What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 23, 2017

Economic news was impacted by the Martin Luther King holiday on Monday and the Presidential Inauguration on Friday. Readings released included reports on inflation, the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index and Commerce Department releases on housing starts and building permits issued. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were released as scheduled.

Home Builder Confidence Dips as Inflation Ticks Upward

The National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index dipped from December’s reading of 69 to 67. Ongoing challenges including a short supply of lots for development and inability to hire skilled labor were cited, but builders were also confident that market conditions will improve due to a pro-construction stance in the new administration’s policies.

Inflation rose by 0.10 percent to 0.30 percent in December against expectations that inflation would rise by 0.20 percent. November’s reading was also 0.20 percent. The Federal Reserve has long cited a goal for inflation to reach an annual rate of 2.00 percent; incremental month-to-month increases in inflation will help achieve the Fed’s benchmark. Core Consumer Price Index readings do not include volatile food and energy sectors and held steady with a reading of 0.20 percent, which matched expectations and November’s reading.

Housing Starts Increase as Building Permits Slip

According to the Commerce Department, housing starts rose to 1.226 million against an expected reading of 1.200 million housing starts and November’s reading of 1.292 million starts. Building new homes is a priority for home builders as housing markets have been hampered by a lack of available homes. High demand has driven up home prices in many areas and has caused a great deal of competition in highly desirable metro areas. This has permitted investors and other cash buyers to prevail in home sales where multiple offers were made.

Building permits were lower in December with a reading of 1.210 million permits issued as compared to 1.212 million permits issued in November. Winter weather and holidays likely contributed to the dip in permits issued.

Mortgage Rates Fall for Third Consecutive Week

Mortgage rates fell last week for the third consecutive week. 30-year fixed rate mortgages had an average rate of 4.09 percent as compared to the prior week’s reading of 4.12 percent. 15-year fixed mortgage rates averaged three basis points lower at 3.34 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable mortgage rate was two basis points lower at 3.21 percent. Discount points for fixed rate mortgages averaged 0.50 percent; average discount points for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages averaged 0.40 percent.

New jobless claims fell sharply from 249,000 to 234,000 claims. Analysts had expected a reading of 245,000 new jobless claims. Analysts said that layoffs reached their lowest level since the 1970’s. Job security is an important consideration for prospective home buyers; stronger job markets will likely positively impact housing markets.

Whats Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic reports include readings on new and existing home sales and consumer sentiment. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will be released as usual.

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3040 N Saffron -- Mesa, AZ 85215

$625,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,365 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776002
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom, 2-story home sits on a sprawling 11,239 sqft lot with no HOA AND PAID OFF SOLAR!! Offering 2,365 sqft of interior living space, the home features a cozy fireplace in the family room, high ceilings, and large dual-pane sunscreen windows for plenty of natural light. Plush carpet and tile flooring run throughout. The upstairs primary bedroom includes a full ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet. The kitchen showcases granite countertops, elegant cabinetry, a walk-in pantry, and a breakfast bar. The backyard is as beautiful as the interior, featuring a covered patio, balcony, and a low-maintenance yard with grass, gravel, and trees. Enjoy the private heated pool and spa! Additional exterior storage, RV parking, and a 2-car garage add to the home's appeal!

4167 N Brigadier Drive Florence, AZ 85132

$625,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,514 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776342
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enjoy the luxury and RESORT STYLE LIVING with this HIGHLY UPGRADED Sun City home. Your new beautiful ''Journey'' model is offered FULLY FURNISHED and located on a PREMIUM WASH LOT offering stunning Sonoran Desert views. The exquisite outdoor living space features a private courtyard, paver driveway, extended paver patio, synthetic grass, fencing and beautifully landscaped yards. Every detail has been added starting with the gorgeous CHEFS KITCHEN cabinet layout w/granite counter tops, BUTLERS PANTRY, wood-look tile flooring, tray ceilings, built-in fireplace feature and a double sliding glass door leading to the patio. Additional details include a GOLF CART GARAGE, First Impression security door, ceiling fans and a large walk-in shower and double vanity in the primary en-suite. STUNNING HOME THAT NEEDS TO BE SEEN TO APPRECIATE! Merrill Ranch also offers the Anthem Grille, The Poston Butte Golf Club, a learning center and all the festivities, activities and amenities a Sun City community has to offer. Remember you are buying a lifestyle that goes beyond the homes property lines.

2748 E Canyon Creek Drive Gilbert, AZ 85295

$625,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,302 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782491
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step inside your new dream home that is just minutes away from the 202 freeway and the San Tan Mall, this home has too many updates to list. It is a must see! The newly remodeled kitchen boasts all stainless steel appliances, granite/quartz countertops and a farmhouse style sink. The garage has an epoxied floor along with plenty of storage space while the large loft affords extra room for children to play or to just lounge & relax. New carpet in the bedrooms and closets, and upgraded light fixtures throughout make this home shine. Enjoy the lagoon style pool with a baja shelf & built in cleaning system that was built in 2022. The home also has 2 new A/C units with Ecobee thermostats & a new water heater, all installed in 2022.

