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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28428 N 65th Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$638,000 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Summit At Boulder Mtn North, Phoenix
Open House
$638,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,184 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780195
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Come by and tour this weekend! Virtual tour available. Beautiful Maracay home located in Summit at Boulder Mountain North. This fabulous home features a 3 car wide garage plus a 4th tandem garage with full access door to the back yard. Downstairs guest bed/office and full bath on the main level. Walk in closets in generous secondary bedrooms. Extended covered patio. Kitchen boasts beautiful cherry cabinets, granite kitchen counter tops , SS steal appliances , double oven and gas cooktop with brushed nickel fixtures. Virtual tour available please request the link.

5771 W Cinder Brook Way Florence, AZ 85132

$637,500
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,590 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777576
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
JOURNEY TO RESORT STYLE LIVING w/ Private heated POOL & SPA!! Only the best w/ over $130k in builder upgrades featuring a Private Courtyard w/beautiful iron security gate & ornate glass door to designer tile entry & Plantation Shutters, Den w/ gorgeous French Doors, Chef Lux kitchen w/ Gas Cooktop & dbl ovens, Luxurious Black Stainless built-in appliances, u/c lighting, Pendant lighting over a spacious unpolished Granite Island, soft close staggered raised panel cabinets w/ Pots & Pans drawers, pull outs, tiled backsplash, spacious walk-in pantry & Butler's pantry. Owner's Suite features bowed window, stunning walk-in tile shower & Granitex vanities. 2 Guest Bedrooms w/ shared en-suite. Extended Patio w/ Pergola, Private Pool w/ Water Feature & Spa! Poston Butte Golf Course & Grille!!!

2201 N Iowa Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$637,400 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Arbor Square, Chandler
Open House
$637,400
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,408 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775852
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand New Home Alert! Welcome to Arbor Square, where luxury and convenience meet in the heart of Downtown Chandler. Nestled within walking distance to the vibrant Downtown Chandler Entertainment District, our community provides the perfect balance of urban living and peaceful escape. Each home at Arbor Square boasts top-of-the-line amenities, designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. From elegant quartz countertops to luxury vinyl plank flooring, every detail has been carefully selected to provide you with a high-end yet modern living experience. Our homes also feature pre-wiring for EV chargers, making it easy for you to stay connected and eco-friendly. Our community is designed to give you all the perks of luxurious living without the hassle of upkeep. Experience the best of urban living in a peaceful and modern setting at Arbor Square. Come find your perfect home today! *HOA Fees are an estimate today, the builder has a conditional public report. Photos are of the builder's model of a similar floor plan, actual home is under construction. Contact listing the agent for additional incentives. Agents Must accompany their clients upon their first visit.

7933 E Queensborough Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$637,370
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,358 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783391
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6783391 February 2025 Completion! The Paisley is a thoughtfully designed 2-story floorplan offering 2,358 sq. ft. of living space with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a loft, and a 2-car garage. Perfect for hosting guests, the main level features a private bedroom and an open-concept great room, dining area, and kitchen that flow seamlessly into the outdoor living space, ideal for entertaining or relaxing. Upstairs, the versatile loft can be transformed into a playroom, home office, or secondary living area. The primary suite includes a walk-in closet and dual sinks for added convenience. We're confident you'll love calling the Paisley home! Structural options include: gourmet kitchen, soft water loop, pavers on porch and driveway.

4304 Stage Stop Way Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$637,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,969 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6742345
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the epitome of modern elegance in this nearly new Cypress model in Wickenburg Ranch. Meticulously updated with luxurious features, this home boasts fresh flooring in bedrooms and closets, a sleek gourmet kitchen with a large island, and a stunning sliding glass wall that opens to an expansive outdoor patio and backyard retreat. Enjoy outdoor living at its finest with a BBQ island and cozy firepit, all while backing to a serene wash for added privacy. With PAID SOLAR and a 3 CAR GARAGE, this home combines roominess and sustainability seamlessly.

6411 S River Drive Unit 10 Tempe, AZ 85283

$636,477
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,589 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759930
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Remodeled 2 bed 3 bath townhome in the Cottonwoods Community of 68 homes. This home has an open floor plan, lots of light, high ceilings, & lots of space for entertaining. Both bedrooms have en-suites & walk-in closets. New LVP flooring in traffic areas, new carpet in bedrooms and loft & new baseboards. Interior hardwood doors, new canned lighting, new interior & exterior paint. The kitchen has lots of counter space, hardwood cabinet doors & stainless appliances. There is a fireplace, bed 2 has a walkout patio, loft has an exterior Juliet balcony, & lots of storage. The backyard is large and updated, including new exterior wall paint & gate. Close to freeway, shopping & short drive to airport.

