What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 2, 2017

Last week’s economic reports were in short supply due to the Christmas holiday. Events reported included Case-Shiller home price indices, pending home sales and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. Consumer confidence was also released.

CaseShiller Readings Indicate No Slowdown in Home Price Gains

Case-Shiller’s October readings for its home price indices showed continued growth in home prices. In spite of rising home prices and mortgage rates, high demand for homes and slim supplies of homes for sale continued to fuel higher home prices.

According to Case-Shiller’s national home price index for October, home prices rose 5.60 percent on an annual basis as compared to September’s reading of 5.40 percent. The 20-city home price index rose to 5.10 percent from September’s reading of 5.00 percent. Case-Shiller’s 10-city index also gained 0.10 percent in October with a reading of 4.30 percent year-over-year.

Seattle, Washington, Portland, Oregon and Denver, Colorado had the highest year-over-year home price gains in October with readings of 10.70, 10.30 and 8.30 percent respectively. David M. Blitzer, Managing Director and Chairman of the S&P Indices Committee, said that “Home prices and the economy are both enjoying robust numbers,” but he also cautioned that rising mortgage rates and home prices growing faster than wages continue to pose obstacles for some home buyers. The Federal Reserve is expected to raise its federal funds rate in 2017, which is expected to prompt rising mortgage rates.

Mortgage Rates Mixed, Pending Home Sales Fall

Pending home sales fell 2.50 percent in November. Analysts said that post-election reaction helped to drive mortgage rates higher, which made homes less affordable for first-time and moderate-income buyers; Sellers and buyers may have postponed decisions to sell or buy as they waited for volatile post-election responses to ease.

According to the National Association of Realtors®, pending home sales fell to their lowest level in almost a year with an index reading of 107.30 in November. September’s reading was 110.00. The holiday season and rising mortgage rates were seen as contributing to fewer pending home sales.

Freddie Mac reported the ninth consecutive week that fixed rate mortgages rose. In the final mortgage rates survey for 2016, the average rate for a 30-year mortgage rose two basis points to 4.32 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was three basis points higher at 3.55 percent. 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rates averaged 3.30 percent, which was two basis points lower than the prior week. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for all three mortgage types.

New jobless claims were lower last week with a reading of 265,000 new claims filed. Analysts had expected 270,000 new claims filed based on the prior week’s reading of 275,000 new claims filed.

In spite of rising home prices and mortgage rates, consumer sentiment was higher than expected in December with a reading of 113.70 as compared to expectations of 110.00 and November’s reading of 109.40.

Whats Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic reports include Labor Department releases on Non-Farm Payrolls, and the national unemployment rate. ADP payrolls and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will also be released. Financial markets are closed today in observance of New Year’s Day.

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5023 E Lucia Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,440,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
4,587 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764284
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautifully partly-renovated & extremely well maintained semi-custom executive / family home exudes quality craftsmanship at every turn. The impeccable craftsmanship and high-end finishes immediately catch your eye, showcased by the 20-foot ceilings in the living room & entryway. The first floor Wood & tile floors. The kitchen is a haven for culinary enthusiasts, equipped with a Wolf cook top, SS appliances , including a built in ice maker & beverage fridge, all centered around a sprawling island that comfortably seats six...... A butler pantry & additional full pantry adds convenience, accommodating all your small kitchen gadgets. Downstairs, you'll find a bedroom with a bath. A large laundry room awaits, complete with additional access to the yard. Ascending upstairs, you're greeted by a generous loft area, perfect for a home office, fitness room, or children's play area. The master suite indulges with an all stone bathroom, including double sinks, a walk in shower, and a soaking tub. Her & his master closet are adorned with exquisite built-ins to assist in staying organized. Bedroom 3 boasts an ensuite bathroom with a shower/tub combination, while bedrooms 4 and 5 share a bathroom featuring dual sinks and a tub/shower combo. All of this in a FANTASTIC floor plan! The outdoor space forms a lush oasis, featuring artificial turf, a putting green, an expansive travertine patio (both covered and non-covered), and pool deck housing a sparkling solar heated pool and a built in spa. In addition, you have a fire pit, built in bbq & outdoor mist system. In this truly exceptional home, you'll find it hard to ever want to depart from this serene haven. Mechanically you have 2 brand new HVAC systems, newer water heater, level 2 car charger and water softener. This home is better than a new build and completely move in ready! Plus NO HOA!

