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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20581 N Enchantment Pass Maricopa, AZ 85138

$579,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,528 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6650676

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning home located in the highly desirable Province adult community! Original owners who have taken immaculate care of this home. This is a split floor plan and is one of the very few built with a separate entry guest house / casita room. Located across the street from a greenbelt with a beautiful open floor plan and no neighbors behind. Entertainers kitchen with granite countertops and S/S appliances. Home features newly painted inside and out, shutters throughout, upgraded doors, large laundry / utility room, upgraded installation. Home has two large AC units with three zones to control heating and cooling. Backyard is professionally designed with private patio are with pavers, fire pit, beautifully landscaped with a newly private spa - 2 years old.

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1521 W Garfield Street Phoenix, AZ 85007

$579,900

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,059 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6716799

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Amazing 2 bed, 2.5 bath home updated & reimagined by one of the members of its original family! The formal entry opens to an large greatroom. There's a spacious kitchen with 5 burner gas range, upgraded cabinetry, gorgeous granite counters, stainless steel appliances & elegant tile backsplash. A fantastic place to gather & entertain! The ground floor has an owner's suite w/ tiled shower, powder room & large office/utility room. The upstairs was designed as a second owner's suite, complete with its own ensuite & balcony. It's large enough to enclose an additional bedroom or use as a mother-in-law suite. The home has been updated with a reinforced foundation, newer roof & HVAC (mini-splits). Perfect as a SFD or multi-generational home & just minutes from downtown. Welcome home!

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7517 N 86th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85305

$579,900

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,628 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6718483

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Immaculate Reconstructed Home, Fully Upgraded. Come and see this Beautiful Diamond in the heart of Glendale. About 2.7 miles from Cardinal Stadium. Gorgeous Tiled Bathroom Showers, New Bathroom Vanities with Marble Counter tops, New Tiled Floors in the right places, New carpet in the Bedrooms, 2 8x8 Feet Arcadia Doors, Electric Chimney, New Kitchen Cabinets with New Granite Counter Tops, Two New A/C units. New Trusses, New Tiled Roofing, New Insulation, New Drywall and Texture, New Baseboards, New Doors, New Garage Door. New Stainless Steel Kitchen Appliances. This is a Must see. Agents Bring Your Buyers, they will not be disappointed.

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4245 S Boulder Street Gilbert, AZ 85297

$579,900

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,402 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6727334

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful 5-bedroom, 3-bath, 2-story home features new carpet in the bedrooms and fresh interior paint throughout, creating a welcoming ambiance. The open kitchen and living area boast stainless steel appliances, including a dishwasher, microwave, and range, perfect for modern living. Upstairs, you'll find a spacious loft and additional bedrooms, providing ample space for family and guests.

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7602 E Thomas Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$579,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,628 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6728718

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fully Remodeled, Move in ready, centrally located. Come see this Charming home, New Roofing, New Laminated Flooring, New Light Fixtures, New Texture, New Doors, New Kitchen Cabinets with Granite Counter Tops, New Bathroom Tiled Showers. New Windows. Agents Bring your buyers they will not be disappointed.

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16951 W Villagio Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,075 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733430

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

CLEAN & PRISTINE SIERRA THAT BACKS TO COMMON AREA WITH NO BACK TO BACK NEIGHBORS & PRIVATE PATIO. PRE-PAID SOLAR LEASE, COVERAGE UNTIL 5/2044, MONTHLY APS BILLS AVERAGE $55 PER MONTH. RECENT UPGRADES INCLUDE PLANTATION SHUTTERS, BEAUTIFUL GRANITE & CUSTOM CABINETRY IN KITCHEN, CENTER ISLAND, MASTER & GUEST BATHROOMS. THE LIGHT/BRIGHT KITCHEN IS COMPLETE WITH BUILT-STAINLESS WALL OVEN, MICROWAVE, 5 BURNER GAS COOKTOP & REFRIGERATOR & BRIGHT OFFICE/DEN HAS DOUBLE DOORS. WINDOW WORLD DOUBLE PANE, TRIPLE COATED LOW E WINDOWS HAVE BEEN ADDED THROUGHOUT HOME. EXTENDED GARAGE HAS WORKBENCH, CABINETS, OVERHEAD STORAGE, NEWER HVAC, HOT WATER TANK & HOT WATER RECIRCULATION SYSTEM. EXPANDED SOUTH FACING, PRIVATE PATIO CREATES THE IDEAL SETTING FOR ENTERTAINING FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

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13965 W Woodbridge Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$579,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,645 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730972

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spacious 2650 sq ft single story home located at the end of a quiet culdesac in beatiful Palm Valley. 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms with a den that can be used as a 5th bedroom. Huge main bedroom with walkin closet. Huge granite top kitchen with over plenty of cabinets, walk in pantry and huge island countertop overlooking a huge great room and backyard. Formal dining rm across from kitchen. Full access to Palm Valley comm Rec center huge pool club house basketball etc. This home has been a rental property for many years and owners want to retire. Home is in great shape and may need some tlc. Owner may give some discount or give a cash credit back to buyer at COE for justified tlc. All offers will be reviewed. Seller may carry short term with 10% down with approved application.

