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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41225 N 253rd Avenue Morristown, AZ 85342

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,456 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772930
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Discover the perfect blend of modern living and western charm in this 2021-built home, situated on a sprawling 3.9-acre horse property in Morristown, AZ. With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this home offers an open, inviting floor plan and mountain views from every angle. Horse enthusiasts will love the six spacious horse pens, all equipped with power and water supply, along with a convenient round pen for training. Enjoy serene evenings on the covered patio, taking in the picturesque surroundings. This property not only provides a tranquil rural lifestyle but also the opportunity for future development, as it can be split. Whether you're looking to expand or create a custom space, the possibilities are endless. Great opportunity to own a move-in ready home on prime horse property just a short drive from the conveniences of town!

279 S Lyman Court Casa Grande, AZ 85194

$595,000 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in S25 T6s R7e, Casa Grande
New
$595,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,382 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787541
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
''SMOKING HOT DEAL ON A STUNNING CUSTOM HOME W/ BRAND NEW HVAC, This Luxurious Custom 4 Bdrm/3 Bath/ 3 Car Garage Home is Situated on a Fully Block Fenced, Cul- De Sac, FLOOD IRRIGATED 1.25 Acre Corner Lot, In A Popular, Custom Home Only, Horse Friendly, Community w/ NO HOA & Just 6 Miles From the 1-10 Freeway & Shopping Mall! Boasting Gorgeous Mountain Views, Amazing Sunrises & Sunsets, As Well As A Gorgeous Desert Scaped Backyard w/ Extended Patio, & Upgraded Screen Covering That Shades The Perfect Play & Picnic Area (Accented w/ Turf) & Still Offering space for Livestock, Gardening, Tractors & Trailers, As It Also Has a Full Circular Gravel Drive w/ Room For a Workshop or Pool & PAID OFF SOLAR PANELS!

23851 W Tether Trail Surprise, AZ 85387

$595,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,432 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741026
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Over 4 Acres of Horse Property with NO HOA. This beautiful home features a spacious floor plan with 4 bedrooms + den, 3 baths, (jack n jill bed/bath), front room, living room (with built in mini bar), dining room, & large kitchen with a sky light, lots of cabinets and an island. The master bath has separate shower and jetted soaking garden tub and double sinks. The den has a dual entrance to front room and the master bedroom (great for a private office or workout room) Also a detached 3 car garage and RV gate. Bring your horses, toys & RV's. 3 sheds out back by the covered horse stalls that are staying with the property. Enjoy country living and amazing views. This sale consists of 2 lots each is aprx 2 acres. Each lot has a share in the shared well. Don't miss out on this one.

16846 W Molly Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$595,000 - 6Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Sunrise Parcel B, Surprise
Open House
$595,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
3,029 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772326
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare opportunity in fast growing Surprise, Arizona - 2023 built Landsea home with **ATTACHED CASITA** complete with private entrance and exit perfect for renting, out of state guests, or multi generational living. Tired of waiting on long build times for new construction? This energy efficient, move in ready house is your solution! With over $75K in upgrades including chefs kitchen, luxury cabinetry, upgraded tile flooring, tons of Smart Home features and open concept layout, this will be the perfect place for gatherings and entertaining with plenty of space for everyone. When you combine all of this with an incredible location in the Sunrise community lined with parks, trails, and plenty of open space, this one has everything you need!

3556 E Shedd Road Eloy, AZ 85131

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,600 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6634975
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Farm property with 12.91 irrigated acres. Great for growing hay or for irrigated pastures. The 3 bedroom 2 bath ground set manufactured home offers views of the Picacho Mountains with full length covered patios front and rear. The large modern kitchen includes island and hanging pan rack, custom cabinets, extra wide refrigerator, stainless steel appliances, and walk in pantry. The great room has vaulted ceilings and pellet burning wood stove. The master suite comes with separate shower and tub, walk in closet. The tall hay barn allows for plenty of hay storage and includes RV space with its own septic. The separate 2 car garage/workshop provides plenty of work space, and two 40' Connex boxes with space in between for a vehicle provide extra storage. All served by 400 amp service.

706 E Washington Street Unit 105 Phoenix, AZ 85034

$595,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,876 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6686087
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Are you a sports fan? Want to live closer to work, college or the airport in downtown Phoenix? This is your chance! This townhouse is in the heart of it all! Just a few minutes away from Chase Stadium sporting events, museums, fine dining, light rail and more. This home consists of 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and 2 car tandem garage. At 1,876 sf townhome has unique side yard for pets - rare find in the downtown area. The home has 20' ceilings, large loft and a balcony outside Master bedroom with exceptional views of the city. The kitchen boasts upgraded cabinets with beautiful hardware, stainless steel appliances and separate laundry room. THIS IS A RARE FIND!

