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.

What’s Your Home Worth?

Search for Your New Home

1724 W Thomas Road Phoenix, AZ 85015

$599,999
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,593 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6720472
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Motivated sellers!! The home features a modern open kitchen that flows seamlessly into a spacious family room with a cozy fireplace. The casita offers a comfortable and independent living space for guests or potential rental income.

4337 E Vaughn Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85234

$599,999
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,556 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6722059
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You'll LOVE this remarkable 5-bed, 3-bath home in the desirable Morrison Ranch neighborhood! Gorgeous lake community with tree-lined streets, large green belts and parks. Fabulous interior showcases designer paint, layered crown molding and tons of natural light. Perfect for gatherings, you have a welcoming living/dining room combo and a large family room w/additional eating area! The impressive kitchen boasts sleek SS appliances, granite counters, a pantry and center island. Modern bathroom updates, water softener and whole home water system. One bedroom downstairs and four bedrooms upstairs along w/flexible loft upstairs! Sizable main bedroom has an ensuite with dual sinks, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Discover the backyard, ideal for relaxing ! A covered patio, well-laid pavers, synthetic lawn, & gazebo make this a must see!

47970 N Navidad Court Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$599,999
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,263 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6726998
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a spacious 3-car garage has everything you need and more. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Superstition Mountains and the vast open desert through the backyard view fence. The newly remodeled kitchen boasts white cabinets, white quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, double ovens, a high-end built-in microwave, a newer cooktop, a large hood, and a tiled backsplash. The large center island features a striking waterfall countertop design, and there's a huge butler's pantry just off the kitchen. The entire interior has been beautifully updated, featuring luxury vinyl plank flooring laid straight throughout, new recessed lighting, and fixtures. A highlight of the living room is the backlit television wall, adding a touch of modern elegance.

7453 E Almeria Road Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$599,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,498 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738857
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MUST SEE TODAY!!! Pride of ownership is shown in this fabulous turn-key residence nestled in Scottsdale! Discover an impressive interior showcasing tile flooring, a soothing palette throughout, plantation shutters, and recessed lighting. The spotless kitchen is ready for you to cook your favorite meals, offering white shaker cabinets, sleek granite counters, stainless steel appliances, and a center island complete with a convenient breakfast bar for casual dining. The master bedroom boasts a sliding-door closet and a private bathroom for added comfort. Host fun gatherings in the wonderful backyard, including a covered patio and a sparkling swimming pool! This is truly a turn key property, ready to go. Only a mile from old town Scottsdale!

3981 N Hudson Drive Florence, AZ 85132

$599,999
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,554 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741528
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wake up to stunning golf course views in this beautiful home within the 55+ Merrill Ranch community. Enjoy a gourmet Kitchen, a luxurious Master Suite with an $80,000 remodel, and a private courtyard, backyard outdoor BBQ. Relax in your library, work from your custom office, and benefit from energy-efficient features like solar panels and a tankless water heater. With a 2-car garage and a golf cart garage, this home offers Luxury and Comfort in every detail. Don't miss out on making it yours!!!

1410 W Flintlock Way Chandler, AZ 85286

$599,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,132 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742529
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Excellent location! This 3 bed, 2 bath + office/den home boasts of 2 spacious living areas, open kitchen concept with a large island and new SS appliances (2024). The oasis backyard includes a heated pool and spa, and backs to a greenbelt. This home also features a 3-car AC'd garage that includes a 220V, 27 ton hydraulic system. With a New roof (2023), New HVAC (2022), New Tankless Water Heater (2022) and water filtration throughout the home, this place has it all. The property is centrally located near the 202 freeway, Chandler Fashion Center, Hospitals, A+ Chandler Schools, Restaurants, and Much, Much More, putting you in the heart of everything Chandler has to offer.

