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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3440 E Kael Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$2,500,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,852 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6744700
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Luxury remodel in a gated community! New kitchen with custom cabinetry, cabinet-front fridge/freezer, quartz slab backsplashes, huge island with 2 dishwashers, 48' gas range and custom hood, and beautiful hutch style cabinetry with glass doors. If the kitchen wasn't enough.. there is a butlers pantry equipped with a microwave, a full size oven and an ice maker, in addition to the Costco sized pantry for all your additional storage needs. The primary bedroom will draw you in with its beautiful natural Harwood floors, its soaring ceilings, cozy double-sided fireplace, and its views of the full grown citrus trees that adorn the property. The primary bath has been completely overhauled! It boasts a custom shower with multiple shower heads, a freestanding tub overlooking a private courtyard, and its views of the full grown citrus trees that adorn the property. The primary bath has been completely overhauled! It boasts a custom shower with multiple shower heads, a freestanding tub overlooking a private courtyard, 2 vanities and separate closets. the bedrooms are split, with primary bedroom on the east end of the home & three additional bedrooms split on the west end. The home features 4 bedrooms and 5.5 baths, living room, game room, theater room and formal dining room. Additional features included: 4 car extra deep garage with separate storage area, pool with slide, over 1,000 of covered patio, and much more!

13225 N 136th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,500,000
3 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,538 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744627
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Views, Views, and more Views. This custom single level hillside residence is perched on 1.3 acres on one of the highest lots in the exclusive Scottsdale Mountain community. Enjoy both upslope mountain views from the private back yard and City lights from the two front patios. Community amenities include a 24/7 guard gate, hiking trails, and a tennis center with pickleball and hot tub. This exceptional home is on the market for the first time. The home features three en-suite bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths including a dedicated pool bath, an executive office, a three car garage with workshop, and over 4,500 sq feet of living space. The flowing floorplan offers both formal and informal spaces that are light-filled and spacious. The heart of the home is the open kitchen and family room area. The kitchen features a large island, cherry cabinets with Calacatta quartz countertops, and walk-in pantry. The adjoining family room features a stone fireplace and built-in entertainment center. The expansive primary suite includes a sitting room, fireplace, large shower and soaking tub, and large walk-in closet. The private backyard starts with a large covered patio with fireplace and built-in BBQ. The elevated pool and spa features multiple waterfalls exuding a tropical ambiance nestled in the majestic McDowell mountains. Conveniently located to Mayo Clinic and top rated schools including Basis Scottsdale charter school and Desert Mountain HS.

7823 E Celestial Street Carefree, AZ 85377

$2,500,000 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Cow Track Estates / Metes & Bounds, Carefree
Open House
$2,500,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
5,138 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767227
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
STUNNING HOME IN CAREFREE, AZ- A BREATHTAKING 5-ACRE ESTATE OFFERING UNPARALLELED PRIVACY, LUXURY, AND CLASSY SOUTHWESTERN-MEETS-MEDITERRANEAN CHARM. THIS ELEGANTLY ECLECTIC PROPERTY HAS 5,325 SQ FT OF THOUGHTFULLY DESIGNED LIVING SPACE FEATURING EXPOSED WOOD BEAMS & ADOBE-STYLE STUCCO EXTERIOR WALLS. INSIDE, THE HOMES OFFER 5 SPACIOUS BED RMS & 6 BATHS, IDEAL FOR LG FAMILIES OR HOSTING GUESTS. THE HEART OF THE HOME IS A BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED KITCHEN WITH CUSTOM CABINETRY & A COZY LIVING ROOM. EXPANSIVE WINDOWS THROUGHOUT THE HOME PROVIDE AN ABUNDANCE OF NATURAL LIGHT & PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE SURROUNDING DESERT LANDSCAPE. STEP OUTSIDE TO A LUXURIOUS RESORT- STYLE POOL & SPA, THE ULTIMATE RETREAT FOR RELAXING & ENTERTAINING. THE ESTATE ALSO FEATURES A 720 SQ FT GUEST HOUSE, OFFERING A PRIVATE OASIS WITH TREES; EQUIPPED WITH HORSE PRIVILEGES, AND ACCESS TO 11 MILES OF THE GALLOWAY PRESERVE. THIS PROPERTY IS AN EQUESTRIAN'S DREAM WITH AMPLE ROOM FOR HORSE FACILITIES, PRIVATE WELL, GARDENS, OR FUTURE EXPANSIONS, ALL SURROUNDED BY THE SERENE BEAUTY OF THE SONORAN DESERT. THIS CAREFREE ESTATE COMBINES CUSTOM SICILIAN-STYLE TILE ACCENTS WITH MODERN SOUTHWESTERN COMFORTS, OFFERING A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A SLICE OF ARIZONA PARADISE. DON'T MISS OUT ON THIS EXCEPTIONAL PROPERTY!

