What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 30, 2017

Last week’s economic news included readings on new and existing home sales and mortgage rates. Also released were reports on new jobless claims and consumer sentiment.

New and Existing Home Sales Lower in December

According to the U.S. Commerce Department, sales of new homes fell to 536,000 sales on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis. This reading was markedly lower than the expected rate of 595,000 sales and November’s reading of 598,000 sales. Analysts said that the drop in new home sales indicated that the housing sector is still experiencing a rocky recovery. December’s reading for new home sales was 10.4 percent lower than December’s adjusted reading of 598,000 sales. December’s reading was 0.40 percent lower year-over-year.

The median sale price of new homes was $322,500 in December, which was 4.30 percent higher than in November and 7.90 percent higher than in December 2015. The dip in sales has increased inventory of available homes to a reading of 5.80 months needed to sell all new homes presently available. Real estate pros typically consider a six-month supply of homes for sale a normal inventory.

In related news, sales of pre-owned homes were also lower in December. The National Association of Realtors® reported December sales at 5.49 million on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis; this reading was lower than expectations of 5.51 million sales and November’s reading of 5.65 million sales. The slower rate of sales may signal that home prices have topped out; there is also a very low inventory of available pre-owned homes for sale as compared to demand. Sales of pre-owned homes were 2.80 percent lower than November’s reading, which was the highest rate of existing home sales since 2007. Sales of pre-owned homes were 0.70 percent higher year-over-year.

Winter weather and holidays may have contributed to lower home sales in December, but higher prices, tough mortgage requirements and a low supply of available pre-owned homes were seen as obstacles to completed home sales for December.

Mortgage Rates Mixed, New Jobless Claims Rise

Freddie Mac reported higher fixed rates for mortgages last week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose 10 basis points to 4.19 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage rose six basis points to 3.40 percent. The average rate for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage fell by one basis point to 3.20 percent. Discount points for fixed rate and 5/1 mortgages averaged 0.40 percent.

New jobless claims exceeded expectations of 250,000 new claims with a reading of 259,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 237,000 new claims. Analysts said that volatility is common with new jobless claims in January. There were few layoffs reported and good news that the new jobless claims rate remained below the benchmark reading of 300,000 new claims for the 99th consecutive week. This milestone was last seen in 1970.

The four-week rolling average of new jobless claims fell by 2000 to an average of 245,900 new claims filed; this was the lowest reading since 1973.

Consumer sentiment rose to 98.5 which surpassed the expected reading of 98.2 percent and December’s reading of 98.1 percent.

Whats Ahead

Multiple readings on housing and labor related data will be released this week. Scheduled releases include pending home sales, Case-Shiller Housing Market Indices and construction spending. Reports on inflation and core inflation are due along with readings on non-farm payrolls, ADP payrolls and the national unemployment rate.

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6812 E Monterra Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,849,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,464 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751597
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Make this 1 ACRE, NO HOA, among an enclave of 8 CUSTOM homes, ideally situated at the end of a private CUL-DE-SAC yours now. Imagine yourself in this Tuscan-inspired custom built home, perfectly designed for those who appreciate elegance, flexibility, and absolute PRIVACY. Envision welcoming guests as they arrive via your paver circle driveway, leading through your private courtyard, offering a spiral staircase that guides you to a serene observation deck with sweeping VIEWS.Step through the stunning double iron doors and immediately appreciate the architectural brilliance of the dome-vaulted ceiling that draws your eyes toward the inviting backyard, where a SPARKLING POOL awaits. The gourmet kitchen, equipped with top-of-the-line Wolf gas cooktop, SubZero refrigerator, and Bosch dishwasher, is a culinary dream, perfect for hosting gatherings. The great room seamlessly connects to the kitchen and casual dining area, offering easy access to your private outdoor oasis.Retreat to the spacious owner's suite, featuring a cozy sitting room with a ledge stone gas fireplace, and indulge in the luxurious bath, complete with a jetted tub, travertine shower, and the convenience of private stackable washer/dryer in your expansive walk-in closet. The DEDICATED OFFICE offers custom built-ins and dual workstations ideal for those who work from home.THREE EN-SUITE Bedrooms, anchored by a large bonus room, provide ample space for family or guests. Step outside to your private backyard retreat, where a large covered patio, synthetic lawn, BBQ area, and refreshing POOL and SPA await your next gathering. With a 4-CAR GARAGE and RV gate & NEW ROOF 2023, this home truly has it all awaiting you!

