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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24275 N 160th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$649,900
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,444 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764923
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MOVE IN READY, BRIGHT GREAT ROOM PLAN , QUICK CLOSE!! 5 BEDROOM PLUS LOFT, 4.5 BATH , 3 CAR GARAGE 9'CEILINGS, GOURMET KITCHEN LAYOUT, UPGRADE CABINETS , QUARTEZ KITCHEN TOPS, SPA SHOWER IN MASTER BATH, LUXURY VINYL FLOORING. 2'WHITE BLINDS, CEILING FANS, FRONT YARD LANSCAPING COMPLETED, ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED HOME, INDOOR AIR PLUS. A SHORT DISTANCE FROM THE COMMUNITY POOL AREA, PICNIC AREA, TOT LOTS, BASKETBALL, PICKLE BALL COURTSAND SO MUCH MORE.

8301 W Escuda Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$649,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,307 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6772531
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This gorgeous single-level home in a peaceful cul-de-sac is the one for you! Enter through the custom double doors to find a living room that beckons you to unwind and a formal dining room ready to hold special occasions. The kitchen is equipped with built-in appliances, granite counters, a center island, a breakfast bar, and a breakfast nook perfect for casual dining. The primary bedroom boasts direct outdoor access, an ensuite with dual sinks, a walk-in shower, and a huge closet. Venture outside to discover a sizeable low-maintenance backyard with a covered patio, hot tub, and a refreshing pool. This community includes restaurants, AWARD WINNING golf courses, Activity Center, library, pickleball courts and exercise facility to name a few. Join some clubs and watch your calendar fill up!

15045 N 20th Place Phoenix, AZ 85022

$649,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,537 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776568
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
welcome to this gem in the desert overlooking the city with stunning mountain views. rare remodeled from top to bottom and professionally designed home with attention to detail. home is also available for rent or lease purchase. owner agent with fast answers.

3540 N Sonoran Hills Mesa, AZ 85207

$649,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,475 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780637
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience upscale living in an award-winning gated community offering an extensive list of amenities such as pickleball & tennis courts, a beautiful boutique-style spa & fitness center, numerous parks & trails, and a world-class golf course. This gorgeous 5-bedroom home features vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and spacious kitchen with center island and SS appliances. With an open layout, neutral color palette, and modern finishes, this home gives off a refined sophistication. Retreat upstairs to your luxurious primary suite with covered walk-out balcony to enjoy the beautiful Arizona sunsets. With one bedroom and full bath on first floor and 3 additional bedrooms on the second floor, this home is flexible and functional, as well as elegant. 2021: New laminate wood flooring in upstairs hallway, master bedroom and upstairs south-facing bedroom; kitchen water filtration system installed; new range, refrigerator, and washer/dryer. 2023: UV safe tint on Western facing windows; new dishwasher and microwave.

349 E Atlantic Drive Casa Grande, AZ 85122

$649,900
6 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,671 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780941
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This impressive FULTON home boasts a full basement and solar panels, nestled in a resort-style lake community on over a quarter-acre lot. The residence includes four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms in the main living area, as well as two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and a bonus room in the basement. Evident pride of ownership shines throughout the property. Updates include new flooring in 2023 and a new gas stove. The backyard is an oasis with lush fruit trees, a built-in BBQ, and ample space for a potential pool.

14200 W Village Parkway Unit 2254 Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$649,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,723 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781698
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Ready to tee off into the ultimate lifestyle? Cachet at the Wigwam offers an unbeatable value, perfectly located on the 10th hole of the Red Course with stunning golf course views. Step inside to find elegant flooring, soft neutral tones, and a versatile den that offers endless possibilities. The stylish kitchen features large cabinets with crown molding, a tile backsplash, quartz countertops, matching appliances, and a breakfast bar. The primary suite includes a tiled shower, dual sinks, and a spacious walk-in closet. Unwind on the covered patio, taking in the beautiful Arizona evenings under the firepit and breathtaking scenery. Fantastic amenities include a pool, clubhouse, and fitness center. This is AZ outdoor/indoor living at its finest!