4841 E Fairmount Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,500,000 - 5Br/6Ba -  for Sale in Indian Villa Amd, Phoenix
Open House
$2,500,000
5 Beds
6 Baths
4,141 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777412
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Arcadia living at its finest with this newly-built modern residence, nestled in the heart of Arcadia Lite. This sleek 5 bedroom, 6 bathroom residence offers sweeping Camelback Mountain views, paired with elevated finishes and design throughout. With functionality in mind, the modern layout features; An open main living area that flows into your chef's kitchen, two spacious primary suites (one on the main level and one on the second level), a large flex space/game room with a walkout balcony perfectly framing Camelback Mountain, and a resort backyard showcasing a sparkling pool, green space and seamless indoor/outdoor Arizona living. The spacious chef's kitchen is a dream come true and is set up for entertaining featuring; High-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and a large center island while offering easy access to the outdoor oasis, paired with a comfortable flow for day to day living. With an abundance of natural light, you'll never want to leave. Soak in the majestic Arizona evenings under your perfectly positioned pergola or gather around the beautiful pool. This stunning new construction home is in a prime Arcadia Lite location, conveniently across the street from OHSO Brewery Arcadia and just minutes from the Global Ambassador Hotel, Steak 44, The Henry, Chelsea's Kitchen, and LGO, plus Fashion Square Mall in Old Town Scottsdale. Preview this stunning modern residence today!

5558 E Lafayette Boulevard Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,500,000 - 4Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Del Ray Estates 7, Phoenix
Open House
$2,500,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,860 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6735220
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your ARCADIA OASIS designed for LUXURIOUS LIVING. Inside, you'll find a SPACIOUS 3,000+ SQ FT MAIN HOUSE featuring 3 BEDS & 3 BATHS in a highly desirable SPLIT-LIVING DESIGN. The great room & kitchen, with breathtaking views of CAMELBACK & PAPAGO mountains, serve as a gorgeous centerpiece for daily living & EXTRAORDINARY ENTERTAINING. The second family room, alongside MUDROOM/LAUNDRY ROOM offers intimacy & practicality conveniently off the 2-car garage. Enter the PRIVATE PRIMARY SUITE, where tranquil POOL & MOUNTAIN VIEWS invite serenity. The SPA-INSPIRED BATHROOM, featuring a dual vanity along with a separate shower & SOAKING TUB, provides the perfect RETREAT for RELAXATION & REJUVENATION, complemented by a sizable custom WALK-IN CLOSET. Outside, an impressive pergola stands.. tall above all-new pavers & the OVERSIZED DIVING POOL, while the generous GRASS LAWN creates an ideal backyard for lifelong memories of PLAY & LEISURE. Beyond, the 850+ SQ FT DETACHED GUEST HOUSE adds exceptional versatility, complete with 1 BED, 1 BATH, a full kitchen & cozy living spaceperfect for guests, a home office or additional living needs. NEW FEATURES INCLUDE: HVAC, PLUMBING, ROOF, ELECTRICAL, TANKLESS WATER HEATER, WINDOWS, APPLIANCES, REFINISHED SWIMMING POOL, THOUSANDS OF SQ FT OF NEW PAVERS, IRRIGATION SYSTEMS, SOD & STUCCO. DO NOT MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO OWN YOUR DREAM LIFESTYLE IN THIS EXPANSIVE ARCADIA OASIS ON THE HIGHLY COVETED LAFAYETTE BLVD!

2068 E Tiffany Court Gilbert, AZ 85298

$2,499,999
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,622 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753265
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located on nearly an acre, this Circle G remodeled custom home is a dream where you can enjoy small town living in the big city. The perfectly designed floorplan includes 5 bedrooms, office, 4.5 baths, large family room, bonus/teen room, oversized 3 car garage, extended driveway with electric security gate and huge new RV garage. The chef's kitchen features Thermador appliances with WIFI range hood, touch to open refrigerator and freezer, microwave, gas range & griddle, steam oven, warming drawer, oven, built in sub zero under counter ice maker with RO water, 4 ft Galley prep sink with dual touch Brizo faucets, and Cambria quartz counter tops. Perfect for entertaining, the kitchen is open to the large family room, the eat in nook and a large sitting area. Beautiful hand scraped hardwood flooring throughout, Lutron lighting with WIFI control, security cameras, security gate, RO water system, and 2 tankless water heaters. Huge owner's suite is a true retreat with tray ceiling, bay window and sitting area, and outdoor access. Ensuite includes two vanities, jetted tub, separate shower, and stunning walk-in closet w/built-ins. Two secondary bedrooms, each equipped with a private bathroom. Beautiful office with large French doors. Laundry room with a sink & cabinetry. Two more bedrooms with an additional bathroom are located near the bonus room with access to the backyard/patio. Step outside to the large extended patio, pergola and built in BBQ area, all equipped with a top of the line misting system. Diving pool with heated spa and water fall. Manicured lawn with irrigation to the perimeter trees. The 1250 sf climate controlled RV garage is the hidden gem of this home. 14 foot tall by 12 foot wide garage door, plumbing, RV hookup, epoxy floor. Centrally located by the 202, Gilbert Regional Park, San Tan Mall, Mercy Medical Corridor, entertainment and dining. This home is a rare find!

