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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2973 Noble Star Drive Prescott, AZ 86301

$799,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,331 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6755569
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
UNBELIEVABLE VALUE-PRICED WELL BELOW COMPS~ residence has been meticulously modernized from floors to ceilings, offering a fresh, contemporary living experience. Every detail has been thoughtfully updated, with quality upscale finishes, offering a move-in-ready property. Main Level Living features the upgraded kitchen, living room, dining room, primary suite, guest bedroom and full bath, and bonus room. The 3331 Sq Ft home has several versatile rooms that can adapt to your personal needs. Lower level suite is perfect for hosting guests or extended family, providing a private and comfortable retreat. Zoned HVAC and Water Heaters. Wrap around deck offers several opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. 1164 Sq Ft 4 Car Garage with ample storage space. Prescott Lakes amenities, low HOA fee!

14809 S 25th Way Phoenix, AZ 85048

$799,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,235 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6705961
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SIMPLY GORGEOUS spacious 3,235 sq.ft. 4 Bed/3 Bath home (1 Bedroom & Bath downstairs) with HUGE Office/Gym/Bonus Room (also downstairs) with luxury backyard Pool Oasis! Stunning marble-style Italian porcelain Tile & Wood floors. Entertainer's Living & Dining Rooms with large windows bringing in natural light when you open the Shutters! Extensive Kitchen granite Counters & Breakfast Bar Island give plenty of room for the gourmet cook! 2-Way wood-burning Fireplace between Breakfast Room & Family Room. Large Laundry Room with sink, counters, cabinets, Washer & Dryer stay! Movie Star sized Primary Suite Closet with center Island! Primary Bath boasts rich cabinets, granite counters PLUS 2nd Walk-in Closet. TONS OF STORAGE! NEW ROOF (2019). Both AC units replaced (2017 & 2024). Newer windows, updated lighting fans & fixtures. Classy roller shades & Plantation Shutters. Refinished Expresso Kitchen cabs, stainless hardware, BRAND NEW Range & GE Fridge. Garage Solar-Lite tubes. Resort-style Backyard has spacious wrap-around Pool w/mosaic tile surface showcasing dolphin & octopus art, high-end Pool Gate. Synth Grass in front & back! Tomato & Herb Garden, Tangelo, Mandarin, Pomegranate & Orange Trees. All MOUNTAIN PARK RANCH amenities. Neighborhood access to mountain hiking trails. Kyrene Schools nearby. Close to freeway access, shops, dining, airport, downtown!

2726 N Hannon Ranch Lane Bisbee, AZ 85603

$799,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,554 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6665334
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Perched on an elevated, 4.4 acre lot in the Mule Mountains, just minutes from Bisbee, this stunning, custom 5 bed/ 4.5 Bath, 3,554 sq ft. home offers quality craftsmanship & magnificent panoramic mountain views. Beautifully remodeled with new: Anderson windows, roof, deck, doors, flooring throughout, stucco, kitchen, appliances, master bath w/ dual shower, mini-splits, & paint inside & out. Landscaped yard w/ stone patio overlooking the canyon, sunrises, sunsets and stargazing. Step inside to discover an inviting & spacious interior filled w/ an abundance of natural light & majestic mountain views from nearly every window. Open floor plan, expansive and flowing between the kitchen and the great room, 2 en-suite main bdrms, a bonus room, & built out basement all make for wonderful living.

4229 E Acoma Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$799,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,353 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753543
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful and move-in ready, this lovely home is just waiting for it's new owners. Let the pictures tell the story. This home is practically new in every way! Numerous updates and upgrades added in the last four years include: new appliances, granite counters, LVP flooring throughout, new A/C combo unit, new electrical panel, and a Spa worthy primary bathroom just finished in August! Smart features include the thermostat, doorbell and garage door opener. There is a level 2 EV charger outlet in the garage. The complete list is under Documents tab. This is a block constructed home with extra blown-in insulation. The expansive back yard offers extened patio/pavers, grassy play area, a pool with a water feature, solar heat and removable fence. North Central location convenient to everything.

7600 E Golden Eagle Circle Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$799,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,997 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6734320
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SHOW STOPPER!! Located in Superstition Golf & Country Club, Tuscany-inspired Golden Eagle Village, this newly painted villa is highly upgraded w/ spacious, light & open floor-plan .Beautiful gated entry with new non slip tile. Alder cabinets, granite countertops, 5-burner gas cooktop, kitchen island, breakfast bar, large walk-in pantry, 8' solid core doors, vaulted ceiling, wood & tile floors throughout & central vac. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 fireplaces, 3 spacious courtyard patios, built-in BBQ & built-in garage cabinets. Upstairs patio recently replaced decking 2024 w/5 yr warranty. Spectacular views of Prospector Golf Course,& Superstition Mountain, Park & water feature right out your front door. Superstition Mountain is a 24-hour guard gated community w/ private streets. Located just blocks away from the 36 hole private Nicklaus designed champion golf course and club house are stunning. This home will not disappoint.

4380 N Preserve Drive Pine, AZ 85544

$799,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,485 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6681925
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Home with lot next door! Seller is offering 1% of sales price to be used at COE to ''buy down'' the buyers loan interest rate with full price offer. Fully remodeled modern A-frame on a quiet, half acre corner lot in the highly sought after Portal IV community. The spacious wrap-around deck boasts panoramic mountain views, and endless opportunities for al fresco dining and hot tub soaks underneath the twinkling night's sky. The gated community offers seclusion and peace of mind. The sellers purchased the parcel next door and are offering it as part of the sale to protect your views as you desire! Smart appliances and features are noted throughout the home. Sellers are offering the home fully furnished with high-end furniture. Taxidermy does NOT convey.

