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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316xx N 171st Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$649,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,708 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780196
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW!! Coming soon is a 1708 sf 3 BR 2 BA with 2 car garage and a RV garage on 1 acre property. No HOA, Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from. Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary homes entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those fall and spring sunsets on your porch swing. When entering the home, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings that showcase the open concept living area to the kitchen and dining room. Spacious covered rear patio, great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Cozy laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting wood plank style tile flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes.

316xx N 171st Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$649,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,708 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780213
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW!! Coming soon is a 1708 sf 3 BR 2 BA with 2 car garage and a RV garage on 1 acre property. No HOA, Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from. Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary homes entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those fall and spring sunsets on your porch swing. When entering the home, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings that showcase the open concept living area to the kitchen and dining room. Spacious covered rear patio, great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Cozy laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting wood plank style tile flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes.

316xx N 171st Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$649,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,708 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778344
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW!! Don't miss this opportunity!! Being contructed soon is a 1700sqft, 3 Bed, 2 bath home with 2 car garage and an RV garage on 1 acre. No HOA! Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from! Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary home's entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those beautiful Arizona sunsets on your porch swing. Upon entry, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings which showcases open concept living to the kitchen and dining room. A spacious covered rear patio is great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Practical laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting tile wood plank flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes!

48336 N 27 Avenue New River, AZ 85087

$649,999
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,126 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751295
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful 3 BD. plus Den, 2.5 BR. home with 2 car garage. Large open kitchen/great room with 10 foot ceiling. Premium cabinets, granite counter tops, huge kitchen island, stainless steel appliances, pantry, large master suite with a walk-in shower, dual vanities, access to the laundry room. Additional upgrades include, tile plank flooring, 8 foot doors, upgraded hardware/lighting, large laundry room, energy efficient 14 Seer HVAC, dual pane low-E windows and R-38 cathedral attic insulation. Upgrades made by the current owner: fence and side gates around backyard, landscape rock in front of the back yard, installing pavers, turf, security gate, epoxy in garage, solar panels, back splash in kitchen, cabinets and tool storage in the garage, storage shelves in laundry. No HOA.

12854 S 189th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326

$649,999
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,250 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761627
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MOUNTAIN VIEWS! This 2024-built home with a HUGE 3-car garage nestled on a SPACIOUS 1.26 acres is the one for you! Enter through the custom double doors to discover a roomy open floor plan that promotes a modern feel. Wood-look tile flooring, neutral palette, and stylish light fixtures are worth mentioning. Spotless kitchen is equipped with abundant white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, sleek quartz counters, and a center island with a breakfast bar. In the large main retreat, you will have an ensuite with dual sinks, garden tub, and a walk-in closet. Massive backyard with a covered patio and views that go on and on has enough room for a pool, a shop, or whatever you can imagine! Hurry! Your forever haven is ready to welcome you!

6285 E Broadway Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$649,999
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,186 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772527
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Want to spend your nights looking at the sunset & city lights and your days gazing at the Superstition Mountains? Well then this is your place! Updated 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath single-level home, sitting on 1.1 acres at the base of the Superstition Mountains. And if you're looking for your own workshop and garage space for your toys --you won't be disappointed! An oversized, 6-car detached garage awaits with mini-split, ducted Torit Industrial Dust Collecting System, Extra LED lighting, 7 X 240 outlets, 2 X 50 amp & RV plugs. TONS of storage! Then, step inside to relax and be delighted by the lovely interior showcasing a great room with soaring vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, attractive wood-look flooring, & cozy two-way fireplace. The family room has double French doors that lead to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Cook delicious meals in the kitchen, equipped with granite counters, knotty alder cabinetry, SS appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar for casual dining. You'll also find a versatile bonus room, perfect for an office or study. Huge covered patio in the back makes for great viewing. Make this yours today!

