What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 12, 2016

Few economic reports were released last week due to the Labor Day Holiday. The Federal Reserve released its Beige Book Report, which documents anecdotes shared with the Fed by its regional business contacts. A job openings report, weekly jobless claims and Freddie Mac’s survey of mortgage rates was also released.

Fed’s Beige Book: Approaching Election Dampens Business Growth

According to the Federal Reserve’s survey of business contacts within its 12 districts, November’s election is causing business owners to take a “wait and see” position regarding expansion plans. Commercial real estate contacts in several Fed districts cited modest projections for sales and construction for the second half of 2016. The Bank of Canada supported Fed contacts’ view of modest growth; it characterized U.S. business growth as “less certain.”

Analysts review the Beige Book report for indications of how the Fed may adjust its monetary policy including whether or not to raise the target federal funds rate. The Beige Book report did not reveal any compelling evidence for the Fed to raise rates before year-end, but Fed Chair Janet Yellen said in a recent statement that economic conditions were strengthening and favored a rate hike before year-end.

November’s election will likely delay any rate hike until December. Fed policymakers have repeatedly said that a combination of economic trends, current readings and news reports contribute to decisions relating to interest rates and other monetary policy issues.

Job Openings Rise, New Jobless Claims Drop

July job openings rose from June’s reading of 5.60 million openings to 5.90 million openings to hit an all-time high.  New jobless claims fell from 263,000 new claims to 259,000 new claims. The Labor Department also reported that hires increased from 5.17 million to 5.23 million in June. These readings are further indications of strengthening job markets and general economic growth.

Mortgage Rates Lower

Freddie Mac reported lower average mortgage rates last week; the average rate for a 30-year mortgage was two basis points lower at 3.44 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was one basis point lower at 2.76 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was two basis points lower at 2.81 percent. Discount points averaged 0.60, 0.50 and 0.40 percent respectively.

What’s Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic reports include readings on retail sales, national inflation and consumer sentiment.

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7120 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 1203 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$2,695,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6725497
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Enjoy stunning MOUNTAIN VIEWS in this 2 bed, 2.5 bath penthouse unit at Optima Kierland. With 2000 sqft of luxurious space, unit offers 2 master suites, den, spacious kitchen, family & dining rooms. Top notch finishes include wide plank oak flooring, 10 ft ceilings, quartz counters, Bosch appliances, & Wolf induction cooktop. Tons of nature light inside with floor to ceiling windows & 400 sqft of outdoor space. Optima Kierland offers the ultimate in urban luxury lifestyle living within walking distance to shops & dining at Kierland Commons & Scottsdale Quarter. Amenities include basketball, electronic driving range, exercise facility, rooftop pool, concierge, & more. Unit comes complete with 2 parking spaces & storage unit. Come join the Optima Kierland club & lifestyle!

20647 E Pummelos Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$2,695,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,889 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755396
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Looking for a home better than the model?! THIS IS IT. Boasting over $350,000 in interior upgrades + $850,000 in exterior upgrades above and beyond what the builder offers, this stunning home will blow you away. Located in the luxury-GATED community of Bridle Ranch, this one-of-a-kind property checks all of your boxes for luxury living: 5 car garage, detached guesthouse, attached casita, game room, office, Sub Zero & Wolf Appliances, weight room, pool, spa, firepit, garden, and the list goes on and on. Additionally, the property can be sold completely turnkey, fully furnished, allowing you to move in with ease. Please check out the ''Documents'' section to see a list of all the upgrades to this property as the list is extensive. Inside, the floorplan provides an expansive great room as the central hub, with the kids' wing and parents' wing split on different sides of the house. The kitchen overlooks the great room and includes unique Calcutta Gold marble countertops, top of the line Wolf/Sub Zero appliance set including a Scotsman ice maker which is definitely needed living in the desert! Did I mention the house was extended 4 ft in the back making the play room and primary suite much larger? The primary bedroom provides a peaceful retreat, and the gorgeous primary bathroom with a gorgeous shower and an enormous wrap around walk-in closet that also connects directly to the laundry room for added convenience. The laundry room is one of a kind for the floor plan as the owners expanded it and fully customized it complete with a built-in side-by-side stainless steel freezer/refrigerator. On the east wing of the house, you will have two spacious bedrooms connected by Jack and Jill bathroom, and a large playroom perfect for the kids having friends over. As you exit to the backyard through your luxury pocket door, you are set up perfectly for Arizona living with the perfect indoor/outdoor blended experience. Designed by Creative Environments, the owners spared no expense in the backyard. They had a custom-built detached guesthouse including an extended two car garage bay with access directly into it from the back of your lot, perfect for storing trailers, ATV's, four wheelers, etc. The other side is a fully functioning weightroom complete with a full bathroom! The north side of this guesthouse is overlooks the pool and backyard, is shaded, and a great place to entertain with a kitchen and TV. A gorgeous fire pit right off of the spa makes for a perfect area of relaxation in your private backyard oasis as you soak in the mountain views to the south. The pool and spa both are heated. And don't forget about the garden flanking both sides of the Guesthouse for the garden enthusiasts out there! This home has so many upgrades and is truly one of a kind! Located in a welcoming community, this offers easy access to local amenities while providing the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living. Don't miss the opportunity to own this incredible property!

