What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 26, 2016

Last week’s economic news included readings on consumer spending, core inflation new home sales and regularly scheduled readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

Consumer Spending Dips in November

Commerce Department reports on consumer spending in November indicated that consumer spending was lower in November with 0.20 percent growth as compared to October’s reading of 0.40 percent growth. November’s reading for core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy sectors, was flat as compared to expectations of 0.10 percent growth and October’s reading of 0.10 percent growth.

New Jobless Claims Rise to 6Month High

New jobless claims jumped to 275,000 last week as compared to an expected reading of 258,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 254,000 new claims. New claims typically rise during the holiday season due to school and other workplace closures.

There was good news as new jobless claims remained below the benchmark of 300,000 new claims for 94 consecutive weeks. This streak of new claims below 300,000 new claims is the longest since 1970. Increasing numbers of “contingent” workers contributed to volatility in employment; The Rand Corporation reported that 10.10 percent of the workforce was contingent workers in 2005; the percentage of contingent workers increased to 15.80 percent of the U.S. workforce in 2015.

Mortgage Rates, New Home Sales Rise

Freddie Mac reported a jump in mortgage rates last week; the average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was 14 basis points higher at 4.30 percent. The average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was 15 basis points higher at 3.52 percent; the average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rose 13 basis points to 3.32 percent. Analysts said that the 10-year Treasury rate rose 10 basis points in response to the Fed raising its target funds rate. New home sales gained in November with a seasonally adjusted annualized reading of 582,000 sales as compared to 285,000 expected sales and October’s annual rate of 563,000 sales of new homes. This was the second highest reading for new home sales since early 2008. Builders will be watching mortgage rates and new home sales in the New Year to determine how rising mortgage rates will impact new home sales.

Whats Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic news includes Case-Shiller Home Price Index reports, pending home sales and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. U.S. Financial markets are closed today in observance of the Christmas holiday.

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6631 E Jasmine Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$549,900 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Pomeroy Estates, Mesa
New
$549,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,858 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787199
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Impeccably Remodeled Home with RV Gate, New Roof and No HOA! This stunning home offers modern updates, a spacious layout, and a prime location! Situated on a large lot with an RV gate, this property has been thoughtfully upgraded to provide both style and convenience. Step inside to find a welcoming interior featuring 3 generously sized bedrooms, 2.5 updated bathrooms, and a cozy family room complete with a charming fireplace. The kitchen and bathrooms have been fully remodeled with brand-new cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and elegant tile flooring. The primary ensuite is a true retreat, showcasing a beautifully tiled shower, ample storage, and private access to the backyard. Outdoors, enjoy the extended covered patio—perfect for entertaining or relaxing while overlooking your expansive backyard. Recent updates include a new roof (2024) and new A/C unit (2022) for added peace of mind. Conveniently located just minutes from the Loop 202, shopping, and dining, this home truly has it all!

5117 N 81st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$549,900 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Chateau De Vie 7, Scottsdale
New
$549,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,216 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785248
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Oasis by definition is a peaceful place in the desert or it can also be defined as 5117 N. 81st St. This designer remodeled, 2 bed/2 bath home with just over 1,200 sqft. is located in the best location in of all of Chateau De Vie and a heartbeat away from the popular attractions of Fashion Square and Old Town. This home boasts a luxury chefs kitchen highlighted by modern oak thin shaker cabinets, top tier quartz countertops with waterfall edges, and Stainless Steel Samsung Smart appliances. Luxury vinyl wood plank flooring and Berber carpet accentuate the space. Baths have been tastefully done. Take in many beautiful sunsets while relaxing on your covered patio. New dual pane windows, roof, water heater, and newer AC. Airbnb/STR approved. Don't miss out on this one of a kind property!

13608 W Remuda Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$549,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,258 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781006
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The price includes $20,000 for a rate buy-down and closing costs. This beautiful, move-in-ready home features a spacious great room that opens to a covered patio. The outdoor area boasts a heated pebble tech and travertine pool with a waterfall and jets, surrounded by palm and citrus trees. Inside, you'll find three generously sized bedrooms, each with its own full bathroom, along with a spacious dining room and plenty of storage. The main bedroom provides ample space for a sitting area or personal office, as well as a large walk-in closet and a super shower. The kitchen features granite countertops and white shaker cabinets, while plank tile flooring extends through high-traffic areas. An RV gate and a tandem four-car garage enhance the home's functionality.

20391 N 53rd Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$549,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,589 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779897
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your oasis nestled in the highly desirable Arrowhead Lakes! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a pool is situated on a premium corner lot. The vaulted ceilings create an airy atmosphere with tile and wood floors throughout the home. The kitchen features granite countertops, a nice size island, tile backsplash and stainless-steel appliances. Spacious primary en-suite has a walk-in closet, dual sinks, separate shower & roman style tub. Perfect for entertaining, the backyard features a beautiful pool with a new pool pump, a waterfall feature and a mountain view! Newer Roof & HVAC, two high-cost updates have been done! This sought after neighborhood is close to everything! Enjoy walks day or night, hiking trails nearby. Don't miss this one, move in before the holidays!

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