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

4359 N 203rd Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$594,990
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,674 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6736229
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This Gorgeous Altena floorplan curated with Classic 'Looks' interiors selections offering a gorgeous cohesive design. Your spacious kitchen is designed with a large island, pendant lighting, quartz counters, stunning stacking cabinets and GE profile stainless steel appliances. Feel the openness of your great room and dining room with coffered ceiling and crown molding. Enjoy indoor-outdoor living with your 12 ft sliding glass door. The Primary Suite includes an Upgraded no step rain shower. Wood look tile throughout most rooms and plush carpet in bedrooms, plus window coverings included! ^^Short/long term interest rate buydowns available when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply.

22873 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$594,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,234 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764472
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
''The Sunflower floorplan is ideal for modern living, featuring an expansive kitchen with a large island, pantry, and generous dining and Greatroom areas, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying quality family time. Step into this stunning quick move-in home, offering a thoughtfully designed 2234 sqft layout with 4 bedrooms, a guest retreat, 3 full bathrooms and 2.5 car garage. The home radiates elegance with finishes from the Oxford Collection, showcasing 6 x 36 Vicinity Natural plank tile floors in the main living areas, plush carpeting in the bedrooms, and stylish 42'''' Fairview Sarsaparilla shaker cabinets adorned with sophisticated Champagne Bronze hardware. The kitchen is truly a showstopper, featuring Della Terra Quartz countertops in Carrara Breeze and a 3 x 12 Matte White brick-pattern tile backsplash, creating a seamless blend of luxury and functionality. Additional highlights include a paver driveway and entry walkway, two-tone paint, and 8' doors throughout, adding to its refined appeal. The spacious Greatroom is accented by a 4-panel sliding glass door that seamlessly transitions to the covered patio and backyard, making it perfect for embracing indoor-outdoor living. This home is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances, including a gas range, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, white washer and dryer, blinds, soft water loop, and a garage door openermaking it truly move-in ready. This Sunflower plan combines thoughtful design with elegant details, creating an inviting and meticulously finished space that's ready to welcome you home. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this gem firsthand.

20257 W Catalina Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$594,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,510 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783696
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
QUICK MOVE-IN HOME! MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! SPECIAL FINANCING WITH BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES AVAILABLE! MOVE-IN PACKAGES AVAILABLE! PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT THESE SPECIALS ON THIS QUICK MOVE-IN HOME AND OTHERS. ACT SOON BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE! It's the beautiful Jade floor plan with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. Multi slide door that leads out to the covered patio. Large walk in shower at owner's bath with tile surrounds. Kitchen features include a stainless steel gas appliance package with a 30'' cooktop, wall oven, canopy hood. Barnett Boulder cabinets. AZT Hana Sky Quartz countertops on the expanded kitchen island. Stainless steel undermount single bowl sink. Upgrade flooring includes DT Valance Gray 6x24 plank tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms and closets. Gas stub for future BBQ, soft water loop, 8' tall garage door with two remotes. Garage service door for easy access into the backyard and so much more.

2173 N Iowa Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$594,990
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,881 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774238
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! 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.

2627 N 30th Place Phoenix, AZ 85008

$594,900
2 Beds
1 Bath
800 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6688674
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
ATTENTION INVESTORS AND BUILDERS. Small rental home on this amazing RARE LARGE parcel size of 17,000sf!! Zoning is R1-6, so each lot (without a variance) needs a minimum of 6,000sf per lot, but many lots in the area are less than 6,000sf. No variance needed if you split the site into two lots and you could build one home on the South lot and keep the small home on the North lot as rental income ($1,500/mo) until you are ready to tear it down and build a new home. Phoenix zoning now allows ADUs (Additional Dwelling Units). Many new homes are being built in the immediate area and this is a RARE parcel size!! See photos with potential development ideas. Check with city to verify all info. Please don't disturb the tenants by walking the lot without permission from agent. THANK YOU!

769 W Citrus Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$594,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,979 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738698
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This fabulous residence nestled in the Fox Crossing Community is the one you've been looking for! Make yourself at home in the inviting interior showcasing a designer color palette, neutral tile flooring, and soft carpet in all the right places. The well-appointed kitchen boasts wood cabinetry adorned with crown moulding, sleek granite counters, matching built-in appliances, pendant lighting, a stylish mosaic backsplash, and a center island equipped with a breakfast bar. The serene main bedroom features private outdoor access, an immaculate ensuite with dual sinks, separate tub/shower, and a walk-in closet. Spend relaxing afternoons along with your loved ones in the charming backyard, offering a covered patio and an easy-care landscape! Don't let this home slip by!

15 W Palmcroft Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$594,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,608 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767877
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully updated mid century gem with all the historic charm intact in the heart of downtown Tempe! Impeccably maintained with updates galore featuring 3 bed/2 baths, large professionally landscaped lot, award winning schools, walking distance to ASU, downtown Tempe and Gammage. Updates include: new roof, new Trane a/c, plantation shutters, professionally landscaped backyard including irrigation system, block wall/fence, gate, extended covered patio & large storage shed, new windows, interior and exterior doors, remodeled kitchen, stainless appliances, remodeled bathrooms, interior and exterior paint & newer water heater. Date Palm Manor is a historic designated neighborhood which reduces owner property taxes by half.

