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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23004 E Ivanhoe Street Mesa, AZ 85212

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,824 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6692667
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The Acres at Legacy is a luxurious intimate community that offers residents acreage in a prime location near Eastmark and the 24 freeway. This single-story home features a split floor plan with the perfect blend of style and functionality. The home is 2,824 SF with 4 bedrooms and an office, incredible views from the kitchen, 4 car garage, and 1.22 acres of land with no HOA. Enjoy the outdoors with this gigantic backyard.

10707 E Tesla Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$1,250,000
6 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,045 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6697183
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Potential VA to VA Assumable at an approx. 2.5% rate!!! The Estates at Eastmark! Nearly $200K in Upgrades, this Ashton Woods Spruce model offers 5045 sqft, 6 beds, 4.5 baths, which incl. a convenient full Ensuite downstairs. The kitchen is a culinary haven with a massive island, gas cooktop, and dual in-wall ovens, flowing into the great room with a multi-panel sliding glass door leading to your resort-style backyard. Enjoy a custom in-ground pool, luxury spa, built-in BBQ, custom firepit & 2 pergolas. Additional features include +$10K in custom lighting, a loft area, and walk-in closets in all secondary bedrooms, a 3-car tandem garage with EV pre-wire & large garage storage niche. Discover the endless amenities in the Eastmark Community and surrounding dining and shopping choices.

5045 E Redfield Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,250,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,213 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6701085
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Entertainer's Dream! Enter this beautiful home thru double doors into grand foyer with view to elegant curved staircase. Lovingly remodeled for comfort, light & open space. Flexible floor plan provides various gathering spaces for use as home office, media room, game room, etc. Island kitchen open to family room & formal dining room & features stunning quartzite slab counters. Built in electric cooktop, microwave & double ovens. Two sets of sliding doors lead to beautiful backyard with refreshing pool, several sitting areas, firepit & built in BBQ island. Media room has wet bar & wine cooler, Fireplace in family room & office. Spacious owner's suite upstairs with balcony overlooking pool. Two other bedrooms & bath upstairs. Conveniently located near popular shopping & dining destinations.

6435 E Maria Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,250,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,209 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6704239
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
5 bedrooms 2.5 bathrooms with a Separate 1 bedroom 1 bath guest house (income opportunity) Incredibily peaceful, quiet location. Hard to believe your minutes away from everything.Courtyard entrance with fireplace accesssible from guest house and main house-great to enjoy on chilly nights. Extended back patio provides shade. Majestic Views of Black Mountain from the pool, view deck, back yard, primary bedroom & main living areas make this a must see home! Lawn in the yard great for the pets. Souring Ceilings t/o the home. All bedrooms are generously sized. Kitchen and Laundry Room all new 2023 quartz counters, shaker cabinets, tile backsplash and stainless steel appliances. Pool remodeled in 2024. Over an acre, County Island, plenty of room for ADU, RV garage, shop, Toys, Horses, ect

15937 N 111th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,250,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,830 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6707575
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the McDowell Mountains in the Prestigious Guard Gated Community of One Hundred Hills at McDowell Mountain Ranch. This 2830 Sq Ft. home was Quality built by Geoffrey Edmunds that is situated on a very private lot with Mountain Views. 10' Ceilings, 3BR / 2 .5BA, En- Suite, huge Walk-in Closet with custom built-ins. This home has been highly updated with all of the finest including Italian Carrara Marble flooring throughout. Relax in the private & peaceful backyard that backs to the wash and enjoy the outdoor fireplace while enjoying the Mountain Views. Community amenities include Community Center, Heated Pool & Spa, Tennis & Pickleball Courts, and abundance of Hiking & Biking Trails. McDowell Mountain Golf Club is less than1 mile away.

5426 E Sandra Terrace Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,250,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,328 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6711664
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
ASSUMABLE VA LOAN 4.5%! (To be verified by buyer & lender) FULLY REMODELED designer home in Scottsdale MAGIC zip code! Fantastic home w/ NO HOA--property is currently used as cash flowing STR. Tons of possibilities for homeowners & investors alike! $30k like new pool equipment(pool heater, pump, automation) Pebble tec, pool decking. Newer HVAC + water heater. $40k worth of OWNED solar panels! High ceilings & desirable open floor plan featuring an impressive 5x10 kitchen island w/ quartz countertops & stainless steel appliances. Enjoy your backyard year round: HEATED pool, built-in BBQ, jacuzzi, low maintenance turf, & more.