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23086 E Thornton Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$579,900

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,116 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6744050

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SELLER OFFERING $10,000 CONCESSION!! Rare 5-bedroom home in Barney Farms built in 2021. Enjoy this premier community in a resort setting, with a deep-water lake at the heart of it all. The community center inspires a healthy active lifestyle with an aquatic center, pickle ball courts, sand volleyball, and numerous parks, playgrounds, and trails to enjoy. This home has a fun putting green in the backyard for more laid-back leisure and a cozy patio. The front room comes complete with a built-in Murphy bed and shelves to make a perfect office / guest bedroom. A ''collar-controlled'' smart doggie door provides security and convenience for the little loved ones. The best part is a split floorplan perfect for multi-generational living or working at home. You'll love this new home!

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926 W Spur Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85233

$579,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,134 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770643

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover modern luxury in this beautifully remodeled single-family home located on a large corner lot in the heart of Gilbert, Arizona. This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home has been completely transformed, offering over 2,100 square feet of sophisticated living space. No detail has been overlooked in this top-to-bottom renovation, blending contemporary design with everyday comfort. Step inside to find an open and inviting floor plan, featuring brand-new flooring, fresh paint, and updated lighting throughout. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting new quartz countertops, sleek custom cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious island perfect for meal prep and casual dining. The living and dining areas flow effortlessly, creating an ideal space for entertaining family and friends. The luxurious primary suite is a true retreat, complete with a walk-in closet and a fully updated en-suite bathroom showcasing a custom-tiled shower, dual vanities, and modern fixtures. The additional bedrooms are generously sized with plenty of closet space, and the remodeled baths feature stylish finishes and top-tier materials. Outside, the large backyard is your blank canvas with endless possibilities including plenty of room to add a pool, making it perfect for Arizona's outdoor lifestyle. Whether you're hosting a BBQ or relaxing under the stars, this backyard is ready for all your outdoor living needs. The home also includes a spacious two-car garage, new windows, upgraded HVAC, and energy-efficient features throughout. Located in a prime Gilbert neighborhood, close to top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and entertainment, this fully remodeled gem is move-in ready and waiting for you to make it your home. Don't miss this rare opportunity!

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16426 S 180th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$579,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,779 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777616

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this energy-efficient residence located on a desirable corner lot in the sought-after 55+ Cantamia Community! Enter to find a harmonious open floor plan featuring wood-look tile flooring & neutral palette that complements any décor. Well-appointed kitchen boasts abundant cabinets topped w/crown moulding, tile backsplash, butler's service area, recessed & pendant lighting, a prep island w/a breakfast bar, granite counters, & high-end SS appliances such as cooktop gas & a wall oven. The main bedroom is a serene retreat, offering plush carpet, plantation shutters, an ensuite w/dual sinks, & a walk-in closet. Flexible den provides additional space, perfect for an office or library. Discover the expansive backyard, complete w/an extended covered patio & a refreshing pool. LAKE VIEW! *$$$SOLAR SAVINGS$$$* / GATED community / DEN-FLEX ROOM can be easily converted into 3rd BDRM. NEAT Bucher Block counter in Butler area- AC Minisplit in the Garage.

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13348 W Cambridge Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

Open House

$579,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,210 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773589

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come see this beautiful home in the desirable Palm Valley community. This charming single-family home situated in a family-friendly neighborhood. This recently updated property features a spacious layout with four bedrooms and two updated bathrooms, ideal for comfortable living. The open-concept design allows for plenty of natural light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is equipped with modern appliances and ample storage, perfect for home cooking. The backyard offers a private pool and spa for relaxation and entertaining. With nearby parks, shopping centers, and easy access to major highways, this location is convenient for both families and commuters. It's a wonderful opportunity for anyone looking to settle in Goodyear. Solar is paid in full at the close of escrow

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1308 W Macaw Court Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$579,890

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,531 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750328

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ready September!! Near all the amenities and park area. 3 Bedrooms 2.5 bath plus loft, Beautiful cabinets with granite Counter tops, wood look tile and two-tone paint throughout!! Great sized backyard with covered patio to enjoy. Just steps away from all the amazing Amenities North Creek has to offer.

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