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 99^th 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.

What‘s 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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6240 E Helm Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,200,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,252 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6778939

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW! Spacious home in COVETED 85254 close to Kierland, Scottsdale Quarter & only 6 houses down from neighborhood park! TRUE 5 bedroom w/4 up & 1 down - makes great guest room or home office. Laundry chute leads to INCREDIBLE, oversized laundry room w/tons of counter space, built-in desk & sink. BEAUTIFUL, on-trend wood laminate floors (installed 2022) everywhere except stairs & bedrooms. Plantation shutters, updated bathrooms (2022), granite counter surfaces throughout! Kitchen features gas cooking & overlooks HUGE pebble-finish, diving pool & spa. Large covered patio, artificial turf & putting green for easy care outdoor entertaining! 3 car garage has epoxy floors, built-in cabinets & exit to backyard. PREPAID SOLAR, gas cooking/heating/dryer = energy efficiency! This is THE one!

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15312 E Verbena Drive Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,200,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,741 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6780433

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Built in 2016, this stunning Fountain Hills home offers modern luxury and a thoughtful layout. Featuring a split floor plan with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a dedicated office, and a spacious 3-car garage, it provides both style and functionality. The open-concept kitchen, complete with high-end appliances and a wine cooler, is perfect for entertaining, while plantation shutters add charm throughout. Outside, enjoy a solar-heated saltwater pool set against breathtaking desert views. The AC system is an energy efficient 5 zone Carrier HVAC System. With seamless indoor-outdoor flow and high-end finishes, this home is a standout in a desirable Arizona community.

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6938 E Exeter Boulevard Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,200,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,300 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6780608

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This lovely 2 bedroom / 2 bath + office townhome is perfectly situated to enjoy the best Scottsdale and Arcadia have to offer. Walking distance to the best shopping and restaurants in AZ- close to Fashion Square, Camelback Mountain, golf, hiking, and 20 minutes to the airport. Private office space overlooks the rear patio with built in barbecue which is ideal for entertaining or just relaxing in the warm AZ weather. This turn-key property is ideal as a second home or for busy professionals or retirees who want upscale and low maintenance lifestyle. Only 30 homes in exclusive Villa D'Este and they rarely come available- Don't miss this opportunity to make this home your own!

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51008 W Pete Road Aguila, AZ 85320

$1,200,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,154 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6378759

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Remarkable Property features a completely renovated House, a 60' x 60' Hangar PLUS 60' x 80' Hangar in a gorgeous setting! House features custom Hickory Cabinetry & solid hand-carved Hickory doors throughout. Travertine Tile countertops, Tibouron Brunito Ceramic Tile, Custom Ironwork and many other luxurious amenities. State Land across the street ensures endless VIEWS of mountains & wildlife. The professionally landscaped property showcases over 200 Trees, Shrubs & Bushes! Taxi from your fully-heated & air-conditioned Hangars to the runway for flying 300+ days per yr. Community has a 3,906' paved, lighted runway, paved taxiways/streets & community center for great gatherings. Just imagine enjoying your special get-a-away or full-time residence!

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11619 N 12th Place Phoenix, AZ 85020

$1,200,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,917 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6641433

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning, newly remodeled 3,917 sq foot residence, seamlessly blending modern luxury with timeless elegance. Step into an open-concept living space flooded with natural light, highlighting the meticulous craftsmanship throughout. The gourmet kitchen boasts state-of-the-art appliances, quartz countertops, and a spacious island, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. Relax in the expansive master suite featuring an inspired ensuite bathroom and custom walk-in closets. Four additional bedrooms offer comfort and versatility, while the remodeled bathrooms showcase designer finishes. The home's heart is a spacious family room, ideal for gatherings and entertainment. This residence is designed for indoor-outdoor living, with glass doors opening to a private Oasis.

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3130 S Weeping Willow Court Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$1,200,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,418 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6665810

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FORMER MODEL located in prestigious Superstition Mountain. 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. OPEN GREAT ROOM, DINING AREA, KITCHEN LAYOUT! NEWLY REMODELED! Gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances, quartz countertops, extended 11'' island, new solid wood cabinets. Two new high efficient AC's and furnaces. VIEW FEATURE SHEET IN THE DOCUMENT SECTION FOR A FULL LIST OF FEATURES AND UPGRADES. Multiple patios for relaxing, dining and entertaining! SE orientation offers abundant sunshine with beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Premium lot abuting a wash area and overlooking the 17th tee box of the Lost Gold course. 24 HOUR GUARD GATED COMMUNITY. Two Jack Nicklaus golf courses! Not a golfer? Enjoy pickle ball, bocce, tennis, hiking and many other amenities. Country Club living at its best. Club amenities under a separate agreement. 35 minutes to Sky Harbor and 20 minutes to Mesa Gateway airports. Buyer and buyer's agent to verify all pertinent information including square footage.

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4438 E Camelback Road Unit 154 Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,200,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,840 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6673033

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

The most desirable location, The Village At Camelback Mountain. this end unit features patios on 3 sides. It boasts fresh paint thru out, newer carpet, updated kitchen with granite countertops with recent appliances, including a dishwasher and refrigerator-2020. The home features beautiful new tile flooring newer oak cabinets, and updated Mstr. bath with granite countertops,newer cabinets, and tile floors. All 3 bedrooms are located upstairs. The master suite includes an en-suite bathroom,while the 2 additional bedrooms share a second bathroom. There is also a 1/2 bath downstairs for guests. The great room includes a fireplace. There is a formal dining rm + a breakfast bar. The wrap-around covered patio adds to the charm. Amenities include 2 community swimming pools, (see more) two community tennis courts (one with pickle ball), an guard gate. Located next to Village Tennis Club, this prime location is just 10 minutes from the airport and close to Scottsdale shopping and dining options like The Henry and Steak 44.

