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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21275 N 65th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$629,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,164 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6781942
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeously renovated 4 bed 2 bath home in Arrowhead Ranch with stunning golf course views! This house has everything - newly installed luxury vinyl plank floors throughout, an entertainer's dream kitchen, and bright & airy spaces to dine, relax and watch the Arizona sunsets. Open concept kitchen features vaulted ceilings, new shaker cabinets, white quartz countertops, & large peninsula complete with breakfast bar & extra storage. Spacious primary bedroom has large walk-in closet and spa-like renovated bathroom. 2+ car garage will fit all your toys. Backyard is an outdoor oasis with covered patio, new irrigation, and steps from the driving range. Big ticket items completed recently include full roof replacement (2016) & HVAC (2023).

10919 S Dreamy Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$629,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,328 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782189
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spacious two-story home just steps from the scenic South Lake in Estrella Mountain Ranch! Perfectly situated on a premium view lot backing to a natural wash, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers luxurious outdoor living with a heated pebble-tec pool. Inside, enjoy soaring vaulted ceilings in the Grand Entry and Master Suite, where breathtaking sunrise and sunset mountain views await from a private balcony. An expansive 3-car garage provides ample parking and storage. Explore a scenic 2.3-mile lakeside path, plus thrilling hiking, mountain biking, community pools, and workout facilities. Nearby, the world-class Golf Club of Estrella—a Troon-managed, Nicklaus Design course—completes this exceptional lifestyle.

3800 S Cantabria Circle Unit 1067 Chandler, AZ 85248

$629,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,218 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782150
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Experience COUNTRY CLUB living in this stunning gated community! This home boasts breathtaking views of the Community Lake and Golf Course. Enjoy the scenery from inside or the back patio and master balcony, perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Upstairs, you'll find a spacious loft, a guest room(2nd master), and the master suite. Each room boasts it's own balcony. Downstairs features a gorgeous great room with soaring ceilings and a gas Fireplace. Luxury kitchen with Stainless Steel appliances and view. One HVAC unit is only 6 years old, while the other remains original but works great. Units have been serviced annually. Live in luxury and comfort with the best of both worlds! The roof was replaced in 2021 and the HOA will be painting the exteriors of all units in 2025. the downstairs bedroom is being used as a Den and has no closet. But with a full bath downstairs, this is an easy bedroom for guests or mom on the ground floor!

12375 S 181st Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$629,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,700 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764643
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
FURNISHED home! GATED community 4 bed, 2.5 bath residence is the one for you! Featuring a stunning façade w/stone accents, low maintenance landscape, & a 3 car garage! Discover an elegant interior boasting graceful archways, plantation shutters, recessed lighting, soft carpet in all the right places, and warm palette throughout. The formal dining room, w/its dazzling chandelier, is sure to delight your guest! You'll also find a spacious living area w/a dry bar and a fireplace to keep you warm during the winter months. The gorgeous kitchen is equipped w/everything the aspiring chef needs, staggered cabinetry w/crown molding, a pantry, granite counters, tile backsplash, SS appliances such as a wall oven, an island complete w/a breakfast bar, and a breakfast nook. #Location is ideal!! You'll love the primary bedroom, boasting private outdoor access, a large walk-in closet, and a lavish ensuite w/dual vanities & a makeup table with spa amenities- SNAIL shower and Garden tub. Laundry room includes built-in cabinetry and a convenient utility sink. Finally, the wonderful backyard showcases a covered patio, extended paver seating areas, an attached pergola, and a built-in BBQ perfect for a cookout w/friends & loved ones! Split Floor plan / with Front Courtyard & a Gated golf course community (THE FAIRWAYS at ESTRELLA MOUNTAIN). ahh.. have peace of mind with energy efficiency- Brand NEW HVAC system installed April 2024! WOW - SOLAR savings..$$$!!. Cul De Sac private street- What are you waiting for? Act now

17691 W Cottonwood Lane Goodyear, AZ 85338

$629,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,202 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6722226
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home!!! This gorgeous 3 bedroom 3 bath home with a Casita at the desirable 55+ active community of CantaMia/Province at Estrella Mountain Ranch in in a fantastic location. Close to restaurants, shopping, parks & golfing at the Golf Club of Estrella. As soon as you step into this gated community home, you can see the pride of ownership with all that has been done. This elegant kitchen offers granite counter tops, a large island/breakfast bar for extra prep & storage, black appliances, filtered water, a pantry, full height travertine backsplashes & stunning crown molding cabinetry. Your spacious master suite offers a plethora of natural light from your bay windows, a walk in closet, dual vanity, a walk in shower & soaking tub to enjoy, as well as direct access to your backyard oasis . This gated community home also offers paid for solar (owned/no lease), upgraded ceiling fans & lighting, a casista with a full bathroom, a neutral paint scheme with accent walls, a den/office area to utilize, a 2 car garage with a water softener & central vacuum system, as well as a backyard oasis that includes a large covered patio, extended travertine pavers, mature desert landscaping & a sparkling heated pool to enjoy all year round. Your community at CantaMia has so much to offer to it residents. There is a state of the art fitness center with massage & spa rooms, an indoor & outdoor pool, a billiards room, library, lounge, numerous crafts & workshops, a cyber cafe & a demonstration kitchen, a dog park, as well as outdoor activities such as: pickleball, bocce ball, horseshoes & tennis courts are available at Estrella. This gem in the desert is a Great Buy & a Must See!!! **Furniture is available on a separate bill of sale.

