What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 19, 2016

Housing news was boosted by the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index, which posted its highest readings since July of 2002. In other news, the Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee voted to raise the federal funds rate and Fed Chair Janet Yellen gave a press conference. Mortgage rates rose and weekly jobless claims fell.

Home Builder Confidence Highest in 14 Years, Home Construction Lags

According to the National Association of Home Builders, builder confidence in housing market conditions reached its highest rate since 2002 in December. The NAHB Housing Market Index reading topped out at 70 as compared to November’s reading of 63. Analysts said that December’s high reading resulted from a post-election bump in builder confidence. While high builder confidence could bode well for supplies of new homes, construction rates continued to lag strong economic indicators such as low unemployment and high demand for homes. While builders gained confidence in current and projected housing market conditions, they continued to face shortages of labor and buildable lots.

Fed Raises Rate

The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve announced it would raise the federal funds range by 0.25 percent to 0.50 to 0.75 percent. FOMC said strengthening job markets, lower unemployment and rising household spending supported the decision to raise the federal funds rate. Inflation, while below the Fed’s target of 2.00 percent, is gradually moving toward the Fed’s medium term goal. FOMC’s statement indicated that the Fed’s monetary policy would remain accommodative.

Fed Chair Janet Yellen held a press conference and cited “considerable progress” toward the Fed’s dual mandate of maximum employment and price stability as factors supporting the decision to raise the target federal funds range. Labor markets continue to improve; Chair Yellen said that the economy has added 180,000 jobs per month over the last three months. 15 million jobs have been added in the past seven years. Inflation is growing gradually, and the Fed expects to achieve its target inflation rate of 2.00 percent over the next two years.

Month-to-month consumer spending readings held steady at 0.20 percent growth. Core consumer price index data, which excludes volatile food and energy sectors, rose from 0.10 percent to 0.20 percent in November.

Mortgage Rates, Weekly Jobless Claims

Mortgage rates were higher last week, but Freddie Mac said that its survey data was collected before FOMC raised the federal funds rate. Analysts at Freddie Mac suggested a wait-and see position on rate forecasts due to the changing political climate. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was three basis points higher at 4.16 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage rose one basis point to 2.37 percent and the average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was two basis points higher at 3.19 percent. Average discount points for fixed rate mortgages held steady at 0.50 percent and dipped to 0.40 percent for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage.

New jobless claims were lower last week at 254,000 claims filed. Analysts had expected a reading of 250,000 new claims based on the prior week’s reading of 258,000 new claims filed. Volatility in weekly readings for new jobless claims can be expected due to seasonal hiring and layoffs.

Whats Ahead

Next week’s economic releases include readings on new and previously-owned home sales, inflation and consumer sentiment. Readings for mortgage rates and new jobless claims will also be released.

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35925 S Caballero Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$1,600,000
6 Beds
3.5 Baths
5,057 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6717607
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning horse property that is elegant inside and out. Home has a fenced pool and has been cared for by single owner since purchase date. Property is upscale inside with extravagant tastes throughout each and every room in the home. The is a prominent subdivision where the roads are paved, and views are absolutely breathtaking. The panoramic views from the living room, dining room and kitchen are amazing.

10190 N Prescott Ridge Road Prescott Valley, AZ 86315

$1,600,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
3,220 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739226
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PREMIER EQUESTRIAN LOCATION embodies rare natural beauty w/ panoramic views! Gorgeous, private & serene horse property in prestigious gated Prescott Ridge Community on over 14 acres set back off of Prescott Ridge Rd bordering state land to the south. Direct Gate access to State Land off SW Corner of property. Numerous upgrades in past 3 years including appliances, roofs, some windows & brand new exterior paint. 4 or 5 bedrooms in the main house along with 3 full bathrooms. 2 bed/1 bath guest suite above the barn and a separate detached studio with a kitchenette for an in-law suite. Perfect for multi-generational living. 8 Stall Barn, Foaling Stall, 3 fenced Pastures, Tack Room, Grain Room, Round Pen, Hot Walker & Bath Rack, Fruit Trees, RV Dump & Hook ups & Oversized garage.