22808 S 132nd Street Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,250,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,077 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713163
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Private horse lover's paradise located in a county island in one of the most desirable zip codes in Chandler! This 2.247 acre property boasts eight 16' x 16' fully covered mare motel stalls, a 20' x 20' fully covered Stallion/Foaling stall with attached irrigated grass turnout, two additional irrigated grass turnouts, tack up stall/cross ties, a 150' x 175' arena with premium sand footing, mature shade trees and city water. This property has enough space to build your dream home and barn, but also includes an existing modular home that can be renovated and lived in while your dream home is being built! In addition, a 1.14 acre, MLS #6713160, abuts this property that can be purchased to expand the arena to 175' x 300', or simply build your own version of an equestrian paradise!

38718 N 24th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,250,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,926 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719991
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your future sanctuary, a stunning custom home in the serene Desert Hills community, scheduled for completion in early 2025. This exceptional 2,926sf residence offers unparalleled luxury and functionality, designed to cater to your every need. The expansive great room features a formal dining area and views through a wall of windows, flooding the space with natural light and offering a seamless connection to the outdoors. With 4 bedrooms PLUS DEN and 3.5 bathrooms, this split floorplan is the perfect size. The fourth bedroom features an en suite and walk-in closet, providing flexibility and privacy for guests or multi-generational living. The luxurious owner's suite is a true retreat, with a private exit to the backyard and large bathroom boasting a spacious shower & separate freestanding tub. A large walk-in closet with built-in organizers ensures ample storage and effortless organization. A gourmet Kitchen is the heart of the home, featuring large double islands with slab granite countertops and a striking full-height backsplash. Equipped with upgraded stainless-steel appliances, a pot filler, a gas range, and custom cabinets, this kitchen is a chef's dream. A large walk-in pantry offers ample storage for all your culinary needs. Recessed lighting, upscale pendant and chandeliers, as well as above and below cabinet lighting add a touch of sophistication and ambiance. Each full bathroom is adorned with tiled surrounds, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. A conveniently located half bath is perfect for guests, and features stylish fixtures and finishes. Included is an oversized super garage, with an extended length 2.5 car garage and 8ft-high door, as well as an attached RV garage, providing ample space for vehicles, storage, and hobbies. Crafted with care and precision by local builder, Dynamic Desert Homes, who's known for their commitment to quality and excellence in home building. Built with 2x6 construction and spray foam insulation on a post-tension slab, this home is designed for durability and energy efficiency. Nestled on a generous 1-acre lot, there's plenty of space for outdoor activities, gardening, or even adding a pool. No HOA! Bring the toys! Horses, boats, trailers are all welcome here. Located in the serene rural area of Desert Hills, this home offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet remains conveniently close to the essential amenities. Taxes are estimated and not yet assessed by county. PHOTOS AND VIRTUAL TOUR ARE OF ANOTHER PROPERTY OF SAME FLOORPLAN. SOME FEATURES, COLORS, FIXTURES AND DESIGNS WILL VARY.

7719 E Bisbee Road Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,250,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,608 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6722074
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Scottsdale Patio Home South facing 4 stunning VIEWS of the Pines Golf Course, Lake Views & Camelback Mtn. Dramatic Interior flows onto covered Patio & the open air Courtyard for an inviting life style of ease & relaxation! Dramatic Interior: vaulted ceilings, clerestory windows: light & bright! 3 large Suites, 3 baths, 3 walk-in closets; ALL split 4 privacy. Energy efficient: 2 Trane A/C 5 Ton, all windows & 5 sliders updated, Fans in ALL rooms, inc. large covered patio w 180 degree beautiful views! Sandpiper renown 4 LOWEST density & Park-Like 32 acres of grass! 24/7 Guard Gate, which accepts packages 4 security & peace of mind 4 deliveries! On-Site Property Manager all year! Home has it's own Iron Gate 4 owner to buzz in access. Owners remodeled! LOCATION & AMAZING VIEWS!! This meticulously maintained & remodeled Patio Home is a rare find! Totally turn-key for immediate occupancy & luxury life-style awaits the next fortunate owners. Maintenance free: roof totally redone in 2014 Roofing Contractor checks the roof yearly & maintains, 2 new Trane A/C 5 Ton units, Pest Management maintains yearly. Sandpiper's Blanket Insurance is included in the HOA Fees for peace of mind. The HOA is financially sound for fiscal responsibility. HOA professionally managed with an on-site Manager 5 days a week for peace of mind, especially for 2nd home residents! HOA maintains the landscaped common grounds & your home's exterior plantings & trees; all homes are painted every 5-6 years. This Sandpiper Resort has 8 community pools & spa to enjoy!!! This home has lots of amenities: central vac, wired 4 surround sound, Large rooms & lots of storage, all wood cabinets throughout have roll out shelving, 2 kitchen pantries, reverse osmosis in kitchen & immediate hot water throughout, large wet bar for elegant entertaining, Natural Gas is available nearby, if needed. SW Gas redid all the natural gas lines a few years ago in Sandpiper. Sought after LOCATION for this home with VIEWS, but also the LOCATION for Scottsdale City Services & all the Scottsdale's Civic locations & tourist venues nearby. McCormick Ranch Golf Club walking distance across the Fairway for golf & delicious Restaurant & Bar (365 days a year); Conference Resort across the street for dining 365 days a year. Both venues offer entertaining events to book events to enjoy! LOCATION is everything & Sandpiper is a Resort community offering a tranquil & serene environment to enjoy lots of activities, which are planned all year round & wonderful & friendly neighbors!!! Take advantage of miles of walking & biking paths, catch & release Fishing from nearby Lakes, boat launch at McCormick Ranch, etc...Minutes to private airport & Sky Harbor, Hospitals, etc... Sandpiper is a destination & a sought after Community!!!

