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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5959 E Pershing Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$3,325,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,071 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730071
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BACK ON MARKET as this stunning NEW build by Thomas James Homes is ALMOST complete! Move in before the holidays! We have added some show stopping features to this home! This exquisite 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom modern farmhouse offers an unparalleled blend of sophisticated design and superior craftsmanship. As you step inside, you're greeted by wide plank European Oak hardwood floor and captivating ceiling and wall treatments, including light walnut beams and wood paneling. Custom lighting accents every space, highlighting the impeccable millwork, stone, and tile details throughout. A striking floor-to-ceiling El Dorado Tundra brick chalk dust fireplace. The heart of the home boasts a spacious great room and a gourmet kitchen, complete with SUBZERO and WOLF appliances, a large quartz countertop island, matte black island pendants, castle brick white herringbone backsplash, maple range hood and shaker repose gray cabinetry. The luxurious grand suite features a generous walk-in closet with upgraded built ins and a spa-like bathroom with a freestanding soaking tub and walk-in shower. Each additional bedroom enjoys the convenience of an en-suite bathroom. Beyond the bedrooms, find added comfort and versatility with a private office, gym, and a kitchen prep area adjoining a generous bonus room. Outside, the fully landscaped front and back yards feature a sparkling pool and spa, ideal for enjoying Arizona's outdoor lifestyle. Conveniently located just minutes from top-rated dining, shopping, and entertainment, this home offers the epitome of luxury living in a prime Scottsdale location.

8867 N 63rd Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,325,000 - 4Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Camelback Country Estates Unit 5, Paradise Valley
Open House
$3,325,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
6,298 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702331
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fabulous location in Paradise Valley! Recently updated large areas of the home so if you have seen this home in the past, please revisit! Great floor plan with primary suite downstairs and split secondary bedrooms, Primary suite has a bonus room for additional closet, nursery, office or studio. Upstairs is a large bonus room for media, playroom, office or hang out room. Spacious main living space has a stunning kitchen with dining and large family room area. Outside is a haven for entertaining with both gas and wood grills, dining gazebo, pool with waterfall, hot tub, bocce ball court, horseshoes and a great play area. Five car garage is split into 3 attached at the main house and an additional detached 2 car garage. Make this home yours!

Forest Road 193 Street Flagstaff, AZ 86001

$3,300,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
1,748 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6706061
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
NEVER BEFORE LISTED. EXPERIENCE THIS 43-ACRE LEGACY PROPERTY BORDERED BY THE NATIONAL FOREST ON THREE SIDES. THIS PROPERTY OFFERS THE VERY BEST VIEWS FLAGSTAFF HAS TO OFFER, AS WELL AS THE IDEAL TOPOGRAPHY FOR A RANCH OR LARGE FAMILY COMPOUND WITH TONS OF FLAT MEADOWS. EXISTING STRUCTURES INCLUDE A NICE 5 BEDROOM 3 BATH HOME AND CHAPEL. THE PROPERTY HAS A WELL, 3000 GALLON FRESH WATER STORAGE TANK, NEW SOLAR POWER SYSTEM, AND SO MUCH MORE. CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION.

4536 N Arcadia Drive Phoenix, AZ 85018

$3,300,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
5,447 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6712360
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful Arcadia home has breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain through the 16-foot windows in the living room. Originally built in 1974, it was remodeled with a large addition in 1990 and partially rebuilt in 2009. There are five bedrooms and four bathrooms; the master bedroom has cathedral ceilings and is split from a two-bedroom children's wing and two guest rooms. There are two adjoining family rooms (one could be converted into a sixth bedroom), a library/den, and three fireplaces. The bedrooms are carpeted and the remainer of the house has travertine flooring. The kitchen has a large island, granite countertops, an oversized refrigerator and an oversized freezer that are separate units, a beverage counter refrigerator, two microwaves, a double wall oven, a separate cooktop, a warming drawer oven, and a dishwasher. The kitchen has a large separate eating area and there is also a separate dining room. The home is U-shaped and surrounds the pool. Outside there is a ramada, a porch, a fountain, and a lighted sports court.

2751 E Pelican Court Gilbert, AZ 85297

$3,299,000 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Whitewing At Germann Estates, Gilbert
Open House
$3,299,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,045 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745579
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the prestigious Whitewing at Germann Estates, one of the valley's most exclusive neighborhoods, this award-winning Toll Brothers model home is ready to welcome its new owners! This exceptional residence showcases every imaginable upgrade, seamlessly blending modern architecture with a bright open concept. The interior features a perfect mix of rich, warm wood finishes, with sleek, elegant design and is equipped with entire smart home control system. Outside, the property boasts a stunning zero-edge pool with a Baja shelf and waterfall, a splash pad and in-ground trampoline, an outdoor kitchen and entertainment area, multiple fire pits and water features, and a separate guest quarters with full bath. Come experience a lifestyle you'll love - this home won't last long

4849 N Camelback Ridge Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$3,295,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
2,294 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6681501
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
This unique loft style home features 10' ceilings in the living area with spacious indoor/outdoor living and a lower garden/yard. This home is exceptional with its soaring ceilings and phenomenal views of Camelback Mountain. Featuring 1 bedroom, 2 full baths, a den and 2 reserved parking spaces. Tucked at the base of Camelback Mountain, Ascent is a new, private gated residential enclave adjacent to The Phoenician Resort - one of Arizona's premier luxury resorts. Home designs feature contemporary architecture integrating warm, natural materials, expansive windows, stacking door systems opening to a large outdoor patio with fire feature and BBQ Thoughtfully designed by Nelsen Architects and Vallone Interior Design. Luxury finishes include exquisite Bulthaup Kitchens, hardwood floors, .....

