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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6044 E Hodges Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$1,890,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,025 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6726429
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful (like new-seasonal owners)! Fantastic Black Mountain views and large NAOS area. Four bedrooms, 3.5 bath, full guest suite/casita with separate entrance, 3-car garage, putting green, pool, spa! Grassed and rock entrance. Courtyard and gate to covered porch. Separate entrance to Guest Suite/Casita from porch. Guest suite/casita has living area, bedroom, full bath and walk-in closet. The foyer at entry into main home has over-sized office/den with double glassed doors on one side and formal dining room on the other side. Dining room has butler's pantry with beverage cooler, glass top cabinetry fronts and wet bar. Powder room off this area. Large beautiful chef's open kitchen design. Lots of rich cabinetry and granite counters. Click the More tab for more information. Large island has bookend design with step-up counter for private prep/clean-up. Designer pendants over island. Built-in SS refrigerator, wall microwave and oven, gas range top with stainless range hood. Walk-in pantry. Breakfast/dining nook area. Great split primary bedroom plan. Primary bedroom large with dual walk-in closets and convenient oversized laundry room off largest closet. Primary bathroom is spa paradise. Walk up soaking tub and walk-in shower with partial glass enclosure. Dual vanities. Opposite side of house has remaining bedrooms. Second bedroom has mountain views and bathroom with walk-in closet. Third and Fourth bedroom have connecting full bathroom. Garage entrance to home has valet area for electronic/technology drop and coat hang/shoe change area. Garage has cabinetry for additional storage. Back and side yards beautifully landscaped with grass (both real and artificial), a putting area, pool, spa, multiple seating areas including firepit area, patio with seating and dining, travertine paving, RV gate and NAOS plus gorgeous mountain views! Fabulous home!

6405 N 75th Avenue Glendale, AZ 85303

$1,890,000
3 Beds
1 Bath
1,904 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6633881
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Property is currently zoned for R-1 Max 3.525 units/dwellings per acre Can be subdivided for high density allowing for smaller lot sizes. Rezoning is not a requirement for high density Rezoning would be required for multi-family and a pre-application meeting is required. Great investment opportunity for multi-family or multi housing, rezoning would be required. The main entrance is from 75th Avenue. This property is the perfect opportunity for multifamily development, a rehabilitation center, the possibilities for capital gains are endless! Main home will need to be demolished per seller's instructions.

5178 W Encanto Paseo Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$1,890,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
5,158 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725778
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning 5,158sqft custom home exemplifies luxurious living and beautiful design. Perched on an acre corner lot inside a private, gated community. A huge 4+ car garage with AC complements the modern design. The main living areas unfold with an open-concept living room, dining area, and gourmet kitchen. High-end appliances, custom cabinetry, and a generous island define your culinary experience. A sunken gazebo with an outdoor kitchen offers secluded relaxation, a well appointed outdoor kitchen, and sheltered design ensuring year-round enjoyment, The detached RV car garage with AC for multiple vehicles and ample space for grown up toys. Thoughtful design and high-end finishes throughout ensure comfort and elegance, perfect for both quiet retreats and lavish entertaining.

14048 E Harmony Lane Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$1,885,742
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,927 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6735409
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Under Construction - Step in to luxury at it's finest! Enjoy stunning views from the moment you walk in, the open concept kitchen, dining and great room with soaring 13' high ceilings and 20' wide by 10' high sliding doors overlook the Adero Canyon landscape. The primary bedroom offers a tranquil setting as you watch the sun rise and set with 12' sliding doors to enhance your view. Two additional ensuite bedrooms offer private space for family or friends. Make this home your on as there is still the opportunity to select interior finishes at our Scottsdale Design Studio.

6711 E Camelback Road Unit 3 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,885,000 - 3Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Pavoreal, Scottsdale
New
$1,885,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,240 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759570
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This stunning Santa Fe style townhome in the highly sought-after Pavoreal community showcases timeless upgrades that match the character and charm of this special architecture. The newer modern custom kitchen is the heart of the home. The great room includes a living/dining area with a wet bar and wine cooler, perfect for entertaining guests. Featuring 2 fireplaces, 2 primary suites, and a large third bedroom, this offers flexible living spaces to suit your needs. Each bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and lots of closet space.Outside, enjoy a relaxing water feature in the rear patio, providing a peaceful retreat within the heart of downtown Scottsdale just minutes from the Phoenician Resort and Spa. Pavoreal is guard-gated for added security and is just a short walk to Fashion Square.

12746 E Casitas Del Rio Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,880,995
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,599 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6707716
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
NEW CONSTRUCTION - ESTIMATED COMPLETION DECEMBER 2024, Modern, Desert Contemporary style architecture! This open 3bdr/3.5bth/Study floor plan offers ample space for entertaining. The Caullins' welcoming covered entry and inviting foyer lead to the spacious great room and dining room, with views of the large covered patio beyond that opens to natural area open space. The well-designed kitchen is equipped with a large center island with breakfast bar, plenty of counter and cabinet space, and ample dual pantries. The beautiful primary bedroom suite is highlighted by a huge walk-in closet and deluxe primary bath with dual-sink vanity, large soaking tub, luxe glass-enclosed shower and private water closet. Landscape includes spool, outdoor kitchen and fire feature.

