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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805 W Zane Grey Circle Payson, AZ 85541

$649,900

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,900 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745886

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully remodeled home in the heart of Payson! Bright open floorplan welcomes you to a great room that that flows into the custom kitchen with granite countertops, ample cabinets, plus a large kitchen island. Main level offers a split floor plan with a large master suite, full bathroom, walk-in closet, and deck access, plus 2 additional bedrooms and a full bathroom! The lower level has a large family room, additional bedroom, full bathroom plus a HUGE 5th Bedroom/Bonus Room with it's own private entrance. Backyard has a covered deck is fully fenced. This home is in a cul-de-sac with NO HOA, near Rumsey Park. MUST SEE to get the full layout and experience! Pictures do not do this home justice! Please See Floorplan & Video

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26647 W Covey Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$649,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,736 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746036

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A stunning FURNISHED Voyage floor plan, where elegance & comfort converge. Enter through a private courtyard featuring a custom wrought iron gate & tranquil fountain. Inside you're greeted by warm hardwood flooring & soaring 10-foot ceilings, creating a welcoming & spacious atmosphere. The gourmet kitchen boasts chiseled granite countertops, perfectly complemented by faux wood beams & equipped with a oversized walk-in pantry. A stone-walled foyer adds a touch of sophistication, while the media wall offers an ideal space for entertainment. An impressive owner's suite features dual spacious walk-in closets. Interior arches add a unique architectural flair. Enjoy the convenience of a golf cart garage, along w/ the luxury of a covered patio & a cozy gas fire pit. Recent exterior paint ensures this home is as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside.

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249 E Grandview Street Mesa, AZ 85201

$649,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,559 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756270

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rare opportunity to own a 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in the highly sought-after Hohokam Village neighborhood with no HOA! This inviting home features an open floor plan, perfect for entertaining, with a cozy fireplace in the great room. Recent updates include brand new flooring throughout, fresh interior paint, and upgraded bathrooms. Step outside to your private backyard oasis, complete with a sparkling pebble tec pool, a large covered patio, and lush landscaping. Additional recent improvements include roof and pool repairs, along with new hardware throughout. Don't miss out on this gem!

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43856 N Hudson Trail New River, AZ 85087

$649,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,218 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758229

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Anthem's Best-Priced 4-Car Garage, Single level, 4 bedroom, home. A rare find for buyers with jet skis, boats, etc. Two of the four garage spaces come with a 3-foot extension ideal for larger vehicles or extra storage. The single-car garage is equipped with 220V power, perfect for your workshop or charging electric vehicles. Extra-wide driveway w/concrete extending to the RV gate. Inside features a gourmet Kitchen with gas cooktop and stainless steel hood, upgraded cabinets, & thick granite.The same high-end granite finishes extend into all bathrooms. Almost 1/4 acre lot has a spacious backyard that is a clean slate, ready for you to customize with the pool or outdoor oasis of your dreams.

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4292 E John Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$649,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,735 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759003

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful Textiler plan, 1735 sf single story home with 3 car garage is beautifully laid out with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths off a spacious great room with open gourmet kitchen. The master bedroom features a roomy walk in closet and a beautifully appointed master bath highlighted by a gorgeous spa shower and matching vanities. Beautiful tile flooring shows off the wonderful great room which opens to the outside with an expansive 16' atrium glass door. The gourmet kitchen features upgraded 42'' upper Linen cabinets with upgraded crown molding. The granite countertops are highlighted by the upgraded full tile backsplash. This home shows like a dream!

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2818 S Berrywood -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$649,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,025 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767015

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This one of a kind custom home is situated on a large corner lot in SSV, one of Mesa's popular 55+ golf course communities! This layout is a rare find! Lots of natural light and views of the Superstition Mountains from the main living area and your bedroom. This 3 bedroom, 3 full bath home has been meticulously cared for and is move in ready. All tile, vaulted ceilings, neutral paint, and spacious rooms. The kitchen has matching black SS appliances, a breakfast bar and luxurious granite counter tops! The master suite has two closets and a freshly remodeled bathroom with a walk in shower. Beautifully maintained desert landscaping, turf and citrus trees! Newer A/C, a water softener and electric, retractable awnings for additional shade in the back yard. Extended patios and much more!

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20131 N Sonoran Court Surprise, AZ 85374

$649,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,909 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765537

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One Of A Kind Custom Palo Verde Updated and Expanded. This Home Site is Very Special with Views of both Hole 1 And Hole 18 & Desert Springs End Of Driving Range. Hit Practice Balls From Your Custom Pad on the Extended Private Patio. Private Walled Courtyard for Sun Sets and Sun Rises. Cul De Sac Offers a Quite Wide Open Setting in The Grand. Interior Offers Beautilful Tile Flooring Throughout. Gourmet Kitchen with Newer Cabinets, Back Splash, Electric Range, SS Range Hood, Refrigerator , Dishwasher & Composite Sink. Beautiful Granite Counter Tops and Indirect Lighting. 10K Window Replacement In Home, H2O Concepts Whole House Filtration System. Bathrooms Custom Walk In Tile Showers, Quarts Counters, Newer Vanities and lighting. Stone Work Added to Front Of Home To Elevate Design.

