What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 19, 2016

Last week’s economic news included reports on retail sales, inflation, and weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

Retail Sales Slip as Consumer Prices Inch Up

Retail sales dipped into negative territory in August with a reading of -0.30 percent as compared to expectations of -0.10 percent and July’s reading of +0.10 percent. Retail sales excluding auto sales were better at +0.30 percent. Analysts expected a reading of +0.20 percent based on July’s reading of -0.40 percent. August’s negative reading for retail sales was the first negative report since March.

Inflation fared better than retail sales with August’s Consumer Price Index reading at 0.20 percent. Analysts expected a reading of 0.10 percent; July’s reading was flat. Core Consumer Price Index readings for August are less volatile, as the Core CPI does not include readings for food and energy costs. August’s Core CPI reading was 0.30 percent. A reading of 0.20 percent was expected; July’s reading was 0.10 percent. It appears that inflation is creeping upward, but remains well below the Fed’s target reading of 2.0 percent.

Mortgage Rates, New Jobless Claims Rise

Freddie Mac reported higher mortgage rates across the board last week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose six basis points to 3.50 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage rose one basis point to 2.76 percent and the average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rose one basis point to an average of 2.82 percent. Average discount points were 0.50 for 30 and 15-year fixed rate mortgages and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.

Low mortgage rates have helped home buyers, especially first-time and moderate income buyers, meet affordability challenges. Home prices have risen due to low numbers of available homes and high demand for homes. If mortgage rates continue to rise, fewer buyers will be able to qualify for mortgages and or afford asking prices for available homes.

Next week’s meeting of the Fed’s Federal Open Market Committee is expected to bring news of a Fed decision on raising the target federal funds rate. If the Fed raises its rate, consumer interest rates for mortgages, vehicles and other goods can be expected to increase as well.

Whats Ahead

This week’s economic news includes the NAHB Housing Market Index, Commerce Department reports on housing starts and building permits issued and a Fed Statement at the conclusion of its Federal Open Market Committee meeting on Wednesday. Fed Chair Janet Yellen is also slated to give a press conference after the FOMC statement. The National Association of Realtors will also release a report on sales of previously owned homes.

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189 W Eagle Nest Road Williams, AZ 86046

$1,395,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,477 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6738670
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This authentic log cabin is a harmonious blend of ornate elegance and rugged charm, ready to welcome you home. 5,000 gal cistern & water delivery available. NOA HOA! VRBO & AIRBNB friendly. Room for RV parking, toys, plus a 5+ stall barn with turnouts, electricity & water, and equipped with separate 2,500 gal cistern. This home is a true log cabin retreat! Soaring ceilings and a hearty central fireplace anchors the living room with spectacular views to the east. This cabin is expertly insulated for a warm and inviting atmosphere year-round. Unique copper countertops in the kitchen & laundry room are sure to impress guests and perfectly complement the rustic feel to the home. The master bedroom offers a spacious ensuite and access to the back deck for serene mornings watching the sun rise. Wood floors add to the timeless appeal, while the cozy den features floor-to-ceiling shelving ready to house your favorite afternoon reads. Upstairs, the loft sits quaintly across the stone fireplace and leads to an adjoining bedroom with private deck access. AVAILABLE FOR ONLY A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME. DON'T WAIT TO MAKE YOUR MOVE.

3823 Ridge Runner Way Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$1,395,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,024 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747412
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This exquisite home, located in Wickenburg Ranch, spans over 3,000 square feet, offering a perfect blend of luxury and comfort. With 3 spacious bedrooms, each featuring its own ensuite bathroom, the home ensures privacy and convenience for all residents and guests. The property is set on a desirable golf course lot, providing stunning views and a serene atmosphere. The backyard is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, complete with a putting green for golf practice and a large covered patio ideal for entertaining or relaxing in the shade. Inside, the home is adorned with elegant wood-look tile flooring throughout, combining beauty with low-maintenance durability. The upgraded kitchen is a focal point, equipped with modern appliances and stylish finishes, making it perfect for both casual meals and gourmet cooking. The primary bathroom offers a spa-like experience, featuring a luxurious tub and a separate shower. Additionally, the home includes a media room as well as a versatile den/office space, providing the flexibility to work from home or create a quiet reading nook. The garage is a standout feature, insulated and equipped with air conditioning, making it comfortable and functional year-round. The landscaping around the property is beautifully designed, enhancing the home's curb appeal and providing a tranquil environment. This home is a true gem, offering a sophisticated lifestyle in a stunning setting.

