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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2110 Leisure World -- Mesa, AZ 85206

$559,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,666 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785475
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This is an amazing, golf course property that you can not miss. The home sits on the 14th fairway of Coyote Run and faces south for the winter sun. The back patio has a large covered area with an outdoor kitchen and pavers all the way out to the wall for a huge area to entertain. This split floorplan has high vaulted ceilings in the main living areas and primary bedroom and bathroom. The kitchen has newer stainless steel appliances and opens up to the back patio. The home comes with all the furniture inside and out and even a golf cart. All this in the Premiere Active Adult Community of Leisure World with 36 holes of private golf, new tennis complex, pickle ball, swimming pools, library, state of the art fitness center, theater, arts and crafts, billiard room, and much more!

4125 W Bradshaw Creek Lane New River, AZ 85087

$559,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,851 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770710
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Circle Mountain Ranch. This Stunning 2019 Built Single Story Home Features a Pool and Split Floor Plan. Upon Arrival You Are Greeted with a Professionally Landscaped Yard, Paver Driveway and Gorgeous Entry. This Home Has 4 Bedrooms and 3 Bathrooms, and Just Over 1850 Sq Ft. The 2.5 Car Tandem Garage with Built In Ceiling Storage and Water Softener is Sure to Wow! The Kitchen Features Quartz Countertops, Dark Cabinets, Stainless Steel Appliances, Gas Stove and Full Pantry. The Primary Suite Offers Upgraded Luxury Vinyl Flooring, Full Bathroom with Separate Tub and Shower, Oversized Closet and Access to the Patio and Pool. Enjoy the Pool and Turf Area to Cool Off and Enjoy The Beautiful Views Anthem Community Has to Offer. Enjoy the Amenities Anthem has to offer - walking/hiking paths, parks, shopping, dining, golf & more all with EZ freeway access.

26001 S Drifter Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$559,900
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,979 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6635749
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spectacularly remodeled 2 bdrm+Den & 2.5 bath home on HUGE corner lot w/ low maintenance yard, large covered patio, & a beautiful fountain w/new pump. New cabinets & quartz counters throughout home w/ HUGE Kitchen Island. Ample storage incl. HUGE pantry w/barn door! Large beautiful wood-burning fireplace. New AC unit on roof & new Split-System. New roof w/ transferrable warranty. Solar panels prepaid w/nearly 8 years left on FULLY prepaid solar assignable lease. All floor-level windows are new. Brand new SS appliances incl. fridge, drawer microwave, & wine/soda fridge convey. New plank tile floors throughout. New water heater. Both showers are newly tiled w/lge glass enclosure in master & separate tub for soaking. All new fixtures + ceiling fans w/remotes! Fresh paint in/ out. OWNER/AGENT

21955 S 219th Place Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$559,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,429 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6696421
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
$35,000 UNDER APPRAISED VALUE. Oversized private lot. Come see this well-maintained original owner home in Crismon Heights that sits on a premium oversized homesite with no backyard neighbors! This floor plan offers 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths in 2429 SqFt with an open great room layout. The kitchen features staggered white cabinets with crown molding and a built-in desk, granite counters, tile backsplash, stainless appliances including a gas range with double ovens, a walk-in pantry, an island with breakfast bar, and a spacious dining area with new large picture windows overlooking the backyard. Glass French doors in the great room let in tons of natural light and lead out to the covered patio and beautifully landscaped backyard. The extensive paver patio provides lots of room for entertaining, and the backyard also has grass for kids and pets to play on, a tranquil fountain, and side yard with lemon and lime trees and a double gate. The primary bedroom has a charming window seat, and a private en-suite bath with dual sink vanity with granite countertop, separate tub & shower, and a big walk-in closet. Other features include a spacious laundry room with upper/lower cabinets & sink; tile, luxury vinyl, and laminate flooring throughout (no carpet!), vaulted ceilings, and an oversized 3 car tandem garage with service door. Great location close to parks and trails within the community, and just a short bike ride to the upcoming Queen Creek Aquatic center opening soon!

13447 W Ballad Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$559,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,618 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6696003
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You are going to love this home! Briarwood CC Golf Course Corner lot. Remodeled 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath home with a convenient double front door entry, vaulted celing in the Front Room/Dining Room. New granite countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms. New Stainless Steel Appliances and tile and carpet flooring throughout. All cabinets have been painted and popcorn ceilings have been removed. Master Bedroom has a dressing table, walk-in closet and private entry adjacent to the Rose Garden. Back Porch is an enclosed Arizona Room. The Back Porch/Garage floors have been coated and sealed. 2.5 car garage (room for a golf cart) is a handyman's delight with workbenches and lots of storage cabinets. Enjoy this Sun City West treasure! Comes with a CC membership. ARMLS CMA value of $600,270

