What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 5, 2016

Last week’s economic news was plentiful with releases on Case-Shiller Home Price Indices and pending home sales. Readings on government and private sector jobs created, the national unemployment rate and weekly readings on new jobless claims and Freddie Mac’s mortgage rates survey were also released.

CaseShiller: Western Cities Dominate Home Price Growth

Case-Shiller’s 20-City Home Price Index reported that Seattle Washington topped year-over-year home price growth with an increase of 11.00 percent. Portland, Oregon followed closely with a reading of 10.90 percent, and Denver Colorado held third place with year-over-year home price gains of 8.70 percent.

San Francisco, California, which had posted high home price gains in recent years, posted a month-to-month reading of -0.40 percent and a year-over-year gain of 5.70 percent. Analysts said that this reading was evidence that home prices in high cost areas were topping out. Affordability, strict mortgage requirements and low inventories of available homes continued to present obstacles to home buyers.

Mortgage Rates Rise, Pending Home Sales Dip

According to the U.S. Commerce Department, pending home sales dipped in October to 0.10 percent as compared to a growth rate of 1.50 percent in September. Winter weather and holidays can cause would-be home buyers to postpone their home searches until spring.

Freddie Mac reported higher mortgage rates last week, although the 10-year treasury rate, which is tied to mortgage rates, was unchanged from the prior week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage was five basis points higher at 4.08 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage rose by nine basis points to 3.34 percent and the average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rose by three basis points to 3.15 percent. Mortgage rates have risen by 51 basis points in three weeks. This trend, coupled with high home prices, doesn’t bode well for first-time and modest income home buyers.

Consumer spending for October increased by 0.30 percent as compared to predictions for a reading of 0.50 percent and September’s 0.70 percent reading. The core inflation reading for October was unchanged and in line with analyst expectations at 0.10 percent. The core reading excludes volatile food and fuel sectors.

Labor Reports: Job Creation Grows, Unemployment Rate Lower

According to the Labor Department’s Non-Farm Payrolls report for November, 178,000 government and private sector jobs were created as compared to expectations of 200,000 jobs created and October’s reading of 142,000 jobs created in October. According to the Commerce Department, the national unemployment rate for November was 4.60 percent as compared to the expected reading of 4.90 percent and October’s reading of 4.90 percent. Analysts noted that while a lower reading could indicate good news, it was also the result of fewer workers in the work force. The unemployment rate is based on unemployment claims filed by those actively seeking work; it does not include those underemployed or those who have stopped seeking work.

First-time jobless claims rose to 268,000 as compared to expectations of 250,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 251,000 new claims filed.

In spite of higher mortgage rates and dubious labor reports, the Consumer Confidence Index rose to 107.1 in November from October’s reading of 100.8; Analysts had expected an index reading of 102.5.

Whats Ahead

Next week’s economic reports include releases on job openings and consumer sentiment along with weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

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4220 N 32nd Street Unit 39 Phoenix, AZ 85018

$638,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,487 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741865
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Introducing the epitome of modern patio home living in the heart of Arcadia - welcome home to the Arcadian Phoenix. Nestled in the coveted 85018 area code, these modern townhomes redefine living with their spacious floor plans and an array of amenities. Step inside to discover a haven of elegance, boasting 10-foot ceilings on the main living floor and large windows that flood the space with natural light. The gourmet kitchen seamlessly merges with the inviting family room, creating the perfect setting for both everyday living and entertaining. Revel in the exquisite finishes, featuring stunning cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and timeless stainless steel appliances. Experience true architectural brilliance with the inclusion of a charming Juliet balcony

