What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – October 24, 2016

Last week’s economic releases included the National Association of Home Builders’ Housing Market Index along with reports on housing starts, building permits and sales of previously owned homes. Weekly reports on new jobless claims and mortgage rates were also released.

NAHB: Builder Sentiment Dips amid High Demand for Homes

Home builder confidence in current housing market conditions dipped from September’s index reading of 65 to 63. September’s reading was the highest since the peak of the housing bubble. Any reading above 50 indicates a majority of builders surveyed are confident about housing market conditions. Building new homes is essential to relieving intense demand for homes against short supplies of homes for sale. Builders cited obstacles including low supplies of land for development and workforce shortages, but expressed confidence in overall economic conditions that affect construction and sales of new homes.

Housing Starts Fall, Building Permits Rise

According to the Commerce Department, the reading for housing starts was nine percent lower in September than for August. 1.047 million starts were reported in September on a seasonally adjusted annual basis; August’s reading showed 1.150 million starts. Monthly readings tend to fluctuate due to weather, labor and materials supplies. Single family starts provided good news with a higher annual rate of 783,000 starts; this was 8.10 percent higher than August’s reading.

More building permits were issued in September than for August. Overall, 1.225 million permits issued on an annual basis. August’s reading showed 1.152 million permits issued. Building permits for single-family homes rose to 783, 000 on an annual basis, an increase of 8.10 percent over August. September’s increase in single-family permits indicates that builders are shifting their efforts toward single-family construction instead of multi-family construction. This signifies confidence in homeownership and suggests stronger housing markets as renters become homebuyers.

Sales of PreviouslyOwned Homes Increase

The National Association of Realtors® reported that previously owned homes sold at a seasonally-adjusted annual pace of 5.47 million sales in September as compared to a rate of 5.33 million sales in August. Pre-owned home sales rebounded after slowing in July and August. Home prices rose 5.60 percent year-over-year to an average of $234,200; this was the 55th consecutive month that home prices rose.

Sales of pre-owned home sales rose in all four regions rose year-over-year from 0.90 percent in the South to 5.80 percent in the Northeast. First-time buyers accounted for 34 percent of sales, which was the highest participation rate in four years.

Mortgage Rates Higher

Freddie Mac reported higher average mortgage rates last week. 30-year fixed rates were five basis points higher at 3.52 percent. 15-year fixed rates were three basis points higher at 2.79 percent. 5/1 adjustable mortgage rates rose three basis points to 2.85 percent. Discount points rose from 0.50 to 0.60 percent for fixed rate mortgages and were unchanged at -.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.

New jobless claims were higher than expected at 260,000 claims; analysts expected 248,000 new claims to be filed based on the prior week’s reading of 247,000 new claims filed. Last week’s reading was the highest in six weeks, but analysts said that layoffs remain very low.

Whats Ahead

This week’s scheduled economic news includes Case-Shiller home price data, readings on new and pending home sales along with reports on consumer confidence. Mortgage rates and new jobless claims will be released on their regular weekly scheduled.

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8104 E Petra Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$599,490
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,264 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781580
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A collection of brand-new single-family homes located in the master-planned community in Mesa, AZ. The community feeds into the highly rated Gilbert Public School District, making this an ideal place for growing households. There are many onsite amenities at the masterplan everyone will enjoy, including a swimming pool, basketball court, pickleball court, playground and picnic area. Commuters have easy access to Loop 202 and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport for travel accommodations. This beautiful home features our platinum package including Sonoma Maple Linen Cabinets and quartz countertops. Super luxury 8 x 36 tile flooring. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website.