834 W Brook Xing -- Payson, AZ 85541

$1,250,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,677 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6724757
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This charming property is on 2.85 acres in the serene Christopher Creek area situated along 240 feet of Christopher Creek which flows year-round and is stocked, Fish from your own property. Located in a gated community with underground utilities, and backs up to the United States Forest Service (USFS) land, ensuring privacy and natural beauty. The house was built with full 9.5-inch logs, adding rustic charm and durability. There are 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, providing ample space for family and guests. The main level features a wrap-around deck with creek views, a great room with floor-to-ceiling windows, knotty pine ceilings, and tile floors. The centerpiece is a massive 2-sided rock fireplace that warms both the great room and the primary bedroom. The bright and open kitchen offers sile stone quartz countertops and a convenient breakfast bar. A large bay window area with decorative knotty pine ceiling defines the dining space. On the main level, you'll find the primary bedroom and bath. The bathroom includes a slipper tub on brass legs. The main floor guest bedroom has its own full bathroom with a jetted tub. The loft bedroom overlooks the creek and has a charming balcony. The ground level features a family room with a wood-burning stove and a 1 1/2 car garage. The garage comes with a fully equipped workshop and an ATV side-by-side. The house was built with full 9.5-inch logs, adding rustic charm and durability. Outside, there's a metal roof, a BBQ area, an outdoor fireplace, and a path along the creek frontage with wild raspberries and blackberries. The acreage has been thoughtfully thinned to enhance fire protection. The hosue is equipped with a multiple-camera ADT backup security system that connects to the internet for remote viewing. As a bonus, the sale includes the workshop, ATV side-by-side, furnishings, pool table w/ bumper pool, and the pinball machine. This home offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, comfort, and recreational amenities.

10859 E Tierra Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,250,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,758 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6726803
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare opportunity to own an oasis unlike any other!! Welcome to your dream home, nestled on a large, 14,733 sq. ft. cul-de-sac lot within the prestigious community of Scottsdale Ranch. The Mountainview Place neighborhood, built by Golden Heritage boasts all single level homes for the ultimate in privacy. This exquisitely remodeled split floor plan; offers unparalleled luxury for living and entertainment. NO interior steps, and wide doorways make for safer seamless living. Step inside to be greeted by some of the finest luxury vinyl wood flooring available. This home was designed for a great lifestyle & entertainment. The primary suite is a private retreat situated on one side of the home, featuring a 198 square foot, custom built ''Closmahall'' walk-in closet you must see to believe! This room could also be perfect for a home office, gym, or nursery. Every detail of this home has been meticulously crafted for you. The heart of this home extends to an extraordinary, huge outdoor living space designed for the finest Arizona lifestyle. Enjoy an extra-large covered patio, 5 fruit trees, an outdoor chef's kitchen complete with a gas BBQ and built-in smoker, and a gorgeous, fenced sparkling pool with a travertine surround and brand new pebble tec finish. Multiple outdoor patios, a custom raised garden, and a large jacuzzi tub provide endless opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. There's nothing left to do but move in and start living the epitome of Arizona living. Luxury. Privacy. Perfection. Welcome Home!

5212 E Cactus Road Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,250,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,605 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6727414
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the best of Arizona living on this nearly one-acre lot in Sunburst Farms East. This beautifully remodeled home features upgrades throughout, including a spa-like primary bathroom with a deep soaking tub and rain shower. Primary suite now includes a HUGE walk in closet! The updated kitchen is perfect for entertaining with ample storage. The 4th bedroom is currently set up as an office, simply add a closet and it can be a guest suite. Enjoy outdoor gatherings by the resort-style pool and BBQ gas ramada. The large irrigated lot is ideal for horse enthusiasts, with a bridal path right behind the home. Additional features include RV gates, extensive exterior pavers, a large rear storage shed, a pool, block fencing, and a spacious backyard with plenty of room for activities

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