28254 N 95th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,499,900
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,048 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766949
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Troon North! This stunning, custom-built 4,000+ sq ft home, featuring 3 bedrooms, den and 3.5 bathrooms, is set on 6.64 acres in one of Scottsdale's most prestigious communities. Enjoy your private desert compound with unobstructed views of Pinnacle Peak, Lone Mountain, city lights, and surrounding mountain ranges. This never-lived-in home boasts energy-efficient features, including state-of-the-art appliances, advanced HVAC systems, extra insulation, low-E windows, an EV charging station, and epoxy flooring in the garage. The property offers incredible potential with the option to add a 22,000 sq ft shop or barn near Dynamite Rd, perfect for collectors or equestrians. HOA fees are a fraction of the cost compared to surrounding properties, at just a few hundred dollars annually. For the same price, other homes in the area offer less than half an acre, while this home sits on a sprawling 6.64-acre lot! Additional features include historic trailers at the rear of the property, with plans for gas line installation down the street. For $240K over the asking price, you can add a custom pool and extra landscaping based on the detailed drawings provided. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a luxury desert estate with endless possibilities!

10015 N 55th Street Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,499,900
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,766 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759455
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing residence on a private cul-de-sac lot with views of Camelback Country Club Golf Course & amazing mountains! Double custom iron-work doors open to the dramatic entrance of the staircase overlooking the Great Room, which highlights a fireplace & soaring high ceilings. Panoramic windows, designer tile & natural stone, 3 fireplaces, surround sound speakers, plantation shutters, & elegant light fixtures. Fabulous dining room ideal for dinner parties. Immaculate kitchen showcases a large center island great for entertaining, granite counters, built-in SS appliances & a wine cooler, & tons of cabinets. Oasis backyard offers a pebble-tech pool with gorgeous waterfalls, putting green, & large covered patio. For your vehicles, you'll find a 3-car oversized garage and an RV gate. Huge main retreat features a spa-like bathroom with a shower boasting a glass block wall, a jetted tub, dual square vessel sinks, & walk-in closet. Great home with solar from Tesla. Great opportunity! Bring your buyers, they will love it! Hurry!

2208 E Belmont Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85020

$2,499,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,168 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765713
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BACKING to the coveted Phoenix Mountain Preserve, a rare opportunity to own a piece of the mountain in the heart of metro Phoenix. Second driveway provides step-free access to downstrs bedrooms, family rooms and kitchen. Great in-law set up. Open white kitchen with both city skyline and mountain views. Gas fireplace in dining adjacent kitchen Quiet private backyard. Outdoor kitchen with 2 grills and pool under the awe-inspiring Mountain backdrop. Foyer opens to brushed chrome rail staircase to the loft game with full wet bar positioned under view portals perfectly framing the Phoenix skyline. Glass doors invite to south patio to stargaze & enjoy the dark sky and serenity of the best street in the coveted Biltmore Highlands. Upstairs master has view deck with views of mountain trails from Bed, office or fitness room, large walk in closet, with portals throughout for mountain views, including views from the large walk-in shower. Private commode room, modern double lab. The backyard features paved covered patio and several removable sail coverings for seasonal comfort, and its own gate into the Mountain Preserve. Just steps from the 22nd Street Trailhead to Squaw Peak, this location offers both privacy and easy access to over 200 miles of hiking trails in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. A second master bedroom is tucked away on the main floor with glass doors leading to the mountain. The secondary driveway provides step-free access to this bedroom door as well as to the back patio and patio door to kitchen and dining room areas. An oversized third bedroom (once two bedrooms) can be divided or create a large media room, game room, office, study or guest suite. Also downstairs is a spacious laundry room with mop sink and cabinets. Garage accommodates 3 to 6 cars depending on your vehicle, golf cart bay, workshop with sink. The storage areas are configured on either size of the primary parking spaces to accommodate those needing access to a van or ramped vehicle. Phoenix is renowned for its urban hiking, with the Phoenix Mountain Preserve (formerly known as Squaw Peak) weaving through the city and just minutes from Sky Harbor Airport. This national oasis invites visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of the Sonoran Desert, exploring its diverse flora and fauna while enjoying the tranquility of this natural sanctuary. This home offers a unique chance to reconnect with nature, explore rugged terrains, and appreciate the resilience of desert ecosystems.