16978 W Canterbury Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$636,461
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,870 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6728478
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS #6728478 February 2025 Completion! Discover The Shire, a single-story floor plan in Paradisi Venture II. This home offers 2,870 sq. ft. with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a 3-car split garage, and a study. Each bedroom has its own en suite bathroom, providing separate spaces for kids and guests. The open layout of the gathering room, kitchen, and dining room forms the heart of the home, perfect for hosting gatherings or family game nights. Create lasting memories, whether it's a cookout with friends or quality time with family. The owner's suite includes a spacious walk-in closet, split vanities, and a generous shower. Structural options include: interior door at laundry, gas line for future outdoor kitchen, garage service door, and chef's kitchen.

20941 E Via Del Sol Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$636,237
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,537 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6736382
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
WOW - PRICE REDUCED $7,500. IN ADDITION, SELLER CONSESSION AVAILABLE TOWARDS CLOSING COSTS OR RATE BUYDOWN with Rates as Low as 3.875% on this Quick Move-In Home When Financing Thru Builders Preferred Lender(s). Beautiful Cul-de-sac Home Located close to Queen Creek Market Place Shopping, Dining & Entertainment with Community Parks, Tot Lots, BBQ's, Basketball Courts, Soccer Field and Just Steps to the 8-Mile Walking Trail. All Appliances Including Stainless Refrigerator, Stainless Gas Cooktop, Dbl Wall Ovens, Microwave, Dishwasher, White Washer/Dryer. Too Many Beautiful Upgrades to List Here. Primary & Two Secondary Bedrooms Upstairs. One Secondary Bedroom and Full Bath Downstairs. Don't Wait, Come See This Home Today

14655 N Kings Way Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$636,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,267 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784020
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BACK ON MARKET: Don't miss this cute 2 bedroom, 2 bath detached home plus bonus room in the Courtside Villas community. Features include vaulted ceilings, sliding doors to large covered back patio, private pool with water feature. Backyard is super private as it backs to a wash area. Kitchen features granite counters, SS Fridge & Stove and is open to the dining & living room. The Living room also has wood burning fireplace. Bonus room is currently being used as an office/den but could be used as a game room or Formal dining. You have options! Inside laundry room, attached garage with direct access. Home sits in the back of the community so super quiet. Perfect for lock & leave or full time residence.

23176 W Skinner Road Wittmann, AZ 85361

$635,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,242 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731535
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Highly upgraded 4 bedroom 2 bath 3 car garage on an Acre lot! NO HOA! Located at the end of a nice road, with tons of room to ride your horses dirt bikes ect... This Beautiful home comes with Quartz counter tops, large center island, tile backsplash, built-in microwave, stainless steel hood, 8' doors and 4'' baseboards, designer tile and upgraded lighting. Split floor plan, 2 walk-in closets in Master.. Located in a very nice area just minutes from Surprise and Wickenburg.

7639 W Nosean Road Peoria, AZ 85383

$635,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,982 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6741345
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6741345 Ready Now! The Iris is a 1-story home with 1,982 sq. ft., featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a 2-car garage, and a flex room. As the only single-story floor plan at Aloravita South Discovery, it stands out for its thoughtful design. The foyer leads to a hallway with secondary bedrooms and a full bathroom. The open kitchen, casual dining area, great room, and flex room create a welcoming living space. The private covered patio is perfect for enjoying Arizona weather. The primary suite offers a private bathroom with double sinks and a spacious walk-in closet, making it the perfect retreat.

16528 W Isleta Court Surprise, AZ 85387

$635,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,300 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6677181
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this 2300 sq/ft furnished, Mission model home located in Sun City Grand (The Grand) a 45+ Active Adult Resort Style Community. Open site-lines are evident upon entering into the great room w/gas fireplace and picture windows. A Large Updated Kitchen with 2 Breakfast /Entertaining Bars with An Expanded Island & Granite Counter tops, S/S Appliances, Roll-out shelves, Large Pantry & plenty of Cupboard storage. Large Dining Space with Bay Window Overlooking the Pool. A Nice sized Office/Den with Built-in Double Desks w/large window situated between the Primary Suite & the Private Guest Suite. Master bath has a large shower, Double Sinks & Large Walk-in closet. The Party begins upon entering the Outdoor Covered Patio w/ Pebbletec pool & Baja Deck, Gas Grill, & Patio Seating that create an Entertainer's Delight! Home also boasts a Large Laundry room w/ storage; Powder Bath; a Second Dining area; Ceiling Fans throughout; Central Vacuum; Soft Water. The Leased Solar Panels (non-escalating transferable lease), HVAC (2 units) replaced in 2017, Hot Water Tank replaced in 2020, installation of Patio Misters in 2020, and the 2-Car Garage plus Golf Cart Garage!! Low cost nonescalating solar is $106.30 per month. The Grand is home to 4 championship Golf Courses, 2 Rec Centers, 5 pools, spas, 2 Large Exercise Rooms, Indoor Walking Track, Auditorium, the New Maple & Rye Restaurant, Banking, CVS Pharmacy, along with activities, trips, clubs and much more. Home is Vacant and Easy to Show. Don't Miss This on Your Tour!

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