What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – October 31, 2016

Last week’s economic reports included S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Indexes, along with readings on new and pending home sales. Recurring weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released.

Case-Shiller: Pacific Northwest Shows Fastest Home Price Growth

According to the Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index for August, home prices in Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington grew fastest year-over-year. Portland posted an August index reading of 11.70 percent and Portland followed closely with a reading of 11.40 percent. Denver, Colorado rounded out the top three cities with the fastest rates of home price growth with a year-over-year reading of 8.80 percent. The 20-City Home Price Index rose 0.30 percent year-over-year to 5.30 percent in August.

Low inventory of available homes poses challenges for housing markets, but Case-Shiller reported that the national home price index was 0.60 percent lower than its peak reading in 2006. The 20-City Home Price Index was 7.10 percent lower than the 2006 peak. This provides a positive context for healthy home price growth, but concerns linger about a repeat of the housing bubble that burst and caused home prices to crash.

David M. Blitzer, Chairman of the S&P Index Committee said that a new housing bubble is unlikely. Home buyers are not taking out huge mortgages as was common prior to the Great Recession; mortgage lenders have adopted stricter qualification standards to help ensure that borrowers can afford their mortgages.

New Home Sales Rise in September

Sales of new homes rose to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 593,000 sales in September according to the Commerce Department. Although lower than analysts’ expected reading of 600,000 sales, September’s reading surpassed August’s reading of 575,000 sales. August’s reading was downwardly revised from its original reading of 609,000, which suggests that new home prices are growing at a slower rate than expected.

High demand for homes boosted September’s reading for pending home sales, which represents homes under contract for sale that have not closed. Pending home sales increased in September with a reading of 1.50 percent growth as compared to August’s negative rate of -2.50 percent. Pending home sales provide indications of future completed sales and mortgage loan volume.

Mortgage Rates Rise, New Jobless Claims Fall

Mortgage rates were lower last week according to Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell five basis points to 3.47 percent; rates for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage averaged 2.78 percent, which was one basis point lower than the prior week’s reading. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was also one basis point lower at 2.84 percent. Average discount points were 0.60, 0.50 and 0.40 percent respectively.

In spite of growth in home prices and volume of sales, consumer confidence slowed in October. October’s index reading of 98.60 as compared to an expected reading of 101.00 and September’s reading of 103.50. Analysts said that uncertainty over the upcoming presidential election contributed to October’s lower reading.

What’s Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic reports include readings on inflation, construction spending core inflation, and labor reports. Non-farm payrolls, ADP employment, national unemployment rates will also be released. Freddie Mac’s mortgage rates report and new jobless claims will also be released.

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17458 N 97th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,699,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,130 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755649
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Windgate Living! This spacious residence welcomes you with an impressive foyer that seamlessly flows into an open-concept main living area, where the kitchen serves as the heart of the home. High ceilings and abundant natural light fill the expansive living room and adjacent casual dining area, while a large formal dining room provides the perfect setting for intimate gatherings. The first floor features a luxurious primary suite with a generous walk-in closet and beautiful primary bath. Upstairs, an airy loft connects two sizable bedrooms, a large bathroom with dual vanity and private water closet, and a cozy corner flex space ideal for a coffee bar. Walk out to your resort style backyard with no one behind you and enjoy the Windgate Ranch life style.

7180 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 1012 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,699,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,461 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6724171
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
LUXURY HOME UPGRADES, AMENITIES, LOCATION, & SPECTACULAR VIEWS! This unit has it all, look no further. Owner added an additional $140k of upgrades. Lutron lighting & motorized shade system throughout the unit, Cove & down lighting in Great Room, Custom designed Primary Closet from California Closets, Wood paneled wall in Kitchen, & Backlit mirrors in both bathrooms, just to name a few (see full upgrade list in document tab). Enjoy stunning mountain views by day & twinkling city light at night from every window of this unit. A Neutral color pallet throughout this unit will delight the most discriminating buyer. Enjoy an open floor plan with ample seating for gatherings, or move your guests to any of the amazing amenities Optima Kierland has to offer. Gathering rooms, Kitchens, Game Rooms, Outdoor BBQ area, & of course the infamous Rooftop Pool & Spa appointed with BBQ's, Dining tables, Lounge chairs. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool while taking in the scenic views of Scottsdale, whether it be Mountains or City lights. Optima is the ultimate in Luxury Highrise living & located near Fantastic shopping & Dining.