9216 E Sky Line Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,695,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,700 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6775457
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Golf membership to Desert Mountain available. This custom contemporary designed by award winning architect Tor Barstad has 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths including casita, and sits on a private golf course lot In the village of Gamble Quail. The spacious and light filled living and dining rooms open up to a covered patio with pool, BBQ with outdoor dining. The Primary Suite features a fireplace, his and her bathrooms and walk-in closets. The enormous kitchen features knotty alder cabinets, fireplace, granite countertops and a view of Black Mountain. Separate casita for extra private guest visits! Oversized three car garage for all your outdoor adventures. Village of Gambel Quail location offers convenience to Desert Mountain's main gate for quick access to offsite shopping & dining, as well as community amenities including golf, biking and hiking trails, Ranch amenities and The Sonoran Fitness Center with spa, pickleball, tennis, swimming. fitness facilities and MUCH more.

29630 N 107th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,695,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
4,551 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6776498
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
True to design Arizona architecture with expansive views of Pinnacle Peak and Troon Mountain on an acre lot in Troon North's premier gated community of Talus. A custom designed open concept floor plan of the kitchen and family room allows plenty of space for entertaining and a wall of glass that opens up provides indoor/outdoor living spaces to enjoy comfortable and casual upscale living. The kitchen brings the outdoors in with natural light, a large island to gather around, large walk in pantry, stainless appliances, knotty alder cabinets and large breakfast area overlooking the backyard. A round dining room takes in the beauty of the natural desert landscape in the front of the house with a sit up bar that looks out to the living area and a separate shower, and a large closet. A split floor plan all on one level with two ample size guest bedrooms and ensuite baths and large laundry room with a window. The third bedroom is currently an office and has access to an adjacent full bath. The backyard makes it easy to relax with complete privacy, a heated negative edge pool, outdoor fireplace, built-in barbeque, natural desert landscape and southern exposure to capture the unobstructed mountain views. Walking distance to the Brown Ranch Trailhead and in close proximity to prestigious golf clubs and fine dining establishments. Embrace Arizona Living at its finest.

15215 N Kierland Boulevard Unit 531 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$2,695,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,162 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782646
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Welcome to Kierland Plaza Lofts, Residence 531—a stunning corner unit offering an exceptional living experience just steps from the lively main street of Kierland. This meticulously remodeled 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom condo exudes timeless elegance, showcasing exquisite quartzite countertops, premium Wolf stainless steel appliances, engineered hardwood floors, and expansive windows and sliding doors that fill the home with natural light. With a southwest orientation, this unit boasts captivating views of multiple mountain ranges, the Kierland golf course, and the city lights. The kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a Wolf gas cooktop, built-in microwave, ample cabinetry, a Sub-Zero refrigerator/freezer, and a wine tower. The open-concept main living area flows seamlessly from the kitchen to the formal dining and living spaces, perfect for entertaining. The primary bedroom enjoys breathtaking mountain views and added privacy with electronic sunshades and a blackout screen. The luxurious primary bathroom is a true retreat, with marble vanities and floors, a spacious shower, a standalone bathtub, and a generous walk-in closet. The guest suite, which can double as a home office, also offers remarkable views and a large walk-in closet with custom built-ins. The residence includes two parking spaces and a dedicated interior storage unit. As a resident of Kierland Plaza Lofts, enjoy premium amenities including on-site concierge services, a fully equipped fitness center, a heated pool and spa, spacious outdoor sundecks, private BBQ stations, and a designated dog area. Shopping and dining are just outside your door, inviting you to embrace the vibrant Kierland Lofts lifestyle.