42121 N Anthem Creek Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$1,845,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,963 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775070
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
If you want million dollar views in your backyard...this house has ''THE VIEWS!'' All updated interior. Castille model that was completely reimagined, remodeled and made current. In addition to the million dollar views in the backyard...the interior is a magazine picture in every direction. Custom kitchen and baths. Custom cabinetry and wood working detail / built-ins throughout house. Retractable wall of windows that brings the outdoors in. There are so many more exhilarating designer touches in this house, you must see to appreciate...will surely make you very happy. FINALLY...a true opportunity to own a WOW VIEW property in Anthem Country Club for the most discerning Buyer! This home and its VIEWS will blow your socks off! Heated spa and pool, built-in BBQ island, gas firepit and fireplace on extended tumbled travertine patios. Gourmet Chef's Kitchen boasts stainless appliances, gas cooktop, wall ovens, warming drawer, granite counters, custom beverage center and large island. Stunning marble master bath with dual vanities, double walk-in shower and separate soaking tub plus walk-in closet. Master sitting area and separate exit to private patio. Every bedroom has an en suite full bath. Custom queen murphy bed in one bedroom. Solar lease paid off at closing by seller's (approx 41k). Country Club Lifestyle with Resort Style Amenities...Anthem Country Club is managed by Club Corp which offers many great benefits to members that reciprocate around the world! Two 18 hole golf courses, Persimmons and Ironwood, designed by Greg Nash. 2 Pro shops, 2 sets of men's and women's lounges / locker rooms, 2 member restaurants, 2 gyms, 2 pools, 2 spas, several tennis courts, Gorgeous Ball Room for ongoing Member events and private events venues available as well, 2 Impressive guard gated entrances, all surrounded by breathtaking mountain and golf course views...you will love being a member of the Anthem Golf & Country Club!

35026 N 84th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,845,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,707 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776335
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled at the end of a secluded driveway, this 2-acre ranch-style bungalow can't hide its charm, creative spirit, and natural beauty. Step inside to find a central living space featuring double-vaulted ceilings with exposed barn timbers and a classic fireplace, perfect for cozy family gatherings or entertaining guests. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with a BlueStar 8-burner range, Coppersmith vent hood, a full SubZero refrigeration system, and custom cabinets. The master suite is a true retreat, boasting a spa-like bathroom with natural materials. Enjoy outdoor living with a saltwater pool, stainless outdoor kitchen, gas firepits and breathtaking sunset views from your rooftop deck. This meticulously renovated home blends style and comfort.

14852 E Valley Vista Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,839,575
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,832 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777690
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Here's a reworked version that brings out the highlights of the property while giving it a smooth, inviting flow: Experience luxurious hillside living with panoramic views at this newly built home, perfectly positioned on the border of Fountain Hills and Scottsdale. This modern masterpiece showcases open-concept design and premium construction, blending livable luxury with the feel of a serene retreat. The main floor boasts a single-level design, centered around an impressive great room with soaring 12-foot ceilings, seamlessly flowing to a spacious terrace for indoor-outdoor living. The chef's kitchen features stacked, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, a Monogram appliance suite (with a gas cooktop, built-in oven, drink fridge, and large refrigerator), a generous island, and elegant... pendant lighting. The primary suite offers breathtaking views and terrace access, providing an ideal space to relax. Downstairs, the walkout basement opens to a large, private yard that backs directly onto the canyon hillside, creating a peaceful, vacation-inspired setting. Indulge in the spa-like master bath, complete with a spacious walk-in shower, a double vanity, and sophisticated finishes.

