What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 15, 2016

Last week’s economic news included reports on job openings, retail sales and recurring reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. Job openings and hiring increased, which provided further evidence of stronger economic conditions. Retail sales were flat in July, new unemployment claims dropped and mortgage rates changed little.

Labor Reports Suggest Stronger Economic Trends

The Labor Department reported more job openings in June with 5.60 openings as compared to 5.50 million job openings in May. According to the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, 5.13 million workers were hired in June as compared to May’s reading of 5.15 million hires. June’ JOLTS report also showed that voluntary quits were nearly double the rate of quits during the worst part of the recession. Analysts consider quits an indicator of worker confidence in job markets; in times when jobs aren’t easily found, workers are more likely to stay with current jobs rather than risking uncertainties associated with quitting.

New jobless claims were lower with 266,000 new claims filed against the prior week’s reading of 267,000 new claims filed and expectations of 265,000 new claims filed. Last week’s reading continued a long streak of new jobless claims under 300,000 per week. Labor market trends impact housing markets, as prospective homebuyers typically consider job security as a significant factor in decisions to buy homes.

Mortgage Rates Show Little Change

Freddie Mac said that average mortgage rates held near steady readings last week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose by two points to 3.45 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was also two basis points higher at 2.76 percent and rates for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage averaged 2.74 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for all three loan types reported. Consistently low mortgage rates help to ease concerns caused by rapidly rising home prices caused by short supplies of available homes.

Consumer sentiment fell short of the expected index reading of 91.50 with a reading of 90.40 but surpassed July’s index reading of 90.00. Participants in the University of Michigan Survey cited concerns over increasing prices coupled with slow income growth. Analysts said that consumer participants had grown acclimated to low mortgage rates, which may have offset consumer concerns about stagnant wages and higher prices.

What’s Ahead

This week’s scheduled economic releases include the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index, Commerce Department Consumer Price Index and Core CPI reports along with weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

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17821 N 93rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,875,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,592 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6780998
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home!! This stunning, custom-upgraded home in the heart of DC Ranch has all you could ever need! Elegantly designed & meticulously maintained, this residence boasts a spacious, versatile layout w/ 4 bedrooms + large bonus room (easily converted to 3 bedrooms + den & bonus room) w/ 3.5 beautiful bathrooms. Step inside & discover an open-concept living & dining area, complete with gourmet kitchen, sophisticated wet bar & custom wine cellar, perfect for entertaining. The breathtaking gourmet kitchen is the heart of the home w/ all newer cabinets, hood, Mont Blanc Satin Quartzite Countertops, butler's pantry & so much more. The primary suite offers luxurious finishes w/ large bedroom & bathroom featuring steam shower, soaking tub & expansive his/hers closets. Outside, unwind in your newly resurfaced pool & spa (pebble tec), outdoor BBQ, surrounded by lush landscaping backing to a wash, all in a tranquil backyard setting that feels like your own private oasis. Escape to one of two private patios directly adjacent to dining space or off the formal living (wine room) to enjoy indoor/outdoor living in this beautiful Arizona weather. This home truly combines elegance and functionality, blending indoor and outdoor living for a true Arizona lifestyle. DC Ranch's amenities are endless. Enjoy their multiple community centers including brand new Desert Camp and The Homestead community center with fitness room, pool, basketball/pickleball/tennis courts, outdoor heated recreational and tot pools, playgrounds, ramadas for events & everyday use, built in BBQ's, indoor and outdoor event facilities, community theatre, splash pad. DC Ranch also consists of 47 parks interconnected by over 50 miles of landscaped paths and trails backing the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Market Street Park is a half-acre public open space with a firepit, grills, play area, natural stage that hosts the Starlight Concert Series, & more all next to the well-known Market Street with delightful option for restaurants & shopping. DC Ranch also offers a multitude of events & celebrations including concerts, food truck nights, learning activities, speaker series, comedy nights, dive-in movies, game nights, social hours, holiday celebrations, & more. Fitness & wellness includes yoga, strength & balance, aqua fitness & pickleball clinics. Arts & Education includes creative art classes, performing arts series, kids classes & more. Youth programs are available with the summer series, back to school celebrations, field trips, kids cuisine & more. Lastly, resident-led clubs are present including social clubs, hiking clubs, pickleball clubs, wine clubs & more. Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional property in one of North Scottsdale's most desirable neighborhoods!!