5145 N 71st Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,695,000 - 3Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Via Vista, Paradise Valley
New
$2,695,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,511 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784634
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Your Paradise Valley Oasis awaits in the private gated enclave of Via Vista. The scent of jasmine and fresh flowers draws you into the front courtyard where both the main house and casita overlook this tranquil and inviting space. Open concept living with high ceilings and abundant natural light make this the perfect home away from home with space to relax and entertain. The gourmet kitchen, family room and dining room all look onto the center piazza with a heated spa that cascades into the sparkling pool; ideal for cool afternoon dips or nightcaps under the star filled desert sky. The split floor plan offers two master suites along with a private office with its own entry. The guest casita is equally spacious with a full family room with cooktop and separate bedroom area. Escape to the backyard to grill or garden in this lush and welcoming space. Walking distance to endless restaurants and shops and minutes from all that Scottsdale and Paradise Valley have to offer.

17805 N 92nd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,695,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,547 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783008
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning DC Ranch Estates home boasts a rare and highly sought-after floorplan that has been ''bumped out'' with additional square footage throughout, creating an expansive, open atmosphere at every turn. This recently remodeled four bedroom, four bath home combines modern sophistication with warmth and comfort. It features a spacious open-concept kitchen, dining room, and great room, with a large opening seamlessly connecting the indoor and outdoor living spaces. Throughout the home, you'll find wide plank European Oak engineered hardwood floors, warm dim recessed lighting with 3'' square trims, Legrand Adorne switches, and sleek, custom flush-mount HVAC registers. Solid wood interior doors with Emtek hardware add another layer of refinement to the home. The chef's kitchen is a true masterpiece, showcasing elegant marble and granite countertops, a striking marble slab backsplash, and an oversized island. It is equipped with top-tier appliances, under-shelf LED warm dim lighting, and a discreet, yet large and highly functional walk-in pantry. The kitchen opens to an expansive great room, featuring a new 14' sliding door with four panels, offering an uninterrupted connection to the back yard. Two custom-built desk spaces along with luxurious window treatments and lighting elevate the ambiance of this impressive entertaining space. This home boasts a luxurious primary en-suite, a guest en-suite, and two additional bedrooms sharing a beautifully finished dual-vanity bathroom. The primary bath is a spa-like retreat with a spacious double-sink vanity, a freestanding tub, and a shower with dual rain heads. A custom drop zone near the laundry room combines style and practicality, keeping clutter neatly tucked away. The home's gym opens through french doors to a private backyard oasis, providing the perfect indoor-outdoor workout experience. The backyard has been completely transformed with limestone patio and pool decking, a modernized pool finish, new LED pool lighting, a new pool heater, lush new landscaping, and a 4-hole putting green with chipping area. Please refer to the Documents Tab for a comprehensive list of all upgrades throughout the home. A personal tour of this residence will offer a true experience of the exceptional level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines this renovation.

8337 E La Senda Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,695,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,666 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6771184
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Situated on a premier golf course lot with much desired southern exposure, this superb, remodeled with an addition immaculate 3 bedroom, 3 bath plus office home is located in coveted Pinnacle Peak Country Club Estates. From the moment you drive up to the beautifully landscaped entrance with circular drive, 3 car side entrance garage and private gated courtyard you will want to call this home. In addition to the perfect location this exceptional property is the perfect blend of cozy charm and space for large gatherings offering a comfortable Living room with fireplace vaulted ceiling and dining area and the spacious Family Room which is open to the kitchen is surrounded by windows and boasts a fireplace, dining area and access to the backyard covered patio. Fully equipped kitchen features granite counters, double ovens, SS appliances and pantry. Primary bedroom has access to the backyard and primary bathroom has double sinks and walk-in shower. Guest bedroom has access to it's own bathroom and third bedroom currently being used as a den has access to the hall bath. The large backyard with covered patio and built-in-BBQ is great for entertaining or quietly enjoying the golf course and mountain views. And all is conveniently located close to shopping, dining, golf and the loop 101.

