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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240 W Dorado Circle Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$569,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,672 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743546
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in the highly sought-after neighborhood of Old Litchfield Park. This exceptional property offers NO HOA and is short-term rental friendly, making it an ideal choice for both homeowners and investors. The home features exquisite Spanish-inspired touches throughout, offering a unique blend of elegance and comfort. In 2024, the kitchen and bathrooms were fully remodeled with designer touches that elevate every space. The heart of the home is the spacious eat-in kitchen, perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. It boasts a walk-in pantry, a convenient pot-filler faucet over the stove, and ample space for all your culinary needs. Adjacent to the kitchen is a separate office, ideal for remote work or as a quiet study. The primary suite is a true retreat, featuring a remodeled bathroom with a large, luxurious shower that adds a touch of spa-like serenity. The living area is highlighted by a beautifully designed fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Step outside to discover two stunning new pergolas on both the front and back patios, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxation. The property also features a beautifully crafted designer side gate that enhances the home's curb appeal. The large diving pool offers a perfect oasis for relaxation and entertainment. This home has been maintained, with a newer flat roof, hot water heater, and pool pump all replaced in 2020, ensuring peace of mind for years to come. Located just a short walk from Stagg's Park, Litchfield's Lake, the Recreational Center, and the iconic Wigwam Resort, this home offers a perfect balance of luxury and convenience. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exceptional property your own!

5720 S Wildrose -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$569,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,818 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731718
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover elevated living in the stunning 55+ Encore community. This Manhattan model home is nestled on a desirable corner lot beside a tranquil park. From the moment you arrive, curb appeal captivates with lush surroundings. Inside, soaring ceilings and an extended great room create a sense of openness, while the private study offers a perfect space to unwind or work. The gourmet kitchen boasts a massive island and walk-in pantry, ideal for any culinary endeavor. Outside, relax on your extended porch or covered patio adorned with travertine, or challenge yourself on the 4-hole putting green. The 2.5 car garage, with epoxy floors and built-in cabinets, completes this thoughtfully designed retreat.

9238 E Diamond Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$569,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Oakwood Country Club - Active Adult 40/55+ / Sun Lakes Unit Thirty-four, Sun Lakes
Open House
$569,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,763 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768385
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED! Light and open single-level home with vaulted ceilings. Completely new modern kitchen with white cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances including new gas oven/range. New plank flooring throughout. 2 bedrooms plus a den/study (could be 3rd BR). 2 recently updated bathrooms. Extended 2 car garage with GOLF CART SPACE, extra storage and new epoxy floor. Home water purification system. Covered patio & spacious back yard. Brand new roof (new tiles too)!) --- Oakwood Country Club is one of Arizona's premier Active Adult communities. Guard-gated entry. 45 holes of beautifully maintained championship golf. 2 community restaurants. 7 community pools. Fitness Center. Tennis & Pickleball. Walking trails & much more! - Just move in and enjoy the Oakwood Country Club lifestyle!

2015 W Wescott Drive Phoenix, AZ 85027

$569,000 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Green Meadows No. 3, Phoenix
Open House
$569,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,779 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774277
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home in desirable North Phoenix! Featuring fresh interior paint, brand new carpeting, and upgraded kitchen countertops, this home is move-in ready. With two master bedrooms, there's plenty of space for everyone. The second floor offers a versatile space that can be used as a master suite, private apartment, perfect for guests or additional living quarters. Step outside to a lush, grassy backyard with a raised garden bed, perfect for cultivating your own vegetables, and relax in the hot tub under the shaded gazebo. With easy freeway access, this home combines convenience with comfort, making it an ideal North Phoenix retreat! 2 ACs new in 2019.

2947 N Sonoran Hills Mesa, AZ 85207

$568,995
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,087 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779124
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning open floor plan in the gated Desert Creek community at Las Sendas set on a premium lot close to the community pool! Recent upgrades including Monte Carlo fans, new tile showers, & updated main flr powder room. Full wall sliding glass doors reveal a low maintenance yard, ideal for gathering. The beautiful kitchen with stainless steel appliances & quartz countertops with abundant storage in the double stacked cabinets & walk-in pantry. Expansive primary suite features two walk-in closets, balcony & nook perfect for a home office. Second bedroom features updated ensuite full bathrm. Wood-look tile flooring throughout. Smart features include Ring cameras, August locks & Nest thermostats. The two car garage has 220v, ideal for potential EV charging, & storage with large ceiling rack. Conveniently located near the 202 freeway, shops, and restaurants, with easy access to Tonto National Forest, Salt River and Saguaro Lake. Welcome to your new home!

