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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13382 W Blackstone Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$604,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,752 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754736

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BEAUTIFULLY upgraded VIBRANT shows Pride of Ownership is move-in ready for you! This lovely home w/NEUTRAL palette thru-out features w/WIDE PLANK tile flooring, split tilt PLANTATION shutters, WALL OF GLASS in Great Rm opens to the PROFESSIONALLY designed R/yard with built-in BBQ, gas FIREPIT, ext. PAVER patio & ARTIFICIAL turf! Gorgeous kitchen features HIGH-END cabinetry, GOURMET GE appliances: w/5 burner COOKTOP, built-in OVEN & SS/MONOGRAM hood. GRANITE c-tops & TILE b-splash complete the space. Primary suite/bath features SOLID core barn door w/full LENGTH mirror, dbl. vanities, UPGRADED shower w/DESIGNER tile, HEAVY glass door & SPACIOUS walk-in closet! Guest bath w/CHEVRON tile pattern, heavy GLASS door & Granite c-top. Spacious Den w/built-in cabinets for add'l storage needs. Laundry room includes upper cabinets & laundry tub. Garage features a 4 foot extension and add'l storage area large enough for golf cart, hobby space or sports equipment. Versatrack hanging wall storage. Additional home upgrades: Professionally landscaped front/year yard including paver walkway, wrought iron fencing in rear yard w/snake fencing, raised garden bed, French drains, PVC irrigation w/poly at hubs to plants, Meyer Lemon & Key Lime fruit tree. 4 large pots on drippers w/wall mounted trellis at front entryway. Owned water softener, great room pre-wired for surround sound including rear patio. Under-cabinet lighting kitchen cabinets, recycle center, custom pullouts, soft close drawers, GE French door refrigerator, LG front loader washer/dryer convey with home. TRILOGY AT VISTANCIA is a resort style 55+ active adult community in NW Peoria. Trilogy has 2 beautiful clubhouses, 2 heated outdoor pools, 1 heated indoor lap pool, 2 fitness centers, fitness classes, tennis courts, pickleball courts and bocce ball courts. Beautifully designed Gary Panks 18 hole Championship Golf Course including V's Taproom. Trilogy offers numerous fitness classes, hosted lifestyle events/trip and numerous clubs ie: STEM Club, History Club, Women's Club, Veteran's Club, Wine Club, Pickleball & Car Club just to name a few! ENJOY THE GOOD LIFE at TRILOGY VISTANCIA!

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3213 W San Cristobal Road Queen Creek, AZ 85144

$603,401

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,357 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6672892

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully Landscaped Master Planned Community by Fulton Homes. Located within minutes of major shopping, restaurants, and freeways. Promenade is at the base of the San Tan Mountains. There are Six Parks throughout the community, one of which is an Aquatic Center with a 7,400 square foot pool. Full basketball and sand volley ball courts. Bocce ball court, pickle ball court, and corn hole are available. Ramada's, Tot Lots, BBQ's, an entry waterfall, and acres of landscaped and grass areas make Promenade your Oasis in the Desert. We look forward to meeting you soon.

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7606 W Smoketree Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$602,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,953 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784466

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the exquisite Larkspur floorplan in this stunning single-story home, offering 1,953 sq. ft. of elegant living space. This thoughtfully designed residence features 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 modern baths, and a versatile den, perfect for a home office or entertainment area. The heart of the home is the stylish kitchen, complete with sleek gray cabinets, a stainless steel sink tub, and a striking granite island—ideal for entertaining. Enjoy the seamless flow of gray-brown plank tile throughout, enhancing the modern aesthetic. Step outside to relax on the covered patio, perfect for enjoying morning coffee or evening gatherings. The attached two-car garage provides ample storage and convenience.

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16109 W Mohave Street Goodyear, AZ 85338

$602,500

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,959 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6703414

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy this HOT summer swimming with friends and family! This Beautiful 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 3 car garage, RV Gate home is a steel! Don't miss out on this 12,916 Sqft Lot!

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24422 N 142nd Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$602,022

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,812 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786907

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6786907 December Completion. Discover the expansive 50RM4 floor plan at Ravenna at Rancho Mercado, designed to elevate your lifestyle. At the heart of this inviting home, a spacious gathering area flows effortlessly into the dining space and a modern kitchen, complete with a central island and a walk-in pantry for added convenience. The adjoining covered back patio offers a tranquil retreat, ideal for outdoor dining or relaxing evenings. The luxurious primary suite is a true haven, featuring dual vanities, a soaking tub, a separate shower, and an oversized walk-in closet. This thoughtful layout also includes a versatile flex room, perfect as a home office or study, and a dedicated teen room adaptable to your unique needs. Structural options include: teen room, 15' x 8' sliding glass door, garage service door, alternative A/C location, and gourmet kitchen.

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264 E Citrus Hollow Way Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$600,741

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,678 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6659762

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This brand new Valletta model is move-in ready! It features a spacious layout with plenty of natural light. The kitchen is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. It has a gourmet kitchen, gas cooktop and will be the perfect place to entertain your guests. Both bathrooms are highly upgraded with tile surround and upgraded fixtures. The resort collection at Encanterra offers you the perfect balance if you are a seasonal owner or full time. Book your tour today and start living the good life at Encanterra now!

