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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4077 S Sabrina Drive Unit 71 Chandler, AZ 85248

$585,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,775 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768414
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning home in the Echelon At Ocotillo Community in South Chandler. This end unit boasts an abundance of natural light and windows creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Well laid pavers in the front patio make it a great place to sit and watch the sunset. The gourmet kitchen includes quartz counter tops, new upgraded LG smart appliances with refrigerator connected to the RO for water, regular ice and craft ice spheres, plus lower kitchen cabinets & pantry with convenient pull outs. Smart home system with ring doorbell, programmable thermostats and smart garage door opener. One bedroom and full bath on the first level, three bedrooms and two bath rooms on the second level. Walk-in shower in master bathroom. Additional features, ceiling fans, steel security front door, full driveway with two car garage. Community amenities include a playground , gorgeous community pool and spa for your enjoyment. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this house your new home.

7807 E Mckinley Street Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$585,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,590 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6768199
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
It's just a short drive to Old Town, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Step inside this beautifully decorated home featuring wood-look floors and an inviting great room bathed in natural light. The sleek kitchen is a culinary delight, with abundant cabinets, stainless appliances, a stylish tile backsplash, ample counter space, and a convenient breakfast bar. Retreat to the main suite, which offers direct access to the serene backyard, a private bathroom with stylish tiles, and a spacious walk-in closet. The backyard offers a covered patio, artificial turf, and plenty of space for fun barbecues and gatherings. Within walking distance of the Salt Cellar, McKellips Lake, and Scottsdale parks. Don't miss this opportunity! Make it yours today!

5831 W Pine Cove Prescott, AZ 86305

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,057 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772452
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home tucked away on a serene, pine-covered .93 acre lot in Highland Pines. Offering 2,057 sq. ft. of living space, this mountain retreat features a great room with soaring ceilings, rustic wood accents, and a cozy wood-burning stove. The dining room's wall of windows provides breathtaking views of the surrounding pines. Step outside onto the deck to take in the panoramic scenery. Additional amenities include a one-car garage, asphalt driveway, brick paver paths, and a fenced dog run. This home is truly a peaceful getaway in the Pines with modern comforts!

1354 W Nido Avenue Mesa, AZ 85202

$585,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,616 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769367
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home in sought after community of Dobson Ranch!! This beautifully designed 4-bedroom residence offers a perfect blend of comfort and style, ideal for those seeking spacious living with community amenities. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an inviting open floor plan that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating a warm atmosphere for gatherings and entertaining. This home provides trending designs with remodeled bathrooms, remodeled kitchen, and new LVP flooring throughout the home. Dobson Ranch is a sought after Southeast Valley community boasting 1 of the best municipal golf clubs in the City and this home Just doors away from the Dobson Community La Casita rec Center. HVAC 2023, Roof 2010.

3609 E Ludlow Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,530 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773988
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*Location* Location* Right off the 51 freeway and Thunderbird Rd., this home will not disappoint! Fully remodeled down to the drywall finish this home has endless new features such as low maintenance landscape with new synthetic grass, new flooring throughout, full bathroom remodel, complete kitchen remodel, low energy LED lighting throughout, double pane windows, and new appliances!! Don't hesitate, don't delay, seller is ready to sell!

10952 W Tropicana Circle Sun City, AZ 85351

$585,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,196 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776995
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf course lot! Completely renovated and move-in ready. Open floor plan with formal dining room, spacious kitchen open to great room, 3 bedrooms plus den, 3 baths, 2 car garage. Highly upgraded with plank tile flooring t/o, carpet in bedrooms, custom cabinets, Quartz counter tops, Stainless steel appliances including fridge, and wine fridge, breakfast bar, pendent lights, tile back splash. New light and plumbing fixtures, new interior and exterior paint, dual pane windows. Master suite offers his and hers walk-in closets, double sinks. Inside laundry, oversized utility room with golf cart parking, epoxy garage flooring, new garage door, new gas water heater, roof 2008, HVAC 2012. Home warranty!

