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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813 W Diamond Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$589,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,915 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6692907
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the joy of owning this fully remodeled, charming 3-bedroom home with new windows, RV gate/parking, and no HOA. Step inside to discover vaulted ceilings and tile floors that enhance the spacious living room, designed for memorable gatherings. The family room invites relaxation, creating an ideal setting for bonding. Dine in the cozy breakfast nook or in elegance in the formal dining area. Kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, tile backsplash, solid wood maple cabinets, quartz counters, breakfast bar, and pantry. Main bedroom offers backyard access, a dual-sink vanity, and a walk-in closet. Convenience continues with a sizeable laundry room with storage and a two-car garage that includes attached cabinets. Outdoors, the backyard features a covered patio with ample space for a pool or various entertainment activities.

3149 W Golden Lane Chandler, AZ 85226

$589,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,231 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740031
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers modern amenities and spacious living. The primary bedroom is conveniently located on the main floor, providing ease and privacy. The kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a large island, stainless steel appliances, including a microwave, range, and dishwasher, and seamlessly opens up to a generous living space, perfect for entertaining. The fully finished basement expands the living area with a large bonus room, an additional kitchen with refrigerator, and three more bedrooms, making it ideal for guests, extended family, or potential rental income. Washer/dryer combo units for main level and basement. This home combines comfort, functionality, and style in every detail.

11667 W Luxton Lane Avondale, AZ 85323

$589,900
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,937 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741312
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Explore Alamar! A community where neighbors become friends & friends become family! Downstairs you will find 2 primary bdrms w/walk in closets & private baths. Main primary has generous custom closet space. Flex room w/built in desks for everything from homework to zoom meetings! Chef's kitchen features built in gas oven, 36'' cooktop & generous center island. The view through the 16' glass doors brings you a yard w/entertaining in mind. 2 gas stubs to add a BBQ & fire feature. Solar has offered savings on the electricity. Alamar features well thought out parks for grilling & playing-4 around this home alone. Enjoy the community pool & BBQ ramada at Haymoon Park. Head to Alamar park for pickleball, fishing, outdoor exercise area, splash pad & 2 dog parks. Come live in ALAMAR!

3724 E Vest Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85295

$589,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,512 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748533
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The search is over! Welcome to this stunning residence featuring charming brick accents, PREMIUM lot, low-maintenance artificial turf, & a convenient rear-entry 3-car garage. New interior paint and brand new carpet in the bedrooms! The great room offers high ceilings, a soothing palette, and stylish wood-look planks. The gourmet kitchen comes with granite counters, ample white cabinetry with crown moulding, SS appliances, and an island with a breakfast bar for casual dining. The cozy loft provides a versatile space for relaxation or entertainment. The main bedroom includes plush carpeting, balcony access for a breath of fresh air, a walk-in closet, and an ensuite with dual sinks. Outside, the paver patio invites you to unwind or host memorable outdoor gatherings. This gem will sell fast!

20830 N 98th Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$589,900
4 Beds
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1,828 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755466
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --

12826 N 29th Street Phoenix, AZ 85032

$589,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,545 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6715302
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to a meticulously renovated sprawling ranch home where no detail has been overlooked. This home has undergone a comprehensive transformation! Upon entry, you're greeted by new waterproof flooring that extends throughout. Natural light floods the interior through newly installed energy efficient dual pane windows. New custom windows & coverings combined style w/ functionality. The fully remodeled kitchen, featuring new custom Thomasville shaker cabinets, Quartz countertops & designer backsplash. Equipped w/ top-of-the-line LG appliances including a fridge, stove, dishwasher, & in-drawer microwave. The primary bath has been completely reimagined to offer a luxurious retreat, while an additional bath off the hallway is also fully renovated. Private pool just in time for summer!

4941 Saddle Blanket Circle Happy Jack, AZ 86024

$589,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,531 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6682510
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Are you ready to escape the heat and bring your horses with? This is the home for you. Almost an acre and a half with great corrals, tack shed ,horse wash area, and so much more. This beautiful log sided cabin/home is decorated for the horse lover and comes completely furnished. It has been taken care of and is filled with love , perfect for a permanent home or weekend or summer home. Get your horses out of the heat, take them for some amazing forest rides with our great riding group up here. This is a must see ''mini ranch''. 3 bedroom/2bath cozy but with enough room for your guests. Come see it now. Sit in your front yard and watch the elk graze on the beautiful grass or sit in the back barbuque area and watch as your horses play.in the 60 x 120' ft corrals. Must see in person.

4120 E Donato Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$589,900 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Trilogy, Gilbert
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$589,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,114 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774491
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
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2545 E Vista Bonita Drive Phoenix, AZ 85024

$589,900 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Crescent Butte 2, Phoenix
Open House
$589,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,094 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768128
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home in the highly sought-after Crescent Butte neighborhood (perfect for an AIRBNB or personal residence). As you approach, you'll be greeted by a charming exterior with stunning curb appeal, setting the tone for what lies inside. Step through the front door and into a light-filled space, featuring large arched windows that flood the home with natural light. The newly remodeled kitchen is a showstopper, complete with crisp white shaker cabinets, elegant quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and under-cabinet lighting. Luxury vinyl plank flooring flows throughout, offering both style and durability. The spacious primary suite offers a peaceful retreat, boasting a spa-like bathroom with modern finishes and a large walk-in closet. The additional three bedrooms provide ample space, perfect for a growing family or those who need a home office or guest room. The backyard is a true oasis, with lush green grass that's perfect for relaxing evenings or entertaining friends and family. With a newer HVAC system (2021), this home is move-in ready, ensuring your comfort year-round. Located in the heart of Crescent Butte, you'll enjoy the best of both worlds: a serene neighborhood with easy access to local amenities, parks, and schools. Don't miss the opportunity to make this stunning home yours!

25139 N 171st Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$589,868
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,185 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762097
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6762097 January Completion! This flexible Victory floor plan offers an open-concept living area where the kitchen seamlessly flows into the great room, with a separate dining area nearby. The primary suite, conveniently located on the first floor, features a generous walk-in closet and a beautifully designed bath. Also on the main level are a full bathroom, an additional half bath, and a versatile flex space to suit your needs. Upstairs, you'll discover secondary bedrooms, a full bathroom, ample storage space, and a loft for added living or entertaining space. Structural options added include; Gourmet kitchen, paver front porch and walkway, bedroom 5 with bath 4, and garage service door.

15935 W Montana De Oro Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$589,595
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,165 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764951
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
READY FOR IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY!! Brand New Home! This 4br, 3ba., 3 car garage home has all the designer touches. Truly move in ready. Features include, 2'' blinds on all the windows, SS appliances,, upgraded kitchen cabinets, deco tile back splash, Plank floor tile, fans in all the rooms, 16' atrium doors, front yard landscaping plus so many more exciting included features - 10' ceilings, 8' doors, granite tops in the kitchen, gourmet kitchen, garage service door, tank less water heater, and so much more.

14676 W Windrose Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$589,500
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,272 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6757135
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully appointed home in the highly desired Marley Park! This home has a upgraded flooring in the main living areas, den/secondary living room upon entry. Open concept family, dining, and kitchen. Kitchen features upgraded granite counters, cabinetry, tiled backsplash, and appliances. Primary bedroom features large closet and en-suite bath with granite counters, dual sinks, separate tub and shower. Resort-style backyard features sparkling pool with Baja shelf, gas firepit, build in bar perfect for relaxing or gathering. Convenient location, close to highly rated schools, parks, shopping, and restaurants!

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