8220 E Minnezona Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,600,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
2,509 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767381
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
AN AQUATIC OASIS CREATED BY SCOTTSDALE'S 'BIGGEST FISH!'...'SCOTTSDALE'S MOST PROLIFIC, DEVELOPER, INVESTOR, DESIGNER'S' LATEST & GREATEST SHOWCASE FEATURE'S THE FIRST-EVER, NEVER-BEEN-SEEN-BEFORE, BUILT-IN FISH TANK RIGHT BENEATH YOUR FEET BY CREATING & DESIGNING AN 'AQUARIUM FLOOR'....NOT ONLY WILL THIS BE A CONVERSATION-STARTING CENTERPIECE BUT ALSO CREATES A TRANQUIL, UNDERSEA AMBIANCE RIGHT THROUGH THE LIVING SPACE! ONLY A GENIUS MIND WOULD KNOW HOW TO MESH CONTEMPORARY DESIGN WITH AN AQUATIC EXPERIENCE! Dare to 'Step-into' and then 'Over' the 'one-of-a-kind' oasis where KOI FISH will guide you through the 4 BED, 4 BATH, (DUAL PRIMARY) zen retreat! This property is truly unlike any other, allow me to point out some unique stand-out features...An in-ground 1200 GALLON FISH TANK, built with tempered glass to withstand over a thousand pounds of pressure, Open concept living spaces with an exposed Silver wooden beam hi-lights the vaulted ceilings, a 6 foot in length WINE GALLERY with custom glass doors to show off your wine collection, Black porcelain Floor to ceiling focal point Fireplace backdrops the Family Room, a '2-tone' Signature Designer Kitchen fully Integrated with 'top-of-the-line' KitchenAid' appliances & 10 Ft Island centered with Gas Cooktop & Italian Black Hood Vent, a BonusRoom/ Flex Room/ Football watching manCave/ Teenage Pad with STRIKING GARAGE DOOR ACCESS opens onto the backyard patio & pool & has own bathroom en-suite for convenience, a ROOF-TOP DECK accessible by black wrought iron spiral stairwell to take in Sunny Scottsdale's Sunsets and DUAL PRIMARY BEDROOMS both with double-vanity en-suite bathrooms just to name a few. Now step outside to the backyard which is an entertainers playground with covered terrace with hanging chair to relax in and gaze out over the HEATED POOL/ SPA backdropped by a vast array of greenery, a wood burning fireplace for the cooler nights, a built-in BBQ & beverage bar for 'al-fresco' dining and a grassy area for our 'furry friends' to enjoy! ACCOMMODATION IS SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY with the 1st Primary Bedroom, a stand-out 'owner's suite' and set apart from the rest of the house, has its own lounging area with wall-to-wall sliders opening onto the blissful backyard, also features a massive walk-in closet and contemporary & striking en-suite bathroom. Venture down the hallway inlaid with 'first-ever walk-over' aquarium floor which leads you to 3 bedrooms, & 2 bathrooms (en-suite) ...a hallway that needs to be seen to be believed, kids & adults alike... AND THE GRAND FINAL is the inside Laundry, red & white in color, stunning with standout fire-engine red refrigerator, with tiled floors that look like authentic wood floors, a must feel! A 2 car garage oversized with built-in cabinets and E-V car charging station, 2 tone black & blue non-slip flooring and designer lighting. Add in a paved front courtyard, magnificent landscaping, lighting & trees....this is truly an escape from reality.. I'D LIKE TO BE, UNDER THE SEA, IN AN OCTOPUS'S GARDEN WITH YOU!' - Beatles.

43508 N Jackrabbit Road San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

$1,600,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,553 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762939
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fantastic 5 acre ranch with everything a horse person could want. 26 Stalls, some extended to 12x24. Round Pen. 4 Irrigated Pastures. 100x300 Sand Roping arena. Property completely fenced with no-climb and gated with new bridges over ditch. Adobe/Block home with 4 bedrooms, fire place and In-law suite with mini kitchen and own entrance. Hurry on over as this will not last!

