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.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Multifamily

Commercial

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Location Search Nearby

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

View As: Thumbnails List

Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

1936 Elk Road Heber, AZ 85928

$649,777

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,004 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6690125

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This custom log sided chalet on 1.75 acres is sure to please! Like new condition and secluded feel describes this 3BR, 3BA cabin. Tons of features with split floor plan, master BR downstairs and huge loft upstairs (currently used as the 3rd BR). Soaring vaulted T&G ceiling, lodgepole railing and knotty oak cabinets give that rustic feel. Custom window treatments, gas fireplace and new gas furnace with A/C. Oversized 2 car garage, tons of Trex deck and equipped to run off grid with shared well, solar and propane generator for well backup!

View Property

22560 E Saddle Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$649,767

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,267 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699276

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Includes An Extended Covered Patio, Den With Modern Glass Doors, Upgraded Front Door, Aristokraft Benton Paint Colada Cabinets With Upgraded Hardware, Gourmet Kitchen Appliances With Wall Oven & Microwave And 30'' Gas Cooktop, Stainless Steel Hood And GE Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator. Della Terra Quartz Kitchen Counters In Bianco Pearl, Custom Tile Backsplash At Kitchen And Upgraded Blanco Super Single Bowl Sink. Frameless Walk-In-Shower At Primary Bath With Custom Tile Surrounds, Door From Primary Closet To Laundry Room, Pendant Prewires Over Kitchen Island, Upgraded Flooring Including 12x24'' Avery White Tile At Upstairs Baths And Laundry As well as Polaris Lighthouse Luxury Vinyl Plank Downstairs, And Upgraded Carpet. Pavered Driveway, Walkway And Porch.

View Property

12011 S 185th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$649,500

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,543 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766444

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful 4-bedroom 3-bathroom Shea home is nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac which bumps right up to the Sonoran Desert Mountain! Walk up the paver driveway to the charming gated courtyard and enter into your new home with an elegant trey crown molding ceiling. This home boasts neutral wood like tile throughout as you enter an open kitchen and great room. The open concept living space features a soaring ceiling with large windows and a generous sliding glass door allowing natural light which gives the area a warm comfortable setting. The kitchen has a gas range and gourmet hood, silk granite countertops and upgraded elegant white cabinetry. A few steps away, relax in the great room with surround sound speakers which add to entertainment and comfort. The backyard is fully landscaped with pavers and gorgeous travertine along with a louvered pergola with ceiling fans, misters, and smart LED lighting where you can sit and cool off on a hot summer day or night. A few other upgrades to mention in this one of a kind home is the owned solar system, water treatment and softener, epoxy floor garage, and convenient storage racks and shelfing. The Estrella Mountain Ranch has amazing amenities which include two clubhouses, pools, lakes, restaurants, hiking trails, and tennis and pickleball just to name a few. This is a must see, so arrange a tour today!

View Property

1840 N 36th Drive Show Low, AZ 85901

$649,500

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,846 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6613082

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream mountain retreat nestled in the picturesque community of Country Club Manor. This charming home offers a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its beautiful surroundings, modern amenities, and thoughtful design, this property is sure to captivate both nature enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing getaway. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an inviting and open floor plan that seamlessly combines functionality and comfort. The spacious living room features large windows that flood the space with natural light and provide incredible views. This is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures or to gather with friends and family.

View Property

18789 E Blue Sky Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$649,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,537 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751220

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning home is like new, lightly lived in, over $73,000 in upgrades at time of purchase directly from the builder. Featuring 12 ft. ceilings, light and bright, open great room, perfect for the lock and leave resident. Located on the golf course, home is part of the Tonto Verde golf community, with 36 holes of golf, gated, pool and fitness room. Great clubhouse with dining. You are automatically a social member of the club with dining and clubhouse privileges. Golf memberships available! Golf Cart access to Tonto Verde via a dedicated path from Blue Sky. This unit is the larger of the floor plans offered.

View Property

42715 N Courage Trail Anthem, AZ 85086

$649,500

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,458 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777081

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You will be blown away by the stunning Anthem property located in Anthem Parkside. This former model home has 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms, a separate den/office and a great room! This home sits on a 10,000 sqft lot with a 3 car garage. The kitchen has ample amounts of storage and opens up to the living room where you can relax and get cozy by the fireplace. The master bathroom has dual sinks, walk in closet, garden tub and shower. The backyard is equipped with everything you need to entertain in the extremely inviting oasis. Enjoy the Bullfrog Hot Tub under the stars while your chef created master piece cooks in the wood fire pizza oven. To top off a lovely evening serve up a slice of pizza under the pergola while staying warm by the fire pit to create a unique dining experience

View Property

44529 N 44th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85087

Open House

$649,336

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,394 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6723522

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New home ready for move in. Single-story Calrosa floorplan with Territorial style exterior. This open floor plan features three bedrooms plus a flex room that can serve as a home office, game room or sitting area. The owner's suite has a spacious walk-in closet and bathroom with two separate vanities, separate tub and tiled shower. The spacious kitchen features stainless steel wall oven with gas cooktop, and a large island with ample sitting space. The stylish cabinetry in a creamy white tone is complemented by upgraded quartz countertops and wood color plank tile. Great home with spacious sitting and socializing areas. Home warranty included.