5000 N Camelback Ridge Road Unit 107 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$3,295,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,859 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6673780
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Simply amazing opportunity to be in by the fall of 2024 at Ascent at The Phoenician Mountainside . This ground level unit with outdoor patio backs to the iconic Camelback Mountain. Walk out your private patio to the Mountain Club with private pool/fitness center. The highest end finish package show cases this 2 bedroom, 3 bathroom plus den open floor plan.

5455 E Lincoln Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,290,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,015 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748220
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Why go on vacation when you can LIVE like you're on vacation? Welcome to life lived easy at Mountain Shadows Resort. This sleek, modern double unit features 3 bedrooms, 3 bath with impeccable designer finishes, wood floors, floor to ceiling sliding glass doors, and so much more. Gourmet kitchen with oversized waterfall island, Wolf and SubZero appliances, wine fridge and ample amounts of storage. Spacious primary suite with spectacular large walk-in closet. Relax on your patio and take in the breathtaking surrounding mountain views. Enjoy the fabulous amenities that Mountain Shadow Resort offers including dining, golf, pool, gym and spa. Your vacation life awaits!

4849 N Camelback Ridge Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$3,275,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
2,510 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6681495
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Tucked at the base of revered Camelback Mountain, Ascent is a new, private residential enclave adjacent to The Phoenician Resort - one of Arizona's premier luxury resort destination. This community incorporates the Sonoran Desert landscape directly into its design, at the most enviable location in Scottsdale. Ascent offer views overlooking the Valley & Camelback Mountain. Home designs feature contemporary architecture integrating warm, natural materials, expansive windows, and large outdoor patios. Thoughtfully designed by Nelsen Architects and Vallone Interior Design. Luxury finishes include exquisite Bulthaup Kitchens, Provenza wood floors, Sub Zero Wolf appliances & 10' ceilings.

13240 N 60th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$3,275,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,022 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750225
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Move into this stunning NEW build by Thomas James Homes by the end of the year! Sitting in the highly desirable Scottsdale neighborhood, this beautiful 5 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom transitional style home is the definition of exceptional design. Wide plank wood flooring, decorative ceiling and wall treatments, including beams and wood paneling, impressive custom lighting, outstanding millwork, stone and tile accents, a gorgeous floor to ceiling fireplace, shaker cabinetry and a 4-car garage are just a sampling of the outstanding finishes going into the home. The large single story open concept floorplan is expertly crafted for modern living with a large interior courtyard leading to the home's entrance.

5825 E Cochise Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,250,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,729 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747881
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Desert contemporary 2024 new build! Experience Paradise Valley's resort style, tranquil living in this 4 bed, 4.5 bath estate. With natural light beaming in through 2 walls of sliding doors, home boasts modern and clean design elements with open concept great, dining, and kitchen. Custom two-toned wood cabinets, oversized 2-tier kitchen island, and with stainless steel Wolf appliances, including gas cooktop, multiple ovens, coffee bar, and a wine fridge, creating a chef's dream kitchen. Primary suite includes private sliders to the backyard, dual sink vanity, soaking tub, oversized shower, enclosed toilet, and incredible walk-in closet with custom cabinetry. Entertain family and friends in the backyard with custom pool with expanded pool deck, built-in BBQ, covered patio, turf and desert landscaping or front yard with additional covered patio perfect for lounging and dining. Additional features include 3 en suite guest bedrooms, 4 car garage, RV gate, and builder warranty. Located minutes away from Paradise Valley and Scottsdale's top resorts, golf, dining, and shopping.

2402 E Esplanade Lane Unit 902 Phoenix, AZ 85016

$3,250,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
3,542 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738813
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Nestled in the heart of the prestigious Biltmore area of Phoenix, this luxurious ninth-floor condominium residence offers over 3,500 square feet of contemporary elegance. The expansive floor plan features impressive entertaining spaces with breathtaking views to the downtown Phoenix skyline and beyond. Floor to ceiling windows plus two oversized balconies highlight these vistas and provide ideal natural light. As expected, top-of-the-line finishes and modern design elements abound, from beautiful light real oak wood floors to Wolf, Subzero and Miele appliances. Twp private and separated en suite bedrooms plus a dedicated office/study and powder room complete this perfect home. Esplanade Place offers true luxury lock and leave living along with the highest standards for residence security, including on-site guard, controlled garage and floor access, on-site valet, full exercise gym and steam rooms, large club room for entertaining with catering kitchen, roof-top pool, gas grills for residents plus a dedicated dog run area. Condominium residences of this size and level of finish are difficult to find in the greater Phoenix/Scottsdale market. This offering is truly a gem!

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