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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1240 E Kramer Circle Mesa, AZ 85203

$618,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,318 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766889
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This spacious floor plan features a living room and dining room, along with a separate family room. The fabulous open kitchen includes an island and pantry, perfect for all your cooking needs. The large master bedroom boasts an expansive master bath with a separate shower, and there's also a dedicated laundry room. The extended cabinets in the kitchen provide ample storage space for your cookware and countertop appliances. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, complete with a Pebble Tec pool/spa, a water feature, a covered patio, and numerous upgrades. Experience resort-style living in this beautiful gated community!

4300 W Prince Road Mcneal, AZ 85617

$617,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,150 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6721687
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream country property, nestled on 75 acres with almost 360 mountain views. With 36 acres of grandfathered irrigation rights, it's just waiting for you to grow your own hay or run livestock. The property includes a large hay barn, equipment shed, and workshop, plus fenced pastures ready for horses. This fully functioning farm features a domestic well and irrigation well which supplies water to the house, lawn, orchard and fields. The stunning three-bedroom, two-bathroom home features open-plan living. Vaulted ceilings create a bright and airy atmosphere. A spacious kitchen is at the heart of the home. French doors open onto a BBQ and entertainment area where you can host family and friends. (NRCS subsidy for 25 acres of sprinkler irrigation and certain farm implements are also available.) This is more than just a home. It's a one-of-a-kind gem that provides an unparalleled lifestyle for you and your family. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own a piece of desert paradise. Owner is Listing Agent.

947 W Saddle Run Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$616,990
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,468 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778925
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Blossom Rock! The east valley's newest master planned community. With views of the Superstition Mountains and a wealth of amenities currently in the making including three community parks, dozens of neighborhood parks, a community school, miles of trails, beautiful lakes, and indoor and outdoor gathering spaces all meant to serve as the backdrop of the calendar of signature events and annual celebrations currently being created. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

19201 W Missouri Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$616,070
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,475 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741966
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
COMPLETED NEW HOME! This amazing 5 Bedroom, 4 bath home with a 3-car garage home is on a large lot with a large, covered patio and plenty room for a wonderful pool. It has a full bedroom & bath downstairs, with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths & loft upstairs. Gourmet Kitchen has a large island with Quartz countertops and a custom backsplash, walk in pantry & butler's pantry. Kitchen is open to a large Great Room and has a formal dining that could also serve as a den. All bedrooms are spacious and have walk in closets and connected with a wonderful upstairs loft. Master suite has his & her closets, separate tub & shower along with separate vanities. Come see us. SOME PHOTOS ARE OF THE ACTUAL HOME & SOME PHOTOS ARE OF THE MODEL HOME TO GIVE DECORATING IDEAS! SEE NOTES!

11129 E Ulysses Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$615,995
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,907 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780602
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
With an idyllic blend of comfort and elegance, this move-in ready home perfectly fits your lifestyle. The stunning kitchen is highlighted by a designer backsplash, modern maple Latte and white linen cabinets, and upgraded quartz countertops. The open-concept kitchen flows effortlessly into the great room and dining room, making this floor plan ideal for entertaining. The home is complete with designer curated finishes throughout. Don't miss this opportunity to own your dream home!

5330 W Walatowa Street Laveen, AZ 85339

$615,990
5 Beds
4 Baths
2,908 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6674395
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6674395 Ready Now! The Pinnacle at Tierra Montana Encore presents a two-story layout with a generously sized primary suite downstairs. This suite boasts an expansive shower with tub, dual sink vanity, and a spacious walk-in closet suitable for all seasons. Additionally, there's a guest bedroom and full bath conveniently located towards the front of the home, ideal for overnight visitors. The open-concept gathering room connects to the dining and kitchen area. Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a versatile loft space, perfect for hosting game nights. Structural options include: bedroom 5/bath 4, shower in lieu of tub in two at bath 4, tub and shower at owner's bath, extended walk in closet at owner's suite, paver from porch and gourmet kitchen. 4' garage extension, garage service door, pre-plumb for future

