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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41 Biltmore Estate Phoenix, AZ 85016

$8,700,000
9 Beds
13 Baths
17,819 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6666273
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
One of the most impressive mansions in Arizona, this grand estate sits on a stunning acre golf course lot at the iconic Arizona Biltmore Resort with spectacular views of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak. Capturing the essence of a resort that has entertained presidents, dignitaries and Hollywood's elite, the home was designed in an architectural style reminiscent of old-world opulence. Exquisite detail representing only the finest craftsmanship and materials fills its voluminous 17,000+ sq ft of living space. Experience illustrious beauty at every turn. Meander through halls and rooms crafted with intricate tile patterns, hand-carved wood wainscoting, dramatic tray ceilings, wood beams and terracotta tile floors. Well-placed sconces and chandeliers create a warmly elegant ambience

Cave Creek AZ 85331

$8,500,000
7 Beds
7.5 Baths
3,304 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6722968
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
One of a kind property with potential to create a Retreat on 318 acres in the mountains! A unique opportunity for those with a vision to restore and revitalize. While the Home is currently in need of renovation, it offers immense potential for transformation. Don't miss the chance to unlock the charm of this property. Convenient location near the charming small towns of Cave Creek & Carefree. Once a cherished winter Home with a unique Hacienda design, the Great room, Kitchen, & each of 6 Suites open directly into a central courtyard, providing privacy for all. Embrace the potential to transform into a therapeutic Retreat focused on Healing, Wellness, or Lifestyle. This secluded location offers privacy & a tranquil, inspiring environment. As-Is sale, no repairs made by the Seller.

9316 E Aw Tillinghast Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$8,500,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
5,700 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6583092
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NOW STAKED & FLAGGED! An incredible 5 acre homesite opportunity to build a 5,700 SF residence with 3 beds, 3 baths & elevated to capture breathtaking views. You may further reimagine this home to perfection; customize it for your lifestyle. This is a very private location with views overlooking golf courses, serene mountain ranges, & stunning Desert Mountain lights that bring enchanting beauty to the environment both day & night. The Ranch & Trails provide hiking & a preserve that borders the 3 million acre Tonto National Forest. Convenient, DUAL access is available through Carefree Ranch, cutting access time in half. For an exclusive 10 acre homesite, see MLS 6583078, the adjacent 5 acre lot to the East. A membership is not included with this offering. Contact Desert Mountain Membership

10134 E Cavedale Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$8,500,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,864 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761870
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Remarkable views from every room of this architecturally stunning new home, but also total privacy. Electric Walls of Glass surround the Great Room to soak in the views and feel the desert breezes. Main house has 3 ensuite bedrooms + an office & wine room. Home is oriented toward mtn peaks & rock formations. Hickory floors & ceilings; Ebony, Bolivian Rosewood, & Walnut cabinets; and custom Walnut doors thru-out. The casita has 2 separate units (a guest suite and a large ensuite flex-bedroom). Everything is a single level. Electric sun shades thru-out the house and blackout shades in main bedrooms. Spacious 4 car garage. Built with exquisite quality by builder who has won numerous awards including National Home of the Year for a prior home, also in Estancia. Taliesin trained architects.

4723 E Desert Park Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$8,499,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
7,351 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728915
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on just under an acre of meticulously landscaped grounds, this luxurious single-level home completed in late 2023, boasts five suites and five and a half bathrooms. The gourmet chef's kitchen is equipped with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, two Cove dishwashers, quartz countertops, and seamlessly integrates to the spacious great room with glass doors that can be pulled back for a seamless indoor outdoor living flow. Throughout the home, European Oak flooring and premier finishes create an atmosphere of elegance. The primary suite is a true retreat within the home, located in its own private wing. The primary bathroom offers separate his and hers areas with two vanities, two walk-in closets, and two private toilet rooms, one with a bidet, ensuring utmost comfort and privacy... On the other end of this private wing is an expansive office, keeping work and rest in perfect proximity. Step outside to discover a breathtaking backyard oasis complete with a pool, spa, BBQ area, fire pit, fireplace, mini-golf course, and thoughtful amenities like built-in misters and heatersall framed by stunning mountain views. Nestled in an exclusive neighborhood with top-rated schools and convenient access to upscale dining and shopping, this residence offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and tranquility.

22803 N Via Ventosa Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$8,375,000
5 Beds
7 Baths
6,800 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6681467
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
CP Drewett of Drewett Works Architecture inside Canyon Heights. North Scottsdale's most prestigious gated, hillside, view community; sides to Silverleaf without Silverleaf architectural guidelines and density. This is the last available hillside lot within the enclave. With nearly 10 acres of panoramic sunset and city light views, this elevated lot offers a rare opportunity to build your dream home. The entrance to the parcel is flat, providing acreage for endless options. A gradual slope ensues, rendering incredible Westward facing views. Sweeping views of Lost Canyon to the South. An elevated view lot of this caliber is a rare find and deserves a first in class Builder behind it; we welcome you to set up a walkthrough with Jeff at True North Builders or CP at Drewett Works.

