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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20629 N Danielle Avenue Maricopa, AZ 85138

$559,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Parcel 9 At Homestead North, Maricopa
New
$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,595 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787610
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home! This beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath residence in Homestead North is the one for you! Charming curb appeal, a no-fuss front yard, a 2 car garage w/built-in cabinets, and an electric RV gate are just the beginning. Discover a spacious great room w/high ceilings, elegant wood-look flooring, and warm palette throughout. Hone your cooking skills in this gorgeous kitchen, comprised of wood cabinetry w/crown molding, a pantry, granite counters, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and an island complete w/a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom boasts a walk-in closet and a private ensuite w/dual sinks & designer touches. Double doors open up to a cozy den, ideal for an office! New 16 seer heat pump perfectly sized for your energy efficient warmth and cooling. Upgrades galore!! Lastly, the resort-like backyard includes a covered patio, extended seating area, a lovely gazebo w/a built-in BBQ, artificial turf, and a separate guest house w/an additional garage space! Fully paved RV parking with electric gate. What are you waiting for? Act NOW!

6560 N Loma Court Casa Grande, AZ 85194

$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,032 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785782
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful brand new 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Chaparral Estates! 2,032 sq. ft. on approximately half an acre, this property includes a spacious 3-car garage and is set in a quiet cul-de-sac with stunning mountain views. Kitchen: Quartz countertops, large entertainment island, white cabinetry with nickel hardware, and stainless steel appliances. Tile plank flooring runs thru high traffic areas & carpeted bedrooms. Primary Suite: Features a ceiling fan, double vanity, and a relaxing garden tub. Hall Bath: Includes double sinks for added convenience. Exterior painted with stylish gray tones with an all-tile roof for durability. A low HOA allows flexibility for storing boats, RVs & Toys, ready for immediate occupancy.

9969 W Via Del Sol -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,898 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6736412
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --

8884 E Arizona Park Place Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$559,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Arizona Park Place, Scottsdale
New
$559,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,446 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785528
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Charming and Well-Kept 2-Bedroom + Den in a Prime Location! Welcome to 8884 E Arizona Park Pl, a delightful home full of potential! This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence, complete with a versatile den, offers 1,446 sq ft of comfortable living space. Thoughtfully designed, the home features a welcoming layout that is both functional and inviting. The well-kept kitchen and living areas are ideal for entertaining or everyday living, while the primary suite provides a peaceful retreat with a private bath. The backyard is low-maintenance and ready for your personal touch—perfect for enjoying Arizona evenings. Located in a desirable neighborhood close to Scottsdale Quarter, TPC etc... this charming property is ready to welcome its next owner.

2801 N 10th Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,100 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6670011
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
HUGE PRICE REDUCTION! Absolutely a Historic Value!!! This fabulous Bungalow is nestled within the sought-after Historic Community of Country Club Park, this immaculate home awaits you! Step into a space where brand new LV flooring graces every corner, complemented by fresh interior and exterior paint. Enjoy the elegance of Onyx countertops, stainless steel appliances, and bespoke cabinets. With three generous bedrooms, two baths, and a sprawling yard complete with patio and a two-car garage, this residence offers ample space for comfort and relaxation. Conveniently located near top-notch restaurants, recreational activities, major highways, and the airport, it promises a lifestyle of ease and convenience.

25413 W Pueblo Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326

$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,747 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6697259
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover comfort and opportunity with this charming 3 bed, 2 bath home in Northwood Park. On a spacious 1-acre lot, this property offers endless possibilities for building a pool, keeping horses, and storing all your toys and RVs. The cozy dining and living area features wood-look tile flooring, high ceilings, and a neutral palette. The practical kitchen provides ample cabinet and counter space, a pantry, and stainless steel appliances. Unwind in the comfortable primary bedroom with soft carpet, a bay window, a walk-in closet, and a private ensuite with dual sinks. The expansive backyard has irrigation rights, to ensure a reliable source of water for landscaping, gardening, and any agricultural activities, even in dry seasons.

1408 W 7th Street Tempe, AZ 85281

$559,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,755 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6717564
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your beautiful Tempe Oasis! This stunning home minutes from ASU offers modern ambiance with lots of natural light. The functional layout boasts 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms perfect for a growing family or investment property! Currently a profitable Airbnb. Luxury wood floors throughout. Can use the 5th room as an office or separate living area if desired (there is a locking door that leads to the exterior). The true highlight is the resort-style backyard which is perfect for entertaining or enjoying the Arizona sunshine! New artificial turf, mini-split A/C units and NEST thermostats installed in 2022. Conveniently located near Mill Avenue, Sky Harbor Airport (3 miles) & a short drive to South Mountain Preserve, this home offers the perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility!

