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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32731 N 74th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,425,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,738 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731334
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in the wonderfully discreet gated community of Las Piedras in North Scottsdale lies this exceptional residence. Directly across from the community pool, spa and fitness room it is accessed by a gated courtyard to the front door. The bright, spacious interiors begin with an open plan living area including the kitchen and breakfast nook, formal dining area and living room. Sliding doors open to a covered patio and private rear yard with putting green. The primary bedroom suite includes a large bedroom, beautifully appointed bathroom and fitted closet. The home is complete with 4 additional bedrooms, one used as a home office. From the front courtyard you access the guest house above the 3 car garage. Beautifully located near restaurants and shopping it offers luxury desert living.

31818 N 68th Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,425,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,232 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744712
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 4,200+ sqft home offers a wonderful opportunity to create your dream space! With a spacious, flexible floorplan and incredible mountain views, this property is ready for someone to add their personal touch. Situated on a 1 Acre lot, the home features 5 sizable bedrooms with walkin closets, and 4.5 bathrooms. Inside, the open split layout features large windows allowing natural light to pour in, perfectly framing the beautiful surroundings. The kitchen provides plenty of cabinetry, a spacious island, newer appliances, and a high counter area, making it ideal for gatherings. The primary suite offers a walk-in shower, deep soaking tub, and ample closet space, creating a perfect retreat. An entertainers backyard with a large patio, beautiful diving pool with custom rock waterfall, an d a pool house with an additional bathroom, dry sauna, and shower. Additionally, there's a 3-car extended garage, RV gate, and potential for further customization. This home is full of possibilitiesbring your vision and make it your own!

6324 N 10th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85013

$1,425,000 - 4Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Casa Azul, Phoenix
Open House
$1,425,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,696 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733625
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER OFFERING 5.75% FINANCING RATE FOR 30 DAYS. COME SEE THIS GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION - CHOOSE YOUR HOME NOW Blue Sky Homes are 50% MORE energy efficient than a standard new build and Energy Star / Indoor AirPlus Certified for cost savings and a significantly healthier home for you and your family. WELCOME TO TOLTEC at CASA AZUL - We are a Newly Constructed 12 home subdivision exuding state of the art smart home features, notable sustainability with the intent of encouraging community and serenity. This 4 bedroom , 3 1/2 bathroom homes offers upgrades and amenities you won't find from any other new home builder Aside from our custom interior design features and highly desirable family friendly floor plans, we proudly offer all of the following upgrades in all of our Casa Azul homes homes .. 16' Sliding Glass Doors / Vaulted Ceilings / Smart Home Control Center Tablet / Smart lock & Keyless Entry / Smart Thermostat / Smart Home Pre-wiring for Complete Home Synthesis / Quartz Countertops & Custom Cabinetry / Energy Star Appliances / Oversized Bathrooms & Bedrooms / Covered Back Patios / Lifestyle Features / Serene Backyards / Electric Vehicle Charging Outlet / ENERGY STAR Certified / Indoor AirPLUS Certified / 3rd Party Audited Energy & HERS Score Rating / Spray foam insulation / Insulated Garage & Attic / EPA Water sense Toilets, Faucets, & Showers / LED Lighting /Insulated Owner's Suite for Efficiency & Sound / No VOC paint / Low VOC Engineered Flooring. Centrally located and close to all of the best restaurants and schools Arizona has to offer ... welcome to your new home!