View Property

10015 W Verde Lane Avondale, AZ 85392

$649,250

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,654 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748882

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Find your dream home at Acclaim- Fulton Home's newest master planned community! The Seal Rock is an amazing home featuring 10' ceilings, 8' doors, gourmet kitchen and Atrium glass door to patio. Also included: 2'' faux wood blinds, ceiling fans, paver driveways and much more. Fulton homes are 'Zero Energy Ready' and include tankless water heaters, spray foam insulation, electric vehicle ready and pre plumbing for solar installation. Residents of this incredible community will enjoy an aquatic center with a community pool, basketball courts, pickle ball, sand volleyball, bocce ball, greenbelts and children's playgrounds. This home has an estimated completion date of Fall 2024. Buyer may be able to upgrade appliances at an additional cost.

View Property

1024 E Mountain Vista Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

$649,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,953 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765395

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wow ! Great single level home with no neighbors behind, creating beautiful mtn views of So Mountain from the fam rm & main suite ! This home borders a wash & the quiet street which borders the local park. Beautiful wood floors thru-out most of the home. Gorgeous granite counters & white cabinets in the kitchen, which is open to the family room, & separated by the kitchen breakfast bar island. Pantry is behind the door labeled ''Private''. The formal liv/din rooms at the house entrance is currently furnished as a large liv rm. The office has a double door (no closet). The beautiful main suite is at the back of the house, w/sep tub & shower/ walk-in closet/ private toilet/ twin sinks & view of S Mtn. The backyard is a gorgeous oasis w/ pool/ mural walls/ meditation areas & beautiful views !

View Property

202 S Sunset Pass Payson, AZ 85541

$649,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,800 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748539

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BRAND NEW - UNDER CONSTRUCTION Dream Home on the Rim in Payson - surrounded by gorgeous custom homes and less than 7 min from Renowned Golf Club at Chaparral Pines & The Rim Club, less than a mile from Safeway grocery store and convenient shopping, dining, gas & bank. Buyers able to select Cabinet Color, Granite Color, Interior & Exterior Paint and Flooring if under contract before install. Not much around here under $700K so hurry - estimated time of completion 12/01/2024- just in time to enjoy for the winter! Additional Photos of this home will be posted as it progresses. Buyer to verify all facts & figures.

View Property

206 S Sunset Pass Payson, AZ 85541

$649,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,736 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747764

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming 4-Bedroom Home with Breathtaking Views of the Mogollon Rim & Granite Dells Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious Highlands at the Rim subdivision, ideally located just outside the gates of the Rim Golf Club. This stunning 2,736 sq. ft. residence offers 4 spacious bedrooms and 4 beautifully appointed bathrooms, providing ample space for family and guests. Step inside to discover an open floor plan with soaring ceilings and abundant natural light, highlighting the breathtaking views of the Mogollon Rim and Granite Dells. The main living area seamlessly flows into a well-equipped kitchen, perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet family meals. A versatile loft area adds a unique touch, offering the perfect space for a home office, media room, or additional living space. The potential in-law quarters, featuring a private entrance, provide an ideal setup for multi-generational living or guests seeking privacy. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the home's proximity to the Rim Golf Club, where world-class golf and outdoor adventures await. Whether you're enjoying the serene landscape from your deck or exploring the nearby trails, this home offers a lifestyle of tranquility and natural beauty. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise with unmatched views and exceptional living spaces. Schedule your private tour today!

View Property

20138 W Steedridge Road Wittmann, AZ 85361

$649,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,339 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773769

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New irresistible custom home built 2024 on a cul-de-sac lot. A must-see! Ready to move in and start a new chapter of your life. Ideal for people looking for quality features and unique details. Located on a 1.24 acres lot. Huge backyard. 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. The gorgeous home is designed down to the smallest detail. Elegant touches that predominate throughout the entire house. Grand open space with 14 feet ceilings. Ceramic 4'x2' elegant tile in the whole home. One-of-a-kind and full of character kitchen with solid wood oak cabinets with appliances included. Beautiful kitchen island with enjoyable breakfast bar. Quartz countertops with veins. Relaxing electric fireplace in the living room area. Solid wood ceilings in patio and porch. 3 car garage.

View Property