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.

What‘s 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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37510 W Nina Street Maricopa, AZ 85138

$654,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762871

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss your chance to own this amazing home! This Sedona plan home features a flexible activity room AND home office! Your expansive gourmet kitchen is designed with stacked cabinetry, buffet-style lowers, gas cook top, and double ovens! The bright great room with multi-slide glass door is ideal for gathering with family and friends. The Primary Suite is expertly designed with a resort like bath with freestanding soaking tub. Take out the toys from your THREE CAR GARAGE! Say hello to luxury, Maricopa and see why K. Hovnanian is the First Name in Lasting Value!! ^^Up to 6% of Base Price can be applied towards closing cost and/or short-long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.

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5023 E Campo Bello Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

Open House

$654,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,958 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778883

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Discover Arabella, a community located in Arizona's desirable 85254 zip code. Our ''Little Rock'' floor plan offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a spacious loft, along with a 2-car garage and a private yard. Inside, you'll find modern Ash-Brown cabinetry, elegant quartz countertops, wood-like tile flooring, and plush carpeting. This home features pre-plumbing for soft water, smart home technology, and upgraded stair railing. Currently under construction, with an expected completion date in Nov/Dec 2024, Arabella is conveniently situated near Loop 101 and is just a short drive from Scottsdale Quarter, Kierland Commons, and Desert Ridge Marketplace, and Paradise Valley shopping and dining. We are in our final opportunities!!

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4444 E Bethena Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$654,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,420 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751104

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming 2-story home in the popular community of Cooley Station. It features a lush, well-manicured front yard with an inviting front porch with flowers all around. Step into a spacious living room with lots of light. The kitchen is light and bright and includes white cabinetry, recessed lighting, granite counters, stainless appliances, wall ovens and center island with breakfast bar. There are expansive sliding doors and an adjacent dining area that look out onto the sunny courtyard. The travertine patio has been extended and the artificial turf is low maintenance and aesthetically vibrant. The spacious primary bedroom is on the main floor and has a view of the courtyard. The primary ensuite bathroom boasts a large tub, separate shower, dual vanities and walk in closet. Off the living area, and down the hall, there are two bedrooms and a full bathroom on the main floor. There are also two large closets in the hallway for added storage. The laundry room has upper and lower white cabinets and windows and is located off the kitchen across from the generous pantry. Up the stairway, you will find a huge loft area that can be used as an additional living space or as a separate living space for mother-in-law, teen, etc. There is an additional bedroom, closet, and full bathroom upstairs. The 2-car garage and 2 car driveway are in the back of the house and provide space for storage as well as two large vehicles. The location can't be beat with walking distance to the basketball courts, kids playground, bbq area and fields. The community pools, Fry's Marketplace, Crust, and multiple other eateries are a short bike ride away. Come see this fabulous neighborhood!

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28234 N 134th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$654,774

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,489 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6788571

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A soon to be complete single-story Mercury with a Mid-Century Modern exterior elevation style. This 4-bedroom home plus a flex room offers 3 baths and a 2.5 car garage. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances and stylish Mocha colored cabinetry and beautiful white quartz countertops. Throughout the home, find upgraded baseboards and wood-like tile. The home and community are at the base of a mountain and are near Vistancia. Home warranty included.

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617 S Paradise Drive Gilbert, AZ 85233

Open House

$654,490

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,156 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742305

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Paradise! This Home is move in ready & located in The Gated Falls Community (only gated waterfront community in the Islands). This Home backs up to the most gorgeous waterfalls! The interior of this home boasts vaulted ceilings, a formal dining room, and a kitchen with stainless steel appliances. The formal dining room can only be beaten by the incredible view as you gaze through the windows. Amenities include Private Falls Pool, Hot Tub & Gazebo w/ BBQ, sink entertainment area, restrooms, & lake access to fish (catch/release).kayaks, paddle boards. The HOA takes care of front and back yard landscaping and paints the exterior of the home..

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38218 W Camelback Road Tonopah, AZ 85354

$654,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,270 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6721936

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous custom home on 5 acres with magnificent mountain views and tons of privacy! This home features 5 bedrooms and 4 baths...yes you read that right! 19 foot ceilings with wood beams, and 2 stone fireplaces. The kitchen boasts beautiful granite counters, and raised panel cherry cabinets as well as SS appliances. Split floorplan with spacious master bedroom down stairs and 4 bedrooms upstairs. This home is a dream for entertaining your family and friends! 4 car garage. 2 large corrals with shade and 5 stall barn with tack room. There is also a 200 amp service for RV Hook up and water. The property has a private well and backyard fencing and an amazing back porch to enjoy your morning cup of coffee with no city noise, just your dogs running around the property enjoying life!