7180 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 1015 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,875,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,698 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6697955
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Experience elevated living in this sophisticated 2-bed 2-bath condo at Optima Kierland! Boasting 10-ft ceilings & floor-to-ceiling windows, this meticulously maintained residence offers breathtaking views of the McDowell Mountains. The kitchen features sleek natural stone countertops, Bosch appliances, wine fridge, & counter-height breakfast bar perfect for entertaining. As part of Optima Kierland, you'll enjoy world-class amenities: heated lap pool, cold plunge, hot tubs, outdoor kitchens with BBQ areas, state-of-the-art fitness center, rooftop running track & sports courts.This is your chance to own a lock-&-leave oasis located just steps from Kierland Commons & Scottsdale Quarter. This home offers unparalleled convenience & the best of Scottsdale's vibrant lifestyle.

7342 S Brighton Lane Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,875,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,394 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753518
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the sought-after gated enclave of Cordova, just minutes from the prestigious Seville Golf and Country Club, this luxury residence offers an unmatched blend of elegance & lifestyle. Across from a serene park, the home welcomes you with a private gated courtyard, setting the stage for gracious entertaining. Inside, expansive living spaces include generously sized bedrooms, newly remodeled bathrooms, a dedicated office, and a versatile theater/game room with elevated seating for eight. The heart of the home is a gourmet kitchen, featuring custom cabinetry, dual sinks, a wine refrigerator, an 8-burner gas cooktop, double ovens, a warming drawer, and a spacious pantry perfect for the culinary enthusiast. The primary retreat is a haven of tranquility, boasting aspa-inspired bathroom designed for ultimate relaxation. Designed with seamless indoor-outdoor living in mind, large doors open to a sprawling patio, leading to the resort-style backyard. Here, you'll find a Pebble Tec diving pool, cascading waterfall, spa, swim-up bar, built-in BBQ, and cozy gas fire pit, all surrounded by a peaceful garden area ideal for relaxation or entertaining. With energy-efficient upgrades, including enhanced AC units, this home is not only luxurious but sustainable. A rare 6-car garage with an extended RV or boat bay and a second garage door opening to the backyard adds a final touch of convenience. This home truly offers the perfect blend of sophistication, comfort, and modern convenience.

4051 W Falling Leaf Road Show Low, AZ 85901

$1,875,000
3 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,910 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719135
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Retreat to the luxury of the cool White Mountains in Show Low's Torreon! One of the premier custom Cambric built homes on the Cabin golf course hole twelve. Nestled against a dreamy pond setting with fairways and water in both directions. This thoughtfully designed home has two large primary bedrooms on the main level with walk-in closets and spa retreat bathroom suites graces with gorgeous tile, stone and custom lighting. Both suites have decks with private access, see through fireplaces and ambient LED lighting. Entertain guests in this chef's kitchen with La Cornue gas range, Sub Zero refrigerator, wine steward and built-in microwave & dishwasher. Enormous kitchen pantry and additional storage under staircase. Gorgeous granite countertops with bar seating for 10 and breakfast room that boasts room enough for large dining table for dinner with family & friends! Extend your parties out to the deck overlooking the golf course. Bar-b-que on the patio or nestle up to the fireplace and roast a s'more. Upstairs is a large loft with fireplace and wet bar. Large bunkroom with four full-sized bunks. Two full bathrooms with showers for kiddos or guests and large balcony for star-gazing in the evenings. Torreon offers many country club amenities including fitness room, heated pool & spa, walking paths and two course. Invite guests to join you at one of the two restaurants or spend time at the kids club, tennis or pickle ball courts. Several memberships offered.