20417 W Bradley Road Wittmann, AZ 85361

$629,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,191 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6721052
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful home in West Bradley Road, Wittmann, Arizona.

21520 W Watkins Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

$629,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,644 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730156
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful well-cared for 3-bed/2-bath on 1-ACRE, IRRIGATED LOT WITH HORSE PRIVILEGES. Quality constructed CUSTOM HOME with 2 x 6 framing, NEWER ROOF (2020), ALL NEW LOW-E WINDOWS (2024), TRANE 18-SEER Variable Speed A/C (2016), Porcelain faux-wood tile throughout living space, upgraded custom closets in all closets. Fully fenced back yard with a fenced off area and shade structure for horses. Water available at horse shade with conduit run for electric. RV Parking w/30-AMP hook-up. 3-Car Extended Length Garage. 10' X 14' Tuff Shed Storage w/ upgraded floor and radiant roof barrier for extra insulation. Nestled in a quiet, established neighborhood with *NO HOA*. A short drive from Costco, New Banner Hospital (planned for 2025), schools and I-10 freeway. See Docs for nearby horse arenas.

3122 E Windmere Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

$629,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,104 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753762
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home! This beautiful residence is in the gated Estates at the Ranch, an exclusive single-story home Community in the award-winning Mountain Park Ranch. Offering 4 beds, 2.5 baths, 2-car garage, & a low-care landscape. Discover a large living/dining room combo and a separate family room w/fireplace & surround sound! Tall ceilings add to the airy feel, complemented by plantation shutters, & tile flooring in common areas. The kitchen boasts built-in appliances w/cooktop elec, granite counters, recessed lighting, ample wood cabinets, and a breakfast area. Carpeted double-door main bedroom has outdoor access and an ensuite with dual sinks, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Enjoy the entertainer's backyard with a covered patio, firepit, built-in BBQ, & a sparkling pool!

6780 W Yearling Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$629,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,658 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776511
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous Fully Remodeled Home with all the upgrades: Gourmet Kitchen with Granite Counters, Brand New Stainless Steel Appliances, Gas Range and Refrigerator Included. New Interior Paint, and Carpeting. All New Light fixtures and Ceiling Fans. New Blinds. Sparkling Play Pool, Large 2.5 car garage, Fireplace. High Efficiency TRANE A/C units installed last Year. This home is a must see!!

8245 E Bell Road Unit 144 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$629,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,472 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776536
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Come see this Stunning luxury condo inside the highly sought after Montana Del Sol gated golf community on the TPC Scottsdale course! Just down the street from the Fairmont Princess Hotel & across the street from multiple parks. Home features a chefs kitchen with newer quartz slab counters, refurbished custom cabinets, & huge kitchen breakfast bar. Gorgeous plantation shutters throughout, both bathrooms have been heavily updated in beautiful modern farmhouse fashion. Huge master en-suite double sinks, large walk in shower, & oversized custom master closet. Rare two car garage is a bonus. Nicely updated baseboard, lighting fixtures, faucets, etc! Close to 101 freeway for easy commute, Kierland commons outdoor mall, countless restaurants and shopping! Can be purchased fully furnished too!

8562 E Pierce Street Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$629,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,819 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6759079
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacularly remodeled 3 bdrm & 2 bath home on LARGE cul-de-sac lot w/ 2-car garage, a low maintenance yard, large covered patio, new pavers, & a concrete slab wired for hot tub (is it?). Open floor plan w/ spacious vaulted ceilings. New, matching cabinets & matching quartz counters throughout the home including a HUGE kitchen island & the perfect peninsula. All new windows. Brand new SS appliances incl. fridge, dishwasher, & drawer microwave convey. New modern tile floors throughout (no carpet). Both showers are newly tiled w/large glass enclosure in master. All new fixtures + ceiling fans w/remotes! Fresh paint in/out. OWNER/AGENT.

6646 S La Rosa Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$629,800
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,980 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766132
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come and see this beautiful 4 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage, golf course lot home in Tempe. No HOA!! This freshly remodeled home is stunning! As you pull up the new tiered landscaping and fresh paint give the home great curb appeal. Through the front door you are welcomed by an open floor plan featuring brand new wood look flooring in the main living areas and plush patterned carpet in the bedrooms. Your brand new kitchen boasts white shaker cabinets, large island with breakfast bar, custom tile backsplash, new stainless appliances and gorgeous white quartz countertops. The split floor plan has the master suite to the right off of the main living area and it features a new tiled shower, new vanity with quartz top and large walk in closet. The 3 other bedrooms and second bath are on the opposite side of the home. Hall bath also is brand new with a white subway tile wall and new vanity. New door hardware, ceiling fans, light and plumbing fixtures throughout the home give it a modern feel. New window coverings. Oversized laundry room with lots of storage. Out back there is a large patio perfect for outdoor dining with golf course and sunset views of South Mountain. Don't miss out on this gem. Come and see it today!

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