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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1511 E Luminous Lane Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$649,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,282 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6716533
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
$$ ALERT $$ This exact model just went pending on golf & asking $1,249,000. What a bargain at this price. Add your own updates and be well under value with a one-of-a-kind just over 12,000 sq. ft. Step outside past the double rolling walls of glass and enjoy the private backyard with mature trees. You'll find stone pavers, built in BBQ, fire pit and turf grass. Inside the home you will find the perfect space to entertain. Step into the primary suite and relax in the sitting room with a good book and glass of wine. Front guest bedroom allows privacy for anyone visiting. The home also offers a ''smart space'' in the laundry room for additional work space and cabinets. The golf cart garage provides more storage as well.

4226 E Everett Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$649,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,267 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750491
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this tastefully remodeled and well cared for home in a desirable neighborhood. The flooring in the great room ties together the living room, dining area and a kitchen that features quartz counters and a brand new complete appliance package. Both the primary and hall bathrooms have been completely remodeled with upscale finishes. The 2-car garage has epoxy flooring, and the walls and attic rafters have been foam insulated for improved energy efficiency. The front yard is nicely landscaped and the walled-in backyard has a large natural grass area with plenty of room for the future addition of a swimming pool. The neighborhood is located less than 2.5-miles from the reimagined PV dining, entertainment, and retail experiences. Come discover your new home.

22706 N 17th Street Phoenix, AZ 85024

$649,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,181 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738561
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spacious 2-Story Home: 4 Bbds, 2.5 Bths, Office and Enormous Loft! This stunning home has space for everything you need! Step inside to discover a versatile office or flex space, perfect for a home office or playroom w/ beautiful laminate flooring. The open-concept kitchen and dining area create an inviting atmosphere for both everyday living and entertaining. The primary bedroom is conveniently situated on the main level, featuring laminate flooring, an en-suite with a shower and tub, and a huge walk-in closet. New carpeting throughout! Upstairs, you'll be amazed with The Giant Loft! Option to build a 5th bedroom. A sizable laundry room with shelving storage. Three Large Bedrooms, all with walk-in closets. Backyard has a view fence and no neighbors behind, giving you ultimate privacy! Living in the Eagle Bluff community means you have access to top-notch education just a short walk or bike ride away to the nearby schools. The location is unbeatable. Enjoy outdoor activities at the Reach 11 Park or the Cave Buttes Recreation Area. Shopping proximity to Desert Ridge and the Shops at Norterra. You're also moments away from major highways like Loop 101, the 51, and I-17, making commuting a breeze. Plus, Costco is just a few minutes south! Don't miss your chance to make this dream home your reality!

7007 S Sipapu Court Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$649,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,839 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742466
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your patience has paid off! This is the one! This beautiful 2,839 sq/ft home is located in the coveted subdivision of Hermosa Hills in the prestigious Gold Canyon! Tucked away on a massive1/3 acre lot in a very quiet culdesac and backs to State Trust Land so no backyard neighbors! HOA only $54 A YEAR! Talk about pride of ownership...The current homeowners left no stone unturned! 2 brand new 55 gallon water heaters. Enjoy the 5 bedroom PLUS loft. Downstairs bedroom off the garage entrance. The primary bedroom has an outdoor patio that overlooks the mesmerizing and priceless views of the beautiful Superstition Mountains. Tranquility and Peace at its finest! Just minutes away from local shopping, entertainment, multiple award winning golf courses and so much more! This home is true gem!

7710 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 133 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$649,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
978 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747694
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Updated ground floor unit with fantastic patio and no steps! This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhouse boasts an oversized patio perfect for entertaining or relaxation. Located on the first level with a garage, this home is situated in the serene community of The Courts at Gainey Ranch. Just steps away from the newly renovated Estate Club at Gainey Ranch, enjoy the lifestyle of tennis, pickleball, a workout facility, two heated pools and spas, and an events center. HOA includes almost everything!

902 E Goldenrod Street Phoenix, AZ 85048

$649,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,927 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748472
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't miss your chance to own in this highly sought after community. This freshly polished gem is nestled at the base of South Mountain, offering resort-like views and a private backyard perfect for sunsets and stargazing. Recent upgrades include a refreshed pool, kitchen and bathroom updates and new flooring throughout. Located in the top-ranked Kyrene School District, this home is just steps from playgrounds and park concerts. This home checks all the boxes.

