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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8014 E Plata -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$619,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,532 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6732961
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Single story home on a corner lot that offers a split floor plan, with large open kitchen which features stunning soft glide cabinets, top of the line stainless appliances with built-in oven and microwave, large island, pendent lighting. The spacious master suite overlooks the backyard with a walk-­in closet that is truly larger than most bedrooms. RV Gate. Solar swimming pool panel owned. Located across the street from the park & walking trails & just minutes from the 60 & 202 fr-ways and San Tan Village.

3019 E Marilyn Road Phoenix, AZ 85032

$619,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,832 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733523
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the highly sought-after neighborhood of Cimarron Ridge, this wonderful entertainment home offers the perfect blend of comfort and luxury. Enjoy the serene ambiance of a quiet cul-de-sac, complemented by a spacious yard. The property features a stunning Pebble Tec pool and spa, ideal for relaxation and entertaining. Don't miss the opportunity to own this gem in a prime central location!

19700 N 76th Street Unit 2028 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$619,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,843 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759796
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Immaculate open & bright South facing condo in the highly desirable gated Village at Grayhawk community. Upgraded features include travertine flooring, plantation shutters & more make this beautiful 2 bedroom+ den, 2 car garage residence stand out from the rest. Warm & inviting kitchen features breakfast bar, granite countertops, maple cabinetry, black stainless LG appliances, gas range & recessed lighting opens to dining/great room. Relax in large great room w/gas fireplace, built-in media & display niches. Spacious master retreat w/room for desk/workout equipment, dual sinks, separate shower & garden tub. Enjoy 3 beautiful heated pools & spas and 2 workout facilities. Convenient access to Loop 101 freeway, hiking and walking trails, world class golf, shopping and dining.

18117 W Tecoma Road Goodyear, AZ 85338

$619,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,838 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781120
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Energy-efficient SOLAR property in the master-planned community of Estrella! Sweet curb appeal, desert landscaping & Inside, a rotunda foyer leads you toward the semi-open den & great room, providing endless entertainment. Pre-wired surround sound, durable tile flooring, custom paint, & gorgeous light fixtures. The kitchen showcases a center island w/breakfast bar, a pantry, staggered cabinets, mosaic backsplash, SS appliances, & granite counters. Split main retreat features backyard access & an ensuite boasting a separate tub/shower, dual sink, & walk-in closet w/stacked laundry area. Both bedrooms have soft carpets! Entertainer's backyard offers built-in BBQ, fireplace, covered patio, putting green, pool & spa combo, & view fence. Plus, solar panels! This home is the one! MTN Views! - DEN / LAKERS billiards Room Can be easily transitioned to 3rd bdrm.

2734 W Montgomery Drive Chandler, AZ 85224

$619,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,009 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6756991
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come and see this freshly remodeled stunning home in Chandler. This 4 bed 2 bath 2 Car Garage home is move in ready!! Located just off the 101 and Warner you are just minutes away from the Chandler Mall with all the shopping and great restaurants. Home is located in the A rated Chandler School District. As you pull up to this stunning gem you will notice the freshly painted exterior and low maintenance front yard. Though the front door your welcomed by brand new luxury vinyl plank flooring in the main living areas and plush patterned carpet in the bedrooms. The soaring ceilings continue around the corner off the front room and into your brand new stunning kitchen. This fully remodeled kitchen boasts new white shaker cabinets, white quartz countertops, brand new stainless steel appliances and upgraded lighting. Just off the kitchen is the massive pantry / laundry room with custom shelves, mud room bench, white cabinets and butcher block top. Split floor plan has the Master suite off of the front room and it is GORGEOUS. Vaulted ceilings, dual vanity sink, large walk in closet and brand new custom tiled shower. Brand new windows and window coverings throughout the home. New water heater. New ceiling fans, door hardware, light and plumbing fixtures give this home a modern feel. Out back there is plenty of room to entertain with a freshly laid rolled sod yard with paver border, new sprinkler system and a large gazebo with fire pit that conveys. Don't miss out on this gem. Come and see it today!!

18607 W Oregon Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$619,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,691 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762312
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
****SELLER OFFERING $15,000 SELLER CONCESSION, WITH ACCEPTED OFFER***** This impressive single-level home in Litchfield Park boasts 2,691 square feet of living space on an expansive 11,051 square foot lot. Featuring a split floor plan with four oversized bedrooms, each with large walk-in closets, and 2.5 bathrooms. The home is designed for both comfort and functionality with vaulted ceilings and custom window treatments. The massive primary suite includes a remodeled bathroom with a stand-alone tub and a spacious walk-in closet. The 3-car tandem garage has vaulted ceilings for extra storage, plus added electrical outlets perfect for welders and power tools. An oversized RV gate provides paved RV parking with a power connection, ideal for boats, RVs, and UTVs. The remodeled gourmet kitchen is equipped with granite countertops and a large walk-in pantry. The backyard offers an extended patio, mature landscaping and a large storage shed. With close access to the 303 and I-10 freeways, this meticulously maintained home combines convenience with exceptional features for everyday living. Check this one out today!