36495 N Livorno Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,836,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,114 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752289
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to luxury living in the Sonoran Desert, located within the gated Community of Treviso! Set on nearly an acre of land, this tranquil cul-de-sac property offers utmost privacy. Step into the charming gated courtyard adorned with a custom metal gate by a local artist and stone pavers. Inside, notice the soaring 12-foot ceilings in the spacious Living Room flooded with natural light. The chef's kitchen is a dream, boasting an expansive Typhoon Bordeaux granite Island, Quartz Countertops, and top-of-the-line stainless appliances. Retreat to the Primary Bedroom with its own private patio for sunrise vistas. The Primary Bathroom indulges with his and hers vanities, a glass shower enclosure with dual shower heads, and a luxurious soaking tub. The spacious secondary bedrooms both have en-suite full bathrooms. The office showcases has sliding doors that open to the center courtyard, two custom built-in desks, shelving and Barn Doors. The incredible backyard is perfect for entertaining with a heated pool & spa w/ automated LED lighting, low-maintenance artificial grass, and gorgeous landscaping. **Owned Solar System for lower electric bills and Auto Fertilizer for plants. Wood Shutters and automated blinds throughout the home. This home has been meticulously cared for and is move-in ready! Three-car garage. Perfect for a primary residence or a lock-and-leave winter home. This North Scottsdale location is great for mountain bike riding and hiking in the mountains. Close to Carefree and Cave Creek for dining, shopping, and nightlife.

12734 E Casitas Del Rio Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,834,995
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,451 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733956
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
NEW CONSTRUCTION - ESTIMATED COMPLETION JANUARY 2025. Modern, Desert Contemporary style architecture. This 3 bedroom 3.5 bath with study offers ample space for entertaining. The Palmer is situated on a desirable lot with unique exteriors. Delight in the details of an inviting foyer that flows into an expansive great room and dining room leading to a wrap-around, covered back patio offering beautiful sunsets and mountain views. The well-designed kitchen is equipped with a large center island and breakfast bar with abundant counter and cabinet space. The beautiful primary bedroom suite is enhanced by a large walk-in closet, deluxe primary bath with dual sink vanity, large soaking tub, glass-enclosed shower & private water closet. Landscape includes spool, outdoor kitchen and fire feature.

9280 E Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 42 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,825,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,600 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755509
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Wonderful opportunity in the heart of Tapadero at DC Ranch. Front courtyard pool and exquisite back yard experience with amazing sunset views. Both outside experiences make this the perfect entertainers home. The Owners suite is separate from the secondary bedrooms and Den. The den area includes wall to wall book shelves and built in desks. Situated directly between the Country Club at DC Ranch and all the amenities of the Desert Camp Recreation Center. Enjoy the path and trail system which winds through all the neighborhoods and ends at Market Streets restaurants and shops.

7705 E Doubletree Ranch Road Unit 42 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,825,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,550 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761882
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BRAND NEW ROOF W/ 10 YEAR TRANSFERABLE WARRANTY! Welcome to this light and bright, meticulously maintained, contemporary southwestern smart home that is centrally located in the desirable gated community of Arroyo Vista, conveniently nestled within Gainey Ranch. This home has all the latest technology and can be operated and maintained from anywhere on the globe, making this decorative turn key oasis, a more than comfortable, primary or secondary residence. The lush, secluded, entertainer's backyard is very inviting with it's 30 foot sparking pool, mature plantings, sophisticated lighting and decorative surface decks which sit on the most expansive double lot within the 61 developed parcels at Arroyo Vista. This spacious, functional 3 bedroom floorplan offers two upgraded, well maintained, dual zone, TRANE HVAC system two primary bedrooms, with walk-in closets and full ensuite bathrooms that come in at over 500 square feet each. The third bedroom has built in bookcases and can also be used as a guestroom / office. The formal entryway and living room have vaulted ceilings with recessed lighting, augmented by east west windows that continually bring in rays of natural light which add a spacious and natural feel. A functional service bar with an additional wine fridge, separates the living and dining areas. The cozy family room with fireplace, full house entertainment center, breakfast nook and 4 seat breakfast bar, sits adjacent to the tastefully upgraded all electric kitchen that serves it up just right with it's two, floor to ceiling food pantries. Enjoy stainless steel GE Profile appliances, double basin stainless sink with other standard options and Delta AI water faucet accompanied by a matching cabinet paneled sub zero refrigerator / freezer with icemaker. There is plenty of counter space for cooking and entertaining, plenty of storage, with cabinet interiors offering pullouts and lazy Susan access for maximum efficiency. A skylight sits above the convenient center island with its additional storage cabinets electrical access, spice and supply drawers. Another great spot to serve or prepare a future meal. There are Saltillo tiles and high end plantation shutters throughout - even a central vacuum system. The interior laundry room with stainless laundry sink and third bathroom have sophisticated, decorative wallpaper. The added bonus here is the double insulated, two and a half car garage that comes in at over 430 square feet, with a brand new epoxy coated floor, built in storage and tech-savvy, lift master garage door opening and closing mechanism. There is also a 250 square foot finished attic space just above the garage, with garage access. You have the option to HVAC climate-controlled this space, which also has a remote control ceiling fan. This area can also serve as a workshop, artist studio, craft space or even a man cave. Please check out our online brochure and video links for more info. We look forward to seeing you soon. Your new home awaits!