7180 E Kierland Boulevard Unit 312 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$1,395,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,461 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747905
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Experience modern luxury living in this stunning 2-bed, 2-bath unit in Optima Kierland Condominium! Home exudes elegance with recessed lighting, a neutral palette, wood-look tile flooring in common areas, and Berber carpet in bedrooms. The large open layout creates an inviting and spacious atmosphere, ideal for everyday living & entertaining! The gourmet kitchen is a cook's delight, featuring granite counters, flat-panel cabinetry, a prep island w/breakfast bar, and high-end SS appliances w/cooktop gas. Split floor plan adds extra privacy! Oversized main bedroom has a cozy sitting area and an ensuite with dual sinks & a walk-in closet. Secondary bedroom also includes its own walk-in closet & private bathroom. The east-facing orientation captures the breathtaking sunrises and the McDowell Mountains' iconic purple hues at sunset. The Optima Kierland lifestyle offers unparalleled living with premier access to world-class dining, shopping, and golfing. Enjoy exceptional amenities like a rooftop oasis with 360-degree views, a pool, spa, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, sauna, and more. Additional perks include a fitness center, pickleball courts, golf simulator, basketball, yoga studios, and a rooftop running deck. Don't miss this rare opportunity!

2796 E Valencia Street Gilbert, AZ 85296

$1,395,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
4,774 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6748047
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Remodeled BASEMENT BUNGALOW in AGRITOPIA, WITH POOL! These homes don't come along very often! Ranch single story Plan 3 with full basement. Private entry porch with side yard driveway parking. Main floor features handscaped Hickory eng. flooring leading from front living room to dining room and CUSTOM kitchen adjacent to GREAT ROOM w/ Gas Fireplace. Main floor primary bedroom with large bath and OFFICE/NURSERY hidden nicely within the suite. Split on its own hallway, 2 more large main floor bedrooms and full bath. Wood flooring leads down the stairs into a LARGE GAME ROOM/ Home Theater with kitchenette and full size fridge. 3 additional large bedrooms and 2 baths downstairs, and large storage room / gym give numerous arrangements. Outside, your comfortable entertaining oasis awaits... Large Pool with Spa, Firewall and Firepit, beneath a spacious backporch. Plenty of room opposite pool for backyard games. This home just a few blocks from the large park and dog park, and just a few steps to the Agritopia U-pick orchard and Coffee Shop / Restaurants. This is your chance to get in to the neighborhood COMING SOON - preview opportunities available before market.

17770 E Paria Canyon Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,395,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,186 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750401
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
CORNER LOT & BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS!! Experience Luxury Living in this beautiful Brasada Residence located in the coveted Trilogy at Verde River. This modern Spanish-style home is perched on the North facing Premium Homesite and is designed to capture UNPARALLELED MOUNTAIN VIEWS and dramatic ever changing Arizona sunsets from both the front and back patios. Front courtyard leads you into an open floor plan with an alluring great room, striking kitchen, and light and open dining room. Gourmet GE Monogram Appliances, large granite center island, custom lighting and stunning cabinetry in the kitchen offers a rich and upgraded look. Exuding warmth and sophistication this home is designed to feature distinctive elements such as large Den, upgraded flooring throughout, custom window treatments, stunning upgraded primary bath, epoxy coated 3 bay Garage with custom built-in cabinets, both Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis and so much more. The expansive primary bedroom and bathroom offer a luxurious retreat, complete with a tub, shower, and dual vanity. The second guest room comes with its own en suite bath, ensuring comfort and privacy. The entire Great Room area of the home features sliding Wall of Glass and opens for an optimal indoor/outdoor experience. Other notable upgrades include the Lake View, Insulated and climate controlled garage, Solid core interior door, Custom barn door in primary bedroom and a lot more. Spacious outdoor living has an extended covered patio with travertine tile and a custom landscaping. Did I mention THE VIEW? IT'S MAGNIFICENT!! Resort Lifestyle and a home to be treasured and appreciated! Trilogy at Verde River offers upscale Resort living at its finest and the very best of all possible worlds, close to the conveniences of affluent North Scottsdale yet secreted within the pristine privacy of the Sonoran Desert. The amenities are World Class with Tom Lehman inspired eighteen-hole Golf course, tennis courts, pickle ball courts, and bocce ball, heated lap pool and Resort style swimming pool, hot tub, Afterburn fitness center, Helen's demonstration Kitchen for cooking classes and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual poolside dining at Eddy's Diner and gourmet dining at award-winning Needle Rock Kitchen and Tap, Alvea Spa with full-service Salon and Spa amenities, Art Loft and events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails. Whether you're seeking a second, winter home, or will live here year-round, Trilogy at Verde River is an ideal distance from the hustle and bustle of North Scottsdale. Attitudes here are different; there's a sense of community. You'll love the Resort living! What memories will you make?

