What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 6, 2017

Last week’s economic news included several good signs for U.S. Labor Markets with higher than expected readings for private and public sector job creation. The Federal Reserve announced its decision not to raise the target federal funds range, and inflation rose. Mortgage rates held steady and pending home sales rose.

Private and Public Sector Jobs Post Unexpected Gains

ADP, which tracks private-sector job growth, showed a gain of 246,000 jobs in January against expectations of 168,000 new jobs and December’s reading of 151,000 private sector jobs created. Analysts said 208,000 of jobs added were service-related jobs. January’s Non-Farm Payrolls, which is issued by the Labor Department and includes private and public sector jobs, also posted higher than expected job gains with 227,000 new jobs in January as compared to 197,000 new jobs expected and December’s reading of 157,000 new jobs. Retail, construction, financial and restaurant industries led job growth. The jump in construction hiring could indicate that home builders will expand construction in an effort to ease short inventories of homes for sale.

The national unemployment rate rose to 4.70 percent in January and matched analysts’ expectations based on December’s reading of 4.60 percent. New jobless claims were lower than expected with a reading of 246,000 new claims against expectations of 254,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 260,000 initial jobless claims.

Mortgage Rates Little Changed; Pending Home Sales Up

Freddie Mac reported little change in mortgage rates last week. Interest rates for 30-year fixed rate mortgages averaged 4.19 percent and were unchanged from the prior week. Rates for 15-year fixed rate mortgages rose by one basis point to 3.41 percent and the average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rose three basis points to 3.23 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for fixed rate mortgages and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.

In related news, the Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee decided not to rate the Fed’s target rate that is currently 0.50 to 0.75 percent. Fed benchmarks for the economy include an unemployment rate of 5.00 percent or lower, but the annual growth inflation benchmark of 2.00 percent has not been met. January’s inflation rate rose by 0.10 percent above December’s reading of 0.0 percent.

Pending home sales increased in January with an increase of 1.60 percent; this exceeded December’s negative reading of -2.50 percent in December. Analysts said that the growth in pending home sales, which represents sales under contract that have not closed, reflects ongoing high demand for homes. Pending sales also suggest future volume for completed sales and mortgages.

Consumer confidence lagged in January to an index reading of 111.80 as compared to an expected reading of 112.90 and December’s reading of 113.30. December’s reading was the highest in 15 years. Analysts cited post-election uncertainty as contributing to consumer concerns.

Whats Ahead

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

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4477 E Turnberry Court Gilbert, AZ 85298

$2,975,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,514 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6781609
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your dream home awaits on this over 1-acre lot located at the end of a cul-de-sac in the desirable gated Estados of Circle G. Truly LUXURY from the inside out. Retreat to your own oasis backyard with lighted tennis court that can easily be converted to pickle ball also basketball court, mini golf course with 3 chipping pads, 2 large sand traps, built in BBQ, TV's, all why overlooking a heated sparkling saltwater pool & spa alongside a gas fire pit area to enjoy a cozy night in. State of the art Sonos & WI fi system interior/exterior. The inside does not disappoint, this over 5500sq' 4BR 6 BA home boasts a large home theater /game room with 110'' black diamond screen, Epson projection screen and Sony surround sound system, pool table, shuffleboard with its own beverage fridge, no need to go out, can enjoy family fun night in the luxury of your own home. The gourmet kitchen features Wolf appliances, gas stove top, 2 ovens, walk-in pantry, a walk-through coffee bar area, just around the corner is a separate wine room with large capacity wine fridge. The Master retreat has a cozy fireplace, large walk-in closet with custom shelves & lots of hanging area, also your own washer/dryer. All bedrooms include their own private en suite bathrooms and walk in closets. Wood shutters & solid wood doors throughout. Beautiful mature trees to offer lots of shade, separate gated dog yard. Enormous 4 car extended garage with air-conditioned workshop and lots of storage cabinets, huge driveway for plenty of guest parking, large rolling RV gate. The attic is equipped with a motorized lift with a large walk-in area to store all your Xmas decor. 3 new A/C systems 2023, new pool pump & salt system 2023, interior of home & exterior block wall has been sealed for scorpions. Fully secured by ADT security system and cameras on all doors, driveway, and yard. All of this and still there's more! Enjoy the country club lifestyle with Seville Golf & Country Club, you can ride your golf cart over to enjoy a day of golf, or family fun with 4 pools, water slides, tennis, pickle ball restaurants & more!! For info on the country club lifestyle please visit Seville Country Club.