17550 S Thunder Ridge Drive Peeples Valley, AZ 86332

$638,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,582 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761342
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
YOU'LL FEEL LIKE YOU'RE LIVING ON VACATION! Gorgeous home in beautiful Peeples Valley, AZ on 4.8 acres with stunning, panoramic views. Tongue & groove ceiling, a wood burning fireplace and rough sawn wood beam add rustic charm while plentiful amenities bring modern conveniences. Split floor plan boasts an oversized owner's suite, secondary bedrooms w/ Jack & Jill bathroom & a much desired powder room for guests. Finished loft offers addt'l flex space, as does the separate garage room. Open Kitchen w/ abundant cabinets. French doors & windows provide fantastic natural light & picturesque views of the landscape. Loads of storage both in the home, as well as in the 39 x 39 garage. This garage is a standout! CLICK 'MORE INFO' for a list items which convey and additional important information! 3,000 gallon water storage is already plumbed for a 2nd tank and conveys. Chicken coop, raised garden beds convey. You'll be all set to launch your mini farming op! ** NEW SOLAR SYSTEM will be paid off at close of escrow. ** NO HOA! Agents, see back notes for full list of items which convey / don't convey. This home is truly turnkey and ready to go. Peeples Valley boasts blue skies, fresh mountain air and 4 mild seasons. Close to Prescott, Wickenburg and Phoenix. Agents live in area. ** Check out the video in slide 2 of the PHOTOS TAB. **

28428 N 65th Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$638,000 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Summit At Boulder Mtn North, Phoenix
Open House
$638,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,184 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780195
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come by and tour this weekend! Virtual tour available. Beautiful Maracay home located in Summit at Boulder Mountain North. This fabulous home features a 3 car wide garage plus a 4th tandem garage with full access door to the back yard. Downstairs guest bed/office and full bath on the main level. Walk in closets in generous secondary bedrooms. Extended covered patio. Kitchen boasts beautiful cherry cabinets, granite kitchen counter tops , SS steal appliances , double oven and gas cooktop with brushed nickel fixtures. Virtual tour available please request the link.

17425 W Tara Lane Surprise, AZ 85388

$637,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,185 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6737950
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller is offering a $10,000 credit toward rate buy-down or closing costs with a full-price offer! This stunning, one-of-a-kind home has been fully remodeled with over $100K in upgrades, making it an entertainer's paradise! Located on a massive 12,000 sq ft lot, enjoy your private pool and spa in a resort-like setting. The home features 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 luxurious baths, a versatile bonus room, and a secured large dog run with a convenient doggie door for your furry friends. Host gatherings in the fabulous great room with bifold doors that seamlessly open to the outdoors, a formal dining room, and an eat-in kitchen perfect for entertaining. Step outside to find a built-in BBQ under a stylish shade structure, a putt-putt green, and a pergola with a projection system for games or.... family movie nights. The backyard is the ultimate retreat for both relaxation and entertainment! This home truly has it all.

5771 W Cinder Brook Way Florence, AZ 85132

$637,500
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,590 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777576
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
JOURNEY TO RESORT STYLE LIVING w/ Private heated POOL & SPA!! Only the best w/ over $130k in builder upgrades featuring a Private Courtyard w/beautiful iron security gate & ornate glass door to designer tile entry & Plantation Shutters, Den w/ gorgeous French Doors, Chef Lux kitchen w/ Gas Cooktop & dbl ovens, Luxurious Black Stainless built-in appliances, u/c lighting, Pendant lighting over a spacious unpolished Granite Island, soft close staggered raised panel cabinets w/ Pots & Pans drawers, pull outs, tiled backsplash, spacious walk-in pantry & Butler's pantry. Owner's Suite features bowed window, stunning walk-in tile shower & Granitex vanities. 2 Guest Bedrooms w/ shared en-suite. Extended Patio w/ Pergola, Private Pool w/ Water Feature & Spa! Poston Butte Golf Course & Grille!!!

2201 N Iowa Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$637,400 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Arbor Square, Chandler
Open House
$637,400
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,408 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775852
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand New Home Alert! Welcome to Arbor Square, where luxury and convenience meet in the heart of Downtown Chandler. Nestled within walking distance to the vibrant Downtown Chandler Entertainment District, our community provides the perfect balance of urban living and peaceful escape. Each home at Arbor Square boasts top-of-the-line amenities, designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. From elegant quartz countertops to luxury vinyl plank flooring, every detail has been carefully selected to provide you with a high-end yet modern living experience. Our homes also feature pre-wiring for EV chargers, making it easy for you to stay connected and eco-friendly. Our community is designed to give you all the perks of luxurious living without the hassle of upkeep. Experience the best of urban living in a peaceful and modern setting at Arbor Square. Come find your perfect home today! *HOA Fees are an estimate today, the builder has a conditional public report. Photos are of the builder's model of a similar floor plan, actual home is under construction. Contact listing the agent for additional incentives. Agents Must accompany their clients upon their first visit.