6428 N 190th Drive Waddell, AZ 85355

$568,990
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,229 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745700
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautiful home back towards the White Tanks Mountains on large homesite with no neighbors behind you. The beautiful Irwin floorplan has a 3 tandem garage, 3 bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. 9' ceilings, wood plank style tile floorings throughout the home, 8' interior doors, gourmet kitchen package, kitchen tile backsplash and huge island makes this home the perfect spot to entertain! This home is built zero energy ready with spray foam insulation, 2 x 6 construction and 85% offset solar system included giving you a HERS rating in the single digits! This home is ready now!

3131 N Central Avenue Unit 3016 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$568,933
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6596296
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
*Construction completed* 5% BUYER INCENTIVE! Introducing Edison Midtown Phase 2 with 60 new construction condominiums. This spacious two bedroom condo offers ten ft. ceilings, an open floor plan, and large master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Chefs kitchen offers expansive cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances including a gas range. Edison Midtown features incredible amenities for that perfect Urbanite lifestyle. A beautiful pool and lap pool, 2000 sq. ft. fitness center and lounge, and gated parking garage.

2232 E Blanche Drive Phoenix, AZ 85022

$568,500
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,826 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6736754
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller will consider contributing to buyer's loan costs and/or Interest rate buy down with the right offer! Stunning move-in ready 4-Bedroom, 2-Bathroom Home in beautiful North Phoenix with NO HOA! Welcome to this tastefully updated, turn-key residence in a quiet North Phoenix neighborhood. This home boasts four spacious bedrooms and two modern bathrooms, mountain views, offering comfort and convenience. Enjoy a fresh, contemporary interior with stylish finishes throughout. Perfectly situated close to hiking at Lookout Mountain, shopping, dining, and close freeway access, this home combines practicality with a taste of luxury. Close to Costco, Sprouts, Aldi and more! Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity!

12386 W Cassia Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

$568,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,374 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752908
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your dream home in this stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom gem. With a spacious loft and a covered patio, this home offers plenty of room to grow and entertain. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring modern finishes and a stylish herringbone pattern backsplash that adds a touch of elegance. The beautiful wood-like tile flooring in high traffic areas adds warmth and durability. The unfinished backyard has mountain view and is a blank slate, ready for you to customize and create your perfect outdoor oasis.

20323 E Happy Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$568,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,080 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6754931
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Spacious and bright 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom modular home on just over an acre of land in Queen Creek, AZ with large bedrooms, walk-in closets and large storage closets. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) installed throughout entire house in 2019. New roof installed September 2021. Acre is perimeter and cross fenced and within riding and walking distance of Santan Mountain Regional Park. 16' x 32' galvanized steel 2-stall shed row for horses and huge paver patio for outdoor enjoyment yet property is minutes away from Equestrian Center, Fry's Grocery, Fat Cats, Caldwell County BBQ and more.

2438 W Hearn Road Phoenix, AZ 85023

$568,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,344 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739186
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 2344 SQFT home has been completely renovated, featuring all-new cabinetry and quartz countertops throughout the house. The open-concept living area is perfect for entertaining, and the brand-new kitchen shines with its modern design. All bathrooms have been redone with beautiful new tile work and contemporary finishes. The four spacious bedrooms offer ample storage and natural light. Enjoy the low-maintenance landscaped yard. Conveniently located next to the I-17 and close to amenities, schools, and parks.

16612 N 151st Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$568,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,856 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6710976
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning two-story home warm and inviting from the moment you step through the door. Home featuring so many upgrades you won't believe this beauty, from exquisite diagonal tile flooring that runs throughout the entire first floor, leading into a gourmet eat-in kitchen with upgraded Cherry Wood 42-inch cabinets, granite countertops, large kitchen island, great for entertaining. The kitchen overlooks the backyard oasis with a sparkling pool. Second floor master suite with walk-out deck overlooking mountain views. Enormous master bath with garden tub and separate shower, large walk-in closet. All other bedrooms are abundant in size. Enormous game room can be converted into two extra bedrooms The home also features a downstairs office and can be converted into a fifth bedroom. We are just minutes away from schools, shopping, restaurants, Surprise Stadium-Spring Training, outdoor Recreation center, Surprise Aquatic Center, events and Festivals and hotels. You will enjoy this highly upgraded exquisite home, conveniently located few minutes away from the downtown Heritage district where the family fun begins.

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