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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24118 S Stoney Lake Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$640,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,997 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6766696

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Arizona living at its best, in the gated adult community of Oakwood! Charming Milano model featuring a 2 bedroom, 2 bath split floor plan, den, great room w/ vaulted ceilings & gas fireplace, wooden shutters, wooden blinds, tile floors and ceiling fans throughout. Interior freshly painted. Beautiful pebble finished pool w/ water feature, huge covered back patio, private courtyard entry, mature landscaping, perfect for entertaining. 2 car extended garage & separate golf cart garage located on a premium nearly 10,000 sq. ft. corner cut de sac lot. Community amenities include golf, tennis, pickleball, pools/spas, fitness center, billiards, clubs, social activities & restaurants.

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16600 N Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 1057 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$640,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,890 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784770

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Contemporary & gated; RARE end unit in the highly desirable GATED community of McDowell Mountain Ranch. Near proximity to ''The Vig'', boutique restaurants and grocery store. City lights and views of Camelback from primary bedroom balcony. This is largest unit available having an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, updated windows, plantation shutters, updated polished travertine (2018), updated LVP in the 2 primary suites upstairs. Additional den & 1/2 bath on main floor. Kitchen with gas range, designer lighting and breakfast bar. Dining area has built in buffet and fireplace in great room. Lots of counter space & additional storage under staircase. 2-car epoxy floor garage. Sparkling community pool & fountain, spa, tennis courts & numerous amenities of McDowell Mountain Ranch just across the street. The Community boasts of biking trails, golf, all the dining and shopping in and around DC Ranch Beautifully maintained hard to find end unit. Smoke-free home.

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26562 W Vista North Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$640,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,519 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755733

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy all the amazing features this popular Journey model has to offer AND all the wonderful amenities of the 55+ Sun City Festival community. This home features a heated, lap-style pool, owned solar, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a private den with a safe, built-in cabinets and shelving. The backyard pool area is very private with no neighbors behind the home. The kitchen area includes bow windows, SS appliances, gas cooktop, refrigerator, upgraded cabinets with roll-out trays, granite counter tops, a butler pantry and separate workspace. The owner's suite features a shower and jetted tub with split vanities and a custom walk-in closet. Bedrooms include plantation shutters. The laundry includes the washer & dryer and sink with built-in cabinets. The garage also includes built-in cabinets.

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9820 E Satellite Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$640,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,145 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781511

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fall in love with this beautiful 4 Bedroom 3 Bath single-level residence in EASTMARK! Impressive interior boasts a great open floor plan with wood-look tile flooring, a wall-mounted fireplace, and wide sliding glass doors that merge the indoor-outdoor living. Immaculate kitchen comes complete with recessed & pendant lighting, a pantry, ample white cabinetry with decorative molding, a prep island with a breakfast bar, sleek quartz counters, and glossy SS appliances. Romantic primary retreat offers a plush carpet, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Additional highlights include an open den that can double as a game room. Check out the large backyard with artificial turf, covered patio, and pavers - an ideal spot for relaxing. All this and lots of room for storage - 3CG!!

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17320 E Pinnacle Vista Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$640,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,126 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731827

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming Single-Story Home on Over an Acre in Beautiful Rio Verde Welcome to this delightful single-story residence, nestled on just over an acre of pristine land in Rio Verde. This property has participated in the EPCOR water solution and has been thoughtfully updated to offer both modern conveniences and timeless appeal. Recent updates enhance the home's charm and functionality, including fresh interior and exterior paint, an expanded back paver patio, new artificial turf, and a fenced-in backyard. The front and rear landscaping has been designed to enhance the home's curb appeal, creating a welcoming environment for you and your guests. The gourmet kitchen is a highlight of the home, featuring top-of-the-line GE stainless steel appliances. A brand-new GE washer and dryer have also been installed, making laundry chores a breeze. The home's 2x6 construction ensures superior energy efficiency, contributing to lower utility costs and a comfortable living environment. Through participation in EPCOR's long-term water solution the property will enjoy reliable and sustainable water service. The property is also located within the SRP service area, ensuring dependable electricity. Experience the serene lifestyle of Rio Verde with this exceptional home that seamlessly blends modern updates with sustainable living. Don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of Rio Verde's charm!

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8519 E Sandalwood Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$640,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,620 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739772

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your first home in PRIME South Scottsdale! Ideally located just 2.5 miles from Scottsdale Fashion Square, Pavilions shopping, and Talking Stick Casino, this home also offers easy access to the 101 freeway for added convenience. You'll be in the sought-after Scottsdale School District, making it perfect for families or first-time buyers. Whether you're beginning your homeownership journey or growing your family, Sandalwood Dr is the perfect place to create lasting memories. Don't miss your chance—say yes to this address and make it yours today!

