What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – October 3, 2016

Last week’s economic releases included reports on new and pending home sales, S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Indices and regularly scheduled weekly reporting on mortgage rates and weekly jobless claims. Readings on consumer sentiment and confidence were also released.

New and Pending Home Sales Lower as Peak Sales Season Winds Down

August readings for new and pending home sales were lower than for July; analysts said that slim supplies of available homes and rising home prices contributed to slower home sales. Peak home sales typically occur during spring and summer. Homebuyers with school-aged children prefer to be settled into a new home when school starts in August and September.

According to the Commerce Department, new home sales achieved their second highest reading since the Great Recession. Although lower than July’s reading, August sales of new homes reached 609,000 on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis. Analysts expected a reading of 600,000 new home sales based on July’s reading of 659.000 new homes sold. August’s reading was 20.60 percent higher year-over-year. High demand for homes appears to be kicking home builders into higher gear as they strive to ease slim inventories of available homes.

The impact of short inventories of available homes was reflected in August’s reading for pending home sales. Home sales awaiting closing fell in August from July’s reading of +1.20 percent in July to 2.40 percent in August. The National Association of Realtors® said that home sales are declining due to very limited inventories of available homes. Rapidly rising home prices and strict mortgage qualification requirements also contributed to slipping sales. After home buyers sign a purchase contract, they are at the mercy of changing mortgage rates their ability to qualify for a mortgage. Pending home sales supply an indication of future closings and mortgage loans.

According to the S&P Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index for July, home price growth dipped from June’s seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.10 percent to 5.00 percent. Slim inventories of homes for sale and high demand were again cited as primary reasons for slower home price growth. While demand is high, slim supplies of available homes can cause would-be buyers to postpone their home search until more homes are on the market.

Mortgage Rates Fall, New Jobless Claims Rise

Mortgage rates fell across the board last week according to Freddie Mac’s weekly survey of rates. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell six basis points to 3.42 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was four basis points lower at 2.72 percent. 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages had an average rate of 1.81 percent, which was one basis point lower than the previous week’s reading Discount points were also lower and averaged 0.50 percent for fixed rate mortgages and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.

New jobless claims rose last week to 254,000 claims, but new claims were lower than the expected reading of 259,000 new claims which was based on the prior week’s reading of 251,000 new jobless claims. New jobless claims have stayed below 270,000 new claims for three months for the first time since 1973.

In prepared testimony before the Financial Services Committee, Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen discussed problems facing two major banks and said the Fed’s goal was managing its regulatory stance to support financial stability.

September’s Consumer Confidence Index reading rose to 104.1, which exceeded analysts’ estimated reading of 99.3 and August’s reading of 101.1.

What’s Next

Next week’s scheduled economic reports include readings on construction spending and several labor-related releases including ADP Payrolls, Non-Farm Payrolls and the National Unemployment Rates. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims are set for release as usual.

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24118 S Stoney Lake Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$640,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,997 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6766696
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Arizona living at its best, in the gated adult community of Oakwood! Charming Milano model featuring a 2 bedroom, 2 bath split floor plan, den, great room w/ vaulted ceilings & gas fireplace, wooden shutters, wooden blinds, tile floors and ceiling fans throughout. Interior freshly painted. Beautiful pebble finished pool w/ water feature, huge covered back patio, private courtyard entry, mature landscaping, perfect for entertaining. 2 car extended garage & separate golf cart garage located on a premium nearly 10,000 sq. ft. corner cut de sac lot. Community amenities include golf, tennis, pickleball, pools/spas, fitness center, billiards, clubs, social activities & restaurants.

16600 N Thompson Peak Parkway Unit 1057 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$640,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,890 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784770
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Contemporary & gated; RARE end unit in the highly desirable GATED community of McDowell Mountain Ranch. Near proximity to ''The Vig'', boutique restaurants and grocery store. City lights and views of Camelback from primary bedroom balcony. This is largest unit available having an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, updated windows, plantation shutters, updated polished travertine (2018), updated LVP in the 2 primary suites upstairs. Additional den & 1/2 bath on main floor. Kitchen with gas range, designer lighting and breakfast bar. Dining area has built in buffet and fireplace in great room. Lots of counter space & additional storage under staircase. 2-car epoxy floor garage. Sparkling community pool & fountain, spa, tennis courts & numerous amenities of McDowell Mountain Ranch just across the street. The Community boasts of biking trails, golf, all the dining and shopping in and around DC Ranch Beautifully maintained hard to find end unit. Smoke-free home.