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744 E County Down Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,200,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,600 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715671

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the exclusive gated community of Fieldstone Estates! This stunning single-level residence sits on a premium 1/3-acre corner lot, offering unmatched privacy with no neighbors behind and serene greenbelt views. From the charming courtyard with a gas fireplace to the resort-style backyard featuring a Pebble Tec pool surrounded by ivory limestone, a pergola, and a built-in bar, this home is the ultimate retreat for relaxation and entertaining. The beautifully remodeled kitchen boasts custom white cabinetry, quartz countertops, a striking quartzite island, stainless steel appliances, dual ovens, and a gas cooktop—perfect for any culinary enthusiast. Step outside to the convenient gas BBQ, just off the kitchen, with a paver pathway leading to the extended covered patio and a stunning quartz outdoor dining table, ideal for alfresco meals. The split floor plan is thoughtfully designed to ensure privacy, with a luxurious owner's suite featuring a spa-like bath, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. Just off the master is a dedicated office space, perfect for working from home. Adding to the home's versatility, the dining room or gym features elegant glass doors and coffered ceilings. The private guest suite and Jack-and-Jill bedrooms provide comfortable accommodations for family or visitors. Additional highlights include plantation shutters, tile floors, an extended 3-car epoxy-coated garage w storage, and access to community walking paths, playgrounds, and serene green spaces. Don't miss this rare oasis in Fieldstone Estates.

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10804 N 146th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85379

$1,200,000

6 Beds

3.5 Baths

5,167 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756033

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to the rapidly growing city of Surprise! This 5,167 sq ft home on a one-acre lot is perfect for a family and entertaining! It features a massive 6ft deep pool, jacuzzi, bar/grill area, and a private 18-hole golf course with 2 sand pits. Inside, the open kitchen has custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, a built-in fridge, granite countertops, an island, and a butler's area for food preping. The massive owner's suite offers a sitting area, dual sinks, and a large walk-in closet. Upstairs, there are 5 more bedrooms, game and media rooms, and recessed lighting throughout. With a solar roof, security cameras, 10+ 30ft palm trees, a 4-car garage, and built-in storage, this home has it all!

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4072 E Zion Way Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,200,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

3,628 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764001

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Won BEST HOME ON TOUR! November 2024! Breaking news! The seller is offering $40k towards a pool (renderings in the photo section) with an accepted and executed full asking price contract. Stunning 5-Bedroom Home with In-Law Suite in Premier Chandler Neighborhood! A beautifully designed residence that offers space, luxury, and versatility, perfect for today's modern lifestyle. The heart of the home, the open-concept kitchen and living room offers a spacious, airy feel. The living room flows seamlessly, creating a welcoming space for family and friends. The 2nd primary bedroom is ideal for multi-generational living or extended guests, this suite includes its own private living room separate from the bedroom, offering comfort and privacy.

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1540 E Sharon Drive Phoenix, AZ 85022

$1,200,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,900 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6657328

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Make yourself at home in Moon Valley's privately gated Views at Mountainside enclave! Enter this custom home through the enchanted courtyard with the peaceful sounds of the water feature as you enjoy the view from the front patio. When you open the door to this home, you will see and feel a bright and inviting atmosphere complete with elegant soaring ceilings, travertine flooring, dedicated formal dining and two spacious living rooms. The eat-in kitchen provides granite countertops, ample custom cabinetry, double ovens, and a cozy breakfast nook. Utilize the wet bar as you host effortlessly with two large back covered patios, a built in BBQ and a sparkling swimming pool wrapped with captivating views of the surrounding Lookout and Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The expansive primary suite has the perfect space for reading, working out or simply enjoying the mountain views. The primary bathroom has a large soaking tub, dual vanities and a large walk-in closet. Enjoy the perks of an extended 3-car garage with additional storage. This home has only had one owner and offers easy access to a wide variety of world renowned golf courses, hiking + biking trails, restaurants, Paradise Valley Mall and Mayo Clinic. This gem truly has it all!

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4755 S Pura Vida Way Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

Open House

$1,200,000

3 Beds

5 Baths

2,881 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743975

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Awe-inspiring residence nestled on a private cul-de-sac with stunning mountain views from every angle! Fall in love with the marvelous desert landscaping and ample courtyard for enjoying your morning coffee. The perfectly designed layout has formal dining, a semi-open den w/a built-in bookcase, and a bright living room w/a wood-burning fireplace. Cook like a chef in the eat-in kitchen showcasing an island w/breakfast bar, granite counters, SS appliances, a walk-in pantry, tile backsplash, and wood cabinets w/crown moulding. Retreat to the main bedroom to find a separate backyard access, a walk-in closet, and a spa-like ensuite. A jetted tub, two vanities, and a floor-to-ceiling tiled shower complete the main bathroom! The home also offers a dry bar for a wine area, a half bathroom w/vessel sink, and an attached casita. The casita includes a kitchenette, a spacious living area, a bedroom, and a lavish bathroom. Host fun gatherings in the paved backyard featuring a covered patio, a refreshing pool and spa combo, an outdoor shower, a charming balcony, and exquisite mountain views. See it, love it, live it!

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