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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43131 N 11th Avenue New River, AZ 85087

$589,500
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,818 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769538
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home! This newly built 2024 single-level home offers modern design, energy efficiency, and tranquil desert living. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, the open layout includes a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, a large island, and stainless steel appliances, flowing into a spacious living area with sliding doors to a large back porch. A high-end water filtration system filters out toxins, including arsenic, and provides soft water throughout the home. Custom sun screens on every window enhance energy efficiency year-round.

3016 S George Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$589,500
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,085 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748526
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Location! Location! Location! Near ASU, 101, 202 & 60. This 4-bedroom, 2-bath over 2,000 sq feet home features a 3-car garage extended for your storage needs and a welcoming front courtyard to enjoy. Inside, the opportunities are immense with multiple living areas options including a family room with fireplace and a bonus room. The open kitchen showcases ample white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a large peninsula with a breakfast bar. The main bedroom includes a closet with mirrored doors and a private updated bathroom. The backyard completes this home with an open patio, natural grass for outdoor activities, and a refreshing pool. Newer windows, paint and roof make this home move in ready for you or as an investor. Don't delay it won't last long. NO HOA.

1017 E Wesleyan Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$589,500
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,052 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766399
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Great Tempe Location! Spacious 4BR 2BA + Separate Studio/Guest Quarters/Casita in Rear - Suggs Block Built - Updated Kitchen & Baths - Quartz Countertops - Plenty of Parking Available - Spacious Laundry Room - Close to ASU, Freeways, and More! - No HOA! - Many Options This House Has!

40817 W Rio Grande Drive Maricopa, AZ 85138

$589,450
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,899 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773582
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GRAND HOME ON GORGEOUS WATER LOT w/negative edge pool. A rare find! All NEW cabinets, counters, sinks, faucets, floor tile, carpet, doors, baseboards, toilets, lighting, ceiling fans & interior paint throughout replaced Nov'23! 3 bed, 2.5 bath plus den that seller will consider converting to 4th bed, if requested. Enter through the formal living & dining room then pass through the butler pantry or other hall to the grand family room with 20+' ceilings & view of the pool & lake! The kitchen with all new SS appliances and dinette make this great room perfect for entertaining. XL primary bedroom has coffee bar w/sink & mini fridge. Ensuite has large soaking tub w/windows on 3 sides, separate tiled shower & separate vanities with sinks separated by entrance to XXL walk in closet. Down the hall are 2 large guest rooms and another full bath. Upstairs laundry with matching new cabinetry and sink make for easy laundry days! Walk out to your relaxing back yard with large covered patio, low maintenance landscaping, refreshing pool & breathtaking view of the lake. All brand new pool filtration equipment ensure low maintenance and efficiency. Whole house filtration and kitchen R/O add to the efficiency of this beautiful, like-new, move in ready home! Built by Hacienda, the 2X6 Builder. This home has it all, even a 3 car garage. Don't miss your opportunity to call this HOME.

2585 S Reno Drive Humboldt, AZ 86329

$589,000
5 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,769 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6727919
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
We invite you to explore this one-of-a-kind custom home built from the ground up with quality. Sitting on 0.46 and having space for a garage, this home has space for additions. Once you walk through the front door, you will discover an open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, natural light cascading in, and beautiful views. You won't be able to keep your eyes off the large living room with a gas fireplace and the stunning kitchen with a long island. As you explore the home, notice the split floor plan and large laundry room. Step into the primary suite, and you will feel the spacious bedroom, walk-in closet, and primary bathroom. The primary bathroom has a significant step-in shower and space for a sauna. Don't forget to explore the backyard of a gas fire pit. Explore this home for yourself.

26085 W Siesta Lane Buckeye, AZ 85396

$589,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,376 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768129
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You'll love this highly-upgraded extended SERENITY on a huge 1/3 acre homesite in amenity-filled Sun City Festival! Home warranty being offered! This popular floor plan offers 3 bedrooms + den/office with French doors & 2 baths in 2376 SqFt. The great room features a custom media wall with shelving and electric fireplace, in-ceiling surround sound speakers, and large picture windows letting in tons of natural light and backyard views. The gourmet kitchen features an abundance of white cabinetry with under-cabinet lighting, Quartz countertops, tile backsplash, upgraded stainless Kitchen Aid appliances including a 5-burner gas cooktop & wall ovens, large walk-in pantry, and an island with breakfast bar & pendant lighting. The dining area has a tray ceiling and sliding doors leading out to the extended paver patio that a ceiling fan, is wired for surround sound, and has a gas stub for your BBQ; and a large backyard with easy-care desert landscaping and tranquil water feature. The primary bedroom also has a tray ceiling and an en-suite bath offering an oversized tiled no-threshold shower with bench seating and rain shower head, a dual sink vanity, and large walk-in closet. Other features include plank tile flooring throughout, black-out shades in bedrooms, upgraded electrical package, rain gutters, an oversized 2 car fully-insulated garage with 4-foot extension and epoxy floors, separate fully-insulated golf cart garage, kool-deck driveway, and leased solar providing utility savings. Sun City Festival includes two recreation centers featuring resort-style pools and spas, fitness centers, group fitness studios, outdoor patios, and an indoor walking track. Tee off at the 27-hole golf course managed by Troon Golf® or create a masterpiece in the woodshop and crafts studio. You can also play pickleball, bocce and tennis.