15163 W Cameron Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$619,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,684 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775454
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home! Recently renovated and turn-key! 5 spacious bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a bonus loft + 3-car garage. New luxury vinyl flooring and tile floors throughout, formal living /dining room, kitchen with island, walk-in pantry, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, open to breakfast nook and family room overlooking covered patio, grassy backyard and pool w/ shark inlay. Upstairs to spacious loft for a 2nd family room! Primary suite w/sitting area, separate shower/tub and extra large closet and sleek renovated bathrooms. Added features include modern light fixtures and ceiling fans, surround sound, garage with attached cabinets and epoxy flooring. Enjoy community features of parks, greenbelts, playgrounds, sport court and sand volleyball court.

12129 N Finch Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$619,900 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Morningside At Lakeside Village Phase 2 Amd, Fountain Hills
Open House
New
$619,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,417 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788922
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Location, Location, Location! Premium tranquil & private lot backs to unique gorgeous natural common area. Spacious backyard & covered patio to enjoy outdoor living. Just steps to Community heated POOL & SPA. Quick walk to the World famous Fountain, Park & all that Town Center offers. Great Room offers vaulted ceiling & corner wood burning fireplace. Large Kitchen showcases Granite counters, tile backsplash, newer appliances, lower cabinets with pullouts and Eat-In area with lots of natural light. Bathrooms have been updated with walk-in tiled showers. Additional improvements include: New Roof 2022; New tile plank flooring & carpet (2022); New window treatment (2022); New fans & light fixtures; New interior paint; Garage epoxy flooring (2022). Act quick on this amazing move-in ready home

14219 W Artemisa Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$619,500
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,462 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6643180
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller may contribute $5,000 towards the buyer's closing cost. ***WHY-WAIT-TO BUILD*** This two-story home is a stunning property that offers a spacious and well-designed layout. With four bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths, this home provides ample space for a growing family or for those who enjoy having extra room. The Gormet eat-in Kitchen is a true design of a chef's delight, upgraded gas cooking range, beautiful quartz countertops, ample amount of 42-inch upgraded cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances. Plantation shutters throughout the first floor. Downstairs offers a large den/office or can be a playroom. The master bedroom is conveniently located downstairs, offering privacy and convenience. The master bathroom features upgraded cabinetry, separate garden tub, dual sinks, large walk-in shower, adding a touch of luxury to the space. The first floor of this stunning home features wood-like extensive flooring adding a touch of warmth and elegance to the space. Upstairs, you will find an enormous loft area that can be used as a playroom, another office, or entertainment area. Additional bedrooms upstairs plenty of space for family members or guests. This home is north-south, ensuring that you can enjoy the best of both worlds when it comes to natural light and temperature control. Additionally, this home has been barely lived in and resembles a spec home, meaning it is in pristine condition and ready for its new owners to move in and make it their own. You will also have the best of both worlds located remarkably close to all the shopping in north Peoria as well as Surprise, minutes away from the best of both growing areas and schools.

2864 Timberline Road Pinetop, AZ 85935

$619,500
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,333 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751546
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
The Pinetop Country Club area is renowned for its serene landscapes and charming properties, and it seems you've found a gem with this detached townhouse. With four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a bonus room that can serve as a fifth bedroom or study, plus a loft, it offers ample space and versatility. The list of upgrades is impressive, including a premium lot, advanced A/C system with extra insulation, and a host of new installations like a water heater and washer dryer. The addition of a soft start on the A/C unit is a smart move to extend its lifespan. It's clear that meticulous care has been taken to maintain and enhance the property, from the practical servicing of all systems to the aesthetic addition of new trees and a railing on the back patio. ...READ MORE... The fact that it's sold fully furnished makes it an even more attractive turnkey solution for mountain living. The HOA's coverage of exterior maintenance, landscaping, and snow removal adds to the worry-free experience. This condo truly stands out as one of the nicest in the subdivision. If you're looking for a retreat that combines luxury with the tranquility of mountain life, this property seems to tick all the boxes.

2445 W Rowel Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$619,380
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,964 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785167
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your NEW HOME at Aster in Union Park! This home offers 1,964 sq ft of living space with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. The primary bedroom has dual walk-in closets and a private deck. The Design features are the Elevated A package of upgrades including 42'' flagstone cabinets, quartz countertop, custom backsplash, large island, GE Profile stainless steel appliances and gas range and 6x36 tile flooring. HOA includes Union Park Amenities, front yard landscaping. Union Park residents will enjoy the abundance of amenities that include, resort styled pool and lounge areas, a 5800 sq ft clubhouse, pickleball courts, basketball courts, 11 parks, playgrounds and walking paths. Easy access to 3 freeways within 10 minutes and 25 minutes to Airport.

22794 E Stacey Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$619,040
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,770 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739105
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible Fall Move In Ready Home at the highly desired community of Harvest in Queen Creek. This beautiful plan offers 2753 sq ft, 4 bedrooms, loft, 3 full baths, and study on a large North back home site. Enjoy entertaining in your gourmet kitchen, with stunning pecan cabinets to the 10 ft ceiling, quartz countertops and quartz backsplash. Unwind in your owners retreat with the upgraded super shower offering tile to the ceiling. 2x6 constrution and new home warranty; SEE YOU SOON

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