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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14108 W Lisbon Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$559,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,675 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6742027
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this HUGE beautifully remodeled 5 bed 3 bath gem nestled in the heart of Surprise. As you pull up, you'll notice a 3 car garage with extra parking in front of a RV gate that has a gigantic concrete pad that extends to the back of the property. There, you'll find a HUGE covered patio, tastefully designed low maintenance yard and a gas stub for your future BBQ. As you step inside you'll be greeted by a great room that seamlessly connects to a beautifully updated kitchen, huge family room with surround sound and a bathroom and bedroom that would be perfect for a mother-in-law setup or office. Upstairs, you'll find an oversized loft perfect for family or game nights, HUGE master bedroom with a HUGE walk in closet, 3 other bedrooms with walk in closets and a bathroom Recent updates include new interior and exterior paint, new flooring, new quartz countertops, new baseboards, tile backsplash in the kitchen, ceiling fans, fixtures, etc.. With all the space and parking, this home would make a great multi-generation setup or a perfect Family forever home. Come take a look before it's gone!

19930 N Hidden Ridge Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,282 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6764033
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful Split 3 BR Stonecrest On Quiet Cul de Sac. w/No Neighbors Behind, SELLING TURNKEY PREFERRED. Courtyard Entry w/Pavers & Beveled Glass Door. Concrete Texture On Drive, Walks, & Patio. Vaulted Ceilings In Living/Dining. Windows Replaced w/Anderson Windows. Fans & Beautiful Light Fixtures. New Trane HVAC 2023. Whole House Water Filtration System. Kitch.w/Newer Appl.,Cherry Cabs. w/Pull-Outs, Granite, Instant Hot, Backsplash, & Cab.Lighting. Updated Guest Bath. Both Baths w/Toto Toilets. Large Cov,d. Patio ++Pagoda & Awesome Waterfall. Fencing On 3 Sides. Garage w/Attached Cabs.,Workbench, Sink & Textured Floor. Vacation Mailbox. This Home Is Quality & One Of The Best,''FOR SALE'', In ''THE GRAND.'' Leased Solar. 4 Golf Courses, Plus Amenities Galore! Come Join The Fun & Lifestyle.

8884 E Arizona Park Place Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$559,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Arizona Park Place, Scottsdale
Open House
New
$559,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,446 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785528
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Charming and Well-Kept 2-Bedroom + Den in a Prime Location! Welcome to 8884 E Arizona Park Pl, a delightful home full of potential! This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence, complete with a versatile den, offers 1,446 sq ft of comfortable living space. Thoughtfully designed, the home features a welcoming layout that is both functional and inviting. The well-kept kitchen and living areas are ideal for entertaining or everyday living, while the primary suite provides a peaceful retreat with a private bath. The backyard is low-maintenance and ready for your personal touch—perfect for enjoying Arizona evenings. Located in a desirable neighborhood close to Scottsdale Quarter, TPC etc... this charming property is ready to welcome its next owner.

6560 N Loma Court Casa Grande, AZ 85194

$559,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Chaparral Estates Unit 2, Casa Grande
Open House
$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,032 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785782
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful brand new 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Chaparral Estates! 2,032 sq. ft. on approximately half an acre, this property includes a spacious 3-car garage and is set in a quiet cul-de-sac with stunning mountain views. Kitchen: Quartz countertops, large entertainment island, white cabinetry with nickel hardware, and stainless steel appliances. Tile plank flooring runs thru high traffic areas & carpeted bedrooms. Primary Suite: Features a ceiling fan, double vanity, and a relaxing garden tub. Hall Bath: Includes double sinks for added convenience. Exterior painted with stylish gray tones with an all-tile roof for durability. A low HOA allows flexibility for storing boats, RVs & Toys, ready for immediate occupancy.

2663 W Kilarea Avenue Mesa, AZ 85202

$559,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Saratoga Lakes, Mesa
Open House
$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,638 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764485
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to PRIME Dobson Ranch living! Nestled in one of Mesa's most desirable master-planned communities, this charming home offers the perfect balance of comfort and convenience. Step inside to be greeted by an open, sun-drenched layout, where natural light pours through every corner. The updated kitchen is a chef's oasis, featuring sleek white quartz countertops, stylish herringbone subway tile backsplash, modern cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Newer wood floors flow throughout the home, providing a warm and inviting touch to go along with the newly painted to perfection interior walls and split master bedroom design. Relax in your private courtyard or take advantage of the oversized driveway and 2-car garage. The backyard is an entertainer's paradise with a sparkling diving pool, freshly refinished pool deck and a shaded pergola ideal for Arizona evenings. Dobson Ranch amenities include community pools, parks, pickleball courts, and so much more. With easy access to Hwy 101, Hwy 60, and just minutes from ASU, Tempe Town Lake, South Scottsdale, and the thriving Chandler tech corridor, you're never far from the best of the East Valley. This home is a rare find! Don't miss this opportunity - Come see your new home today!