860 E Paradise Lane Phoenix, AZ 85022

$559,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,786 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741464
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*HOME INTERIOR IS BEING PROFESSIONALLY PATCHED AND PAINTED IN NEXT 2 VWEEKS!*Exceptional value on this turn-key, fully remodeled desert ranch home. Greentrails is special enclave in Moon Valley that offers outdoor enthusiasts walking/jogging paths and access to mountain trails right inside the community, along with a private park, playground and sprawling greenbelt just steps away. This home captures the essence of AZ living with gorgeous surroundings, remodeled interiors and charming outdoor spaces, located on a cul-de-sac lot. Exceptional curb appeal with easy-care landscaping, slump block exterior and entry courtyard. The fresh remodel brings luxe finishes and modern appeal, in an open floorplan. Wood plank tile flooring is paired with neutral paint throughout. The updated kitchen features white shaker-style cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, granite counters and a breakfast bar. This home features an open floorplan and no interior steps. Retreat to the split primary suite which opens to the rear patio and features a large walk-in closet and remodeled private bath with fully-tiled shower, double sink vanity, dual flush toilet and tile flooring. The hall bath is also fully-remodeled. All bedrooms have closet organizing systems and ceiling fans. Whether you are dipping into the renovated pool ('20) or entertaining under the spacious covered patio, you'll find that the rear yard offers opportunities for year-round enjoyment. The pie-shaped lot provides room for potentially adding a casita, which is now legal in Phoenix. A side parking slab leads to an RV gate and gravel parking area beyond. Home is located in the Paradise Valley school district and is nearby many local staples/destinations along with the best culinary, retail, and entertainment epicenters.

10129 S 43rd Lane Laveen, AZ 85339

$559,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,539 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752936
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Custom home in the gated community of Vaquero Estates with mountain views & breathtaking sunsets! Light & bright open concept floor plan features soaring ceilings, well-maintained tile flooring & carpeting in all the right places. The chef's kitchen boasts granite counters, an island with a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, reverse osmosis, & opens to the family room - ideal for entertaining. Primary retreat is split from guest bedrooms for ultimate privacy. Impressive bath has dual sinks, free standing tub, & walk in shower. Enjoy the AZ heat in your incredible backyard with a large covered patio (35' x 12'), turf, & mature landscaping. Also featured, a 2-car garage. You'll love this private community with an amazing central location minutes to schools, shopping, dining, & more!

7032 S 38 Place Phoenix, AZ 85042

$559,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,766 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757238
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Here's an opportunity to live in the charming, gated golf course community of The Pines at the Raven. Breathtaking golf course & mountain views. This single level home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with a desirable split floorplan, is located in a cul-de-sac backing to beautiful golf course. Chef's kitchen is open to the family room. Ceramic tile in the entire house. Fireplace in the great room and much more! Community Amenities Include Pool/Spa. Close to Restaurants, Shops, Golf, freeways and Airport,

22510 E Via Las Brisas -- Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$559,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,202 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775767
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The search is finally over! This stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence features a 2-car garage, tasteful brick accents, and a welcoming front porch. Has both an office and team room. Discover a spacious great room with high ceilings, Brand new carpet and paint throughout. Kitchen comes with granite counters, abundant wood cabinetry with crown molding, pendant/recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar for casual meals. You'll also find a cozy den ideal for an office or lounge. The primary bedroom offers plush carpeting, an ensuite with double vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. Enjoy outdoor moments in the quaint backyard, showcasing a covered patio, pristine artificial turf, and a refreshing pool.

11520 E Kiva Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$559,900
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,993 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776202
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to the highly desirable Adult Community of Sunland Spring Village, where your retirement home becomes a reality! Discover this gorgeous home, boasting stone accents, a desert front yard, a 2-car plus a golf cart garage, and an inviting front patio. The lovely interior impresses you with a spacious living/dining room, vaulted ceilings, designer paint, a kitchen hutch, and wood-look tile flooring. Kitchen is fully equipped with ample counter space, panel lighting, wood cabinetry, and a breakfast nook with a bay window. The primary retreat has tray ceilings, plush carpeting, an immaculate ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Attached workshop for your creativity! Unwind under the covered patio in the tranquil backyard with artificial turf and colorful vegetation. Act NOW!!

9812 E Pampa Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$559,900
5 Beds
2 Baths
2,472 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6752414
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 5 bedroom single level home is ready for new owners! With an oversized guest quarters/living space this property is perfect for multi generational living or an oversized office/game room. Equipped with NEW AC Units and a bright open floor plan you will love the layout of this well cared for home. The kitchen has a large island, tons of cabinet space and a large dining table for gathering. With a walk in pantry and oversized laundry there's plenty of room for storage. The oversized 3 car garage is air conditioned and has plenty of room for a workshop or gym. In the backyard you'll find a covered patio, garden with citrus and pomegranates, a water retention system and irrigation, as well as chicken coop! With quick freeway access you will love this location!

22408 N Las Vegas Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$559,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,033 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745215
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step inside this beautifully updated 2-bedroom plus a den, home in the sought-after Sun City West community. Freshly painted throughout & featuring brand-new wood-look tile flooring in the main living areas. The kitchen is showcasing sleek quartz countertops, white wood shaker cabinetry, chic shiplap backsplash & stainless steel appliances. The primary suite is boasting a generous walk-in closet & plush new carpet. The bathroom features unique mosaic tile, a black vanity, & a quartz countertop, creating a sophisticated & spa-like environment. The spacious 2 car garage is equipped w/ ample storage cabinets. The backyard has a covered patio, ideal for relaxing & enjoying the beautiful desert landscaping that surrounds it. To top it all off, this home also features a brand-new roof & HVAC.

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