26562 W Vista North Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$640,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,519 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755733
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Enjoy all the amazing features this popular Journey model has to offer AND all the wonderful amenities of the 55+ Sun City Festival community. This home features a heated, lap-style pool, owned solar, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a private den with a safe, built-in cabinets and shelving. The backyard pool area is very private with no neighbors behind the home. The kitchen area includes bow windows, SS appliances, gas cooktop, refrigerator, upgraded cabinets with roll-out trays, granite counter tops, a butler pantry and separate workspace. The owner's suite features a shower and jetted tub with split vanities and a custom walk-in closet. Bedrooms include plantation shutters. The laundry includes the washer & dryer and sink with built-in cabinets. The garage also includes built-in cabinets.

9820 E Satellite Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$640,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,145 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781511
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Fall in love with this beautiful 4 Bedroom 3 Bath single-level residence in EASTMARK! Impressive interior boasts a great open floor plan with wood-look tile flooring, a wall-mounted fireplace, and wide sliding glass doors that merge the indoor-outdoor living. Immaculate kitchen comes complete with recessed & pendant lighting, a pantry, ample white cabinetry with decorative molding, a prep island with a breakfast bar, sleek quartz counters, and glossy SS appliances. Romantic primary retreat offers a plush carpet, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Additional highlights include an open den that can double as a game room. Check out the large backyard with artificial turf, covered patio, and pavers - an ideal spot for relaxing. All this and lots of room for storage - 3CG!!

17320 E Pinnacle Vista Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$640,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,126 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731827
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Charming Single-Story Home on Over an Acre in Beautiful Rio Verde Welcome to this delightful single-story residence, nestled on just over an acre of pristine land in Rio Verde. This property has participated in the EPCOR water solution and has been thoughtfully updated to offer both modern conveniences and timeless appeal. Recent updates enhance the home's charm and functionality, including fresh interior and exterior paint, an expanded back paver patio, new artificial turf, and a fenced-in backyard. The front and rear landscaping has been designed to enhance the home's curb appeal, creating a welcoming environment for you and your guests. The gourmet kitchen is a highlight of the home, featuring top-of-the-line GE stainless steel appliances. A brand-new GE washer and dryer have also been installed, making laundry chores a breeze. The home's 2x6 construction ensures superior energy efficiency, contributing to lower utility costs and a comfortable living environment. Through participation in EPCOR's long-term water solution the property will enjoy reliable and sustainable water service. The property is also located within the SRP service area, ensuring dependable electricity. Experience the serene lifestyle of Rio Verde with this exceptional home that seamlessly blends modern updates with sustainable living. Don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of Rio Verde's charm!

8519 E Sandalwood Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$640,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,620 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6739772
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your first home in PRIME South Scottsdale! Ideally located just 2.5 miles from Scottsdale Fashion Square, Pavilions shopping, and Talking Stick Casino, this home also offers easy access to the 101 freeway for added convenience. You'll be in the sought-after Scottsdale School District, making it perfect for families or first-time buyers. Whether you're beginning your homeownership journey or growing your family, Sandalwood Dr is the perfect place to create lasting memories. Don't miss your chance—say yes to this address and make it yours today!