4702 E Laredo Lane Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$559,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Dove Valley Ranch Parcel H, Cave Creek
Open House
$559,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,456 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765456
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous home with a LARGE PRIVATE BACKYARD with MOUNTAIN VIEWS! Single Story 2 bedroom and OVERSIZED OFFICE/DEN. PERFECT FOR WORKING FROM HOME!! ***Space can be converted into a 3 bedroom plus a den*** Granite countertops and stainless steel appliances in kitchen. Travertine flooring in kitchen, dining, living and den areas. Bedrooms are carpeted. Plantation shutters throughout the home. Tranquil back yard with flagstone, built in BBQ, fire pit, waterfall and above ground spa, view fencing. Surround sound in great room/dining area and den. COME SEE IT BEFORE IT'S GONE!

14823 W El Cortez Place Surprise, AZ 85387

$558,961
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,594 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747471
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Oxford plan with expected completion in November. Have toys? This home has a 4-car tandem garage. Professionally designed with quartz countertops, wood-look tile, light gray cabinets, etc. Located in beautiful Miravida surrounded by mountains and many neighborhood amenities like playgrounds, pickleball courts, and picnic areas.

14189 W Sand Hills Road Surprise, AZ 85387

$558,688
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,226 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758381
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6758381 January Completion! The 50RM1 floorplan at Rancho Mercado combines functionality with elegance. Step into the foyer and discover an inviting open-concept design that effortlessly connects a spacious gathering room, dining area, and gourmet kitchen. The outdoor living area is perfect for al fresco dining and memorable family moments. The owner's suite, thoughtfully tucked away for privacy, features double vanities and a large walk-in closet, adding a touch of sophistication to this stunning home. Structural options include: alternate A/C Location.

4008 E Cholla Canyon Drive Phoenix, AZ 85044

$558,500
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,098 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732455
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION! RIGHT OFF THE I10 AND LOOP 202, .THIS GORGEOUS HOUSE IS FULLY UPGRADED INCLUDING NEW PAINT, NEW CARPET AND TILE, NEW BLINDS, NEW CEILING FANS, NEW MIRRORS IN THE BATHROOM AND LIGHT FIXTURES, NEW BATH AND KITCHEN FAUCETS, NEW HARDWARE, NEW TOILETS, NEW APPLIANCES EXCEPT THE REFRIGERATOR WHICH IS ONE YEAR OLD, NEW A/C, NEW ROOF, ALL NEW LANDSCAPING WITH NEW IRRIGATION, NEW GARAGE DOOR AND THE LIST GOES ON!

1401 E Osborn Road Phoenix, AZ 85014

$558,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,921 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6667358
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 1947 home in Ashby place neighborhood is in the heart of Phoenix just north of Cheery Lynn Historic District. Nicely updated with brand new dual pane energy efficient windows throughout entire house, fresh interior and exterior paint, new shower tile, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances in kitchen, new roof in 2022. Detached carport, shop/storage. Solar lease. Close to Phoenix Country Club, Phoenix Children's Hospital, quaint eateries, freeways 51 and 10 freeways. You don't want to miss out on this lovely home.

2527 W Brookhart Way Phoenix, AZ 85085

$558,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,446 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6736947
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Wake up to beautiful mountain views from the primary suite of your new home, where convenience meets natural beauty! There are 3 spacious bedrooms upstairs and an office conveniently located downstairs—perfect for work-from-home days or a hobby space. Don't forget the fantastic pool out back complete with a calming water feature. There's easy access to the AZ Canal Trail System, Deem Hills Rec Area, and the Sonoran Nature Preserve. On the filp-side you're close to shopping and entertainment with the Norterra Entertainment District just two miles away. Dive in, relax, and enjoy the sunny side of life in this wonderful home!

16412 W Avenida Del Sol -- Surprise, AZ 85387

$557,995
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,260 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6686256
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
3 Bed 2.5 bath Elevation C Approximately 2,260 SQ FT. Gourmet kitchen with 42'' white upper Cabinets with 2-1/2'' molding and Quartz counter tops Gas cook top Range. Master bath Walk-in Shower, 3 Car Garage and garage Service door, 10Ft Tray Ceiling at extended entry. Has Tile Wood Laminate through out and Carpet in Bedrooms.

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