6313 N 10th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85013

$1,425,000 - 4Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Lot 5 Casa Azul Mcr 158833, Phoenix
Open House
$1,425,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,680 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725247
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SELLER OFFERING 5.75% FINANCING RATE FOR 30 DAYS. COME SEE THIS GORGEOUS NEW CONSTRUCTION - CHOOSE YOUR HOME NOW. Blue Sky Homes are 50% MORE energy efficient than a standard new build and Energy Star / Indoor AirPlus Certified for cost savings and a significantly healthier home for you and your family. WELCOME TO ARUMA at CASA AZUL - We are a Newly Constructed 12 home subdivision exuding state of the art smart home features, notable sustainability with the intent of encouraging community and serenity. This 4 bedroom , 3 1/2 bathroom homes offers upgrades and amenities you won't find from any other new home builder Aside from our custom interior design features and highly desirable family friendly floor plans, we proudly offer all of the following upgrades in all of our Casa Azul homes .. 16' Sliding Glass Doors / Vaulted Ceilings / Smart Home Control Center Tablet / Smart lock & Keyless Entry / Smart Thermostat / Smart Home Pre-wiring for Complete Home Synthesis / Quartz Countertops & Custom Cabinetry / Energy Star Appliances / Oversized Bathrooms & Bedrooms / Covered Back Patios / Lifestyle Features / Serene Backyards / Electric Vehicle Charging Outlet / ENERGY STAR Certified / Indoor AirPLUS Certified / 3rd Party Audited Energy & HERS Score Rating / Spray foam insulation / Insulated Garage & Attic / EPA Water sense Toilets, Faucets, & Showers / LED Lighting /Insulated Owner's Suite for Efficiency & Sound / No VOC paint / Low VOC Engineered Flooring. Centrally located and close to all of the best restaurants and schools Arizona has to offer ... welcome to your new home!

3330 W Desert Dawn Drive Phoenix, AZ 85083

$1,420,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,778 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778764
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller offering 1% concession towards rate buydown, landscape etc. This soft contemporary home is 100% new construction and is tucked back in a quiet cul-de-sac surrounded by million-dollar homes. Optimally designed for modern living this home has it all. As you enter, you are greeted with soaring ceilings and a great room that is flooded with natural light. Each generously sized bedroom boasts en suite baths and walk-in closets. The open concept kitchen is well appointed with quartz counters, white shaker cabinetry and LG Studio appliances. A large island sits at the center which overlooks the great room, ideal for gathering and entertaining. The primary suite is a true retreat with a spa-like bathroom complete with soaking tub, quartz counters, dual vanities and an oversized shower. The massive primary walk-in closet is situated with access to the laundry. Boasting 4 bedrooms and 5 baths plus a spacious den/flex space and 3-car garage there is ample room for all and for storage. Enjoy mountain views, easy freeway access, close proximity to Lake Pleasant, and numerous options for nearby shopping and dining. There is plenty of space for a pool and an RV gate is ready for your boat, off-road toys or extra vehicle storage. All this with the peace of mind of a quality new built home.

10147 W Camino De Oro -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,417,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,025 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702235
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This LIGHTLY LIVED IN and STUNNING CUSTOM HOME in a FANTASTIC LOCATION on an ACRE LOT in a MARICOPA COUNTY ISLAND adjacent to Peoria has a perfect BLEND of LUXURY LIVING with a FUNCTIONAL FLOOR PLAN*GOURMET KITCHEN includes CALACATTA QUARTZ with WATERFALL at island, DOUBLE STACK WHITE SHAKER CABINETS, DOUBLE OVENS, BEVERAGE FRIDGE, prep sink, walk in pantry, POT FILLER, and GAS COOKTOP*SPLIT OWNER SUITE has SPA LIKE BATHROOM with STAND-ALONE TUB, BEAUTIFUL TILE WORK at the frameless SHOWER, and DIRECT ACCESS to LAUNDRY*Other UPGRADES include ENERGY EFFICENT SPRAY FOAM, soft water and R/O, oversized water heater, 4-CAR garage with EPOXY Floors, multiple car chargers, smart home, WOOD-TILE throughout - and SO MUCH MORE*COME BY and SEE WHY you WILL WANT to CALL THIS PLACE YOUR ''HOME''

5543 E Olesen Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,415,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,038 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6659555
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ready for move-in! Contemporary NEXTGEN Builders home: 4BD +office/den, 3.5BA, high-quality luxury with many upgrades. See attached for included features. Oversized 2-Gar with attached 46' RV Gar with 12x14 RV door, on 1+ acre. No HOA, paver front sidewalk & driveway apron, large kitchen island, upgraded SubZero/Wolf appliance Pkg:, Gas Range, Microwave Drawer, 48'' Subzero Refrig, Quartz counter tops throughout. Many upgrades, all bedrooms have walk in closets. Owner's bath has large entry shower with standalone tub and double sinks. 8' doors throughout, nicely finished. Energy efficient Spray foam insulation, 2x6 framed and fully sheathed exterior, post tension foundation, Pictures are from recently completed model home. Buyer to verify all facts.

