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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6631 E Jasmine Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$549,900 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Pomeroy Estates, Mesa
New
$549,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,858 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787199
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Impeccably Remodeled Home with RV Gate, New Roof and No HOA! This stunning home offers modern updates, a spacious layout, and a prime location! Situated on a large lot with an RV gate, this property has been thoughtfully upgraded to provide both style and convenience. Step inside to find a welcoming interior featuring 3 generously sized bedrooms, 2.5 updated bathrooms, and a cozy family room complete with a charming fireplace. The kitchen and bathrooms have been fully remodeled with brand-new cabinetry, sleek quartz countertops, and elegant tile flooring. The primary ensuite is a true retreat, showcasing a beautifully tiled shower, ample storage, and private access to the backyard. Outdoors, enjoy the extended covered patio—perfect for entertaining or relaxing while overlooking your expansive backyard. Recent updates include a new roof (2024) and new A/C unit (2022) for added peace of mind. Conveniently located just minutes from the Loop 202, shopping, and dining, this home truly has it all!

5117 N 81st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$549,900 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Chateau De Vie 7, Scottsdale
New
$549,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,216 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785248
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Oasis by definition is a peaceful place in the desert or it can also be defined as 5117 N. 81st St. This designer remodeled, 2 bed/2 bath home with just over 1,200 sqft. is located in the best location in of all of Chateau De Vie and a heartbeat away from the popular attractions of Fashion Square and Old Town. This home boasts a luxury chefs kitchen highlighted by modern oak thin shaker cabinets, top tier quartz countertops with waterfall edges, and Stainless Steel Samsung Smart appliances. Luxury vinyl wood plank flooring and Berber carpet accentuate the space. Baths have been tastefully done. Take in many beautiful sunsets while relaxing on your covered patio. New dual pane windows, roof, water heater, and newer AC. Airbnb/STR approved. Don't miss out on this one of a kind property!

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$549,900
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,258 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6781006
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The price includes $20,000 for a rate buy-down and closing costs. This beautiful, move-in-ready home features a spacious great room that opens to a covered patio. The outdoor area boasts a heated pebble tech and travertine pool with a waterfall and jets, surrounded by palm and citrus trees. Inside, you'll find three generously sized bedrooms, each with its own full bathroom, along with a spacious dining room and plenty of storage. The main bedroom provides ample space for a sitting area or personal office, as well as a large walk-in closet and a super shower. The kitchen features granite countertops and white shaker cabinets, while plank tile flooring extends through high-traffic areas. An RV gate and a tandem four-car garage enhance the home's functionality.

20391 N 53rd Avenue Glendale, AZ 85308

$549,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,589 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779897
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your oasis nestled in the highly desirable Arrowhead Lakes! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a pool is situated on a premium corner lot. The vaulted ceilings create an airy atmosphere with tile and wood floors throughout the home. The kitchen features granite countertops, a nice size island, tile backsplash and stainless-steel appliances. Spacious primary en-suite has a walk-in closet, dual sinks, separate shower & roman style tub. Perfect for entertaining, the backyard features a beautiful pool with a new pool pump, a waterfall feature and a mountain view! Newer Roof & HVAC, two high-cost updates have been done! This sought after neighborhood is close to everything! Enjoy walks day or night, hiking trails nearby. Don't miss this one, move in before the holidays!

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