7137 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 7008 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,875,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,955 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6711208
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
***PENTHOUSE WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS** Welcome to your dream condo, a completely remodeled contemporary gem featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase stunning views of Camelback Mountain and the vibrant interior of Optima's pool area. This spacious retreat offers 2 large split primary suites and 2.5 baths, all complemented by superior finishes and an expansive open floor plan. Beautifully remodeled kitchen equipped with quartz countertops, Thermador appliances and ample storage space. Experience the beauty of nature from three private balconies adorned with gorgeous plant life, including a stunning 25-foot tree, perfect for soaking in breathtaking sunsets. Enjoy the condo's many convivences like a spacious laundry room, two premium parking spots with a 110V charging station, eco-friendly Wi-Fi-enabled HVAC controls, and automatic irrigation system. Recent upgrades include dimmers on every light, specialized art lighting, and large rain showerheads with massage wands. Indulge in a wealth of Optima's amenities which included two outdoor pools and spas, a newly remodeled state-of-the-art fitness center (2023) with an indoor heated pool, basketball and racquetball courts, and luxurious locker rooms with steam rooms. Enjoy yoga sessions with free mirror technology and host events in a spacious community party room. Additional perks include Metropolis restaurant and bar, a putting green for golf enthusiasts, and concierge service. Prime location. Just minutes away from Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall, Old Town Scottsdale, premier dining options, theaters, and the new Caesar's Republic Hotel, this condo is at the heart of Scottsdale's vibrant lifestyle. Don't miss your chance to own this exceptional property that combines luxury, convenience, and unparalleled views.

4206 E Earll Drive Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,875,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,188 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6694743
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream oasis in Arcadia Lite! This stunning 4-bed, 4.5-bath boasts an open living space, perfect for entertaining. Elegant hardwood flooring flows throughout, enhancing the ambiance. Each bedroom features an ensuite for privacy and a walk-in closet for ample storage. An expansive laundry room adds convenience. Outside, enjoy a beautiful pool with travertine and mature palm trees. Don't miss this gem! Experience luxury living in an amazing location Owner is a licensed real estate agent in Arizona.

35435 N Windmill Road Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,875,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,910 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6715184
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
If you're looking for Privacy and Views then this is it!! For the first time ever on the market, this spectacular 3910sqft, 4 bed, 3 bath residence sits on 2 acres and offers WOW mountain views and jaw dropping vistas! You'll feel like you're in your own Scottsdale Resort! This great room floor plan is perfect for entertaining and comfortable living. The amazing backyard and pool make for a perfect retreat. Don't miss the opportunity to come see beautiful home before it's gone! Horses are allowed here. NO HOA!

7738 N 185th Avenue Waddell, AZ 85355

$1,875,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,300 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6735714
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MUST SEE sprawling ranch style estate/compound on irrigated 2 acre lot. Newly constructed 2300 sf, 4 BR 3.5 BA main house and remodeled 1300 sf, 3BR, 1BA guest house. Perfect for visiting friends/family or private separate inlaw or older child suite. Newly build main house features upgraded Frigidaire appliances and granite counter tops throughout. Stained concrete floors. Custom cabinets and extra large walk-in pantry. Mud room/dog shower in the laundry room. 6 car garage 40x28 w/ additional attached RV garage 41x50. Tons of covered space for extra cars, RVs, boats and more. Huge pool with built-in outdoor kitchen and fireplace for entertaining friends and family. Backyard boasts a motel, tack shed and covered shaded areas for horses. Gated entry. RV hookup and dump capabilities.