2936 E Cashman Drive Phoenix, AZ 85050

$1,699,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,121 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758900
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Voted best home on tour! Prepared to be amazed at the stunning home with designer finishes throughout, located within the gated community of Astarea. With an extensive list of exquisite upgrades completed AFTER the home was built, including decorative lighting, wood beams, stylish wall accents and the list goes on. The split floorplan features 3 spacious bedroom suites, plus an office, great room and chef's dream kitchen featuring stainless steel appliances, built-in fridge, massive island, granite counters, gas double oven/range & pot filler, two pantries plus butler's pantry. The owner's suite stands as a serene sanctuary, featuring an expansive shower and a custom walk-in closet with a secondary entrance directly connected to the laundry room. The expansive great room seamlessly connec ts to the backyard with a vast wall of glass providing access to the large covered patio & outdoor BBQ and entertainment area where you'll also enjoy the beautiful landscape, pool & spa. All this plus a 4 car garage, one complete with a mini-split!

9908 E Cavalry Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,699,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,655 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746544
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in the highly desirable gated community of Legend Vista Estates at Legend Trail. Imagine stepping into this bright and airy home, where every corner invites the beauty of the outdoors inside. The multiple oversized picture windows frame stunning garden, sunset and mountain views, transforming each glance into a captivating piece of live art on the private oversized lot. This property is perfect for entertaining with high ceilings, an open floor plan, and chef's kitchen with Wolf & Subzero appliances. The home is move-in ready with desirable finishes & updated systems maintained by meticulous owners. The resort backyard boasts expansive undercover with a pool, water feature, built-in BBQ, updated landscaping, & professionally designed landscape lighting. 3 car garage has storage Legend Trail features a public golf course and community center with pool, spa, fitness, tennis, and pickleball located close to hiking, biking, restaurants and shopping. This is Arizona living at its best!!!

1314 E Las Palmaritas Drive Phoenix, AZ 85020

$1,699,000 - 3Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Echo Mountain Terrace, Phoenix
Open House
$1,699,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,615 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742512
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Take pride in residing in this unique haven nestled on a hilltop cul-de-sac with panoramic 360° views! Exquisite curb appeal, a brand new roof, and a 3-car garage with glass doors are just the beginning! Come inside to discover recessed lighting throughout, ledger stone accents, custom railing, and a custom steel floating staircase. The large living room showcases new wood-look porcelain tile flooring, wide sliding glass doors to the back patio, and a stacked stone electric fireplace. The magazine-cover kitchen is a delight, offering pendant lighting, a walk-in pantry, white cabinetry with crown moulding, a waterfall island with breakfast bar, and high-end SS appliances such as a wine cooler, electric cooktop, & a wall oven.Grand owner's retreat stands out with its plush carpet, direct outdoor access, elegant ensuite with dual sinks & freestanding tub, and walk-in closet. HUGE bonus room on the lower level can be used as a recreational center! The backyard provides a covered patio, paver seating area, and new artificial turf! Highly updated with ALL NEW HVAC including ductwork & handlers, new electrical, new plumbing, new drywall, spray foam insulation, custom showers, and all new dual pane Low-E windows! This gem is sure to captivate you! Hurry and act NOW!

10243 N 58th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,696,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,693 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6727530
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Turn-key offered fully furnished. Country Estates w/private large yard & new pool! 4 bedroom with 3 baths. Double bedroom that could easily be split for a 5th bedroom! BRAND new pool remodel just completed! Spacious open split floor plan w/ 2 master suites, high ceilings, skylights & lots of natural light. Expanded custom chef's kitchen w/ beautiful custom cherry cabinets, 3 sinks, 2 refrigerators, top of the line appliances- wolf, subzero, gas cooking & built in steamer. Quality luxury finishes- tile & Berber carpeting throughout, thermo pane windows, sophisticated lighting & sound systems, central vacuum, . Resort style mature landscaping w/ sparkling pool & lawn.

52312 N 461st Avenue Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$1,695,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,794 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6733592
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream estate! Custom-built home sits on a 5-acre property in the desirable Wickenburg/Forepaugh area perfect for horse enthusiasts, here's what makes this property truly exceptional- tile floors elegant and easy to maintain wood shutters adds a touch of classic charm, pantry, utility sink in laundry room, bar area for entertaining, master suite walk-in closet, luxurious shower with double heads, knotty alder doors, tile baseboards, tongue & groove patio ceilings, full-size roping arena, ideal for practicing, priefert roping chute, 2 RV plug-Ins, 4 stall free style horse walker ,wash rack ,custom tack room with pavers, automatic waters, 12 covered stalls, 4 (30x40) pens, 3 (60x40) pens, 2 (50x 100) pens, hay shed, custom entry, quarter minus driveway, top notch facility,