2813 N 168th Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$1,439,900
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,753 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731322
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Looking for a new place to call home this 2021 house with 3 beds & 3.5 baths is the one for you! Showcasing a delightful desert landscape, 3 car garage, & stone facade at the front. The sophisticated interior enjoys tile flooring, high tray ceilings, accent walls & a comfortable living room, ideal for receiving guests. The eat-in kitchen comes with recessed lighting, built-in appliances, white cabinets w/crown mouldings, mosaic tile backsplash, an island w/breakfast bar, walk-in pantry, & a dining area w/pendant lighting. Wonderful AZ room w/wood flooring, it includes a cozy niche ideal to be used as a reading nook. The sizable main retreat enjoys large picture windows, & an ensuite w/dual sinks, makeup desk, separate shower & tub, & a walk-in closet... The charming backyard has a paver patio & charming landscaping, the ideal place for relaxing during the evening. Do not miss the amazing amenities that the Pebble Creek Community has to offer: recreational room, Community pool, spa, workout facilities, and many sports courts await you. Don't wait to start your new life here!

8430 E Fairmount Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,439,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,451 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760913
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to a beautifully remodeled home with modern upgrades and an open-concept layout. The home features added square feet of permitted living space, enhancing its functionality. The Master Suite offers a spacious closet, dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a separate shower. Throughout, you'll find sleek 24x48 tile flooring, while the gourmet kitchen boasts a waterfall island, quartz countertops, new cabinetry, and appliances. The front door is equipped with smart glass that shifts from clear to frosted on demand, providing instant privacy and added security. Outside, enjoy a resurfaced Pebble Tec pool, new pump, pergola, built-in BBQ, and paver patio—perfect for entertaining. With upgraded electrical, new windows, and fresh paint throughout, this move-in-ready gem is waiting for you!

7739 E Cassia Circle Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,439,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,864 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761939
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare Opportunity to Own a Quintessential Home in The Boulders- The Sonoran Desert's Best Golf Community. Nestled on a tranquil cul-de-sac lot, with an Ideal location in the community. This home is a short walk to the Clubhouse, First Tee, Tennis & Pool Amenities. Most sought after floorplan with soaring ceilings & SOUTHERN Exposure. This impeccably remodeled home in The Boulders backs to NAOS and offers exceptional privacy, and breathtaking mountain views. Custom built-in BBQ, fireplace, view fencing creates a serene outdoor oasis. Step inside to enjoy the stunning recent upgrades ensuring turn key living: Every surface has been Fully remodeled, new interior & exterior paint, brand new energy efficient windows. Abundant natural light fills the spacious living room, and a fireplace & we for added enjoyment & the perfect setting for relaxation. Professionally designed desert landscaping, enhanced with outdoor lighting surrounds this stunning property. The chef's kitchen is a standout, granite countertops, marble backsplash, stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop, and double ovens, cozy fireplace, ideal for both everyday meals and entertaining. The luxurious primary suite offers a stunning, fully remodeled bathroom with dual vanities, custom cabinetry, dual entry gorgeous tiled shower, a luxury tub with tub filler, skylight, two walk-in closets. Secondary Ensuite Bath has been fully remodeled with gorgeous walk in, tiled shower with beautiful windows & natural light. Powder bath remodeled with custom cabinetryThis home truly captures the essence of desert living with elegance, comfort, and privacy. In addition to sitting on the best lot, you will enjoy the amazing lifestyle this home & community offers. This fully remodeled luxury property is located in the Desert Ridge area of The Boulders Resort Community (see map under Documents Tab). This luxurious neighborhood is located in the southeastern corner of this master-planned development. Residents of the Desert Ridge area of the Boulders Community, enjoy easy access to world-class spas, golf courses, tennis and pickle ball courts and shopping destinations in North Scottsdale, Carefree, and Cave Creek. The area's natural beauty, vibrant sunsets, and nearby hiking trails make it an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The Clubhouse is just a short walk from this home. Residents can enjoy dining at the Grill Restaurant at the Boulders Golf Clubhouse, and enjoy sweeping views of the 18th hole fairways. Championship golf, tennis, pickle ball, 33,000 sq. ft. luxurious spa, and exclusive services & social activities await in this dramatic setting situated on over 1,300 acres of Sonoran Desert foothills, with panoramic views of 12-million-year-old boulder formations. The Boulders Resort and Golden Door Spa, named one of America's Top Resorts, is a key feature of this stunning enclave nestled between Scottsdale and Carefree. The resort features two exceptional 18-hole golf coursesone designated for private member use and the other for guests. These courses are renowned for their impeccable maintenance and breathtaking desert landscapes, consistently earning spots on Top 100 lists nationwide. Golf memberships are available for purchase, and membership information can be found in the documents tab. *NAOS stands for Natural Area Open Space. It refers to areas of land that are legally designated to remain in their natural desert state, typically to preserve the natural environment, protect native vegetation, and ensure wildlife habitats remain undisturbed. In many Arizona communities, including Scottsdale and surrounding areas, NAOS is a requirement in residential developments to maintain the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert and limit the impact of construction on the environment. NAOS areas cannot be disturbed, built on, or landscaped, and they serve as a buffer between homes and surrounding natural features like washes, desert plants, and wildlife corridors. See DOCUMENTS TAB: Complete list: Features & Upgrades Floorplan Community Map Golf Membership Info. **GOLF MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE UPON APPROVAL.