29211 N 53rd Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$8,250,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
8,700 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6609693
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
INCOME PRODUCING PROPERTY! Equestrian Estate has 25+ acres, city water, paved roads, & one of the most desirable locations for horse Training, Boarding or Breeding Facility in the Valley. This Equestrian Estate offers three well-appointed homes, perfect for multi-generational living or rental income potential. The main home, a luxurious retreat, features a sparkling pool, outdoor living space, creating an oasis of relaxation & entertainment. The property also boasts 4 spacious barns, mare motel, 2 covered arenas, outdoor arena & bridle path. Additional equestrian amenities include a round pen, multiple turnouts, hay barn, tractor storage, mister system, multiple tack rooms, ensuring top-notch facilities for your horses. There are 2 manufactured homes, the possibilities are endless.

20908 W Durango Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

$8,000,000
8 Beds
8 Baths
5,512 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6688287
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
One of a kind commercial vet clinic/breeding facility including two residential homes and 30 acres of prime land in one of the fastest growing cities in the country. The subject property presents an exceptional opportunity for multiple uses. Its location creates an optimal environment for multi family, commercial and many other uses just minutes from ''The Landing'' near I-10 and Verrado Way. This area is primed to be the West Valley's newest entertainment, employment and residential hub of Buckeye. Don't miss this golden opportunity to become one of Buckeye's prime destination spots. Two beautiful 4 bedroom 3 bath slump block identical homes, huge barn with apartment, detached garage, multiple pastures, flood irrigation and 60 covered stalls with turnouts. Opportunity of a life time!!!

33094 N Northstar Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$8,000,000
5 Beds
6.5 Baths
7,460 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773912
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Presenting a stunning new build in Whisper Rock Estates with approved plans , this high-quality contemporary residence boasts 7,460 sqft of luxurious single-story living. A thoughtfully designed floor plan includes 4 bedrooms, a dedicated exercise room, & a versatile flex room, centered around an expansive kitchen & great room. The attached casita adds an extra layer of comfort & privacy. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views of the resort-style backyard, complete with a pool, spa, & water features. The surrounding natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert, Winfield Mountain, & distant Chiricahua Mountain vistas create a serene backdrop. Perfect for entertaining, the home features a wet bar with retractable glass walls, a spacious covered patio with a fireplace, & an outdoor more kitchen with a built-in BBQ, blending indoor and outdoor living effortlessly.The primary suite is a private retreat, featuring a tranquil, spa-like bathroom with custom Copenhagen cabinetry, limestone countertops, a marble shower, dual water closets, and a freestanding soaking tub. Guests can enjoy their own 903 sq ft 1-bedroom guest house, complete with a kitchen and living room, offering ultimate privacy and comfort. Premium finishes are showcased throughout, including a Wolf and SubZero appliance package. The 5-car garage and ample parking provide the perfect space for a luxury car collection. This home exemplifies contemporary elegance, surrounded by the beauty of the desert landscape. This property is ready to break ground with builder.

7646 E Hidden Canyon Street Mesa, AZ 85207

$7,999,950
5 Beds
7 Baths
9,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760394
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exceptional Modernterranean Estate at framing stage by Micela Builders. Like no other, the pad offers unparalleled privacy within the exclusive gated community of Hidden Canyon at Las Sendas. Backing onto the Tonto Forest, this single-level home features walls of glass for seamless indoor-outdoor living experience and boasts exquisite marble accents, a two-way fireplace, and en suite bedrooms. The resort-style backyard offers a negative-edge pool, spa, and rooftop deck with stunning mountain views. Its 1,600 sf air-conditioned garage accommodates 6-8 car parking. The home embodies meticulous craftsmanship and architectural brilliance.

6619 E Stallion Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$7,995,000
4 Beds
8.5 Baths
8,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6656548
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing luxury estate blended in at the base of Mummy Mountain and a rare find in the heart of Paradise Valley. Imported materials include reclaimed cobblestone from Rome, Italian marble, handcrafted furniture style cabinetry and masterful craftsmanship throughout home. Expansive covered patio, barbecue kitchen area, synthetic grass, pool, spa and fireplace. Mature landscaping accents the Santa Barbara-Tuscan Architecture. Split floor plan with 4 en-suites, office including a fireplace. Master suite has separate water closets; one with a bidet. A soaking/jetted tub in the center of the bathroom and large pass-through shower with dual rainforest shower heads. Stunning home is a must see.Bring us an offer. Thank you.

4743 N 54th Street Phoenix, AZ 85018

$7,995,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
7,828 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762489
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your own paradise on the south side of Camelback Mountain. This Spanish-style gem boasts captivating design, cityscape vistas, and architectural elegance. Be enchanted by the warmth and spaciousness of this home. High ceilings and abundant natural light welcome you into an open layout. With its gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, and wet bar, this home is a perfect setting for entertainers. Each bedroom provides an en-suite bathroom. The owner's suite, a wing of its own, features a spacious closet, a marble-filled bathroom, a private office, and a balcony with stunning views. Step outside to your private oasis, complete with a pristine pool, an outdoor kitchen, and ample relaxation space. A guest house accommodates visitors or extended family.

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