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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26562 W Vista North Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$640,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,519 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755733
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enjoy all the amazing features this popular Journey model has to offer AND all the wonderful amenities of the 55+ Sun City Festival community. This home features a heated, lap-style pool, owned solar, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a private den with a safe, built-in cabinets and shelving. The backyard pool area is very private with no neighbors behind the home. The kitchen area includes bow windows, SS appliances, gas cooktop, refrigerator, upgraded cabinets with roll-out trays, granite counter tops, a butler pantry and separate workspace. The owner's suite features a shower and jetted tub with split vanities and a custom walk-in closet. Bedrooms include plantation shutters. The laundry includes the washer & dryer and sink with built-in cabinets. The garage also includes built-in cabinets.

1640 W Clarendon Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85015

$640,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,897 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782539
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in a quiet, central Phoenix neighborhood! This remodeled, 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers an inviting open-concept, split-floorplan design with contemporary finishes. The huge kitchen, complete with stainless appliances including a wine fridge, gas cooktop, wall oven, and large island with breakfast bar, flows seamlessly into the dining and family room, perfect for gatherings. A double-sided gas fireplace opens to both the dining area as well as separate den or office The primary bedroom opens boasts a walk-in closet, ensuite bath with custom tile, and a separate Japanese soaking tub and opens to the pool area. The large backyard features a sparking pool and covered patio. Walking distance to Phoenix Christian, Clarendon Elementary, & St. Gregory's Elementary.

2276 W Periwinkle Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$640,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,961 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777924
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Single level home in Ocotillo near the Ocotillo golf course. Home was remodeled in 2020 with beautiful flooring, light fixtures, & baths. Corner lot with 3 car garage which includes wiring for EV charging. Inside you'll find beautiful wood like floowing throughout the home, bright and open formal dining & living space that continues into the family room / kitchen area. Beautiul granite counters, white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, pendant lights, and an island. The family room has a fireplace. Large sliding glass door opens to a covered patio, pool and backyard space. Primary bedroom faces the backyard and the primary bath, has a separate tub, beautilful shower with separate toilet area. One of the secondary bedrooms could double as an office w/french doors, Solar panels

3455 Turkey Track Road Pinetop, AZ 85935

$640,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Pinetop Lakes Mountain Homes, Pinetop
New
$640,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,924 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777423
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This sharp looking cabin in the woods is fully furnished with everything you need down to the coffee maker. If you are looking for an investment property, full time or part time living, this cabin is perfect for you! It's an open concept living area, so you won't miss out on anything while entertaining and vaulted ceiling. A nice size loft that is large enough for a game room, extra living room, workout area, or an extra sleeping area. The master bedroom is downstairs, perfect for comfort at the end of a long day. Both the front and back decks are covered and perfect for sipping on your morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening. With the amenities of the clubhouse, pool, workout facility, tennis, hiking and more are here for you in the Pinetop Lakes Country Club.

9820 E Satellite Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$640,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,145 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781511
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fall in love with this beautiful 4 Bedroom 3 Bath single-level residence in EASTMARK! Impressive interior boasts a great open floor plan with wood-look tile flooring, a wall-mounted fireplace, and wide sliding glass doors that merge the indoor-outdoor living. Immaculate kitchen comes complete with recessed & pendant lighting, a pantry, ample white cabinetry with decorative molding, a prep island with a breakfast bar, sleek quartz counters, and glossy SS appliances. Romantic primary retreat offers a plush carpet, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Additional highlights include an open den that can double as a game room. Check out the large backyard with artificial turf, covered patio, and pavers - an ideal spot for relaxing. All this and lots of room for storage - 3CG!!

50910 W Long Rifle Road Aguila, AZ 85320

$640,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,386 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780527
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
This meticulously maintained, fully furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers both comfort and versatility, complete with an office space for all your work-from-home needs. Outdoors, enjoy the convenience of a full RV hookup, while the expansive 7.5-acre lot provides the perfect canvas for your dream horse pens and arena, designed exactly how you envision it. A container is included, ready to be transformed into a practical tack room or additional storage space. The property is securely enclosed with an 6-foot tall chain-link fence and features easily operable gates for seamless access. Surrounding the home, you'll find a variety of mature trees, including California-imported palms and a unique Australian Willow that maintains its lush foliage year-round, offering plenty of shade for the grand Arizona room. The room itself boasts vaulted beam ceilings and a ceiling fan, creating a relaxed, breezy atmosphere. An automatic drip irrigation system ensures easy maintenance, keeping the landscape beautiful with minimal effort. Additionally, the spacious two-car garage features a concrete floor and automatic doors, providing ample storage. Attached to the garage is a game/party room with a beautiful pool tableideal for entertaining, or easily converted into a guest casita. Don't miss the chance to unwind and take in breathtaking sunsets over the mountains from your new home!