1957 W Fawn Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$649,999
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,252 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763536
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream oasis at 1957 W Fawn Way. This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a spacious open floor plan filled with natural light, ideal for both family gatherings and entertaining friends. The modern kitchen features stainless steel appliances, ample counter space, and a convenient breakfast bar. Retreat to the luxurious primary suite, complete with an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet, while the additional three bedrooms provide plenty of space for family or guests. Outside, you'll find your very own private swimming pool, perfect for cooling off during hot summer days or hosting weekend barbecues. The beautifully landscaped yard offers a serene atmosphere and ample room for outdoor activities. Located in a friendly neighborhood with easy access to local amenities, parks, and schools, this home seamlessly combines convenience and tranquility. Don't miss your chance to make this slice of paradise your own!

11865 N 143rd Avenue Surprise, AZ 85379

$649,999
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,886 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770462
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MAGNIFICENT 5 BED/3.5 BATH/4 CAR DRIVE-THROUGH GARAGE LOCATED IN A GATED COMMUNITY: COPPER CANYON RANCH. Furniture can convey. Includes an additional den/office and bonus room. Situated on an oversized lot this home is loaded with custom features. Gently lived in, tastefully decorated, looks and shows like a model home. Custom cherry kitchen cabinets. Granite counter tops,double ovens,butlers pantry. Huge open floor plan with real wood flooring, 20 inch tile and plush thick carpeting. Outdoors is an entertainers featuring a large grass area and beautiful pool with custom water features. Heated negative edge spa with soothing therapy jets. This home is a 10....don't wait !!

1941 E Medlock Drive Phoenix, AZ 85016

$649,999
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,438 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785564
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Discover this beautifully maintained mid-century gem at 1941 E. Medlock Dr., located in the highly desirable Camelback Corridor of Central Phoenix. This 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom townhome exudes character and charm, offering a perfect blend of classic details set in a spacious and open floor plan. The inviting living room space boasts vaulted ceilings, fireplace, and large windows that let in abundant natural light while the kitchen features granite countertops, beautiful appliances, and plenty of cabinet space. Whether you are looking to entertain friends and family or spend a quiet night in, this space is perfect for any occasion. Situated in a quiet, established neighborhood just minutes from Biltmore Fashion Park, top restaurants, and easy freeway access. Enjoy the best of urban living with quick access to downtown Phoenix and the Camelback Corridor.

630 E Laguna Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$649,999
5 Beds
2 Baths
2,112 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6783954
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A stunning single-family home located in the heart of Phoenix has 5-bed, 2-bath with 2112 sqft, 2-carport, and covered patio. Brand new windows throughout. You will be greeted by a bright & airy floor plan that is perfect for entertaining. The kitchen comes with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops & brand-new white & black shaker cabinets. Brand new vinyl wood & carpet flooring throughout the home. Enjoy the fully upgraded, spa like bathrooms with high end shower system, framed mirrors, shower niche, & custom vanities. No HOA. Walking distance to parks and bike paths. Do not miss out!

1413 E Windsor Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85006

$649,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,734 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778809
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into the charm and modern comfort of this renovated 3-bed, 2-bath midtown gem! Just steps from the Coronado Historic District, this classic bungalow features a bright open layout, a stunning chef's kitchen, plus a cozy family room with a white brick fireplace. The laundry room/pantry is located next to kitchen. Renovations throughout include Quartz countertops, shaker cabinetry, stylish vanities, flooring, modern lighting, neutral paint, and ceiling fans. Relax in the spa-inspired primary suite with a large walk-in shower, soaking tub, beautifully tiled walls, and walk-in closet. Step outside to enjoy the large private yard, covered patio, and shaded gazebo area surrounded by artificial turf and horseshoe court. Gravel walkways, block fencing and mature shade trees make this low maintenance yard the perfect spot for relaxing, playtime, and entertaining!

1628 E Magellan Drive New River, AZ 85087

$649,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,978 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6683844
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Motivated Seller! Will look at all offers. LIKE NEW home. Voted BEST VALUE by Desert Hills New River tour agents! All the updated features. Large kithchen, with center counter. White cabinets and granite countertops. Open great room with lots of windows for the mountain views. 3 bedrooms 2 bath spllit floorplan. The garage is a large oversized 2 car with a space for your tools. Full one acre for your enjoyment. Shared newer well, 2 party. Plus a new rear yard fence to be sure your animals are safe. Central vac. You won't want to miss this well maintained home!

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