56 S Prairie Road Gilbert, AZ 85296

$1,600,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
4,006 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764759
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful Custom Home Located in the Sought-After Morrison Ranch Community in Gilbert. This Open, Light and Bright Floor Plan Boasts a Gourmet Kitchen with Extra Large Marble Slab Island, Custom Cabinetry, Sub Zero Refrigerator and Wolf Appliances. The Walk In Pantry has Custom Built-Ins with Antique Barn Door. Master Retreat with Spa Like Bath and Walk In Closet. Secondary Bedrooms are Separated By Jack and Jill Bath and its own Private Vanity. The 4th Bedroom has an Adjacent 3/4's Bath and Private Exit to Pool Area. Resort Style Backyard with Fenced in Pool, Raised Spa, Water Feature, Built In BBQ, Large Umbrella to Cover Pool and there is also a Pickleball Court, for Outdoor Living at its Finest! With Private Sauna in the Garage, Cabinets and Split Air for Workout Room. This Home Blends Modern Luxury with Practical Living!

20866 W Werner Place Buckeye, AZ 85396

$1,600,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,085 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769339
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exquisite Luxury Retreat in Verrado's Main Street District. Discover an extraordinary, fully remodeled residence situated on a coveted corner park lot in the heart of the vibrant Main Street District of Verrado. This meticulously updated gem boasts a wealth of enhancements, including a new HVAC system, new roof, and a stunning pool and spa, complemented by beautifully landscaped front and backyards. Spanning over 4,000 square feet, this home showcases an array of luxurious features. The gourmet kitchen is a culinary dream, featuring high-end KitchenAid appliances, gorgeous granite countertops, custom cabinetry, and an accordion window wall that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living. Step into your private backyard oasis, where lush landscaping sets the stage for relaxation and entertainment. A sunken Ramada offers a cozy fireplace, lounge area, and a built-in BBQ, all overlooking a spectacular swimming pool with multiple water and fire features. An expansive putting green and an in-ground trampoline elevate this outdoor haven, making it truly one-of-a-kind. Designed for the most discerning buyers, this home is destined to be the envy of family, friends, and guests. Experience the pinnacle of luxury livingschedule your private tour of this incredible Verrado paradise today.

24050 S 124th Street Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,600,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
3,900 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782487
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible 1.5 acre, 3900 square foot farmhouse with solar on a County Island in Chandler, AZ. The main house features 5 bedrooms (2 primary suites), 3 bathrooms, nursery, and open-concept kitchen, mudroom, a huge laundry room and a 4 car garage. The casita is attached but has a separate entrance as well and it features another primary bedroom/bathroom, plus its own living room and kitchen. The 2400 sqft barn is setup as an indoor basketball court and there is another detached outbuilding for storage. The main house kitchen has a large island, granite counters, double ovens, storage and a huge dining area. This home is truly an entertainers delight inside and out. The backyard oasis features an amazing pool, multiple covered patios, built-in grill and fire pit. The front yard also features a large covered patio space, mature trees with swings, grass and white picket fencing. You have to experience this home in person to truly take in all that it has to offer!

1435 S Peaceful Place Lane Bisbee, AZ 85603

$1,600,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,254 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783025
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in Bisbee, nestled in the foothills of the Mule Mountains. This home offers 60 acres of private, tranquil land, ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat with panoramic views. Upon entering, you're greeted by a grand foyer and a stunning talavera-tiled staircase, setting the tone for the custom-designed interior. The chef's kitchen is a true standout, featuring high-end finishes and pullout drawers for ultimate functionality. The spacious living room, complete with a cozy Beehive fireplace, offers an inviting space for relaxation and entertainment. Two of the three bedrooms could be considered masters, one upstairs and one downstairs. Two covered patios off the main floor and two large balconies on the second floor. Garage is extended 24x24. A rare find! Absolutely stunning!