3367 Turkey Track Road Pinetop, AZ 85935

$625,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,565 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776847
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in Pinetop Lakes Mtn Homes, with Recreation Center privileges, this immaculate 3 bed/2 bath cabin has been beautifully maintained and shows pride of ownership at every turn. Soaring ponderosa pines and easy to maintain landscaping. The wood-burning fireplace with a Napoleon insert is surrounded by stacked stone and a rustic, gnarly mantle. The heated garage has built-in cabinets and a work bench. This cabin has been very loved over the years and continually updated, most recent improvements include all new Composite outdoor decks, new log railings, and remodeled master bath. Located in the heart of the White Mountains within minutes of 3 golf courses, multiple national forest trailheads for hiking/biking and many other summer and winter activities for the outdoor enthusiast to

7534 W Jones Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85043

$625,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,390 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777957
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Better than new home, two years old and highly upgraded including an extended RV garage(gives at least 4 parking spots)!!! Perfect for boats,cars, RV, weight room, workshop, golf simulator, Basketball court, whatever fits your lifestyle! Fabulous split, open floorplan that includes double door den, large great room and dining area. and a powder room and plank tile laid in the upgraded herringbone pattern throughout living area. Gourmet kitchen w/ large island and breakfast bar, SS appliances including gas cooktop, double wall ovens, granite countertops, backsplash and huge walk in pantry plus a ''butlers pantry area'' w/ desk and more storage!! Primary suite offers a luxurious, oversized, tiled walk in shower, separate water closet, walk in closet, double sinks. Guest Rooms share a bath w/ private shower area and double sinks! Beautifully landscaped backyard w/ firepit, artificial turf, covered patio and garden bed. Close access to the new 202 south, too

3953 W Salter Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$625,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
3,863 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777770
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this gorgeous 5-bed, 5.5-bath home with an above ground SWIMMING POOL, convenient BASEMENT, GUEST QUARTERS, NEW AC units and thoughtful design throughout! Inviting ambiance in the spacious great room, where plush carpet, upscale ceiling fans, recessed lighting, and thick baseboards create an elegant and cozy feel. The kitchen is a chef's dream, comes complete with abundant cabinetry topped with crown moulding, granite counters, a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and a center island. Romantic primary retreat boasts outdoor access, double door entry, and an ensuite comprised of two vanities, soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. HUGE family room in the basement is perfect for entertaining, movie nights, or a game room. Serene backyard provides a covered patio, pavers, and a storage shed. This beauty will sell fast!

18961 N 259th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$625,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,009 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779380
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
If you've been considering a 55+ active adult community in Arizona, and Sun City Festival is on your list for all it's fantastic amenities, then you will want to see this gorgeous and upgraded 3 bed 2 bath home that has views upon views as it backs to the White Mountains preserve looking east. Stylish and modern upgrades to the large chef's kitchen, flooring, and much more make this is a home that is truly turn-key. Whether as a second home or your year-round residence, this home has the style and finishes you deserve. Also, the leased solar helps lower your electric bills substantially. Imagine yourself sitting on the patio and taking in the beautiful open land and mountain views backed by that gorgeous Arizona sky. Your new home awaits!

2937 N 16th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85015

$625,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,500 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777847
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW!!! Welcome to this stunning move-in-ready home in the highly sought after North Encanto Historic District, completely transformed from top to bottom. It features a newer roof, AC, brand new sub & main electrical panel, LVP flooring, updated electrical, plumbing, and modernized kitchen and baths. While upgraded, it retains charming historic features like a large brick fireplace and a vintage outdoor grill. The reconfigured floor plan includes a primary suite with an ensuite bath. Outside, the front yard has lush grass, and the backyard offers low-maintenance turf. The oversized two-car garage with built-in cabinets provides ample storage. Located on a quiet street, this home blends historic charm with modern living.

7658 E Vista Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$625,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,236 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781032
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Step into this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, complete with a versatile bonus room that's perfect for a home office or guest space, featuring a convenient Murphy bed. The kitchen boasts sleek quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, creating a modern, functional space for any chef. Throughout the home, you'll find elegant plantation shutters, vaulted ceilings, and walk-in closets, providing ample storage. The resort-style front patio, with non-skid tile, and a spacious back patio overlook lush green common areas shaded by mature trees, with a pathway leading to the community pool. Conveniently located near shopping and dining. This gem won't last long!

19151 W Coolidge Street Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$625,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,649 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781424
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come and see this beautiful home with a Next Gen Suite and a plethora of upgrades!! This home has an extra living space that includes its own Bedroom, Bathroom, Laundry Area that comes with a washer and dryer attached garage, Kitchen and dining/living room area!! This extra living space is perfect for family and friends! The main living quarters has 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and a big kitchen ready to host all of your events! Enjoy the low maintenance backyard with beautiful green turf and plants making it a great area to relax while enjoying the White Tank Mountain views to the west!

25451 N 164th Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$625,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
3,021 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781462
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in Surprise, AZ! This nearly brand-new 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom home, built in 2022, offers a spacious open-concept layout perfect for families and entertaining. The **gourmet kitchen** features a gas cooktop, abundant cabinetry, and a large island with pendant lighting. The **primary suite** is a true retreat with a spa-like bathroom and walk-in shower. Upgrades include an **enhanced sound system** and a **remodeled backyard** with custom pavers, desert landscaping, and a gas stub for grilling. Conveniently located near the 303 Freeway, this home offers the ideal blend of luxury and comfort. Don't miss out!

7585 W Tumblewood Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$625,000
5 Beds
2 Baths
2,444 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782727
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this 5 bedroom 2 bath house with a fantastic floor plan and located in a very desirable community! Equipped with a relaxing pool, great yard and RV Gate. Situated in a corner lot right next to a grass park. This home is nestled wonderfully to enjoy all of the amenities from shops, entertaining and dining that P83 has to offer. Schedule your showing today.

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