7933 E Queensborough Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$637,370
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,358 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783391
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6783391 February 2025 Completion! The Paisley is a thoughtfully designed 2-story floorplan offering 2,358 sq. ft. of living space with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a loft, and a 2-car garage. Perfect for hosting guests, the main level features a private bedroom and an open-concept great room, dining area, and kitchen that flow seamlessly into the outdoor living space, ideal for entertaining or relaxing. Upstairs, the versatile loft can be transformed into a playroom, home office, or secondary living area. The primary suite includes a walk-in closet and dual sinks for added convenience. We're confident you'll love calling the Paisley home! Structural options include: gourmet kitchen, soft water loop, pavers on porch and driveway.

4304 Stage Stop Way Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$637,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,969 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742345
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the epitome of modern elegance in this nearly new Cypress model in Wickenburg Ranch. Meticulously updated with luxurious features, this home boasts fresh flooring in bedrooms and closets, a sleek gourmet kitchen with a large island, and a stunning sliding glass wall that opens to an expansive outdoor patio and backyard retreat. Enjoy outdoor living at its finest with a BBQ island and cozy firepit, all while backing to a serene wash for added privacy. With PAID SOLAR and a 3 CAR GARAGE, this home combines roominess and sustainability seamlessly.

6411 S River Drive Unit 10 Tempe, AZ 85283

$636,477
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,589 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759930
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Remodeled 2 bed 3 bath townhome in the Cottonwoods Community of 68 homes. This home has an open floor plan, lots of light, high ceilings, & lots of space for entertaining. Both bedrooms have en-suites & walk-in closets. New LVP flooring in traffic areas, new carpet in bedrooms and loft & new baseboards. Interior hardwood doors, new canned lighting, new interior & exterior paint. The kitchen has lots of counter space, hardwood cabinet doors & stainless appliances. There is a fireplace, bed 2 has a walkout patio, loft has an exterior Juliet balcony, & lots of storage. The backyard is large and updated, including new exterior wall paint & gate. Close to freeway, shopping & short drive to airport.

16978 W Canterbury Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$636,461
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,870 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728478
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS #6728478 February 2025 Completion! Discover The Shire, a single-story floor plan in Paradisi Venture II. This home offers 2,870 sq. ft. with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a 3-car split garage, and a study. Each bedroom has its own en suite bathroom, providing separate spaces for kids and guests. The open layout of the gathering room, kitchen, and dining room forms the heart of the home, perfect for hosting gatherings or family game nights. Create lasting memories, whether it's a cookout with friends or quality time with family. The owner's suite includes a spacious walk-in closet, split vanities, and a generous shower. Structural options include: interior door at laundry, gas line for future outdoor kitchen, garage service door, and chef's kitchen.

20941 E Via Del Sol Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$636,237
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,537 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6736382
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW - PRICE REDUCED $7,500. IN ADDITION, SELLER CONSESSION AVAILABLE TOWARDS CLOSING COSTS OR RATE BUYDOWN with Rates as Low as 3.875% on this Quick Move-In Home When Financing Thru Builders Preferred Lender(s). Beautiful Cul-de-sac Home Located close to Queen Creek Market Place Shopping, Dining & Entertainment with Community Parks, Tot Lots, BBQ's, Basketball Courts, Soccer Field and Just Steps to the 8-Mile Walking Trail. All Appliances Including Stainless Refrigerator, Stainless Gas Cooktop, Dbl Wall Ovens, Microwave, Dishwasher, White Washer/Dryer. Too Many Beautiful Upgrades to List Here. Primary & Two Secondary Bedrooms Upstairs. One Secondary Bedroom and Full Bath Downstairs. Don't Wait, Come See This Home Today

14655 N Kings Way Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$636,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,267 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784020
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BACK ON MARKET: Don't miss this cute 2 bedroom, 2 bath detached home plus bonus room in the Courtside Villas community. Features include vaulted ceilings, sliding doors to large covered back patio, private pool with water feature. Backyard is super private as it backs to a wash area. Kitchen features granite counters, SS Fridge & Stove and is open to the dining & living room. The Living room also has wood burning fireplace. Bonus room is currently being used as an office/den but could be used as a game room or Formal dining. You have options! Inside laundry room, attached garage with direct access. Home sits in the back of the community so super quiet. Perfect for lock & leave or full time residence.

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