3804 S Buttercup -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$615,310 - 4Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Hawes Crossing Village 2 Parcel A Replat, Mesa
New
$615,310
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,903 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788196
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS #6788196 March Completion! Welcome to the Redwood at Hawes Crossing Encore! Step into the inviting foyer, where a secondary bedroom and full bathroom are thoughtfully positioned on the right, while a hobby room and garage entry are conveniently located on the left. The heart of the home features an open dining area that seamlessly connects to the kitchen and gathering room, all overlooking the outdoor patio. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite provides a serene retreat with an en-suite bathroom and dual walk-in closets. The second floor also includes two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, a versatile loft, and a centrally located laundry room. Structural options added include; garage service door, 8' interior doors, super shower at owner's bath and shower in bath 3

2825 W Pinto Place Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$615,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,061 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748925
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enjoy gorgeous views from both north & south covered patios of this lovely 2061 sqft 3 bdrm, 1.75 bath home which features a bonus room that could be used as a den/office/other, living room, spacious kitchen w/ breakfast bar, sizable dining area & stainless steel appliances, split floorplan, large master bdrm, master bath w/ double sinks & walk-in closet, tankless hot water heater installed 1/2023, energy star windows, ceiling fans, cooling/heating installed 1/2023, Platinum water softener installed 1/2023, 9' ceilings, additional attic insulation 3/2023, oversized 2-car garage, private back courtyard, mature landscape w/ front & back yard watering system, no HOA, & leased solar ($124.68/month, no yearly increase). All this on a 46,730 sq ft parcel in the popular Saddle Ridge subdivision

2431 W Eagle Feather Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$615,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,309 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747132
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
As you enter this meticulously maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, you are greeted by a bright and elegant atmosphere, from the front room's charming shutters to the gleaming tile flooring that guides you toward the dining and living areas. Just off the entrance, classic glass French doors open to a versatile den/office. The kitchen has been tastefully updated with pendant lights, freshly painted cabinets, a coordinating tile backsplash, and granite countertops. The spacious primary bedroom offers a personal retreat, featuring an updated en-suite bathroom w/ a walk-in shower, a private toilet room, and a generous walk-in closet. Step outside to enjoy the extended covered patio that overlooks a sparkling pool. Additional features of the home include two AC units & garage cabinetry Living off the I-17 and Carefree Highway fantastic due to its proximity to a variety of shopping centers (Norterra & Anthem) and diverse dining options that cater to every tastebud. The area offers a blend of convenience and vibrant local culture, perfect for a place to make home.

35518 N 30th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$615,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,191 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767894
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful old-world Italian style single-story home in the quiet, family-friendly Tramonto community. With 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, & ample garage space for 3 cars, this residence is a must-see. This one-owner home features an open atmosphere with a spacious kitchen containing black appliances and ample storage space. The great room features a cozy gas fireplace & large newly-updated picture windows. Enjoy the spacious primary bedroom with en suite bathroom complete with a separate tub and shower, as well as a generous walk-in closet. Step outside into your own personal oasis with a calming water feature and eye-catching light layout. Tramonto residents enjoy pools, sport courts, & many green spaces. Furnishings are available as well, reach out now to arrange a tour!

1529 E Edgewater Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$615,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,144 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766284
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 4 bedroom residence w/loft is situated just down the street from the lake that you can enjoy boating and kayaking in the private community The Lakes. Enjoy 4 generously sized bedrooms on the second floor plus a versatile loft that overlooks the living room with vaulted ceiling. Relax by the large wood burning fireplace in the family room. Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood that offers a rec center with a Health and Fitness club ,Olympic size pool, spa, Pickel ball courts ,Tennis , Sand Volleyball, Basketball, Children's playground, and more. Conveniently located near lakeside restaurants and a short walk to Tempe Union Elementary/Middle schools and Marcos De Niza High. There is easy freeway access to 60 and 101 and to Sky Harbor Airport and ASU campus

8818 W Quail Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$615,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,790 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769179
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home! This recently updated 3 bed/2 bath home invites you to come and make it your own! Located in a desired neighborhood and is on large corner lot! Just minutes from shopping, entertainment and restaurants! This home portrays pride of ownership with recently updated: tile flooring, updated bathrooms, heating and cooling unit, tankless water heater, sunscreens, custom baseboards, door trims and exterior/interior paint! It also has owned solar with grandfathered in rates! The backyard is perfect for entertaining with the pool and the newly added cabana! This home really speaks for itself, come check it out!

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