5434 W Parsons Road Phoenix, AZ 85083

$585,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,446 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779298
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
PRICE REDUCED! Entertain friends or sit and read in the front room with its soaring ceilings. The great room is the natural setting for watching tv or hanging out. The kitchen is stunning with a tile backsplash, granite countertops, staggered cupboards, large walk-in pantry, SS appliances, gas stove, and a breakfast bar. There is new carpet throughout that complements the tile. Notice the closets everywhere! Just past the kitchen is a full bathroom and 4th bedroom/office, a perfect guest suite or work area. Dining area. Epoxied garage floor. Upstairs find 3 bedrooms and a loft area perfect for a play area, tv area, or work space. The huge primary bedroom with 2 walkin closets is separated from bedroom 2 &3 by the loft and upstairs laundry. Artificial turf & pavers in yard. Great location

2704 E Fairmount Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

$585,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,580 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731098
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully upgraded 4-bedroom home in the sought-after Biltmore/Arcadia Lite area! This move-in ready home features a new roof, HVAC, water heater, and stylish Vinyl Lux flooring. The remodeled kitchen and wet bar are perfect for entertaining, with farm doors adding charm. The large lot with no HOA includes a backyard with alley access and a detached garage, ideal for a workshop or potential ADU for rental income or extra space. Minutes from top dining and shopping, this home offers modern living and endless possibilities.

4906 S Bannock Avenue Sierra Vista, AZ 85650

$585,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
3,946 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6705022
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is it! Come home from a long day to this incredible property with million dollar mountain views and breathtaking sunsets! Far enough out of town to enjoy peace but with easy access to downtown Sierra Vista. Two of the bedrooms are easily used as a separate studio with its own kitchenette and entrance if desired. The peaceful koi pond features several large koi. The backyard patio comes with the inground pool we all crave during hot summer BBQ. Enjoy bird watching, hiking, views of the famous Carr Canyon waterfall & the nighttime sky! Bonus detached workshop! Whether it's peace, creativity or practicality you crave, this house has it all, it is so unique that you'll really have to come see the character and comfort that it offers! Welcome home.

514 E Orion Street Tempe, AZ 85283

$585,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,032 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767891
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand New Full remodel! 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in the desirable Tempe area with a private pool! This property features a brand new kitchen with a huge kitchen island that will keep everyone in together, perfect for casual dining or entertaining guests. All of the ceilings have been raised with new flush mount LED ceiling lights, Brand new doors and hardware, Brand New Windows, Brand New bathrooms with New vanities! The additional extension of the back of the house with a corner made of glass keeps you cool while enjoying full view of those in the pool! The outdoor space boasts beautifully updated low water landscaping, providing a serene setting for relaxation by the pool. Keep your cars out of the heat with the two car garage. It also has a very large laundry/craft room. Don't miss out

9409 E Nacoma Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$585,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,443 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713360
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Pride of ownership is apparent in this 3 bedroom, 3 bath home in the gated active adult community of Oakwood CC. The casita with separate entrance provides flexibility for guests, a home office or exercise studio. Entertain in the great room or family room with adjacent kitchen and breakfast nook. Granite counters, SS appliances, newer paint and hardware with loads of cupboard space. Retire to the primary suite with patio access, walk in closet, dual split sinks and separate shower and tub. Guests will appreciate the spacious bedroom with walk in closet and nearby bath. New AC in 2021. Newer wood look tile flooring with some carpeted areas. You'll love the large picture windows and slider leading to the backyard with expanded covered patio and lush landscaping. See upgrade list.

1246 E Laguna Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$585,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,865 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6724419
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Classic ranch home nestled in the heart of Tempe is perfect for anyone seeking a stylish and convenient living space and would make a great location for ASU students. Key Features: •Completely Remodeled: This home has been meticulously renovated from top to bottom, featuring brand new plumbing, wiring, and state-of-the-art finishes. •High-End Finishes: Enjoy the elegance of premium materials and fixtures throughout, including gourmet kitchen appliances, sleek countertops, and designer bathrooms. •Spacious Living: With four generously sized bedrooms, there's plenty of room for family, guests, or a home office. •Prime Location: Situated in a desirable Tempe neighborhood, this home is just a short walk away from a lovely park, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

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