20305 W Turney Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$599,343 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Victory At Verrado Villas, Buckeye
New
$599,343
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,705 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6788262
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautifully designed Copeland plan features our signature Loft-inspired 'Looks' collection, offering a cohesive and sophisticated interior design. The great room boasts a 12' multi-slider leading to a spacious covered patio, perfect for indoor/outdoor living. The kitchen shines with a large island, pendant lighting, quartz countertops, subway tile backsplash, and GE Profile stainless steel appliances, including a wall oven. Retreat to the exquisite primary suite with double walk-in closets and a resort-style bath featuring a no-step shower with a rain shower head and double vanity. Wood-look tile flooring, ceiling fans, blinds, and Solar are all included. Don't miss your chance to make this gem yours! ***Up to $20K can be applied towards closing cost OR short / long term interest rate buydowns when choosing our preferred Lender. Additional eligibility and limited time restrictions apply

286 E Citrus Hollow Way Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$599,132
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,678 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6644003
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to a brand new Valletta model. It has an expansive layout and this home is illuminated by an abundance of natural light. The kitchen stands fully equipped with modern stainless steel appliances and elegant granite countertops. With a culinary connoisseur's dream at its heart, including a gas cooktop, it's an ideal setting for hosting and delighting your guests. Both bathrooms have undergone exquisite upgrades, featuring tile surrounds and elevated fixtures. A few upgrades include quartz countertops at kitchen and bathrooms, huge sliding door at patio, gourmet kitchen appliances and a large smart space. Start living the good life at Encanterra today!

7450 E Continental Mountain Estates Drive Unit 1 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$599,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,252 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6723737
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New co-ownership opportunity: Own 1/8 of this turnkey home, professionally managed by Pacaso. Soak up desert views in this gated mountaintop retreat with a wrap-around balcony & walls of glass. Sleek, contemporary architecture creates seamless indoor-outdoor living, starting in the spacious great room. The gourmet kitchen has stainless steel appliances & a quartz waterfall island. The dining table & executive bar make entertaining easy, as does the cooled whiskey and wine room. The primary suite features a fireplace, wine fridge & doors to the patio. The en suite bathroom has a soaking tub, tiled shower, dual sinks & a makeup vanity. An office & game room opens to the infinity pool & patio. The home, which includes an elevator, comes fully furnished & professionally decorated.

7450 E Continental Mountain Estates Drive Unit 2 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$599,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,252 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6723860
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New co-ownership opportunity: Own 1/8 of this turnkey home, professionally managed by Pacaso. Soak up desert views in this gated mountaintop retreat with a wrap-around balcony & walls of glass. Sleek, contemporary architecture creates seamless indoor-outdoor living, starting in the spacious great room. The gourmet kitchen has stainless steel appliances & a quartz waterfall island. The dining table & executive bar make entertaining easy, as does the cooled whiskey and wine room. The primary suite features a fireplace, wine fridge & doors to the patio. The en suite bathroom has a soaking tub, tiled shower, dual sinks & a makeup vanity. An office & game room opens to the infinity pool & patio. The home, which includes an elevator, comes fully furnished & professionally decorated.

7450 E Continental Mountain Estates Drive Unit 3 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$599,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,252 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6723861
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New co-ownership opportunity: Own 1/8 of this turnkey home, professionally managed by Pacaso. Soak up desert views in this gated mountaintop retreat with a wrap-around balcony & walls of glass. Sleek, contemporary architecture creates seamless indoor-outdoor living, starting in the spacious great room. The gourmet kitchen has stainless steel appliances & a quartz waterfall island. The dining table & executive bar make entertaining easy, as does the cooled whiskey and wine room. The primary suite features a fireplace, wine fridge & doors to the patio. The en suite bathroom has a soaking tub, tiled shower, dual sinks & a makeup vanity. An office & game room opens to the infinity pool & patio. The home, which includes an elevator, comes fully furnished & professionally decorated.

7450 E Continental Mountain Estates Drive Unit 4 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$599,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
6,252 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6723862
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New co-ownership opportunity: Own 1/8 of this turnkey home, professionally managed by Pacaso. Soak up desert views in this gated mountaintop retreat with a wrap-around balcony & walls of glass. Sleek, contemporary architecture creates seamless indoor-outdoor living, starting in the spacious great room. The gourmet kitchen has stainless steel appliances & a quartz waterfall island. The dining table & executive bar make entertaining easy, as does the cooled whiskey and wine room. The primary suite features a fireplace, wine fridge & doors to the patio. The en suite bathroom has a soaking tub, tiled shower, dual sinks & a makeup vanity. An office & game room opens to the infinity pool & patio. The home, which includes an elevator, comes fully furnished & professionally decorated.