6939 E Chaparral Road Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,695,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
2,673 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776773
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand new Heated pool in NOV 2024! PV home on almost half acre lot with NO HOA restrictions. Incredible Camelback Mountain views, walking distance from world-class Old Town Scottsdale restaurants/nightlife, & even fashion square mall. This 6 Bed, 4 Bath home with easy maintenance turf yard, putting greens, volleyball court w/ 2 hot tubs. This home has 2 kitchens and masters making it perfect for house hacking/investment or a mother-in-law suite. Home has separate entrances and ability to close off door to create two 3 bed, 2 bath living quarters.This home can can be used as a Air BNB, Behavior Health, Assisted Living, Sober Living; sky is the limit with this remodeled home in Desirable Rancho Vista PV neighborhood

13439 N 79th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,695,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,710 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776801
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Phoenix Home & Garden Cover Home July 2022! This beautifully restored mid-century modern gem is so special and unique, you don't want to miss it! The main living room features original exposed beamed ceilings, gorgeous stacked stone fireplace, floor to ceiling & clerestory windows and opens to the new vibrant custom kitchen and dining space. Handmade Moroccan tiles adorn the kitchen backsplash with custom glass shelving and eco-friendly terrazzo countertops add a timeless appeal. In addition to the great room, there is an oversized bonus/game room with stone faced fireplace and vaulted exposed beams. Rounding out this 3 bedroom home is a bonus office/den space. All of this, plus located on a 32,000+ square foot lot with horse privileges in the heart of Scottsdale!

3846 E Crittenden Lane Phoenix, AZ 85018

$1,695,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,356 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780584
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous home with 4 bedroom/3.5 baths plus separate den & bonus room, nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac in a gated Arcadia community! This incredible home has Camelback Mt. views along with a luxurious kitchen with a walk-in pantry & butlers pantry, built-in fridge, high-end stainless appliances, huge island and tons of cabinet space. A highly desired open floor plan with luxurious wood floors & water softener system with R/O drinking water. On top of all that, it also has a beautiful, well-manicured, extremely low-maintenance outdoor space with heated pool and spa, artificial grass, brick pavers, built-in BBQ and fire pit. Even the garage is amazing with easy to clean epoxy floor, plus more storage! Located close to restaurants, entertainment, easy access to freeways & airport.

309 E Georgia Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85012

$1,695,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,526 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6764499
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This 4 bed, 2.5 bath Tuscan inspired home in the heart of Uptown Phoenix has everything you've been looking for! Bursting with curb appeal, you are welcomed with lush landscaping and Chicago reclaimed brick walkways that lead to an open patio with gas fire pit at the entryway and as you step inside enjoy a thoughtfully designed floor plan split between two stories. The open concept kitchen features granite countertops, an island with a breakfast bar, and upgraded stainless steel appliances including a Viking range. The kitchen seamlessly flows into a tucked away eating nook and the open living room which includes a gas fireplace. The primary bedroom features its own fireplace, a separate seating area, a private entrance leading to the backyard, and a spa-like ensuite with a large walk-in shower, jetted tub, dual vanities, and a walk-in closet with custom built-in shelving. The first floor also includes a full bar that connects a formal eating space to the kitchen and living room, a convenient powder bath for guests, a full-sized laundry room, a private office, and a wine cellar tucked beneath the stairs, showcasing a custom arched iron door. Upstairs, you'll find a den, along with three additional bedrooms. One bedroom has been thoughtfully remodeled with rubberized flooring, ideal for a yoga or workout space. Step outside into your own backyard oasis designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The lush landscaping surrounds a shaded patio, pool, and multiple pergolas. You'll also enjoy an outdoor shower and a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen that includes a bar top with seating for 10, making this the perfect space for outdoor dining and hosting friends and family. The 3-car garage features ample built-in storage, additional racking system, a fridge and 2 Tesla charging stations. This home truly has it allluxury, style, and functionality. Don't miss the opportunity to make it yours!

28669 N 94th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,695,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,858 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772160
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Only 8 years old! This beautiful home is a must-see in the Troon North Community. Stylish yet casual, it features stunning finishes and an easy-living layout. The chef's kitchen boasts a spacious island and premium appliances, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. From your breakfast table, patio, and master suite, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Pinnacle Peak and the lush greens of the Troon North golf course every day. For the adventurous spirit, the area offers numerous hiking and biking trails nearby. As you enter through the charming, enclosed entryway, you'll find a cozy sitting area—ideal for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Inside, discover beautiful stone floors and a seamless layout with no interior steps. This home includes 4 bedrooms, including a spacious master suite and a separate casita, along with 3.5 bathrooms, a large office, a great room, and a television or reading room. This residence embodies the Troon lifestyle at its finestluxurious, welcoming, and surrounded by natural beauty.

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