6860 N Bridle Path Prescott, AZ 86305

$589,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,188 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6734725
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home located in the desirable Williamson Valley area of Prescott, AZ. With 2,188 square feet of living space, this property offers a fantastic opportunity to create your dream home with a little TLC. The living room is bright and inviting, featuring a cozy wood-burning stove and large windows that fill the space with natural light. The kitchen, while in need of some updates, provides ample space and potential for customization to suit your needs. The bedrooms are well-sized, with the primary suite featuring an en-suite bathroom for added convenience. The family room offers a comfortable space for relaxation and entertainment, complete with French doors leading to the backyard. Situated on a large lot, this property offers plenty of room for outdoor activities and entertaining. Located in a peaceful neighborhood with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, this home is perfect for those looking to invest in a property with great potential. Don't miss out on this chance to make this house your own and enjoy all that the Williamson Valley community has to offer!

4593 W Bush Bean Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$589,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,337 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766477
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
IT'S ALL READY! Energy efficient 4 bedroom/2.5 bathroom split floorplan has it all! Built in 2021 - lightly lived in (seasonal) with a HEATED pool, 3 car tandem garage & only minutes from Mesa Gateway airport + restaurants, shopping & entertainment! Kitchen boasts a huge granite island, lots of white cabinetry, stainless appliances with gas stove, large walk-in pantry with beverage fridge, neutral backsplash & view to all living areas including patio & pool. Spacious primary bedroom suite with separate shower/bath & large walk in closet. Garage has extra storage. Whole house water system. Please view the prictures & the list of home features for the whole story. Like new without the wait or extra expense!

16917 W Sheridan Street Goodyear, AZ 85395

$589,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,723 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767295
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This highly upgraded Napa-villa is everything you've been dreaming of! It's designed for easy, lock & leave living, with all the features you could want. The chef's kitchen is a highlight, with quartz countertops, upgraded 42-inch cabinets with convenient lower drawers, stainless steel appliances, wall ovens, a gas cooktop. Tile flooring runs throughout the home, making it both beautiful & easy to care for. The home has tons of extra upgrades: stylish coffered ceilings with 2-tone paint, upgraded windows, 8-foot interior doors, a master closet system, a curbless shower in the master bath, plantation shutters, electric interior & exterior shades. The laundry room comes with extra cabinets & a handy utility sink. Outside, the driveway & entry walkway have a durable Kool deck coating. A stylish front security door welcomes guests. The south-facing courtyard patio is perfect for relaxing or entertaining with paver flooring, a peaceful fountain, and even a TV for outdoor enjoyment. The LifeSource water filtration system is an upgrade that you will love. The roof is even equipped with a pigeon-proof system. This home has everything you need and more!

2105 N Normal Avenue Tempe, AZ 85288

$589,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,287 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768517
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated three bed, two bath home located in desired Papago Manor! As you enter, you are greeted by a spacious and inviting living area filled with natural light, perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The modern kitchen boasts custom white cabinetry, marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, and stylish gold hardware. Each of the three bedrooms offers comfortable space and generous closet storage, and updated bathrooms feature contemporary fixtures and finishes. Step outside to discover a serene backyard oasis, ideal for outdoor gatherings or quiet evenings under the stars. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and easy access to major highways, this home combines modern comforts with a prime location. You don't want to miss this!

1175 Green Top Drive Happy Jack, AZ 86024

$589,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,503 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774795
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on over an acre of picturesque, lightly wooded horse property, this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a perfect blend of rural tranquility and modern comfort. Ideal for equestrian enthusiasts or those seeking serene country living, the expansive land provides ample space for horses, gardening, or outdoor activities. Inside, enjoy a spacious, inviting layout with a cozy living area, well-appointed kitchen, and comfortable bedrooms. With plenty of natural beauty surrounding you, this property is a peaceful retreat ready to be your forever home.

9623 E Rocky Lake Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$589,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,774 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778848
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Remodeled from top to bottom in exquisite detail is this one-of-a-kind contemporary villa in the highly desired Oakwood community. Over $100k in upgrades include a re-designed open floor plan, high-quality modern white cabinets in kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room. Kitchen includes quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, gas range, built in cabinet ice maker and pull out shelving. Master suite includes marble shower with Euro glass door, raised vanity with quartz counters and a large walk-in closet. Porcelain tile wood grain flooring, vaulted ceilings in main rooms, plantation shutters and lots of added high-end lights thru-out the home. Garage includes built-in cabinets and sink. Great patio space over looks a wide green belt. HOA takes care of exterior and common areas.

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