914 E Osborn Road Unit 201 Phoenix, AZ 85014

$649,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,708 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775211
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Experience New York Loft Living in the Heart of Phoenix! This exceptional home features sleek polished concrete floors, a striking fireplace wall, a floating wood staircase, and artistic touches throughout, making it a true architectural masterpiece. The chef-inspired kitchen boasts modern flat-panel black European cabinetry, elegant quartz countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator and a Fisher & Paykel oven with an induction cooktop—perfect for crafting gourmet meals. Ideal for entertaining, the kitchen seamlessly flows into the dining area and great room, while two walk-out balconies provide stunning sunset views and a front-row seat to Phoenix's 4th of July fireworks. Each bathroom is meticulously designed with a stylish blend of natural wood and chic tile finishes, balancing modern elegance with timeless charm. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious walk-in closet with custom cabinetry, glass doors, integrated lighting, and ample storage space for all your belongings. This home also includes a spacious laundry room with cabinets for extra storage and a tankless water heater for added convenience. With three designated parking spots in the garage, this loft offers urban sophistication paired with practical desert living truly one of a kind!

20364 N 52nd Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$649,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,532 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762638
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream retreat! This stunning single-level home features an inviting open concept design, highlighted by new paint, new light fixtures, new carpeting in the great room and elegant bamboo flooring in the bedrooms. The expansive 15-foot sliding glass doors effortlessly blend indoor and outdoor living, leading to a sparkling heated self-cleaning pool with breathtaking views of the tranquil lake and majestic mountains.Nestled in a serene cul-de-sac, this home offers direct trail access for outdoor enthusiasts and a brand new dock perfect for canoeing, kayaking, catch and release fishing and relaxing by the water. The spacious primary bedroom boasts a huge closet, providing ample storage, while the beautifully remodeled bathrooms feature luxurious finishes, including seamless glass showers and a jetted tub for ultimate relaxation. Additional highlights include exquisite marble flooring, plantation shutters throughout for added privacy, and a recently replaced HVAC system ensuring comfort year-round. With easy freeway access and proximity to Scottsdale and Westgate, this home truly embodies the perfect oasis for those seeking both convenience and tranquility. Don't miss your chance to make this remarkable property your own!

11214 W Sunflower Place Avondale, AZ 85392

$649,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,382 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763884
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GARDEN LAKES! Do you want a house with some character on the lake? Enjoy the comforts of this single story, lake front home with low Maintenace landscape and private deck to dock the peddle boat along with outdoor furniture (INCLUDED) to enjoy the outdoor wildlife and or catch and release fishing. Large spacious rooms with vaulted ceilings with wood beams and lots of natural light and expansive lake views. New A/C unit 2yrs old, with a Nest Thermostat, Newer Roof 4yrs old, updated kitchen, updated main bedroom bath, and other custom features. New carpet to be installed or credit to buyer for flooring. Motivated Sellers so all respectable offers considered. Owners relocating so they are selling personal items also. (separate transaction) This is a must see!

1251 E Parkview Drive Gilbert, AZ 85295

$649,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,237 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765501
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOWZA! Newly remodeled, fantastic home in Spectrum has everything! Offering 4 beds, 2.5 baths, 3 garage spaces including tandem, & a manicured landscape. Inviting interior showcases tons of natural light, designer paint, & wood-look flooring t/out. W/a large living/dining room & an open-concept family room, you have spaces for relaxation & gathering. The impressive kitchen boasts SS appliances, granite counters, a pantry, ample cabinetry, track lighting, & a 2-tier peninsula w/breakfast bar. The master bedroom is downstairs! It features an ensuite w/two vanities, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Secondary bedrooms & a versatile loft await upstairs. Enjoy the spacious entertainer's PRIVATE backyard with a covered patio, built-in BBQ, synthetic & natural lawns, and a sparkling pool!

8373 W Andrea Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$649,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,682 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767297
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Explore this stunning 2-story gem in Peoria, complete with a spacious 3-car garage. You'll be captivated by its warm wood-look flooring, soaring ceilings, and the generously sized living room, perfect for relaxing. A formal dining area is ideal for memorable gatherings, while the chic kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, granite counters, a pantry, white cabinetry, and a breakfast bar. The primary suite offers a tranquil retreat with a bay window, dual sinks, a soothing tub, and a walk-in closet. A huge bonus room provides flexibility as a media center or additional bedroom. Step outside to the lush backyard oasis featuring a covered patio, paver sitting area, built-in BBQ, gorgeous mountain views, and a sparkling pool. You'll want to see this beauty in person! Don't miss out!

8520 E Highland Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$649,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,576 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775687
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Great opportunity for investors or end users to remodel or build new in the heart of Scottsdale!Located on a highly desirable street within walking distance to Old Town where renovated homes are selling for over $2 million.Property features:4 bdrms,2 baths, great room layout w/ a stacked stone wood-burning fireplace.The kitchen has stainless steel appliances & new wood countertop on peninsula. 4th bdrm w/ a separate entrance is perfect for a home office.Large backyard w/ a blank canvas, plenty of room for a pool & new block wall replaced wood fence. Additional features include inside laundry & large storage shed.Close to downtown Scottsdale,101 freeway, & Scottsdale Community College, this family home is zoned for Saguaro High School & offers great potential!

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