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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2389 W Spaulding Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$553,300
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,273 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761575
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
3 car garage!! The Courtland floorplan offers a spacious and well-designed single-level living experience, encompassing 2,273 square feet. You are welcomed into an open-concept living area that seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and family rooms. The kitchen is a chef's delight, equipped with modern gas appliances, ample counter space, and a large island that serves as the heart of the home, ideal for meal preparation and casual dining. The adjacent dining area provides ample space for family meals and entertaining guests, while the family room is perfect for relaxation and gatherings. This community features resort like amenities including a large pool, splashpad, park & clubhouse with fitness center!

17149 N Stonebluff Road Maricopa, AZ 85139

$553,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,922 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6666798
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
This beautiful new Champion home, on an expansive, gated lot of 4.55 acres, is on a paved road with stunning mountain views and unforgettable Arizona sunsets. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home has more than enough room to entertain and make unforgettable memories. A 30x35-foot enclosed shop with a concrete floor and convenient gravel driveway offers plenty of room for projects or storage. This home is built for Arizona, with upgraded 2''x6'' exterior walls with R-19 insulation, R40 roof insulation, well water, and unheard-of power availability consisting of two 400 amp panels for your home, shop, electric vehicles, or anything else you choose to build. This is a uniquely attractive home with numerous upgrades that you won't want to miss, and no HOA to limit your possibilities

825 S Henry Lane Gilbert, AZ 85296

$553,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,529 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758655
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home nestled in a prime corner lot in Gilbert! This spacious 2-story, 2,467 sq ft property boasts a versatile loft and a den/office, perfect for work-from-home setups or additional living space. The main floor features elegant hardwood flooring, complemented by gorgeous plantation shutters throughout the home. The kitchen is a chef's delight with cherry 42-inch cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Enjoy outdoor living with your private courtyard, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. The 3-car garage provides plenty of space for vehicles and storage. The HOA maintains the front yard and offers access to community pools, making maintenance a breeze. With easy freeway access, and close proximity to shopping and shopping and restaurants, this home combines comfort, style, and convenience in one perfect package.

19702 E Arrowhead Trail Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$553,000
5 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,040 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730181
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Check out this home in the heart of Queen Creek. It's just over 3,000 square feet with 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. This home offers a large and spacious great room as you enter. The kitchen and living area is an additional space that is large and open giving you all the space you need. The backyard is low maintenance and the turf makes it feel like you have a yard minus the hassle. There is an extended patio in the backyard that can help shade you when temperatures begin to increase. There is one room located downstairs and the remaining four bedrooms and laundry room are located upstairs. The master bathroom has large his and her walk-in closets. The seller is open providing concessions to buy down the rate and allowing you to reduce your monthly payment

10852 E Texas Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$552,888 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in La Mira Discovery, Mesa
Open House
$552,888
5 Beds
3 Baths
1,960 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761136
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MLS#6761136 November Completion. Welcome to the Harlow at La Mira! This charming single-story home greets you with a cozy front porch. Just steps away, the open-concept kitchen with an island seamlessly flows into the dining and gathering rooms, creating an ideal space for entertaining. The private owner's suite boasts a corner-entry bathroom with dual sinks and a generous walk-in closet. Three equally sized secondary bedrooms share a full bath, providing ample comfort for everyone. Structural options include: bedroom 5 and bath 3, garage service door, raised bath vanity at bath 2 and 3, paver front porch, soft water loop, and garden tub in primary.

3454 E Jasmine Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$552,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,530 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752588
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You'll love this beautiful ranch-style home in the desirable Community of Bella Vista Farms! With 5 beds, 3 baths, & a 2-car garage, this 2024-built gem offers comfort & style! Inviting hallway ushers you to the spacious open layout enhanced by tall ceilings, wood-plank tile flooring, multiple exits, & recessed lighting t/out. The impeccable kitchen is outfitted with sleek SS appliances, granite counters, rich wood shaker cabinetry with crown molding, & a sizable island with a breakfast bar. The grand main suite has plush carpeting, a pristine ensuite, a walk-in closet, & outdoor access. The home's elegance extends outdoors to the serene backyard that comes with a extended covered patio, artificial turf, & pavers. Enjoy amenities like a community pool, playgrounds, sports fields, etc.