10465 N 128th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,970,900 - 3Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Aura, Scottsdale
Open House
$2,970,900
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,228 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6779348
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream retreat! This exceptional model home effortlessly blends luxury, style, and comfort, offering everything you need for refined living. Located in a highly desirable Scottsdale neighborhood with breathtaking mountain views, this property showcases exquisite designer finishes and a layout that invites indoor-outdoor living at its finest. The kitchen features custom cabinetry and a striking marble waterfall countertop. Outfitted with top-of-the-line Wolf/Sub-Zero appliances, this kitchen is ideal for entertaining. The expansive open-concept great room, features pocketing doors that seamlessly extend your living space to the outdoors. The pool and spa are complete with a serene waterfall feature surrounded by a lushly landscaped yard for ultimate relaxation.

6521 N 4th Street Phoenix, AZ 85012

$2,970,000 - 4Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Orangewood, Phoenix
New
$2,970,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,014 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787264
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Completed in 2021, this Classic Contemporary Home is better than new. Designed by current owner/architect/interior designer of K&I Homes and built by Starion Custom Residences. Tucked away on a large North-South facing cul-de-sac lot in prime North Central Neighborhood, the uber efficient split/open floor plan features 4 large en suite bedrooms, and a super-sized 4 car garage. Perfect indoor/outdoor living with 36-foot sliding glass doors opening up from the great room to the resort style back yard.

28101 N 109th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,950,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,730 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6655267
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Serene is brand new gated enclave of 21 cutting edge single level contemporary homes designed by Swayback Architects & Planners and built by Sonora West Development. Each Serene home brings a new definition to the ''Lock and Leave'' lifestyle with open Great Room floor plans perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. There are four different models to choose from with lavish interior finishes created by renown interior designers Est Est. This Model A has a 2 car garage and available only on lots, 2, 4, 6 & 16. (3 car garage only on lots 7, 11, & 18 at additional cost). Base price shown does not include lot premiums but does include 25K pool and a 25k landscape allowance, Subzero & Wolf Appliances & BBQ. Backing to the North side of Pinnacle Peak Mountain in N Scottsdale Serene... is close to shopping, restaurants and over two dozen private and public golf courses. Don't miss your opportunity to take part in the Serene lifestyle.

7486 E Sonoran Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$2,950,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,740 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6714935
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the exclusive, guard-gated community of Whisper Rock in North Scottsdale. This stunning Spanish-style residence offers 4,740 square feet of luxurious living space, featuring four spacious bedrooms, four and a half baths, and a dedicated office. Enjoy the elegance of arched doorways, multiple fireplaces, including a magnificent canterra stone fireplace in the great room, and a 720-bottle wine cellar for the connoisseur. The separate guest house off the front courtyard provides additional privacy and convenience. Outdoors, entertain with ease around your private pool & spa with a water feature, outdoor BBQ, firepit, and a covered dining area. The property, situated on a desirable corner lot, also boasts a meditation courtyard, an inground trampoline, and a lush grassy area surrounded by mature vegetation. As part of the Whisper Rock community, you'll have access to a community pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a state-of-the-art workout facility. This is not just a home; it's a lifestyle.

10471 E White Feather Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,950,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,562 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772437
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this awe-inspiring, custom Pinnacle Canyon home sitting on over 2.6 acres. This residence showcases truly stunning panoramic views. Surrounded by striking boulders, the home offers ultimate privacy. With beautiful stone floors, elegant fireplaces & a serene backyard oasis, complete w heated pool, this home exudes charm and tranquility. Enjoy your morning coffee or evening wine in the cozy hearth room/breakfast nook or on the inviting patio, surrounded by the gorgeous Phoenix desert landscape. The chef's kitchen is equipped with gas range, a spacious island, granite counter tops and a large walk in pantry. Primary bath features a wet room, including a massive 40'' rain shower head. This unique property also features a state-of-the-art car lift, perfect for showcasing your prized collection or tackling those weekend projects with ease. This one of a kind home is perfectly situated in a gated golf community near Kierland and Scottsdale shopping.