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4254 S Winter Lane Gilbert, AZ 85297

$640,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,869 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757979

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Premium Location and corner lot right across from the park. No neighbors on 3 sides of the home. 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. There is a large bonus room with real wood flooring. Kitchen has 42 inch Cherry cabinets, kitchen island, and stainless steel appliances. Master bedroom is upstairs with a huge walk in closet, dual sinks, separate tub and shower. Two secondary bedrooms upstairs and one bedroom downstairs with a full bathroom. Epoxy flooring in the garage Beautiful backyard sitting area with view fence over looking the grassy area in the back

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1019 Stone Hollow Loop Williams, AZ 86046

$640,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,633 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779116

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Imagine Living in Williams in the Exclusive Escalante Neighborhood. Your Custom Home awaits with vaulted ceilings in the open concept living room. The kitchen features an Expansive Pecan Island, recessed lights and stainless appliances, along with soft close cabinetry. The primary suite has a walk in Closet and oversized soaking tub with a separate tiled Shower. The back patio has recessed lights and open space to view the natural landscape and Large Ponderosa Forest. Situated on a large lot with mature ponderosa pines. Private National Forest Access.

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1596 High Country Drive Heber, AZ 85928

$640,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,810 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6703861

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning mountain retreat in High Country Pines nestled on a heavily treed .50-acre homesite on a private cul-de-sac. This 3 BR/ 2.5 BA is more than just a home; it's a sanctuary where nature's beauty surrounds this beautiful cabin. This home boasts a great room with a wood burning fireplace embraced by floor to ceiling river rock, chiseled slab granite in the kitchen with an island, gas stove, tiled backsplash, spacious laundry room with cabinets and sink, bathrooms are stone counters, travertine tiling in the baths/shower, knotty pine interior doors and ceiling, bay windows, central heat /AC, the master has dual vanities and a private balcony. The exterior offers a 2 car garage, flagstone and a firepit. The spacious rear deck brings breathtaking treetop vistas with panoramic views.

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15413 W Alexandria Way Surprise, AZ 85379

$640,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,906 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6713660

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A must see. This 4-bed, 3-bath home in Marley Park! Displaying a 2-car garage, manicured landscape, & a cozy front porch. Fabulous interior features tons of natural light, designer paint, & wood-look tile flooring w/carpet in bedrooms. Discover the welcoming living room, formal dining room, and an inviting family room that opens to the kitchen! SS appliances, granite counters, a walk-in pantry, mosaic tile backsplash, a breakfast bar, & staggered cabinetry w/crown Moulding make up the culinary space. Main bedroom has outdoor access and an ensuite with two vanities, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Laundry room w/sink & cabinetry. Side patio for a morning coffee! Enjoy the entertainer's backyard with a covered patio, pavers, firepit, hot tub, & a refreshing pool & owned solar.

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3424 E Wyatt Way Gilbert, AZ 85297

$640,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,094 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731650

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

PRICE REDUCED!! HOME IN GILBERT'S DESIREABLE SAN TAN RANCH! 2 story, open concept floorplan with 5 Bedrooms +a huge Loft. Freshly painted interior with updated wood look tile throughout. The upgraded bright, white, eat in Kitchen has newer marble counters, stainless appliances with gas range & hood, farmhouse sink, island, custom tile backsplash, pantry & opens to spacious Great Room. Huge 1st level primary bedroom with separate door to backyard pool! Entertain guests in the Formal Dining Room. Upstairs find an enormous Loft & 4 very spacious Bedrooms with Hall Bath. Sparkling pool with water feature finishes off this great family home. Just needs a little more TLC & you will have an exceptional family home in a great Gilbert location for a value price!

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1050 E Indigo Drive Chandler, AZ 85286

$640,000

6 Beds

3 Baths

2,634 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770445

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new home in Lantana Ranch! This stunning 6BR/3BA is situated on a spacious and beautiful lot, complete with an RV gate. Impeccably maintained, this home boasts tile flooring throughout the first floor which includes a Living room and a family room. The open concept kitchen featuring an abundance of cabinetry and a convenient pantry for all your storage needs. One of the bedrooms is conveniently located on the ground floor next to a full bathroom, making it an ideal guest suite. Head upstairs to discover 5 additional bedrooms, including a spacious Primary bedroom with 2 walk- in closets. The secondary bedrooms offer ample space. The property also includes a 2 car garage with exceptional storage options. Step outside to your vast backyard that is perfect for entertaining with additional storage solutions. Don't miss your chance to see this remarkable home!

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