6445 S Honor Court Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,435,500
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,700 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6700971
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the ultimate vacation vibe every day in this freshly painted resort-style TURN KEY home that feels like an exclusive getaway estate. This exquisite single level semi-custom 5 bedroom home is in the Seville Golf Club in Gilbert. The open floor plan offers a spacious great room with a custom Cantera stone fireplace, upscale kitchen w/ a huge island and a professional gas range. The secluded backyard centers around a beautiful heated saltwater pool & spa w/ swim up bar, and entertainment portico. Low-maintenance turf, mature landscaping, in-ground trampoline, fire pits & BBQ complete the serene setting. The primary suite & huge spa like bathroom include dual sinks/vanities, soaking tub & glass block shower. There is also a secondary suite PLUS 3 more bedrooms. This impeccably maintained property is TURN-KEY and ready for new owners. There is quick access/short-cut to the clubhouse for golf enthusiasts. All furnishings, decor, kitchenware, TVs, etc. are negotiable. Truly Amazing Property! For information on the country club lifestyle please visit Seville Golf & Country Club website.

1244 E Smokehouse Trail Phoenix, AZ 85085

$1,435,000
6 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,038 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725997
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Another Stunning new contemporary NEXTGEN Builders home to be built. Main house boasts a grand Iron & Glass dbl. door entry, split floorplan with 4 spacious bedrooms, den/office and 3.5 baths. Large kitchen island w/waterfall sides, quartz countertops, walk in pantry, and a SS appliance package. 16 ft. sliding door in Great rm & 12 ft. sliding door in D/R. All bedrooms have walk-in closets. 12' ceilings in great room and kitchen. 3-car garage w. svc. door. BONUS- A 2-Bedroom Pool House with Game Room that includes a full bath, plus a separate 1/2 bath with outside access. Paved Road with a block wall to be built along South side of road to be paved. Quality build with energy efficient Spray foam insulation, 2x6 framed exterior, fully sheathed, post tension slab foundation. Elevated lots

23323 S 199th Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$1,435,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,383 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774809
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in Circle G Ranch in Queen Creek. Situation on a spacious corner lot with a guest house that was completed in 2022. Horse friendly community with access to the bridal paths. Also located close to shopping centers, restaurants, and multiple schools options.

2069 E Cedar Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,435,000
5 Beds
6.5 Baths
4,957 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6701571
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BIG PRICE REDUCTION & MOTIVATED SELLER!! WRITE YOUR OFFERS. Prepare to be captivated by this stunning Tierra Linda residence, boasting curb appeal & a spacious 4-car garage. Inside, high ceilings, sleek tile, plush carpet, a fireplace, & arched doorways adorn the exquisite interior. The chef's kitchen is a dream, with SS appliances, quartz counters, a stylish backsplash, & an island. The main retreat features outdoor access, a lavish ensuite, & a walk-in closet. An impressive basement offers endless possibilities. Plus, there's a dedicated office room for remote work or study. Outside, enjoy a covered patio, built-in BBQ, fire-pit, sparkling pool, & spa. Unwind in the luxury of a steam bath and sauna! You'll find an impressive basement offering an open living area with endless possibilities! Fall in love with the remarkable backyard, including a covered patio, built-in BBQ, a cozy firepit, & a sparkling swimming pool with a spa! Don't let this rare gem pass you by!

36447 N Livorno Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,435,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,379 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6711491
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning Custom home located in the private gated community of Treviso. Scottsdale. Another Toll Brothers creation. Huge lot over an acre! This amazing home features 5 Bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. Huge open floor plan; featuring a family room, living room with fireplace, lots of windows letting in that wonderful natural sunlight. Large Primary bedroom with Ensuite. Exit off the Primary bedroom leading out to the resort-style Pool & Spa. The backyard space is an entertainer's delight. Plenty of room for all of your favorite patio furniture! 4 Private bedrooms on the other side of this wonderful home. Each has its own bathroom. So fantastic! The front bedroom is very large making room for a home gym or craft room. The large kitchen is great for entertaining family and friends. The huge kitchen island is great for all of that holiday baking. SS Appliances, double ovens, and tons of ample cabinetry. Many great restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centers, dog parks, hiking, and biking. On an entertaining note. Close to Cave Creek, check out the Bull Riding Events at The Buffalo Chip Saloon, Harold's. Great BBQ'S!!! Kierland Commons Restaurants & Bars:· Bar North · The Cheesecake Factory · The Greene House · Maestro's Ocean Club · The Mission · North Italia · P.F. Chang's · Snooze, an A.M. Eatery.