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19700 N 76th Street Unit 2160 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$654,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,843 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766181

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Come enjoy the fantastic lifestyle of Village at Grayhawk in one of the best kept units in the complex! This is a move in ready property with recent upgrades to all mechanical items and appliances. Gorgeous master bath remodel completed recently as well. You'll love the open floor plan which offers split bedrooms and generously sized office. Quiet, peaceful and private location. Full two car garage. Don't miss this one.

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10585 E Cinnabar Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85258

Open House

$654,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,902 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752033

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Fully Furnished - Turn-key Luxury in Scottsdale Ranch's Heritage IV adult 55 + community. Just bring your suitcase! Discover the ease of Luxury Living in the prestigious Heritage 4 enclave within Scottsdale Ranch. This true 3 bedroom home offers a refined, turn-key experience with everything ready for you. Fully furnished and featuring newer appliances, fresh exterior paint (2023) , new W/D(2024), water heater ( 2020) a beautifully updated paver patio (2022) and A/C unit (2022), you'll enjoy a seamless and easy move in. A vibrant lake community , the lifestyle here includes serene walking paths, private streets, tennis courts and access to two sparkling pools and over 60 + clubs. Forget about yard work and focus on relaxation and play- the HOA cares for the front yard. Live the carefree, Luxurious lifestyle you've been waiting for in Scottsdale Ranch's Heritage 4. Act now -this is a special home

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1723 S Reseda Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$653,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,102 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786561

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the charming community of Lyons Gate, this home offers the perfect blend of convenience and lifestyle. Just moments away from Costco, Walmart, Top Golf, Main Event, San-Tan Mall and Gilbert's top-rated dining, shopping hotspots, entertainment, and easy 202 freeway access, the location is truly unbeatable with great schools. This stunning 4-bedroom residence, complete with a loft and den, is designed for both comfort and functionality. The oversized master suite features a cozy sitting area, providing the perfect retreat after a long day. Secondary bedrooms are equally spacious, complemented by an airy loft ideal for work or play. The chef-inspired kitchen is a culinary dream, ideal for preparing meals and hosting gatherings in backyard with gas outlet for barbecue. Full size cabinets in garage, spacious backyard with artificial turf and wall lights, easy to clean epoxy floor 3 car garage, newer water heater, newer yard gates, Plantation shutters for all windows. Surround speakers in backyard patio and living room. When summer arrives, you can unwind at the community's sparkling pool-no maintenance required, just pure relaxation.

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9951 S Centennial Road Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$652,990

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,344 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750717

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Up to 3% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available through preferred lender plus additional 2% of base price or total purchase price, whichever is less, is available to be used toward closing costs, pre-paids, rate buy downs, and/or price adjustments. The Casoria floor plan presents a sophisticated two-story layout featuring four bedrooms, an upstairs loft, and a versatile flex space perfect for an office, TV room, or study. Enhanced by professionally landscaped front yard, this home will be ready for occupancy in October or November. Ideally situated near community parks, grocery stores, and a variety of restaurants.

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2114 E Escuda Road Phoenix, AZ 85024

$652,400

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,580 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6656083

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this well maintained home in the highly coveted Mountain Cove subdivision. Rare 4 bed/3 full bath floor plan in a prime North Phoenix location with beautiful mountain views, N/S exposure, friendly neighborhood ambiance and no HOA. You'll love the soaring vaulted ceilings upon entry and in the formal living and dining areas. The kitchen, complete with upgraded cabinetry, granite counters and a spacious island, seamlessly flows into a second living area with a custom fireplace. Lower level hosts one bedroom and full bath, along with an office featuring a built in workstation that can easily be converted to a 5th bedroom. Upstairs you'll find a bonus loft area. The upstairs primary suite features a balcony for enjoying the scenic views. Step outside to a low maintenance backyard, covered patio and built in BBQ for relaxation and entertaining. New roof March '24. Don't miss this opportunity to live in close proximity to the 51, 101 and I-17 freeways. Enjoy everything that Desert Ridge, High Street and Scottsdale has to offer. Close to hiking trails and in the Paradise Valley School District.

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16881 W Merrell Street Goodyear, AZ 85395

$652,400

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,903 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748944

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Prepare to be pleased as you drive up to this highly upgraded Villa! Beginning with the beautiful iron gate at the entrance of the home. Builder options and upgrades of $130,000 + another $30,00 in owner upgrades after construction! The fine details of the home include but are not limited to: Stone Creek Library media wall, Dagr Design Entertainment center, painted by AZ Concepts, fireplace, Shelf theory pull out drawers. Premier lighting, Neil' s garage cabinets, overhead garage storage rack, which were all owner upgrades after construction. Options and upgrades by the builder are too numerous to list but are available upon request. This is a ''MUST VIEW'' Villa! Once you experience the ''FEEL'' when you enter this home you won't want to leave!!

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