9818 W Pontiac Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$559,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,045 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730793
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful home in stunning northern Peoria checks ALL the boxes! Completely REMODELED and offering an incredible open and bright floorplan with vaulted ceilings featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths and 2045 square feet to enjoy. Stunning open-concept chef's island kitchen with shaker-style soft close designer cabinets with gorgeous quartz counters, upgraded high-end stainless-steel appliances including a NEW smooth-gas cook top, double wall oven, refrigerator and dishwasher. Custom interior paint, new flooring, newer water heater & A/C. Incredible private pool newly treated and with new sand filter pump 2024.This remarkable neighborhood location provides convenient access to Parkridge dog and children's parks, mountain preserves, outstanding schools, and easy freeway access!

13215 N 30th Place Phoenix, AZ 85032

$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,017 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741305
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful updated single level with diving pool is ready for a new owner. Nice open floorplan with formal living room, formal dining room, large great room with wood burning fireplace and a chefs delight for a kitchen. Newer rich wood grain cabinets, granite counters, center island,self closing drawers, and stainless appliances. The primary suite features remodeled bath and separate entrance to the pool out back. good size bedrooms- *3rd bedroom was designed to be two separate bedrooms, so double the size. AC was replaced in 2016, and a complete new roof (tear-off and extra sheathing) in July of 2024, newer double pane windows with blinds. Great location to Hwy 51/101 and shops/theaters close by.

8016 E Medina Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

$559,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,172 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750548
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You'll appreciate the central location of this 3-bedroom golf course home in the amenity-packed community of SVE, convenient to the restaurant, pool complexes, workout facilities, golf course and all Clubs/amenities. This well-taken care of home is ready to move in, so you don't delay the upcoming season of fun. There are many features unique to this home including a 9' x 8' bonus room in double garage to park your golf cart or motorcycle or utilize for extra storage or workshop as well as the electronic security shutters that enclose the covered back patio. With over 2,100 sq. ft., this floorplan provides two additional bedrooms creating ample space for visitors. Other features include a vaulted living room, family room with views to the golf course, and a formal dining room that could be converted to an office, craft or sewing room. Enjoy your morning coffee on the covered patio watching golfers attempt a birdie putt on Hole No. 7 with the Superstition Mountains in the background. Enter the home from the expanded south-facing front patio and your eyes will go right to the view of the golf course. You'll notice the abundant amount of light in the tiled kitchen coming from the sliding glass door in the dine-in area, with the kitchen providing beautiful cabinets with pull-out shelves. The large family room creates that extra space for entertaining as it includes a wet bar as well as access to the golf course patio. A primary bedroom allows the south sun to brighten the room and provides a private bathroom and walk in closet. The guest bathroom with tub/shower combo is centrally located between the second and third bedroom. The guest bedroom with north-window overlooking golf course is an expanded bedroom with his/her closets. If you didn't need a third bedroom, you could use the extra space for an office, sewing room or craft/hobby room. The garage features built in cabinets, a work bench, an exterior service door, and the bonus room. Sunland Village East is a community that provides an amenity for everyone's interests while still maintaining low annual HOA fees.

1867 S Seton Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85295

$559,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,085 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760671
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home! Beautiful single story turn key home sits on a corner lot in much sought after Lyon's Gate. NEW 2023 A/C UNIT ! Fabulous floor plan invites spacious living w/ 4 bed/2 bath, family, & living & dining rooms. 18'' Tile in all the right places. Brand new carpet in the bedrooms & lots of natural light. The family room opens to the kitchen & allows conversation easily among family & friends. Kitchen boasts SS appliances & generous amount of gorgeous upgraded cherry cabinets, granite counters, & breakfast bar. Primary bedroom has ensuite w/ dbl sinks, a large closet, separate toilet room, a walk-in shower, & deep soaking tub. Extended double car garage. Covered patio & brand new turf so no watering required ! Community pools, basketball, tennis courts and club house !

1656 N Ventura Lane Tempe, AZ 85288

$559,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,528 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766827
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
****Beautifully Remodeled 3-Bedroom,2.5-Bathroom Home in Prime Tempe Location***Offers a comfortable living space, nestled just 2.5 miles from Old town Scottsdale and adjacent to the beautiful Papago Mountains. This home offers convenience and beauty in one of the most desirable areas in Tempe. This bright and spacious home features modern finishes throughout, including an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops. Porcelain tile flooring with oak wood design, the large living area offers a cozy family room with an updated fireplace. The upstairs houses generously sized bedrooms. Two car garage with additional storage space, and newly installed Polyaspartic flooring. This home also offers easy access to Sky Harbor Airport, major highways, restaurants & shopping. **Community amenities**Enjoy access to a community pool, bike/jog paths, and a well maintained common area. Come see it today!

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