16600 N Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 1057 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$640,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,890 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784770
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Contemporary & gated; RARE end unit in the highly desirable GATED community of McDowell Mountain Ranch. Near proximity to ''The Vig'', boutique restaurants and grocery store. City lights and views of Camelback from primary bedroom balcony. This is largest unit available having an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, updated windows, plantation shutters, updated polished travertine (2018), updated LVP in the 2 primary suites upstairs. Additional den & 1/2 bath on main floor. Kitchen with gas range, designer lighting and breakfast bar. Dining area has built in buffet and fireplace in great room. Lots of counter space & additional storage under staircase. 2-car epoxy floor garage. Sparkling community pool & fountain, spa, tennis courts & numerous amenities of McDowell Mountain Ranch just across the street. The Community boasts of biking trails, golf, all the dining and shopping in and around DC Ranch Beautifully maintained hard to find end unit. Smoke-free home.

7163 E Grass Land Drive Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

$640,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,811 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782324
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience luxury at StoneRidge w/ This Beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom Open Floor plan home, Features elegant pecan color wood flooring thru-out, making this home a cozy setting for Entertaining . The Modern kitchen boasts convenience w/ like New KitchenAid appliances, ideal for gourmet cooking. Recent upgrades include a Brand New HVAC system and 40g Water Heater, ensuring comfort and efficiency. The backyard is fully paved for a low-maintenance outdoor living, The 3-car garage offers ample space for all Kinds of Storage and Vehicles . This is the ultimate blend of style and functionality with only a few blocks from the prestigious StoneRidge Golf Course Clubhouse. A MUST SEE!

17320 E Pinnacle Vista Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$640,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,126 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731827
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Charming Single-Story Home on Over an Acre in Beautiful Rio Verde Welcome to this delightful single-story residence, nestled on just over an acre of pristine land in Rio Verde. This property has participated in the EPCOR water solution and has been thoughtfully updated to offer both modern conveniences and timeless appeal. Recent updates enhance the home's charm and functionality, including fresh interior and exterior paint, an expanded back paver patio, new artificial turf, and a fenced-in backyard. The front and rear landscaping has been designed to enhance the home's curb appeal, creating a welcoming environment for you and your guests. The gourmet kitchen is a highlight of the home, featuring top-of-the-line GE stainless steel appliances. A brand-new GE washer and dryer have also been installed, making laundry chores a breeze. The home's 2x6 construction ensures superior energy efficiency, contributing to lower utility costs and a comfortable living environment. Through participation in EPCOR's long-term water solution the property will enjoy reliable and sustainable water service. The property is also located within the SRP service area, ensuring dependable electricity. Experience the serene lifestyle of Rio Verde with this exceptional home that seamlessly blends modern updates with sustainable living. Don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of Rio Verde's charm!

3305 S Stanley Place Tempe, AZ 85282

$640,000
5 Beds
2 Baths
1,907 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786544
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**TURNKEY INVESTMENT PROPERTY**Discover this beautifully remodeled 5-bedroom, 2-bath property, ideal for homeowners or investors looking to capitalize on its prime location. Situated just minutes from ASU, this home features brand-new flooring and fresh, modern paint throughout, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. With its generous layout, this property offers ample space for families or students. Currently utilized as a successful airbnb, it boasts strong rental potential thanks to its proximity to ASU, local dining, shopping and entertainment options. Whether you are seeking a turnkey investment or a comfortable residence near the heart of Tempe, this property checks all the boxes.

1023 W Ingram Street Mesa, AZ 85201

$640,000 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Riverview Village, Mesa
New
$640,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,816 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788487
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful single family home featured in the private community of Riverview Village located in Mesa, AZ. This home incorporates a subtle balance of contemporary finishes with a modern design while featuring 5 bedrooms and 3 full bath(s) in a 2,816 sq ft open concept floor plan. The upgraded kitchen offers granite countertops, large [eat-in] island, raised panel cabinetry, ss appliances, and pantry. Additional home features include 10ft+ ceilings, downstairs living areas, upstairs living space, wood plank tile flooring, modern plumbing/lighting fixtures [fans], dual pane [low-e] windows, 2'' blinds, designated dining space, and a dedicated master retreat featuring a spacious sleeping quarters, large shower, dual sinks, and walk-in closet. Lastly, the home features a 2-car garage, an..

24118 S Stoney Lake Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$640,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,997 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6766696
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Arizona living at its best, in the gated adult community of Oakwood! Charming Milano model featuring a 2 bedroom, 2 bath split floor plan, den, great room w/ vaulted ceilings & gas fireplace, wooden shutters, wooden blinds, tile floors and ceiling fans throughout. Interior freshly painted. Beautiful pebble finished pool w/ water feature, huge covered back patio, private courtyard entry, mature landscaping, perfect for entertaining. 2 car extended garage & separate golf cart garage located on a premium nearly 10,000 sq. ft. corner cut de sac lot. Community amenities include golf, tennis, pickleball, pools/spas, fitness center, billiards, clubs, social activities & restaurants.

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