5618 W Hardtack Trail Laveen, AZ 85339

$599,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,971 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775155
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You'll FALL IN LOVE The Moment You Step Into This Grand Entrance With 2 STORY HIGH CEILINGS*NEUTRALPalette*Lots Of TILE Flooring*CLOVER Plan Has Room For Everyone*8 FT. Interior DOORS*GREAT Room W/Sliders+Open To ISLAND KITCHEN Featuring GRANITE Counters,42'' BIRCH Cabinets, GAS Stove,WALK-IN Pantry, SS Refrigerator STAYS*Formal DINING For Fun Gatherings*1BR/BA Down*Staircase Opens To LOFT*PRIMARY Suite Has PRIVATE BATH W/Separate Tub+Shower, WALK-IN Closet*Secondary Bedrooms Have MOUNTAIN VIEWS+Walk-In Closets*FLEX Room In Lieu Of 3rd Car*Extended PATIO*Backyard Is Ready For Your DESIGN+CREATIVITY*4 FT Garage EXTENSION*Xtra Insulation*Greenbelt 3 Doors Away*PLAYGROUND Around The Corner*SCHOOL Right Down The Street*Easy FREEWAY Access*LIKE NEW Condition*THE PERFECT PLACE TO CALL HOME!!

9374 W Sandstone Mountain Drive Casa Grande, AZ 85194

$599,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,425 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785934
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning New 2024 home features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a dedicated office, along with a spacious 3-car garage, all set on a full-acre lot in a highly sought-after area just minutes from I-10. Experience the open & inviting layout designed to make the most of every square foot. The kitchen shines with elegant Shaker-style white cabinets, luxurious Quartz countertops, modern stainless steel appliances & pantry. Relax in the bright Great room, which offers flexible options for dining or entertainment. Stylish neutral tile flows through the main high-traffic areas, while cozy carpeting enhances the bedrooms. Retreat to the expansive Primary suite, complete with a primary bathroom featuring a walk-in shower. Other features include fully fenced yard with block walls. Back shady patio and an expansive enclosed back yard with endless possibilities. HOA permits R.V.'s, Boats and other recreational vehicles for a low 30 per month. This treasure is ready for immediate occupancy.

2118 E Voltaire Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85022

$599,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,754 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772448
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
The Agave - A rare combination of Space, Style, Quality, and Value where Design Matters. Be inspired by the warm tones and natural textures of the desert where the Sagebrush and Adobe interior color schemes boldly echo the beauty of The Agave. Modern, Flat-Panel Kitchen Cabinetry in Matte color-ways, Solid-surface, Spa-Inspired Flat-Panel vanity cabinets in natural-wood tone finishes in Bathrooms. Standard LVT flooring installed in the entire home, Quartz Countertops and Tile shower surrounds. Standard Accent painted interior doors and jambs for a bold, effortless design touch. Ceiling fans included as well as EV prewire. The Wren showcases a generous backyard and second floor deck to bring the outside in.

10556 S 297th Avenue Palo Verde, AZ 85343

$599,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,312 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6666831
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home! This stunning semi-custom residence spans over 2,300 sqft and is nestled on a generous 1-acre lot, free from HOA restrictions. Inside, you'll find a beautifully designed split floor plan featuring 4 spacious bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Each room offers direct bathroom access with premium showers, ensuring comfort and convenience for everyone. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with SS appliances and elegant finishes. Step outside to enjoy the charm and privacy provided by the farm-style fencing. We warmly invite all buyers and buyer's agents to tour this remarkable property. Experience unmatched elegance and comfort!

4380 W Eagle Street Show Low, AZ 85901

$599,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,632 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730924
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the beauty of White Mountain living in this furnished cabin located in the exclusive Eagle Mountain Estates. Built in 2020, this home showcases exceptional craftsmanship throughout its 3-bedroom, 2-bath layout. Set on a naturally landscaped lot with engineered drainage for peace of mind, this cabin offers oversized covered porches both in the front and back—ideal for taking in the serene surroundings and outdoor living year round. Inside, you'll find splendid features including granite countertops, custom cabinets, and elegant tile work. The vaulted ceilings add a sense of spaciousness to the home. Located in a peaceful, gated community, this cabin provides a perfect blend of tranquility and stylish amenities. Welcome home!

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