3131 N Central Avenue Unit 3021 Phoenix, AZ 85012

$551,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6585352
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
*Construction completed* 5% BUYER INCENTIVE! Introducing Edison Midtown Phase 2 with 60 new construction condominiums. This spacious two bedroom condo offers ten ft. ceilings, an open floor plan, and large master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. Chefs kitchen offers expansive cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances including a gas range. Edison Midtown features incredible amenities for that perfect Urbanite lifestyle. A beautiful pool and lap pool, 2000 sq. ft. fitness center and lounge, and gated parking garage.

4417 S 111th Drive Tolleson, AZ 85353

$551,900
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,524 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6780759
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A rare find! You'll surely love to own this beautiful 4-bedroom residence in Tolleson! Meticulously maintained interior boasts a desirable great room graced with bountiful natural light, wood-look tile flooring, and neutral paint that creates an inviting vibe. Impeccable kitchen offers recessed lighting, glossy stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, stylish tile backsplash, plenty of white cabinetry with crown moulding, and a peninsula equipped with a breakfast bar. Romantic primary bedroom provides a private ensuite with dual sinks, a sit-down shower, and a walk-in closet. As a bonus, this gem includes a fully equipped guest's quarter! Spacious backyard features a covered patio, pergola, and artificial turf. Seize the opportunity while it's still available!

4634 N 177th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$551,190
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,530 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769363
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BRAND NEW, energy-efficient home available in GATED COMMUNITY! The well-designed Bailey is perfect when a bit more space is needed. Each of the five bedrooms in this floorplan features a spacious walk-in closet. White cabinets with quartz countertop and grey tile flooring and carpet in bedrooms. ALREADY INCLUDED - washer, dryer, window blinds (except slider), refrigerator, soft water loop and more!!!! Residents will enjoy future amenities right at their doorstep including parks, pickleball, soccer, play area, walking trails, basketball court, ramada with outdoor kitchen, gas grill and fireplace, and more!!! Each home is built with innovative, energy-efficient features designed to help you enjoy more savings!

16837 W Fetlock Trail Surprise, AZ 85387

$550,296
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,420 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747381
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
On the hunt for a new home? Here's a wonderful home in the heart of Surprise that just released to the MLS. Very spacious high performance Wrightson plan. This popular floor plan includes a Gourmet Kitchen, Loft, Study space, Tub/Shower combination in the primary, Home Automation, Geofencing, whole house air purification system, and 5 bedrooms with 3 full baths. With one full bed and bath located down stairs. All rooms are very spacious!

Yuma Prooving Guard AZ 85365

$550,000
1 Bed
1 Bath
1 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756933
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --

93 S County Rd 1120 Street Greer, AZ 85927

$550,000
1 Bed
1 Bath
520 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6689446
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located on Main Street, Zoned for a business or your private cabin! Open 87 days of the yr. If you have been to Greer since 2021, you have seen the Coffee Cure & seen the lines for coffee, food, fudge, wine, jewelry & t-shirts. Cabin has 2 bedrms & 1 bath, a basement that is an approved commissary kitchen with in-floor drain & 3 compartment sink. Cabin has new windows, new flooring in bedrms, new electric & new plumbing. Liquor License (in state producer) & Starlink internet included with acceptable offer. All this on 1.34 acres of land! 1200 customers per week come to the food & coffee trucks. This does not count for customers who walk up to the other vendors. Exterior animal sculptures included (appx. value for re-sale = $20K) 40 foot garage is new, insulated, heated + a window A/C unit

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