescott Valley
New
$569,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,984 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787699
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You don't want to miss this great home in the popular Viewpoint subdivision in Prescott Valley. Enjoy the open floor plan with large living room, dining room and bonus sitting area to enjoy morning coffee. Take in the amazing sunrises and mountain views from your covered patio completely landscaped and fenced for the pups! The kitchen has granite counter tops, upgraded cabinets, stainless steel appliances and tons of space, perfect for prepping for holiday dinners. Pull up a chair at the bar and enjoy a cocktail and the beautiful distant mountain views. The large primary bedroom is light and bright with a newer sliding glass door for easy access to the view patio. Watch the sunrise, enjoy Mingus Mountain views and experience the monsoon as it moves across the valley.

27504 N Montana Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$569,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,741 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780473
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
TURNKEY! Lovely, fully furnished and updated townhome in the gated and picturesque community of Tonto Verde. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac street just a half block from the clubhouse and its amenities. The home features great room style of living with new flooring, new GE Profile SS appliances, new washer and dryer, new plumbing fixtures, new hardware, new LED ceiling fixtures, and it has been freshly painted, including the garage. The covered patio extends out and includes a wood-burning firepit. The garage is extended in length to accommodate two cars plus a golf cart. It's fully furnished and ready to move in. It's the perfect townhome for you!

8609 N 89th Drive Peoria, AZ 85345

$569,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Crosspointe Peoria 53, Peoria
New
$569,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,893 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787852
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located within the gated Crosspointe community, this turnkey, extensively upgraded residence boasts 3 bedrooms plus a den and 2 bathrooms across 1893 square feet, featuring a spacious great room design. The gourmet kitchen is equipped with ample cabinetry, granite countertops, a gas cooktop, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, and an island complete with a breakfast bar and pendant lighting. Dual sliding glass doors from the great room open to a covered patio and a backyard surrounded by single story homes that includes a private pool, generous paver work, and a storage shed. The master bedroom offers backyard access through its own sliders and features an en-suite bathroom with dual sinks, a separate bathtub and shower, and a large walk-in closet. Additional amenities include tile and vinyl plank flooring, plantation shutters, neutral paint, ceiling fans, a side yard with a double gate, a stone-accented facade, and a 3-car garage complemented by an expansive paver-lined driveway.

14410 N 42nd Place Phoenix, AZ 85032

$569,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,752 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6690022
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream family abode nestled in the heart of North Phoenix, Arizona! This charming single-level home boasts an array of desirable features designed to cater to your every need. Step inside to discover a spacious interior adorned with multiple living spaces, providing ample room for relaxation and entertainment. Whether you're hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet family evenings, there's a space for every occasion. The home's owned solar panels not only offer eco-friendly energy solutions but also ensure significant savings on utility bills, providing both environmental consciousness and economic efficiency. Outside, you'll find a delightful backyard oasis, perfect for soaking up the Arizona sunshine. Welcome home!

7825 W Rovey Avenue Glendale, AZ 85303

$569,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,694 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731089
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This Beautiful home located in Tessera's gated community features *4 Bathrooms *2 Baths, Formal Living Room with Dining Room *Family Room*Granite counter*Tile floors in all common areas*Extended 3 car garage*Additional 4th Garage conditioned as workshop or can be used to store extra toys.*Lots of space for entertainment for large family*Beautiful front landscape with mature trees*RV Gate *Pavers/concrete laid out for RV parking Front/back yard*Across from Community Park*