3780 S Ashley Place Chandler, AZ 85286

$599,999
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,188 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743456
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Home, sweet home! This beautiful 4 bed, 2 bath residence now on the market is for you! Great curb appeal, a low-maintance front yard, and a 2 car garage & Brand New AC System! Discover spacious dining & living areas w/vaulted ceilings, soft carpet in all the right places, and custom palette throughout. The kitchen is equipped w/ample cabinet & counter space, a pantry, built-in appliances, recessed lighting, a prep island, a breakfast nook w/a lovely bay window, and a peninsula w/a breakfast bar. End your busy day in the primary bedroom, boasting a walk-in closet and a full ensuite w/dual sinks. Finally, the wonderful backyard includes a covered patio, extended seating area, artificial turf, and a sparkling blue pool perfect for the warm summer days! What are you waiting for? Act now

22325 N 78th Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$599,999
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,136 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757376
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEWLY UPDATED 4-BEDROOM HOME IN THE FLETCHER HEIGHTS COMMUNITY! This home features updated flooring throughout. Quartz countertops in kitchen and bathrooms updating the home with a bright and airy atmosphere. Fresh paint throughout. The eat-in kitchen features ample cabinet space with a large island with breakfast bar seating. The primary bedroom features dual sinks, separate tub and shower, and walk-in closet. The other bedrooms are located away from the primary bedroom allowing privacy. The large back yard features a hot tub and ample space to create a beautiful low maintenance backyard oasis. A MUST SEE TO MAKE THIS YOUR HOME!

16220 W Boulder Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$599,999 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Sun City Grand-blue Sky, Surprise
Open House
$599,999
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,834 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767561
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning Palo Verde Del Webb model located on the #9 tee box of Granite Falls South Golf Course. This home features split bedrooms, ensuring privacy for both owner and guests. The spacious great room includes a custom DAGR media wall and fireplace. The kitchen is well-appointed with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a bay window in the breakfast nook. Primary bath has 2 sinks, granite counters and Calif Closets. French doors, by Renewal by Andersen, lead to the backyard. Brand-new 2024 roof. Air conditioner replaced. Your outdoor sanctuary features a large, heated pool with water feature. The spa offers the ideal spot to relax after a round of golf or a game of pickleball. Move-in ready & waiting for its new owner!

10511 S 47th Lane Laveen, AZ 85339

$599,995
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,390 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6720364
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Boasting an open layout ready-made for entertaining, this Pinecrest plan centers around an expansive great room, 10' ceilings, a dining nook and an impressive gourmet kitchen boasting a convenient island, walk-in pantry, with white shaker cabinets, quartz counters, black matte fixtures and stone tile throughout, with carpeted bedrooms. The elegant primary suite is adjacent, showcasing an immense walk-in closet and a private deluxe bathroom with shower and separate tub. Two additional bedrooms, a study, a laundry and a covered patio round out the plan.

17637 W Blue Sky Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$599,995
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,390 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740210
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Explore this dynamic Deacon home, ready for quick move-in on a homesite boasting driveway pavers and front yard landscaping. Included features: an inviting covered entry; a versatile flex room; a gourmet kitchen offering 42'' cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, a double oven, a walk-in pantry and a center island; a spacious great room; an elegant dining room with center-meet doors leading onto a relaxing covered patio; an impressive primary suite showcasing a generous walk-in closet and a private bath with cultured marble countertops; a convenient laundry; a tandem garage and an RV garage. This home also offers additional windows and ceiling fan prewiring in select rooms.

310 S 4th Street Unit 806 Phoenix, AZ 85004

$599,995
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,426 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6761931
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Sold out pre-construction because of its desired NE corner lot location with 180° views from City lights to NE Valley Mtn and ballpark! Splitmaster layout featuring floor to ceiling aluminum frame windows, powder rm, laundry rm and 230/ft wrap around balcony. Other features; engineered wood floors, granite kitchen w/bar overhang, Viking appliances. Freshly painted top to bottom and new carpets in bedrooms. HOA includes Cox Internet, water, sewer, trash, storage with other amenity conveniences such as, 24-hr desk/guard, 24 hr fitness center w/dry spa, locker rm, rooftop terrace clubhouse w/fire pit, heated 5th floor pool/hot tub and much more.. 806 comes with two full size side-by-side parking located steps from elevator door!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.