5422 E Cholla Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,875,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,457 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781653
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Looking for the ideal location and dramatic architecture? Come see why Orangetree Estates is the epitome of what the Valley of the Sun has to offer. Located in one of the best school districts in AZ. Close to North and South Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Downtown and the best Golf and Restaurants in the Valley, including the new PV. Stunning curb appeal as you pass the gated courtyard and enjoy the fountain and firepit. 25' Ceilings and Corinthian Limestone greet you upon entry. Natural light abounds! The x-large kitchen features beautiful stone counters, 2 islands (one is moveable) and new GE Cafe built-in fridge, Bosch dishwasher and LG induction range. Refrigerators (4) and beautiful cabinets abound. The Backyard is just as amazing. Large patio, Gazebo, Waterfall pool, and BBQ island with sink and another refrigerator! Full list of upgrades under the Documents tab. Oversize 3 car epoxied garage with lots of cabinets. A/C workshop (9x5.5) and storage (12x5.5) are in the garage and not included in square footage.

37203 N Never Mind Trail Carefree, AZ 85377

$1,875,000 - 3Br/4Ba -  for Sale in No Hoa, Carefree
Open House
$1,875,000
3 Beds
4 Baths
3,302 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752835
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning remodeled Carefree home on nearly 2 acres. Panoramic views! Gated courtyard entry. Step inside and you see the great room layout and more views. The living area is spacious, has a gas fireplace, formal eating area and collapsing panel doors to bring the outside in. This perfect kitchen is gorgeous and has Quartz counters, double wall ovens, a gas stove, walk in pantry and a built in wine refrigerator. The main house has a primary suite, 2nd bedroom and bonus/den. The primary suite is split from the other rooms for privacy. The attached guesthouse has a full kitchen, fireplace, separate bedroom and a laundry area. The back patio has a large dining area, Mexican tiled swimming pool, lots of deck area and views. 3 car garage. Large circular driveway. This home is a must see.

7211 E Sunnyside Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,874,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,070 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745368
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover an unparalleled equestrian property located at the coveted intersection of Scottsdale and Cactus Rd. Set on nearly two acres, this meticulously designed estate is an equestrian enthusiast's paradise, offering state-of-the-art facilities for both horse and rider. The property features 24 spacious stalls, expertly designed to provide comfort and care for your horses. With multiple arenas, a well-equipped tack room, and a versatile multi-use area, this estate caters to all your training and recreational needs. The RV gate and hook-up add convenience for those who travel or host equestrian events. The main residence is a blend of luxury and functionality, boasting vaulted ceilings and a sophisticated two-way fireplace that enhances the home's warm and inviting atmosphere. The private diving pool offers a refreshing retreat after a day spent on horseback, while the gazebo and circular drive create an ideal setting for entertaining or unwinding. Parking is ample, with both covered and slab spaces, including dedicated RV parking. The property's landscape is thoughtfully designed with natural desert elements and a state-of-the-art watering system, ensuring the grounds are both beautiful and low-maintenance. Positioned on a cul-de-sac lot with stunning mountain views and desirable North/South exposure, this estate offers the perfect balance of privacy and accessibility. The nearby biking and walking paths provide endless opportunities for outdoor activities, making this property not just a home, but a lifestyle. This Scottsdale equestrian estate is a rare find, offering everything a discerning horse owner could desire.

7835 N 3rd Way Phoenix, AZ 85020

$1,862,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,564 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774430
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spanish Contemporary in the heart of North Central Corridor! Gated community with quick access to Central Bridle Path. Fully remodeled interior and exterior. 13'+ ceilings, wide plank wood floors with an open floor plan that includes a gas fireplace. Custom Beautiful new chef's kitchen with quartz countertops and backsplash, gas range, built-in fridge, all new Thermador appliances, floating wood shelves w/ under-cabinet lighting, wine fridge. Milgard sliding glass doors to patio enhancing the indoor/outdoor Arizona lifestyle with a newly renovated and lush landscape, upgraded extended travertine patio and pool surrounds. Elegant primary bedroom retreat with a dream bathroom that includes a solid freestanding tub, custom tiled shower, and Restoration Hardware fittings in all bathroom Huge walk-in primary closet w/ built-ins. Built-in library room for quiet reading, or game room. 3-car garage. New A/C units, RO water filtration and soft water systems. Located in the Madison School District, walking distance to the renowned Murphy Bridle Path, top restaurants and famous Uptown Farmers Market. Beautiful home in a wonderful and active area. One of a kind find!

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