9501 N 52nd Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,950,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
4,389 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766514
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to ''Elegant Oasis in Paradise Valley''—a stunning blend of luxury, comfort, and sophisticated design. This exquisite 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom estate is situated on a highly sought-after corner lot in the heart of Paradise Valley, offering over 4,300 square feet of meticulously designed living space on just over an acre of land. As you step through the grand entrance, you'll be captivated by the home's impressive architecture and the perfect blend of modern elegance and timeless style. The gourmet kitchen serves as the centerpiece of the home, a striking granite waterfall island, sleek cabinetry, high-end stainless steel appliances, and a wet bar—ideal for hosting and entertaining guests. The open-concept layout flows seamlessly into the living room, where a cozy fireplace and beautiful wood-beamed ceilings create a warm, inviting atmosphere. For those who love movie nights, the custom theatre room provides a perfect retreat for family and friends. The spacious primary suite is a true sanctuary, featuring dual walk-in closets, a spa-like bathroom with a luxurious soaking tub, and an oversized walk-in shower. The secondary primary suite is equally impressive, offering its own en suite bathroom and direct access to the backyard. Shutters are featured throughout the entire home, adding privacy and style to every room. Step outside and discover your own private resort. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, complete with a heated pool featuring a waterfall, a relaxing spa, and plenty of patio space for outdoor dining and lounging. The sport court offers endless opportunities for recreation, while the meticulously landscaped grounds provide a serene and tranquil setting for relaxation. The property also features an RV gate for easy storage of recreational vehicles. Recent upgrades make this home truly turnkey. The flooring was completed in 2022, and the ceilings were raised the same year, enhancing the home's open, airy feel. The two AC units and pool pump were replaced in 2024 to ensure ultimate comfort and efficiency. A new tankless hot water heater and a water softener ensure convenience and energy savings. The three-car garage features epoxy flooring and a 220-volt outlet, perfect for charging electric vehicles. This property has been meticulously maintained and thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and flow, blending indoor and outdoor living seamlessly. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this estate offers the ultimate in luxury and style. Located in one of Paradise Valley's most prestigious areas, this home is close to top-rated schools, world-class dining, and upscale shopping. Experience unparalleled luxury in Arizona.

7161 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 6001 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$2,950,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,590 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760219
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
This is it. Welcome to the most incredible Optima Camelview condominium to ever be offered on the re-sale market. Designed & originally owned by the developer of this state of the art award winning community. Out of 688 units, this exquisite residence was their choice. Boasting 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 2,590 sqft, ~1000 sqft of both covered and uncovered terrace space & the most breathtaking Camelback Mountain & McDowell Mountain Views. This unit features a fantastic open floor plan, endless floor-to-ceiling glass, 3 Patio/Terraces (perfect for relaxing & entertaining), a natural gas piped in bbq, fire pit and fire place, designer finishes through-out, automated blinds & so much more. The master suite is extremely spacious w/ a huge walk in closet (w/ it's own window!) & a very large bath.

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 301 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,950,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,632 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764421
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A rare opportunity awaits with IMMEDIATE GOLF MEMBERSHIP AT CLOSE OF ESCROW in the prestigious guard-gated community of Desert Highlands. The monthly HOA dues conveniently include member golf fees. This 4-bedroom home, including a detached casita, is perfectly nestled along the 4th fairway of the world-renowned Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, offering breathtaking views of both the course and surrounding mountains. From the moment you arrive, the captivating curb appeal draws you in, and as you step through the door, you're welcomed by an atmosphere of elegance, tranquility, and seamless functionality. Private backyard retreat with pool/ spa, large covered patio, fire pit with seating is a perfect sanctuary for entertaining year round, providing the ultimate living experience.

9027 N 82nd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$2,950,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,364 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781793
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MUST SEE!!! McCormick Ranch culdesac home on oversized lot (one of the largest in entire neighborhood) that has been completely reimagined & remodeled with a modern floor plan. The single level home offers a 888 sq ft guest home with full kitchen, laundry, & 10 foot ceilings. The main home offers luxury, convenience, & designer touches. Large chefs kitchen with Thermador appliances, including bonus butlers pantry & butlers fridge, water filtration & water bottle filler, built in espresso maker, & oversized quartz waterfall island. Super sized utility room with double washer/dryer & custom lockers & storage. Primary suite with oversized shower, dual shower system & large soaker tub. Open great room with floor to ceiling wood burning fireplace, surround sound & smart features throughout

5430 E Royal Palm Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,950,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,733 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779945
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
One acre + North/south lot close to Paradise Valley Country Club. 3 C Schools. Survey is included and located in document tab. House is a tear down and value is in the land. Property has all utilities - Sewer has been brought to corner of property. Great views- non-hillside lot. Do not walk property without permission. Buyer to do due diligence before writing offer. Owner/agent. Carry is possible with 25% down, 10% interest.

6936 E 1st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$2,950,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6692878
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Nestled in Arizona's most sought-after city, The NINES are a new collection of residences in Old Town Scottsdale brought to you by Two Hawks Design and Development. This custom home offers 3,000 SF of living space, 2 bed, 2.5 bath, 1 bonus room, a 2-car garage, and NO HOA FEES!!! Sleek modern architecture opens to three light-filled levels of refined interior luxury. This home offers expansive windows, a private backyard, a rooftop terrace, 2 additional outdoor patios, and bespoke details and finishes. This custom contemporary home invokes a simple refined style of living with unbeatable proximity to Scottsdale's premier lifestyle amenities. Discover fine dining, high end retail, and the Scottsdale Arts District just steps from your door.

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