9919 E Radioactive Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$594,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,115 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6655238
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Major Price Reduction! Better than New! 3 Bed + Den, 3 Baths, 3 Car Tandem Garage. Very spacious floorplan. Wood Plank Like Tile Flooring w/Upgraded Carpeting. Across the street from a park. Features Include: Butler Pantry, Large Kitchen Pantry, Gas Cook Top, Granite Countertops throughout w/ Island &Breakfast Bar, White Cabinets with Pull Handles, Wood Shutters, Soft close drawers & cabinets, Gas Stub for BBQ, Walk-In Master Shower, Extra Insulation to Garage, Built in Classy Closets in Garage w/overhead cabinets, Epoxy Garage Floor, Backyard Fully Landscaped w Brick Pavers and Artificial Turf, Water plumbed to backyard to add irrigation for garden boxes, Pavers at Front making driveway wider, Overhead cabinets in Laundry. 5 minute freeway access. Eastmark Community offers: Heated Pool, Splash pad, Dog parks, Many Parks, Tennis courts, Fishing Pond, Ball fields, Frisbee golf course and Rec Center. There are many recreational spots close by including a regional sports park just south of this home on Ellsworth and Pecan Lake Entertainment which offers many various attractions and restaurants.

122 W Foothill Street Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$594,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,645 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771553
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 1645 SQ. FT. slump block constructed home has been remodeled and refinished with all new and updated finishes. New roof & fascia boards, new exterior stucco & paint, new ac unit & hot water heater, all new dual pane windows, all new lighting inside & out, all new interior doors & baseboards, the kitchen has new white shaker style cabinets w/soft close drawers, new beautiful quartz countertops, new SS dishwasher & refrigerator, new barn style doors on walk-in pantry & laundry room. All interior floors are plank style tile. Both bathrooms have been remodeled and updated with the right touches. This open floor plan flows gracefully together and creates a wonderful place to entertain family & friends in. The property is 1.25 acres and is completely ..... fenced in with all new gas pipe fencing which also includes a large RV gate. No HOA to contend with here. Large enclosed chicken coop to convey and you can even have the chickens & the ducks. All new granite minus has been installed. The full length covered patio faces north and provides wonderful mountain scenery to soak up and enjoy. Cargo container located on property can be purchased on a separate bill of sale out side the COE and offers a great space for storing side by sides or what ever you might have. The land is very flat & buildable for any future additional buildouts that one might need and the owner has plans available and they are uploaded into the document section. The new plans are for an addition to make this a 4 bedroom & 3 bathroom home. Apache Junction is a hidden gem amongst our growing city population. Come see the beauty that surrounds this property from the Superstition Mountains up to the Tonto National Forrest. You won't be disappointed. Also, roof still has a 9 year warranty. 4 ton ac unit with a 16 seer rating. This area is known for it's equestrian areas and low key life style.

2451 E Glencove Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$594,900
6 Beds
3 Baths
2,950 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778523
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the charm of this 6-bedroom, 3-bath property, NO HOA, now for sale! You'll love the sizable living areas featuring tall ceilings, neutral paint tones, and hardwood flooring, creating an inviting atmosphere for hosting and entertaining. The kitchen is the heart of the home, equipped with generous counter space, a mosaic tile backsplash, rich wood cabinetry, recessed lighting, and a breakfast bar. Retreat to the main suite, boasting two ceiling fans, a sitting area, an ensuite, and a walk-in closet. Venture upstairs to find more sizable bedrooms! Experience the ultimate outdoor lifestyle with weekend BBQs, refreshing swims in the crystal-clear pool, and endless opportunities for relaxation and fun. What are you waiting for? Make this gem yours today!

2613 E Dragoon Avenue Mesa, AZ 85204

$594,500
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,598 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6714910
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NO HOA! A LARGE BEAUTIFUL 2598 SQ.FT. 2 STORY, TRI-LEVEL 5 BEDROOM, 3 BATH HOME IN A QUIET STREET AND NEIGHBORHOOD SURROUNDED BY LARGE CUSTOM HOMES. THIS HOME IS ONE OUT OF ONLY 9-10 SIMILAR 2 STORY, TRI-LEVEL HOMES IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD. Home is currently owner-occupied. HOME IS BEING SOLD AS-IS IN ITS CURRENT CONDITION - The Seller will provide a two-year Premium Home Warranty Plan.

12800 N 172nd Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$594,325
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,159 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756193
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
QUICK MOVE-IN!!!!! SELLER IS OFFERING INTEREST RATE AND CLOSING COST ASSISTANCE! This beautiful new home is a must see. 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, loft and a 3-car tandem garage. 1st floor Owner's Suite! Beautiful, tiled floors on 1st floor including the Great Room, upgraded carpet upstairs and in bedrooms, The home has a large open kitchen and great room. Beautiful gray Cabinets, Quartz countertops, Stainless steel appliances and a large kitchen island. Secondary bedrooms are good size, and some have walk in closets, they are all surrounded by a spacious loft. The home is on a large lot that gives you many entertaining opportunities and has no backyard neighbors. THIS HOME IS COMPLETED!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.