5314 N 41st Place Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,499,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
4,013 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752736
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The kitchen showcases a stunning view of Camelback Mountain & the Praying Monk. This beautifully renovated home features an open, entertaining plan with an inviting entry by way of a charming conversation patio. Spanning over 4,000 sq ft, enjoy 5BR/3BA, handsome library, LR, formal dining and great rm/family rm - complete with a breakfast bar & en suite eating area. The spacious split master suite occupies the entire south wing - 2 access doors to pool/patio areas - one right off the gym room. Resort-style backyard with a heated pool & spa, plus a freestanding 3-car garage equipped with a mini-split. Four private patios, one of which features an automated screen. There are surprises & vignettes everywhere. Please review the detailed list of features & improvements found in the docs tab.

17337 E Morning Vista Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$2,499,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,799 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758824
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Prepare to be captivated by this beautiful Toll Brothers home, perfectly situated within the coveted gated golf community of Trilogy at Verde River. Embraced by over a half-acre of tranquility in a serene cul-de-sac, this residence offers unobstructed views of the golf course and provides a breathtaking 270-degree panoramic views of the Mazatzal Mountains, the iconic Four Peaks, Weavers Needle, Superstition Mountains and Tom's Thumb. Step inside this 3800 square feet, 3-bedroom 3-bath gem, featuring a spacious and flexible bonus room, an office with a private courtyard entrance, and a 3-car garage with additional storage space. Elegantly lofty ceilings throughout the home create a bright and spacious ambiance, while the gourmet kitchen, featuring top-of-the-line Wolf and Gaggenau appliances, oversized granite island and walk-in pantry beckons culinary enthusiasts. A grand pocket slider, featuring an externally mounted power sunshade, seamlessly blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor living and leads you to your own private oasis. Surrounded by green fairways and Desert Willow Trees you'll find a heated swimming pool with built-in spa, a raised travertine lounge area with fire pit, a built-in BBQ, and an extended covered patio that provides a perfect backdrop to unwind and enjoy the stunning Arizona sunsets. As a resident of, you will enjoy the benefits of exclusive access to an array of community amenities, including the renowned Tom Lehman-redesigned 18-hole golf course, a resort style pool area, two on-site 4-star restaurants, Pickleball and Tennis Courts, a fitness center, Bocce Ball, a dog park, and a vibrant assortment of member-led clubs spanning sports, music, arts, and travel. MAJOR PERK: A few Exclusive Private Golf Club Memberships remain!

41504 N 107th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,497,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,941 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745885
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
SEVEN GOLF MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE. Welcome to this Remodeled and fully Furnished home located in the exclusive guard-gated community of Desert Mountain. Nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac on a large lot, with ample room to add a casita, this rare find in the village of Cochise Ridge offers an expansive and private outdoor patio with negative edge pool, beautiful rock waterfall and spa overlooking the natural open space, mountains and city lights. The open floor plan residence with modern finishes that exudes elegance and comfort is ideal for both relaxed family gatherings and entertaining with a huge flat screen TV and Sonos surround sound audio. The open residence seamlessly flows from living room/great room into a fully stocked gourmet kitchen, equipped with high-end appliances, large pantry in 100+ bottle dual zone wine cooler, sleek countertops, and ample cabinetry for the culinary enthusiast. The home offers three generously sized ensuite bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom, ensuring a serene retreat for family and guests. The primary bedroom is secluded on a separate wing with a large walk-in closet, gas fireplace and private patio. Step outside to discover your personal oasis: a negative edge pool integrated with a desert rock waterfall spa offering ample patio/deck space with breathtaking views and the perfect setting for a refreshing swim or sunset cocktails. Entertain with ease in the separate outdoor BBQ and al fresco dining area, where you can host unforgettable gatherings with friends and family. Spa and Pool Equipment all New. An oversized two-car garage with epoxy floor coating, whole house water conditioning system, industrial shelving and double garage doors provides ample space for your vehicles and additional storage needs. This home is available TURNKEY including furniture, full kitchen supplies, linens, some art and more. - just bring your toothbrush. A transferrable SEVEN GOLF MEMBERSHIP is available to transfer via a separate purchase through the Desert Mountain Club. Extensive list of upgrades. New Spa New pool equipment $3500 pellet grill Newly reconditioned bbq Almost New (barely used) Furniture New AC unit New Air Handler Industrial Garage Shelving All new TV's and Sonos sound system Two wine refrigerators Large gun/valuables fire safe Original art Extensive landscape lighting Smart home controls for multi area temperature control, pool temperature and wifi weather station. Embrace the Desert Mountain lifestyle with world-class amenities, stunning natural beauty, and the privacy of a prestigious community. Make this your full-time residence or the ultimate vacation getaway.

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