4254 S Winter Lane Gilbert, AZ 85297

$640,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,869 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757979
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Premium Location and corner lot right across from the park. No neighbors on 3 sides of the home. 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. There is a large bonus room with real wood flooring. Kitchen has 42 inch Cherry cabinets, kitchen island, and stainless steel appliances. Master bedroom is upstairs with a huge walk in closet, dual sinks, separate tub and shower. Two secondary bedrooms upstairs and one bedroom downstairs with a full bathroom. Epoxy flooring in the garage Beautiful backyard sitting area with view fence over looking the grassy area in the back

1019 Stone Hollow Loop Williams, AZ 86046

$640,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,633 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779116
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Imagine Living in Williams in the Exclusive Escalante Neighborhood. Your Custom Home awaits with vaulted ceilings in the open concept living room. The kitchen features an Expansive Pecan Island, recessed lights and stainless appliances, along with soft close cabinetry. The primary suite has a walk in Closet and oversized soaking tub with a separate tiled Shower. The back patio has recessed lights and open space to view the natural landscape and Large Ponderosa Forest. Situated on a large lot with mature ponderosa pines. Private National Forest Access.

1596 High Country Drive Heber, AZ 85928

$640,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,810 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6703861
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning mountain retreat in High Country Pines nestled on a heavily treed .50-acre homesite on a private cul-de-sac. This 3 BR/ 2.5 BA is more than just a home; it's a sanctuary where nature's beauty surrounds this beautiful cabin. This home boasts a great room with a wood burning fireplace embraced by floor to ceiling river rock, chiseled slab granite in the kitchen with an island, gas stove, tiled backsplash, spacious laundry room with cabinets and sink, bathrooms are stone counters, travertine tiling in the baths/shower, knotty pine interior doors and ceiling, bay windows, central heat /AC, the master has dual vanities and a private balcony. The exterior offers a 2 car garage, flagstone and a firepit. The spacious rear deck brings breathtaking treetop vistas with panoramic views.

15413 W Alexandria Way Surprise, AZ 85379

$640,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,906 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713660
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A must see. This 4-bed, 3-bath home in Marley Park! Displaying a 2-car garage, manicured landscape, & a cozy front porch. Fabulous interior features tons of natural light, designer paint, & wood-look tile flooring w/carpet in bedrooms. Discover the welcoming living room, formal dining room, and an inviting family room that opens to the kitchen! SS appliances, granite counters, a walk-in pantry, mosaic tile backsplash, a breakfast bar, & staggered cabinetry w/crown Moulding make up the culinary space. Main bedroom has outdoor access and an ensuite with two vanities, separate tub/shower, & a walk-in closet. Laundry room w/sink & cabinetry. Side patio for a morning coffee! Enjoy the entertainer's backyard with a covered patio, pavers, firepit, hot tub, & a refreshing pool & owned solar.

3424 E Wyatt Way Gilbert, AZ 85297

$640,000
5 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,094 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731650
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICE REDUCED!! HOME IN GILBERT'S DESIREABLE SAN TAN RANCH! 2 story, open concept floorplan with 5 Bedrooms +a huge Loft. Freshly painted interior with updated wood look tile throughout. The upgraded bright, white, eat in Kitchen has newer marble counters, stainless appliances with gas range & hood, farmhouse sink, island, custom tile backsplash, pantry & opens to spacious Great Room. Huge 1st level primary bedroom with separate door to backyard pool! Entertain guests in the Formal Dining Room. Upstairs find an enormous Loft & 4 very spacious Bedrooms with Hall Bath. Sparkling pool with water feature finishes off this great family home. Just needs a little more TLC & you will have an exceptional family home in a great Gilbert location for a value price!

1050 E Indigo Drive Chandler, AZ 85286

$640,000
6 Beds
3 Baths
2,634 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770445
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your new home in Lantana Ranch! This stunning 6BR/3BA is situated on a spacious and beautiful lot, complete with an RV gate. Impeccably maintained, this home boasts tile flooring throughout the first floor which includes a Living room and a family room. The open concept kitchen featuring an abundance of cabinetry and a convenient pantry for all your storage needs. One of the bedrooms is conveniently located on the ground floor next to a full bathroom, making it an ideal guest suite. Head upstairs to discover 5 additional bedrooms, including a spacious Primary bedroom with 2 walk- in closets. The secondary bedrooms offer ample space. The property also includes a 2 car garage with exceptional storage options. Step outside to your vast backyard that is perfect for entertaining with additional storage solutions. Don't miss your chance to see this remarkable home!

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