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4284 Ponderosa Trail Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$600,721

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,828 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770314

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to the Flourish floor plan in the Homestead neighborhood, a stunning designer home crafted by the Shea interior design team. This 2 bed, 2 bath home features GE Profile electric built-in appliances & brushed nickel accents throughout. Enjoy upgraded framed mirrors & heavy glass enclosures at both baths, along with upgraded quartz countertops & custom tile mosaics. The kitchen boasts full overlay cabinets, cabinet pullouts, under-cabinet lighting, & a 15ft sliding glass wall in the living room. Additional features include upgraded electrical, extended covered patio, 4ft garage extension, $23k in tile flooring, & nearly $30k in custom landscaping. Visit the Shea sales office for current incentives.

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11620 N 170th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85388

$600,539

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,467 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6720741

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6720741 January 2025 Completion! The Appaloosa floorplan at Paradisi offers 2,467 sq. ft. of living space, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a 2.5-car garage, and a study. Upon entering the foyer, you'll find secondary bedrooms on one side and a study on the other. Moving further, a stunning courtyard surrounded by your home offers privacy for relaxing or hosting. The open-concept gathering room, kitchen, and dining area form the heart of the home. The owner's suite is separate from the secondary bedrooms, boasting split vanities and a walk-in closet. Enjoy a perfect blend of functionality and elegance in this thoughtfully designed home. Structural options include: paver courtyard, 15' x 8' sliding glass door, upgraded square corners, and rain shower in primary bath.

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41451 Hwy 180 2319 Road Nutrioso, AZ 85932

$600,000

1 Bed

1 Bath

816 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782430

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Tucked away at the foot of Escudilla Mountain in Nutrioso, AZ lies this 20 acres of heaven. The cozy cabin has 1 bedroom, 1 bath, open loft, & covered deck. The well is shared with the adjacent 20 acre ranch property. They may be purchased together for a price discount. MLS # 253554. Property may be used for a variety of ranch, farm, RV park, hunter retreat or other creative scenarios. This is a wildlife thoroughfare in which turkey, deer and elk abound. Lying just off of Hwy 180, it includes two 10 acre parcels , #102-39-005B and 102-39-005C, which provide plenty of acreage to expand. Cabin is 80% complete. See SPDS in Document Tab for more info. Buyer must be accompanied by his agent to enter the property. Owner is licensed Real Estate Broker in AZ

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22950 E Bonanza Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$600,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,111 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787710

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover modern living in the Madera community of Queen Creek! Madera's amenities include a pool, playground, and pickleball courts, while Frontier Family Park, with its splash pad and fun features, is just a short walk away. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking and biking at nearby San Tan Regional Park offer endless adventures. This newly built 2023 home features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a thoughtfully designed two-story floor plan with smart home upgrades throughout. The heart of the home is the stunning kitchen, complete with an expansive center island with a breakfast bar. 3 car garage with 120 V outlet. The kitchen seamlessly flows into the spacious family room with sliding patio doors—perfect for entertaining! A downstairs den and an upstairs loft provide extra flexibility for play, or relaxation. Each of the four generously sized bedrooms offers walk-in closets, while the split layout ensures privacy for the primary suite, which offers a beautiful full bath. Convenience is key with an upstairs laundry room, including a washer and dryer, and an installed water softener. Outside, enjoy a low-maintenance backyard with a covered patioideal for outdoor dining or relaxing. This home is the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience!

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18214 W Medlock Drive Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$600,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,031 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769264

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 4-bedroom home in Azure Canyon! Its charm starts with a mature landscape, 4 car garage, & a private courtyard. Home exudes elegance with chic light fixtures, a neutral palette, tons of natural light, and tile & plush carpet t/out. Just off the front entry, you'll find a formal dining room & a versatile den. The large living room perfectly flows onto the gourmet kitchen, making entertaining a bliss! Granite counters, a walk-in pantry, a large island, espresso cabinetry, a cozy nook, and SS appliances w/cooktop gas make up the culinary space. Primary bedroom has an ensuite with dual sinks & a walk-in closet. Laundry room with cabinetry & storage closet. You'll LOVE the north-facing backyard with a covered patio, well-laid pavers, artificial turf, & mountain views! Just WOW!

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11265 E Watering Hole Street Sierra Vista, AZ 85635

$600,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,882 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6717957

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

COMPLETE OFF THE GRID 1880 SF 3 bdrm 3 bath two-story home. The house is brilliantly designed for passive solar gain through hundreds of windows on the south side of the home. On the north side there is covered parking for 4 vehicles. Conveniently located between Bisbee and Sierra Vista, the home is surrounded by vacant 40 acre parcels and State land. All new kitchen appliances, counters, wiring and plumbing. Brand Downstairs features brick flooring throughout, 2 bedrooms with lofts and hand-crafted ladders. One bedroom comes with an exterior door. There are 2 bathrooms downstairs, one with a tub and travertine tile shower. Propane tank is owned and full. The exterior rock work in retaining walls and custom-built bookcases are reflective of the skill and care that went into the home's creation. As in the rest of the house the emphasis is on the majestic 360 views-- hence the solar gain windows. Upstairs is the master bedroom and bath. A completely redone bathroom features; 24 X 12 ceramic tiles, custom bathtub and separate shower. The large master offers views that mesmerize, and the star gazing is surreal. Not by accident, the subdivision is designed with light pollution in mind for astronomical pursuits and of course horses. 5 STRAND BARBED WIRE FENCE SURROUNDS THE 40 ACRES. The $35,000 solar system is an EG4 and will serve all your electrical needs. Recent mini-split AC-Heat unit was installed. The registered well 55-546933 hits water at 151 feet, the well is drilled to 350 feet. Newer washer/dryer are conveniently located. A 1999 Ram pick-up goes with the property if wanted. A nesting pair of Screech Owls visit the carport in the early summer to raise their owlets. Tame and fun to watch!

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