8449 E Sage Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,435,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,269 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781283
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SOLD FULLY FURNISHED. Dream Home. So Many Upgrades It's SURREAL. + Seller is Now Including a 2 Year Home Warranty. You Have an Entire PICKLEBALL Court, HEATED Pool, HUGE Backyard with Privacy. GE Cafe Appliances With Built In Ice Machine. New PEX Plumbing + Sewer Line REPLACEMENT. Entire Roof BRAND NEW with Warranty. All New Black Cap Windows, New SMOOTH Texture Drywall, New WATERPROOF Wood Based Flooring, EXTRA THICK Quartz Countertops, 3 LUXURY Bathrooms, New TRANE A/C & DUCTS. Expansive PAVERED Driveway with GLASS Garage Door and EV Charger. Synthetic Turf Throughout Home With Custom Side Gates. Glass Iron Entry Door. Home Will EASILY Generate over 200K on Airbnb or VRBO. You Can't Replicate This Property and YOUR Guests Will Pay Top DOLLAR. Or Live Here You Have To Stop By.

8281 E San Salvador Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,434,995
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,404 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743961
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the coveted McCormick Ranch community, renowned for its top-rated schools! This stunning 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom retreat has been meticulously remodeled to blend modern sophistication w/ classic charm. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by the bright and airy open layout, accentuated by soaring vaulted ceilings. The heart of the home is the sleek and stylish kitchen, boasting a generous quartzite waterfall island, soft-closing cabinets, stainless steel appliances. Perfect blend of form and function. Additional features include a convenient pantry, a state-of-the-art outdoor misting system for seamless indoor-outdoor living, & fresh paint throughout. Swimming Pool has new PebbleTec! With the thoughtful design, this home is the epitome of desert living. Make it yours today!

27715 N 164th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,430,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,746 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748411
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SPECTACULAR CUSTOM HOME WITH BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS Welcome to this extraordinary 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom custom home set on 1.25 acres of prime real estate, designed for both luxurious living and exceptional entertaining. The property boasts an incredible backyard oasis featuring a Pebble-Tec pool with solar heating and spillover spa, a built-in BBQ, bocce ball court, spacious covered patio, and custom fencing. Enjoy serene mountain views from the comfort of your outdoor spaces. Interior Features: Chef's Kitchen: Recently updated with high-end appliances, including double ovens and a KitchenAid induction stovetop. The expansive island, granite countertops, and walk-in pantry make this kitchen a cook's dream. Great Room: Soaring 15-foot ceilings, with a cozy fireplace and stunning mountain views, create an impressive setting for family gatherings and dining. Game Room: Includes a built-in bar, captivating murals, and ample space for a pool table. Master Suite: This luxurious retreat features a sitting area with a fireplace, sliding doors to the backyard, two large walk-in closets with built-ins, and a lavish bathroom with dual sinks, a jacuzzi tub, a TV, and a lighted makeup area. Additional Bedrooms: Three bedrooms each with exterior doors, patios and walk-in closets. Outdoor Living: Pool & Spa: Heated Pebble-Tec pool with solar heating, water features, automatic cleaning system, and a new Jandy Pool Controller. Backyard: Fully fenced large backyard, including snake-proofing, a gas firepit, and a plumbed gas grill with a mosaic patio table and benches. A large private outdoor shower with a bench seat adds to the convenience. Courtyard: A beautifully landscaped, gated courtyard with a custom fountain warmly welcomes guests. Energy Efficiency & Extras: Owned Solar System: A new Elevation Solar System with an Enphase battery, significantly reducing the electric bill by approximately $300 per month. Garage: The 3-car garage (2-car and a single-car) features newly epoxy-coated surfaces and a professionally painted desert mural. A/C & Water Systems: New primary A/C unit (American Standard), two additional Trane A/C units for the bedrooms, a 3,400-gallon water storage tank, and a newly installed Rainbird sprinkler system. The property is already signed up with Epcor, so no sign-up fees for water. This home is a true entertainer's paradise with high-end finishes, exceptional amenities, and stunning views. The newly-stained exterior wood garage doors, gates, and posts add the final touches to this desert gem. Seller is offering furniture currently in the home for sale on a separate bill of sale.

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