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10345 E Kinetic Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$649,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,425 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772205

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning Eastmark home, where modern elegance meets thoughtful design! The exterior, freshly painted in July 2024, creates the perfect contrast with its light color and dark trim. Inside, you'll be greeted by a coffered ceiling entrance, beautiful wood plank tile flooring, white wood shutters, and 10-foot ceilings throughout. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring double wall ovens, an electric cooktop, two-toned cabinets, granite countertops, and a tiled backsplash. With pots and pans drawers, a single basin sink, and even a pot filler, this kitchen offers both style and functionality. Extra cabinets provide ample storage, and the open-concept layout flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas. The primary suite is massive and offers coffered ceilings, built-in side table lights, dual sinks on executive height vanities with granite countertops, a separate tub and shower with tile details, and a spacious walk-in closet that conveniently connects to the oversized laundry room, complete with built-in cabinets.The additional bedrooms are perfectly sized, and one of the bathrooms boasts a tiled shower and an executive height vanity. The backyard is a serene oasis, featuring a paved covered patio, artificial turf, an extra paver pad, and lush landscapingideal for relaxation and entertainment. This community offers a resort-like experience with a luxurious pool, splash pads, numerous parks, the charming Steadfast Farm, and the state-of-the-art clubhouse, The Mark, which hosts year-round events and family-friendly games. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to make this home yours!

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13805 N Whispering Lake Drive Sun City, AZ 85351

$649,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,942 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769663

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for a new place to be your own home? This wonderful 3 bed, 2 bath waterfront residence now on the market is the one for you! Great curb appeal, a low-care desert landscape, and a 2 car garage w/built-in cabinets are just the beginning. Inside you will find formal dining & living areas w/brand new flooring. The gorgeous kitchen is equipped w/ample cabinetry, granite counters, a breakfast bar, and all the built-in appliances you'll need for home cooking. End your busy day in the primary bedroom, showcasing a private ensuite for added convenience. Lastly, the lovely backyard includes a covered patio, built-in BBQ, putting green, and even a dock for your boat! Hurry, don't miss out!

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623 W Harvard Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85233

$649,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,152 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773584

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SOUGHT AFTER SILVERHAWKE ORIGINAL OWNER LOVED AND CARED FOR HOME! MANY UPDATED FEATURES INCLUDE FLOORING, GORGEOUS UPSCALE KITCHEN WITH NEW APPLIANCES, GRANITE BEVELED EDGE COUNTERS, PULL OUTS AND SOFT CLOSE DOORS/DRAWERS, ROOF HAS BEEN REPLACED WITH EXTENDED WARRANTY, HVAC UPDATED 2020, POOL RESURFACED!! NOTHING TO DO BUT PERSONALIZE, JUST MOVE IN! SO MANY EXTRAS THERE IS A LIST IN THE HOUSE WHEN YOU VISIT! SILVERHAWKE IS THE BEST NEIGHBORHOOD IN NORTHWEST GILBERT WITH FREEWAY ACCESS, DOWNTOWN GILBERT, RESTAURANTS SHOPPING ALL A VERY SHORT DISTANCE... GREENBELT & PLAY EQUIPMENT RIGHT DOWN THE STREET. OUTSIDE IS PARTY YARD WITH SELF CLEANING PEBBLE SHEEN POOL WITH NEWER FILTER, GAS GRILL, LIGHT UP BAR, CEILING FANS, MATURE CITRUS,!!! DID I MENTION THE EXTENDED LENGTH GARAGE? 3 CAR GARAGE HAS PULL DOWN STAIRS TO STORAGE, STORAGE CABINETS, CUSTOM RUBBERIZED GARAGE MATS, STORAGE CEILING RACKS, LOW MAINTENACE FRONT & REAR YARD LANDSCAPE, QUALITY BUILT POST TENSION SLAB, ... WARRANTIES TO BE PROVIDED SOON FOR ROOF AND HVAC, THIS IS A WONDERFUL HOME JUST WAITING FOR YOU IN A GREAT LOCATION

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17159 E Rand Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$649,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,580 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774975

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fabulous 3BR/2BA split master plan features an open kitchen / living room area perfect for entertaining. Upgraded kitchen includes stainless steel appliances, maple wood cabinets & massive breakfast bar with granite counters. Cozy enclosed Arizona Room set up with a fireplace for those quiet movie nights or book reading binges. Vaulted ceilings throughout! MASSIVE lot at over 20,000 SF, offers superior desert mountain views to the northeast! Perfect 2nd home for those that love the Arizona winters & refuse to shovel snow ! Superior location ! 10 minutes from the Mayo Clinic, 20 minutes from al the premier shopping and dining in Scottsdale, Kierland, etc. Take a 1 hour drive north to the cool mountain town of Payson and or 1.5 hours to the rim. A MUST SEE !

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9131 S Andalusian Way Hereford, AZ 85615

$649,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,399 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787584

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy Year-Round Gorgeous Weather in your Custom Cunningham on 4 Acres...Entertain in Luxury from your Full-length covered Patio w/Built-in BBQ Kitchen & Panoramic Mountain Views! Gently lived-in SOLAR Home, boasts stunning features...the Grandiose Front Entry w/stately Wrought-iron Front Doors, Stone FP & Great Room overlooks amazing views! HUGE SS/Granite Chef's Kitchen w/3+ Seat Breakfast Bar, Dining w/full-length Buffet & Dual Wine Coolers...Soothing MBR Suite boasts Custom Tilework, Dual-sink Bath, Water Closet w/high-end Toilet/Bidet & HUGE CA Walk-in closet! Stunning Guest Quarters as well w/Garden Tub, Dual Sinks, and Bidet/Toilet Room...plus, Remote Blinds throughout! OFFICE w/Mountain views, BIG Laundry Room & HUGE Garage w/EV Charging Station, plus lovely PAVER Driveway!!!

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