2474 E Westchester Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$649,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,884 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782548
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION! SELLER SPENT $$$$$$ TO REMODEL THE HOUSE, VERY CLEAN AND NICE AND THE BEST QUITE NEIGHBORHOOD

937 N Vale Street Mesa, AZ 85201

$649,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,227 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6782626
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This expansive 3,227 sq ft ranch-style home sits on a generous 17,960 sq ft lot, offering the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living. Located just minutes from Arizona State University (ASU), Old Town Scottsdale, Sloan Park (home of the Chicago Cubs), and Sky Harbor Airport, you'll enjoy the convenience of being close to great shopping, dining, and entertainment, with easy access to the 202 and 101 freeways. The home features 4 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, with a den that includes custom built-in cabinets. The family room is warm and inviting, centered around a cozy brick fireplace—a perfect spot for family gatherings. The formal dining room boasts elegant wood floors, while the living room features built-in cabinets, adding both character and functionality to the space. Outside, the large private backyard is a true retreat. Enjoy the inviting pool, complete with a custom hydraulic pool cover and a shade structure, making it perfect for relaxing or entertaining. There's also an outdoor shed for additional storage, ideal for tools or gardening supplies. The Arizona Room, with windows that open to the outdoors, brings in plenty of natural light, further enhancing the home's seamless connection to its serene surroundings. This property is an exceptional find, offering ample space, comfort, and a highly sought-after locationperfect for those who want to experience the best of Mesa's living with a private backyard oasis.

16036 W Sandia Park Drive Surprise, AZ 85374

$649,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,273 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733325
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully remodeled Windrose model with too many updates to list here. Triple garage and large fenced yard. Very modern colors with floating custom media wall. Vinyl flooring, granite counter tops, newer Stainless appliances, under cabinet kitchen lighting, inside laundry, pavers and cool decking on the back patio and fenced front courtyard. HVAC system replaced in 2018. Outside painted recently; newer PVC irrigation with drip system and new control box. Newer sinks, lighting and painted cabinets throughout - plus so much more.

11910 E Amanda Road Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$649,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,987 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753721
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A MUST SEE Home in Gold Canyon. Photos don't do justice to this charming 3 bedroom 2 bathroom newer home located in Gold Canyon. Enjoy your time on the front patio morning or night. Inside you will find the 2 additional bedrooms (one with murphy bed) to the right and office to the left. Continuing, the beautiful tile floor leads you into a spacious entertainers kitchen. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances, wall ovens, quartz counter tops, island and dark cabinets. Kitchen opens up to family room which has stunning views. Main bedroom is located off of the family room in the back of the house. Backyard features artificial turf, easy to maintain landscaping and a great space to host!

4497 S Watauga Drive Gilbert, AZ 85297

$649,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,324 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785256
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Pride of ownership shines through in one of Gilbert's most sought-after communities! This split floorplan truly appeals to everyone—and I mean everyone. With tile flooring throughout and abundant storage, this home sits proudly on a corner lot, offering an extended covered patio, mature trees, and a ready-to-plant garden. Inside, the open kitchen invites you to entertain, with ample space for gatherings big and small. The centrally located den adds versatility, perfect for a game room or home office. This home is a must-see for those ready to embrace both comfort and community!

18412 N 48th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$649,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,659 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786173
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Belmont at Triple Crown! This perfect 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a convenient lifestyle in the heart of a desirable gated community. Step into a spacious, open-concept floor plan perfect for entertaining with natural light that highlights every room. Enjoy Arizona's sunny days and beautiful evenings by the private pool, ideal for relaxation listening to the fountain or hosting poolside get-togethers .Resort-Style Amenities: Take advantage of the community pool, spa, fitness center, and clubhouse—all just steps away within this exclusive 85254 neighborhood. Prime Location: Located in Scottsdale, close to top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and more.

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