12425 E Via De Palmas Road Chandler, AZ 85249

$1,395,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,457 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6753372
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own a custom single-story home with no HOA, nestled on nearly 1.5 acres of beautifully maintained grounds in the highly sought-after county islands of Chandler. This charming property boasts mature fruit trees, lush grass, and a variety of plants, offering a serene retreat with ample space for your animals—pigs, cows, chickens, horses, and more are welcome here! Enjoy the ultimate outdoor living experience with a private pool shaded by mature trees, perfect for relaxation and entertaining. The expansive lot provides plenty of room to park all your toys and trailers, with additional storage in the 3-car garage, complete with cabinets for convenience. Inside, you'll find 4 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 baths, featuring fresh paint and new carpet throughout. The Saltillo tile in the living areas complements the home's country style, while high ceilings and abundant windows create an inviting, airy atmosphere. Recent upgrades include a brand-new roof (2024) and a 2-stage AC system installed in 2022. The home is equipped with Tesla solar panels with a low lease payment of just $106 per month, and bird netting to protect both the solar panels and roof. For your entertainment, surround sound is pre-wired both inside and out. This irrigated lot is grandfathered in for all your watering needs, and the property includes a reverse osmosis system. There's even a reinforced area off the master bedroom for your heavy aquarium tank, plus new smoke alarms throughout. With twice-weekly trash service and city water, this home offers modern convenience in a tranquil setting. Homes like this are a rare find, so don't let this opportunity pass you by. Stop by today and discover the charm and possibilities this unique property has to offer! ***Tree List*** Apple, Apricot, Plum, Grapefruit, Orange, Lemon and Pomegranate.

7531 E Hazelwood Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,395,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,097 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756655
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home, a meticulously renovated oasis where modern luxury meets timeless elegance. Step through the new front door and into a beautifully redesigned space enhanced by landscape improvements, including stylish exterior lighting and a fresh stucco courtyard. The herringbone Territorial Hollander paver walkway leads you to custom laser-cut gates, offering a sophisticated entrance to your private retreat. The backyard is a serene haven featuring a Perla Blanca limestone pool surround, a new stack tile pool waterfall, and a saltwater pool with an in-floor cleaning system. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living with a 12-foot stacking glass door that opens poolside, where mature trees provide shade and privacy and Solar panels ensure energy efficiency. Inside, every detail has been thoughtfully updated. The home boasts all-new drywall, doors and hardware, complemented by fresh flooring, trim moldings, and cabinetry. Raised ceilings and new ductwork create a spacious, airy feel, while a new split unit ensures year-round comfort. The kitchen is a culinary masterpiece, featuring custom Bodaq cabinetry, Crema Vosscione honed limestone countertops, Thermador appliances, a range hood, and a massive entertaining bar topped with stunning Volcano Gray granite. The bathrooms are newly completed with luxurious finishes: penny tile floors, curbless showers, two-piece trough sinks, black stainless fixtures, and lighted vanity mirrors in the primary suite; and a large tub with a floating vanity in the secondary bathrooms, accented with Champagne bronze fixtures. Ideally located within walking distance to high-end shopping and dining, and just minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor and Scottsdale Airport, this home offers both convenience and exclusivity. Every aspect has been designed with quality and elegance in mind, making it a perfect sanctuary for modern living.