6050 W Saskan Ranch Circle Flagstaff, AZ 86001

$2,695,000
6 Beds
6 Baths
6,250 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6764733
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Pickleball Anyone? This home boasts it's own pickle ball court on nearly 5 acres in Saskan Ranch, perfect for indoor and outdoor living and entertaining. Main house has 3 levels with 2 bedrooms on each, all but one are en suites. Downstairs features a bonus room, theatre room and kitchenette. Outdoors there is a sports court (pickleball, volleyball,basketball). Over the garage there is a bunk room and bath that could also be used as an office. Huge RV garage for outdoor toys, large enough for a boat or multiple vehicles. AC, kitchen appliances, 1 water heater and carpet in above garage bunk room all replaced in last 2 years. Waste system is a Wisconsin Mound. ( main house approximately 5400 square feet, bunk room 850 square feet, approximately.

37200 N Cave Creek Road Unit 2124 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,690,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,721 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6676629
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This exquisite upper-level corner residence is meticulously designed to integrate the beauty of the outdoors with the comfort of the indoors. Awe-inspiring views of the surroundings are a highlight, made even more spectacular by the stackable sliding doors that seamlessly connect the large outdoor patio to the cozy interior. Overlooking the 3rd fairway and surrounded by mountains, this space is perfect for both entertaining guests and enjoying moments of solitude. Conveniently located on the right side of the building, the residence is equipped with an elevator, ensuring easy access from the garage to your living space.

12251 E Cortez Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,685,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,985 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744218
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this breathtaking custom home situated on a cul-de-sac in the gated community of Sonoran Arroyos. No expense or detail was spared in this home. Gourmet kitchen with double islands, gas cooktop and stainless steel appliances. This home has everything you need to enjoy indoor/outdoor living. The backyard is a true resort-style oasis, new L-shaped fire pit with grilling and dining area,. oversized side burner, refrigerator, new water features, gas fire pit and two large copper fire bowls added to the ambiance. Master suite has a newly designed walk-in closet with four electric rods for your convenience, fireplace and access to your oasis. Master bathroom has a walk-in shower, soaking tub, fireplace and two vanities. There's so much to this home. You have to see it!

3448 S First Water Trail Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$2,675,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,838 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6784858
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to an unparalleled luxury estate situated directly on the 10th fairway of the Nicklaus-designed Lost Gold golf course within the prestigious 24/7 guard gated community of Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club in Gold Canyon, Arizona. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Arizona's iconic Superstition Mountains, this exclusive residence offers a timeless blend of sophisticated design, natural beauty, and refined amenities. The expansive windows, cathedral ceilings and stunning wood beams truly showcase the home and Superstition Mountain views. Every detail of this 5 bedroom, 5.5 bathroom masterpiece exudes elegance. The courtyard 'piazza' with an inviting fireplace welcomes you to the main residence and a private entry to the guest casita directly off the front courtyard. Each bedroom boasts their own ensuite bathrooms complete with walk in closets. The gourmet open concept kitchen is complete with a 6-burner gas Viking cooktop, 36 Viking refrigerator/freezer, an extended kitchen island along with double sinks, dishwashers , lower convection ovens and a built in microwave. The oversized walk-in pantry. and large butler's pantry offers plenty of storage and your own coffee and beverage bar. For the wine enthusiast there is also a private climate controlled wine cellar which can hold approximately 600 bottles of your favorite vintage. The Primary bedroom suite has direct access to the backyard, along with a private sitting area, two private water closets, double sinks, a luxurious jetted tub, spa shower and dual large walk in closets. The warm and elegant hand-scraped wood floors and travertine tile elude true beauty throughout.The 8' solid core alder doors, Emtec hardware and custom cabinetry complete with wood casement windows and doors adds character and charm. The spacious covered back patio, inviting gas fireplace and heated infinity pool and spa make this home a true desert oasis. The oversized 3 car garage also offers a large storage closet and an abundance of cabinets.There is surround sound throughout the home as well as automatic sun shades. Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club offers world-class amenities that redefine exclusivity. Both golf and social memberships are available. The amenities include two championship Jack Nicklaus golf courses, an elegant clubhouse with gourmet and casual dining, a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts as well as social gatherings and events. Gold Canyon is located less than 35 minutes to Phoenix Sky Harbor airport & 20 minutes to Mesa Gateway airport. Some furnishings are available on a separate bill of sale.

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