2748 E Hummingbird Way Gilbert, AZ 85297

$1,880,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,092 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728237
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Elegance Redefined - Nestled in the heart of a serene neighborhood of Whitewing at Germann Estates, this exquisite residence boasts an architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends modern luxury with timeless charm. As you enter through the grand entrance, you're greeted by a breathtaking courtyard that sets the tone for the opulent experience that awaits. The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, a culinary haven equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, sleek quartz countertops, and a spacious island that invites social gatherings. The open-plan living area, bathed in natural light, features soaring ceilings and a chic fireplace, creating an ambiance of warmth and sophistication. Retreat to the primary suite, a sanctuary of tranquility with its private bathroom that offers a spa-like experience where a soaking tub and rain shower await to wash away the stresses of the day. The finishes and thoughtful design create a space that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Each bedroom is complete with en suites, providing the ultimate in comfort and convenience. The den and/or craft room is complete with built in cabinets and shelves. The flex room is a perfect place to turn into any space that you seem fit with its endless possibilities, along with all the natural light that pours in, and access to another outside patio. Outside to the backyard oasis - an entertainer's dream with a sparkling pool, spa, an outdoor shower that adds a touch of indulgence, perfect for cooling down on warm summer days or rinsing off after a dip in the pool. An entertaining space, along with plenty of open space to truly make it your own. This home is not just a dwelling but a statement of luxury and comfort. It's where every detail is meticulously crafted to offer an unparalleled living experience. Make it yours and live the life you've always dreamed of.

12835 N 78th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,878,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731232
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This charming home in Buenavante boasts an airy open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, tons of natural light & positive energy. The kitchen features a walk-in pantry, a large island with tons of storage & induction stove, with a spacious patio door offering views of the pool. The formal dining area is adorned with a stunning light fixture, a cozy fireplace, and a well-appointed bar. The primary bathroom includes a shower/tub combo & custom vanity, while two other bathrooms have been tastefully renovated. All bedrooms are a great size. Home has new AC units, fresh paint, laundry room & more. The large yard is perfect for entertaining with a pebble tec pool, hot tub, & a covered patio with porch swings & fans. The front has covered porch, new landscape & 2 Car garage w/ Tesla charger.

24235 W Pinnacle Vista Lane Wittmann, AZ 85361

$1,875,000
6 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,299 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750049
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Arizona RANCH ESTATE... Spectacular five- plus acre property with main house, guest house and four-plus car garage. Fully fenced and landscaped, this home offers so much to you. The main house is four bedrooms and three- and one-half baths, with two office/dens, large living room, dining room and spacious kitchen. Totaling 4,760 square feet. The adjacent guest house, 1,539 square feet, offers two bedrooms, two baths and a spacious great room. Large, storage ready garage, accommodates four cars, plus extra space. Add to all this, the covered patio area, basketball court, gardens, paved circular drive and fencing and you have an estate. Bring your horses! Or Airbnb? Or family estate?

11457 E Blanche Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,875,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,806 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747568
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Magnificently remodeled home is located 1.1 miles up the mountain on a peaceful cul-de-sac, in prestigious 24 hour/day guard-gated Cimarron Hills - within the highly desirable master planned community of McDowell Mountain Ranch. Upon entering the gated courtyard is a tranquil waterfall and entrance to the beautiful and private attached guest casita with en-suite bath. The luxurious custom Water-Jet Marble floor in the foyer, welcomes you as enter this spacious, open floor plan. Upgrades include White Oak Hardwood Flooring throughout the home, Thermador kitchen appliances, gas cook-top, custom oversized island, new Hunter Douglas automated blinds, 54'' linear fireplace, custom floor to ceiling blackout drapes in the spacious primary bedroom with high-end plumbing and fixtures, freestanding tub, marble vanities & shower in the spa-like primary retreat. The breakfast nook overlooks the waterfall of the lagoon style aqua, pool/spa. The outdoor resort-like retreat also includes mountain views from the patio, new BBQ, firepit, synthetic grass, and new power retractable awning off the primary bedroom for a cabana like feel. NEW A/C unit 8/24. Amazing MMR amenities, Community Center with workout room, pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, Aquatic Center. Conveniently located to walking trails, MMR golf, shopping, restaurants, freeway and 27 minutes to Sky Harbor Airport. MUST-SEE!

7180 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 1015 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,875,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,698 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6697955
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Luxurious upgraded 2-bed, 2-bath condo. This immaculately maintained residence boasts high ceilings (10 feet) and floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of the McDowell Mountains. The spacious 'L' shaped kitchen showcases natural stone countertops, Bosch appliances, wine fridge, ample prep space, generous storage, and lengthy counter-height breakfast bar. Conveniently located within walking distance to Kierland Commons and the Scottsdale Quarter. Property offers the ultimate in lock-n-leave luxury living. Incredible amenities include 2 hot tubs, cold plunge, heated lap pool, outdoor kitchen, BBQ areas, business center, professional-style fitness center, running track, pet washing room, sports courts, coffee bar, event space, conference room, and large-screen TVs throughout.

37203 N Never Mind Trail Carefree, AZ 85377

$1,875,000
3 Beds
4 Baths
3,302 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752835
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning remodeled Carefree home on nearly 2 acres. Panoramic views! Gated courtyard entry. Step inside and you see the great room layout and more views. The living area is spacious, has a gas fireplace, formal eating area and collapsing panel doors to bring the outside in. This perfect kitchen is gorgeous and has Quartz counters, double wall ovens, a gas stove, walk in pantry and a built in wine refrigerator. The main house has a primary suite, 2nd bedroom and bonus/den. The primary suite is split from the other rooms for privacy. The attached guesthouse has a full kitchen, fireplace, separate bedroom and a laundry area. The back patio has a large dining area, Mexican tiled swimming pool, lots of deck area and views. 3 car garage. Large circular driveway. This home is a must see.

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