1733 E Bent Tree Circle Unit 47 Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$1,825,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,089 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6696626
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Construction will be completed by Summer 2025! Pine Canyon Sales Office has spec design finishes to provide. From the private front courtyard to the inviting back deck, this home offers a variety of options for indoor/outdoor living. With a fireplace anchoring the great room and a central island in the gourmet kitchen, there is plenty of room to entertain family and friends.

12871 E North Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,815,900
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,228 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787299
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New home to be built in the Shea corridor. Aura is a gated neighborhood of 12 contemporary homes. This Essence model starts at 3,228 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, plus den and club room. The modern custom kitchen is a chefs dream with Wolf/Sub Zero appliances. The owner's retreat is a spa experience with dual sinks, free-standing tub, and walk-in shower. Pool and landscape is not included in price.

7180 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 1007 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,815,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,755 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6692074
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
A luxury lock-and-leave unlike any other! This stunning 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo offers an unparalleled blend of sophistication, comfort, and convenience. Featuring 10' ceilings only available on floors 10 and above. The open-concept layout connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating an inviting ambiance perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The split floor plan is ideal for privacy between the primary and secondary bedrooms. The gourmet kitchen features Sub Zero/Wolf and Cove appliances, quartz waterfalled countertops, and ample custom cabinetry with pull outs and outlets, providing both style and functionality. The expansive primary suite includes black out motorized shades and mountain views, as well as a lavish ensuite bathroom complete with a large glass-enclosed shower, and double vanity. Two additional well-appointed bedrooms offer plenty of space for family members or guests, each providing comfort and privacy. Step outside to your private balcony and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding cityscape, serving as the perfect backdrop for al fresco dining or morning coffee. Residents of this exclusive community enjoy a wealth of amenities, including a resort-style pool, spas, cold plunge, steam rooms, saunas, massage room, fitness center, basketball, pickleball, bocce ball, squash, gaming room, golf simulator, conference room, business center, party room, BBQ areas, fire pits, and more. Located in desirable the Kierland area, a walk across the street takes you to world-class dining, shopping, entertainment, and outdoor recreation options, including Mastro's Ocean Club, Morton's steakhouse, Sephora, Apple, Landmark Theater, Putt Shack, Lululemon, and so much more!

23686 N 126th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,814,297
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,124 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777692
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEW CONSTRUCTION: WINTER 2025 COMPLETION! Buyer can select interior finishes! This stunning home features a Guest Casita with a private entrance, an expanded 2-Car Garage with pre-wiring for a 60amp 240v charger, and garage storage. The open-concept Kitchen, Dining, and Great Room are perfect for entertaining, featuring a 15' Sliding Glass Pocket Door and a modern 60'' Primo Fireplace. The Primary Suite serves as a serene retreat with direct access to the covered back patio. The luxurious Primary Bath includes a dual-sink vanity, soaking tub, a spacious shower with a rainhead, and a large walk-in closet. Experience low-maintenance LUXURY in the guard-gated Sereno Canyon community by Toll Brothers. Tour today!

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