44621 N 10th Street New River, AZ 85087

$799,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,521 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6703043
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A spectacular custom home with privacy, luxury details, no HOA, shade trees and gorgeous views. Open and spacious floorplan with walls of glass, soaring ceilings, gourmet kitchen with granite and stainless appliances. The primary bedroom has a seating area, master bath with jetted tub and large walk-in closet. There is also an ensuite guest bedroom with separate entrance. Two other bedrooms are well appointed with a large guest bathroom. The home is perfect for entertaining, loads of patio space with pavers and lush landscaping, and several mature citrus trees. There is a rooftop deck for enjoying the amazing sunsets. The property is walled for privacy, with plenty of space. Close to the Tonto Nat'l Forest. This is a one-of-a-kind home that has been impeccably maintained.

1104 E Driftwood Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$799,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,942 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759111
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Experience true luxury in this exquisite, fully remodeled lakefront home located in the The Lakes community. Boasting $200k in upgrades, this 3-bed/3-bath retreat is a rare gem on the lake. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring high-end Café appliances, quartz countertops, a massive island with captivating lake views, and a walk-in pantry. The primary suite offers a private balcony overlooking the tranquil waters, providing the perfect sanctuary. Enjoy elegance and durability with Aquaguard flooring throughout. Thoughtfully designed with ample storage and direct garage access, new roof, new windows and new AC, this turn-key residence ensures convenience and sophistication. Affordable HOA fee includes access to Rec Center, Lap Pool, Sauna, Pickleball, playground, gym and more.

38923 N 57th Place Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$799,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,418 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6710993
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Absolutely stunning home located in the gated, desirable and beautiful Rancho Manana golf community. Walking distance to shopping, restaurants, music and more! There are many unique features throughout the home, including vaulted ceilings with wood beams, natural flagstone flooring, and a cozy gas fireplace in the family room. Kitchen has granite counter tops, and S/S appliances. The master suite is spacious with two large closets. You will love the outdoor living space that provides plenty of room to enjoy peace and solitude of the outdoors, while offering optimal space to entertain and enjoy the mountain views and incredible sunsets in this timeless territorial home.

4629 W Summerside Road Laveen, AZ 85339

$799,000
6 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,785 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756376
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Say YES to this stunning custom-designed executive home! Its indoor and outdoor features are a must-see! This home is located in an urban village just south of Phoenix, Laveen Village. Just eight miles from Downtown Phoenix entertainment venues, restaurants, and sports arenas. Enjoy this half-acre private yard with open spaces, stunning sunsets, and mountain views—easy access to the 202 freeway connecting to I-10, with Sky Harbor Airport just minutes away. Laveen Village is where old western history and urban development meet, offering its residents a comfortable lifestyle. This home offers expansive living areas both inside and out. Flex space, living/dining rooms, chef kitchen, bedrooms, baths and so much more. Make this home the ONE for you!

15078 W Highland Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$799,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,200 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731039
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Just wow! Prepare to be enchanted by this stunning, energy-efficient home in Goodyear! The façade exudes charm with a 3-car tandem garage, RV gate with paved basketball, timeless stone accents, green grass, & a private courtyard. Be impressed by the great room that beckons with exposed beams on the high ceiling. Tile & wood flooring, plantation shutters in some windows, stone-accented walls, fire sprinklers, & an open den/office are worth mentioning. Large family room is adorned with surround sound speakers & media niche, setting the tone for countless memories. This refined gourmet kitchen showcases recessed lighting, travertine backsplash, a butler's service area, plenty of cabinets & cupboards with crown moulding, a center island, granite counters, a breakfast bar, a walk-in pantry stainless steel appliances such as cooktop gas, wall ovens, & wine cooler, & a lovely bay window in the dining area. The cozy loft boasts balcony access & built-in desk/cabinets. Owner's retreat is complete with a stone fireplace, a sitting room, & a lavish ensuite. The main bathroom is comprised of two vanities, a make-up desk, a soaking tub, a tiled shower, & a barn door leading to the walk-in closet. Finally, the dreamy backyard includes a covered patio, a fire pit area with a cement bench, a gazebo, multiple pergolas, a built-in BBQ, & a shimmering pool. This gem has it all! Hurry!

2777 W Queen Creek Road Unit 14 Chandler, AZ 85248

$799,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,100 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6703268
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in the heart of luxury living! Nestled within a gated community, this stunning residence offers the epitome of convenience and comfort. As you enter, you're greeted by top-of-the-line porcelain grey tile flooring that extends throughout the home. The open floor plan creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for entertaining guests. The spacious kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring a quartz island and countertops, soft-closed kitchen cabinets, and an eat-in area with breathtaking views of the tranquil lake. After a long day, retreat to large master-suite, master bath adorned with marble tile flooring, walk-in shower. Other bedrooms, large walk-in closets for ample storage and electric privacy shades for added comfort. Outside, the amenities continue to impress. Take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood, enjoying the manicured landscaping and friendly atmosphere. For those who enjoy fishing, a little patio-side angling awaits right outside your back porch. And if you're in the mood for adventure, launch your boat or paddleboard for a serene evening on the water. When it comes to dining and errands, you're spoiled for choice. Within walking distance or a short drive, you'll find an array of restaurants offering delectable cuisine. Need to run errands? Everything you need is conveniently located nearby, from grocery stores to boutiques, making everyday tasks a breeze. With its unbeatable location, luxurious amenities, and modern design, this home truly is a stunner. Don't miss your chance to experience upscale living in this practically brand-new build. Welcome home!

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