5424 E Crocus Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,600,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,315 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6772808
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Elegant Living on a Coveted 85254 Street. The Ultimate Family Oasis. Discover Scottsdale living at its finest on this expansive 34,216-square-foot lot in one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in 85254. This stunning property features 5 spacious bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, offering a blend of elegance and comfort for family living and entertaining. Perfect for those who love the indoor-outdoor lifestyle, the oversized lot boasts an array of recreational features, including a dedicated sport court for pickleball, tennis or basketball, a walking, biking, and scooter path for outdoor enjoyment, and a sparkling swimming pool ideal for Arizona's sunny days. Multiple sitting areas for families and friends to gather and enjoy life together. With an RV gate, you'll have ample space for storing your toys and adventure gear. Situated just moments away from Scottsdale Christian Academy and the highly acclaimed Paradise Valley School District, this home is perfect for families seeking both privacy and convenience. With dining, shopping, and entertainment options in every direction, including Kierland, and the Scottsdale Quarter as well as easy access to SR 51 and Loop 101, you're never far from the best that Scottsdale has to offer. This remarkable home is not just a place to liveit's a backdrop for creating lifelong family memories.

35003 N Ellsworth Road Queen Creek, AZ 85144

$1,600,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,411 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761572
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Escape to this beautiful custom home on 3.44 acres in the heart of Queen Creek. The coveted views of the San Tan Mountains are second to none. The original home boasts charm and rustic appeal; while the new 2,500sf addition is grand, displays beautiful views, provides many opportunities and extends the comfort throughout. Break bread in the dining room fit for royalty, relax and unwind in either of the living rooms and host your guests or spoil your family with a loft and kitchenette upstairs. Outside you will find a covered patio, perfect for sunsets, a steel covered garage and an inside garage/shop. Not to mention the 3.44 acres of land, just waiting for your personal touch -- horse stables? Arena? Pool and spa? The choice is yours! This home is truly one of a kind!

3623 E Arabian Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296

$1,600,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,801 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769068
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxury retreat in Morrison Ranch! This energy-efficient 5-bed, 3.5-bath home features Tesla solar panels, power wall batteries, and an EV charger. The gourmet kitchen boasts Wolf and Subzero appliances, granite counters, and a walk-in pantry. Enjoy wood flooring, upgraded carpet, plantation shutters, and smart fans/blinds throughout. Stay connected with Cat 6 wiring, 8 speaker zones, and hard-wired security cameras. The heated/chilled pool and spa with waterfall, scuppers, and rain sheer, extended patio, gazebo, and gas fire pit are perfect for relaxing year round. Laundry room is equipped with sink, cabinets, washer/dryer. Garage includes service door, cabinets & epoxy floors. Located by the greenbelt and surrounded by single-story homes for added privacy. This home is truly a must-see! Continue upstairs and into the charming loft w/built-in bookshelves. End your busy day in the primary bedroom, showcasing a walk-in closet and a lavish ensuite w/dual vanities. Don't forget about the large den w/outdoor access, perfect for an office. Lastly, the wonderful backyard includes a covered patio, a lovely gazebo, fire pit, and a sparkling blue pool/spa combo. This is the opportunity of a lifetime, hurry and act now!

5225 E Whitton Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,600,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,559 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6767461
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Quintessential Arcadia ranch home tucked on quiet street. Perfect remodel opportunity on a large lot with new builds selling $3.5 million and above in surrounding cul de sac. With a large front and back yard this 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home is the perfect family home. Light and bright open concept living, breakfast nook, and kitchen. With a wall of French doors, chef's kitchen includes custom cabinets, quartz counters, and eat-up kitchen island. Entertain family and friends in the backyard's custom pool with expanded pool deck, ramada, built-in BBQ, and sprawling grass yard. Split floor plan, bonus playroom/office and NY brownstone city feel in a sprawling Arcadia lot. Lots of upside and multiple offers anticipated. Walk or bike on the canal or drive minutes to reach Phoenix's top resorts, golf, hiking, dining, and shopping.

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