12789 W Via Caballo Blanco -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,395,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,825 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757074
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
CURRENT INCENTIVE: $30k seller credit to use however Buyer chooses. If you want custom touches, this is it! Sensational Tuscan inspired home in Blackstone with breathtaking greenbelt and mountain views from the courtyard. Fall in love with this resort style backyard with raised pool, spa, firepit, synthetic grass, and travertine extended patio! Quite possibly the most customized TW Lewis home in all of Blackstone with over $387,000 worth of custom touches after the home was built! This original owner didn't miss a single detail inside or out! Beautiful 24'' x 24'' designer flooring, custom baseboards & crown molding, custom chandeliers & designer window treatments throughout! This Gourmet Kitchen is perfection with oversized custom island with high end granite slab and ogee edge. Designer stacked cabinets with glass fronts. Upgraded GE Monogram appliances with Built-in Refrigerator. Double ovens & warming drawer. Pot filler above the gas cooktop. Custom backsplash. Built-in wine rack. Custom built-in desk space with granite slab in the Sun Room off the Chef's Kitchen. Primary Suite features one of the most beautiful bathrooms you will find. Marble shower with 3 shower heads and 4 body sprayers. Extra large shower glass, Penhaglion claw foot standing tub, granite slab counters, and custom lighting! If you're looking for a home with dual primary suites, this is the closest you will find with oversized Guest Suite at the front of the home with custom Bath! Full list of upgrades and custom touches in the Documents Tab. This home is located in the perfect spot with nobody in front. Enjoy beautiful desert, park, and mountain views from the tuscan inspired front courtyard!

11411 E Gamble Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,395,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,800 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757454
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Lock & leave perfection. Remodeled inside & out in transitional style, this property has everything you're looking for w/in-demand finishes. Wood-look tile floors offer a continuous character of nature in addition to the use of travertine stone & alder wood. Spacious window-filled great room features views of Pinnacle Peak plus a cozy fireplace & bar w/wine fridge. Large fireplaced dining room is equally view-oriented & opens to beautifully appointed kitchen. Grand owner's suite offers a luxurious retreat w/its gorgeous ensuite bath & closet-of-your-dreams. Three additional bedrooms & two full baths complete this versatile floor plan. Outside is deep patio w/pavers leading to gas firepit, sitting area & relaxing hot tub for enjoying stunning mtn views, sunsets & starlit skies.

7222 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 136 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,395,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Gainey Ranch, Scottsdale
New
$1,395,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,776 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757539
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
NEWLY REMODELED, SINGLE LEVEL, ON THE GOLF COURSE, WITH NO OTHER UNIT ABOVE YOUR MAIN LIVING AREAS. EXPANSIVE VIEWS ACROSS TWO FAIRWAYS, MOUNTAIN VIEWS AND AMAZING SUNSETS! The perfect Scottsdale Retreat! This combination doesn't come up very often. Don't miss this 2 bedroom, 2 bath, plus den with no steps and 2-car attached garage. Beautifully finished with New Flooring, Remodeled Bathrooms and Kitchen. Enjoy the premier community in Scottsdale with all its resort style amenities . . 6 tennis courts, 4 pickleball courts, gym, 25 meter pool, and nestled within the 27 holes of championship golf at the Gainey Ranch Golf Club! Walk to the Hyatt Resort and the Shops at Gainey Village. Enjoy the resort lifestyle in Gainey Ranch.

2709 E Janelle Way Gilbert, AZ 85298

$1,395,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,680 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760858
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning 4680 sq ft home will check all your boxes! Located on almost 1-acre, with no neighbors behind, it features 5 bedrooms & 4.5 baths, with the main house boasting 3949 sqft, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths & a 3-car tandem garage. The beautifully landscaped front yard includes extended driveways, a stone façade, cozy courtyard, 2 garages & RV gate. Inside, you will find wood & tile flooring, recessed lighting, impressive soaring ceilings, & large picture windows. The elegant living space includes a formal dining room with crystal chandelier & a chef's kitchen complete with granite counters, chic pendant lighting, built-in SS appliances, gas cooking, a large center island, butlers & walk-in pantries, breakfast nook, & plenty of wood cabinetry w/crown molding. The luxurious master bedroom offers new carpet, bay windows, & a spa-like ensuite with dual vanities, soaking tub, walk-in tiled shower w/drying area & His & Her walk-in closets. Two guest bedrooms each have private baths & a 4th bedroom features a Murphy bed & walk-in closet also ideal for an office. The attached 731 sqft casita includes an oversized bedroom with sitting area, large walk-in closet, roomy bathroom with dual sinks & walk-in shower, living room/kitchenette, a private yard, & an attached 30 x 30 garage that can hold 4 additional cars or be used as a 2 car garage with workshop space featuring a drive-through door complete with an extra parking space in the back. That is not all! The vast backyard is a paradise on Earth! Host fun gatherings & relax by the covered patio, play your favorite sports along the sizable green turf, or enjoy every day like a vacation in the 30,000-gallon saltwater sparkling pool w/ delightful stone features, tropical landscaping, waterfall, water slide & underwater seats. Other upgrades include remodeled master bath, remodeled kitchen, 3 HVAC units, 100-amp service in casita garage, extra insulation, cobblestone pavers, firepit and so much more. Nicely located in Gilbert close to shopping, restaurants & views of the San Tan Mountains. This property has it all!