5435 W Michigan Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$595,000 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Union Hills 1, Glendale
New
$595,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,325 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787935
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home to Michigan Avenue in the sought after Miramonte 1 neighborhood. This gorgeous four-bedroom, three-bathroom, three car garage home is ready for its next family. Curb appeal starts the experience here, from the mature tree to the river rock ''river'', and the welcoming front patio area, just by pulling up you will begin to feel right at home. Head inside and you will walk into an impressive foyer area with a tiled mosaic inlay. From this spot you can head into the first of two living room spaces and formal dining room area. The vaulted ceiling space is bright and airy while natural lighting streams through the large windows. Off the dining room area, you will head into a combo eat-in kitchen and family room area. CONTINUED The kitchen boasts a plethora of kitchen cabinets that is perfect for storage, modern slate appliances, undermount sink, and a gas stove! The family room has a stoned fireplace that is perfect for cozy fires as the weather cools down. The first floor has a full bath with a bedroom as well. Head upstairs and you will step onto the landing with large built in cabinet system that will be perfect all your linens. Two similarly sized rooms, one with a walk-in closet, share a recently updated Jack and Jill bathroom with double sinks, updated modern lightening and classy gray/white cabinetry and marble countertop combination. Head into the master suite and prepare to relax. Enter through a double door entrance and you step into a vaulted area space that is filled with sunshine. The attached recently remodeled en suite was made with relaxation in mind. The massive walk-in shower includes a marble bench. The same modern cabinet and countertop scheme carries into the master en suite. The walk-in closet is also conveniently with in this space. Let's head outside under the covered patio to enjoy the low maintenance backyard space. Desert landscaping adds the perfect splash of color while ensuring that you will not be spending all weekend taking care of the yard. The patio leads right to the crystal blue pool and spa area. A mature tree provides shade to the back of the house and there is even an open area that would be perfect for a swing set or just for kids and pets to play in. This house had both AC's and the roof replaced four years ago. They have also remodeled the bathrooms, done updates on the pool, and gotten a new water heater. This house has been loved and well maintained.

8053 E Natal Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,995 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773042
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This gorgeous home has a true deep 3 car garage. The kitchen overlooks a large, vaulted living room and dining room. The kitchen also is vaulted and shows upgraded cabinets, quarts countertops, breakfast bar, designer tile backsplash, upgraded stainless steel appliances and much more. 24'' designer tile flooring in all traffic areas. Newer roof and A/C.

6401 W Campbell Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85033

$595,000
8 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,460 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6743583
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Take a look at this remodel home with new appliances, A/C, Windows, doors, bathrooms vanities and much more. This property consists of three separate living spaces. Two of 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom and two bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Each unit has its own private entrance and separate back yard for each unit. This is good opportunity for someone that would like to generate some income that will pay for the mortgage and possible have some cash flow. Seller has two prospective tenants paying $2,200 a month for each unit.

2446 W Myopia Drive Anthem, AZ 85086

$595,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
1,686 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768948
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Walking distance to Persimmon clubhouse. 3 bedroon 3 bath includes an oversized casita for guests. Meticulously kept & highly upgraded. Spacious great room floorplan w/ Plantation Shutters. Custom neutral paint, ceiling fans, tile & carpet flooring throughout. Kitchen has granite counters & built in microwave with breakfast bar, pantry, lots of storage, & Water Softener. Master Bedroom with Large Walk-In Closet, remodeled shower, dual vanities. Interior laundry has plenty of room for extra storage. The resort style backyard has a heated pool with jets. Pavers in all the right places. The rear yard offers tranquil surroundings and is perfect for enjoying the serene natural beauty of the desert. Wash lot offers breathtaking views of Daisy Mountain

5 Clawson Avenue Bisbee, AZ 85603

$595,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
3,232 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773436
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Historic Four Plex in the Heart of Old Bisbee. Two 1,000 sq ft Two Bedroom Units and Two 800 sq ft One Bedroom Units, with Original Hardwood Flooring, Built-Ins, High Ceilings, and French Doors, leading to the vast Front Porch and Balcony. Solid Allan Block construction, built in 1917 as Saint Joseph's Convent, now operating as a popular Vacation Rental. With Separate Kitchens and newer Mini-Splits for efficient Heating and Cooling.

13484 N 103rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$595,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,614 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6774781
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home, featuring everything you need for relaxation and comfort. The cozy fireplace creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere inside, while the backyard is a true oasis. Enjoy the sparkling pool and spa, perfect for unwinding or entertaining, with a spacious covered patio providing shade for year-round outdoor living. Whether you are hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet evenings at home, this property offers the ideal blend of indoor comfort and outdoor enjoyment. Ready for you to move in and start making memories!

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