2200 E Nolan Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,409,628
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,705 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754060
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Quick Move-in Ready Home! McKinley Glenn is an intimate gated enclave of luxury single-level homes offering modern home designs by Cachet Homes. Welcome to this stunning Ascent Plan boasting 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, game room, den, this residence is designed for comfort and style. Situated on a North/South corner lot this home features a Gourmet kitchen with modern appliances and ample counter space, a game room perfect for entertainment and relaxation, spacious great room with 20' stacking door inviting the outdoor living spaces inside, en-suite baths for every bedroom, high-end finishes and upgrades throughout the home, and 4-car garage for ample storage and parking. Community amenities include a recreation area with Ramada and cornhole, close proximity to shopping centers, schools, restaurants, and other conveniences, ensuring a convenient lifestyle. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a luxury Cachet Home in a prime location.

43712 N Acadia Way New River, AZ 85087

$1,407,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,455 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758310
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Former gorgeous model home! Welcome to The Tierra Hacienda, a distinguished single-story residence that exemplifies luxury and thoughtful design. Spanning 2,455 square feet, this home offers 3 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage, all nestled on a sprawling 16,800 sq ft homesite with breathtaking mountain views. Included is a 50 x 16 RV Garage: Ample space for your recreational vehicle and additional storage. Plus a 280 sq ft Casita with Kitchenette. Every detail of The Tierra Hacienda has been meticulously crafted to offer a refined living experience. This residence is designed for both grand entertaining and serene living.

103 E Quartz Rock Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$1,400,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,200 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6656213
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MODEL HOME ... NEVER LIVED-IN ... 1.5 Acres ... Move-in Ready ... Mountain Views in a quiet neighborhood, yet just 5 minutes from the 101, I-17 & Norterra ... Just 2 blocks from the Sonoran Preserve ... No HOA ... Gourmet kitchen consists of quartz countertops, premium appliances, luxury backsplash, massive island, veggie prep island and custom coffee bar/butler area ... Two Master Bedrooms.

24610 N 102nd Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,400,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,964 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765674
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous custom home on 1.39 acre North Peoria lot, bordering open state land, with beautiful mountain views! This nearly 5,000sf home features a stunning gourmet kitchen with expansive breakfast bar island and lovely rustic finishes. This basement home offers split floorplan on the main level, with two bedrooms to one side, and on the other, the large master suite with walk in closet, french doors to the backyard, and cozy 2 way fireplace to the big soaking tub. Formal dining and eat-in kitchen with greatroom layout provide excellent space for entertaining. Basement level features theater space with projector/screen, wet bar, 2 additional bedrooms and additional full bath. Outside you will find the huge covered patio, sparkling pool, gazebo, planters, coop, and space for your additions!

9665 N Stagecoach Drive Williams, AZ 86046

$1,400,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,326 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760623
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your serene ranch retreat, sprawling across nearly 29 acres with stunning mountain views. Rain collection for water supply, NEW METAL ROOF +$100k in recent updates! This home is perfect for equestrians, the property includes a 2500sqf barn+ 2000sqt covered paddock &5 acres of fenced land. Nestled in nature, the estate is a sanctuary for local wildlife all surrounding a 3,300+ sqft custom built home. Seamless indoor-outdoor living, each of the 3 spacious bedrooms offers an ensuite bathroom and access to covered patios, indoor&outdoor fireplace blending luxury with the beauty of the outdoors. This property is fully equipped for modern convenience and adventure. A 2000sqft RV shed with a full bath provides extra space for guests or storage, while a 2000sqft workshop greenhouse caters to projects and hobbies. The barn features horse stalls, a tack room, and hay storage, while the 5-acre fenced arena and paddock complete the equestrian setup. Located just 30 miles from the Grand Canyon and minutes from Williams, you'll enjoy endless outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking at nearby Kaibab Lake. Entering through a secure electronic gate, you're greeted by a grand custom Italian wrought iron door, leading to heated tile floors, rock archways, and crystal chandeliers inside. The chef's kitchen is fully equipped, while the three master suites offer luxurious en-suite bathrooms and fireplaces. This estate is the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and adventureyour peaceful, luxury ranch awaits.

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