6514 N 85th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,395,000 - 6Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Park Scottsdale 8, Scottsdale
Open House
$1,395,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
3,540 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6761679
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
RARE OPPORTUNITY to own this spacious 2,600 sq ft main house + 940 sq ft SINGLE LEVEL GUEST HOUSE in Park Scottsdale backing to the CANAL! UNICORN PROPERTY has ENERGY EFFICIENT & SMART HOME features galore! Main house & guest house are each UPDATED & equipped w/their own 2-car attached garages ~ Main house tri-level offers 5 bedrooms & 3.5 baths ~ Main house bright & modern kitchen w/soft close white cabinets extending to the ceiling, QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS, INDUCTION COOKTOP, built-in oven, under-cabinet lighting, LARGE KITCHEN ISLAND w/seating & storage, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES & a reverse osmosis system ~ Main level features living room/great room, large laundry room, bedroom w/door to backyard & a half bath ~ Upstairs features a primary en-suite, 2 add'l bedrooms & a guest bathroom ~ Primary bedroom has 3 separate closets, an en-suite bathroom w/a luxurious Japanese STEAM SHOWER w/multiple shower heads ~ Lower level/downstairs offers a versatile great room & entertaining space w/an electric fireplace, bedroom, a full bathroom, & office space PLUS a WALKOUT BASEMENT exit to backyard ~ Whole home & ENERGY-EFFICIENT updates including LED LIGHTS, SPRAY FOAM INSULATION, AC MINI-SPLITS in every bedroom for precise temperature control, max efficiency & NEWER ROOF (DEC 2023) w/REFLECTIVE SHINGLES for heat resistance, complete w/a transferable warranty & 200AMP ELECTRICAL PANEL ~ SMART HOME designed to make life easier w/motorized curtains, Alexa controlled Lutron lighting & music, internet enabled locks, security cameras & garage doors ~ 2 car attached garage w/EPOXY floors, abundance of storage cabinets, attic storage (that stays cool even in the summer!) and a 50 amp EV charging plug. The spacious GUEST HOUSE features 1 bedroom + a den/office, 1.5 baths & its own private outdoor space ~ The large eat in kitchen is equipped w/matching STAINLESS STEEL Whirlpool appliances, white cabinets w/glass fronts, GRANITE COUNTERTOPS & under-cabinet lighting ~ Primary bedroom has en-suite bathroom w/a bathtub & luxurious shower w/MULTIPLE SHOWER HEADS, a Toto washlet toilet w/ BIDET & updated vanity ~ The guest house has it's own attached garage w/epoxy floors & tons of cabinets w/storage & a newer HVAC system ~ Smart features in the guest house include Alexa controlled music & lights ~ Perfect for friends or family, multi-generational home, or as a rental property, offering excellent income potential as a short- or long-term rental. Main house and guest house have recently had new EXTERIOR STUCCO & PAINT (Sept 2024) and the SUPPLY & SEWER LINES FULLY REPLACED including all the way out to the street (2016). The backyard is an entertainer's paradise, featuring a large covered patio w/recessed lighting, artificial turf, a putting green, & a motorized RV gate updated to alley angle to enable longer vehicle entrance & a concrete parking pad ~ 50 amp RV charging plug on side of house & RV hookup for sewer, power & ethernet. This oversized cul-de-sac lot backs up directly to the canal, offering stunning views of Camelback Mountain and easy access to the Scottsdale Greenbelt for biking, jogging & dog walking ~ Located in the highly desirable Park Scottsdale community, this home offers a prime location within walking distance to the canal, Scottsdale Greenbelt, Chaparral Park, and top-rated schools like Saguaro High School and Pueblo Dual Immersion Spanish Elementary ~ Enjoy being just minutes from Scottsdale Community College, Old Town Scottsdale, Fashion Square, Talking Stick Baseball Fields the 101 Freeway and so much more!

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