What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 26, 2016

Last week’s economic news was abundant with releases on home builder sentiment, housing starts, building permits, sales of previously owned homes. The Federal Open Market Committee of the Federal Reserve released its customary statement at the conclusion of its meeting; Fed Chair Janet Yellen also gave a press conference. Weekly readings on new jobless claims and mortgage rates were released as usual.

NAHB: Builder Sentiment Increases in September

Home builder confidence in housing market conditions increased in September according to the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index. Builder confidence rose five points to 65; analysts expected a reading of 60 based on August’s reading of 59. NAHB said that September’s reading was boosted by more “serious” buyers entering housing markets.

Components used to determine NAHB HMI readings were also higher. Builder confidence in current market conditions rose six points to 71; builder confidence in housing market conditions over the next six months rose by five points to 71. Builder confidence in buyer traffic in new housing developments rose four points to 48. Buyer traffic readings have not reached 50 since 2005; 50 is a neutral benchmark for NAHB HMI readings.

Home prices continue rising at a higher pace than wages; this is pressuring first-time and moderate income buyers out of the market. An ongoing shortage of available homes is pressing prices higher as demand increases. Analysts pay close attention to the NAHB HMI as building more new homes is a key factor in easing the shortage of homes for sale.

Housing Starts, Building Permits Lower

Commerce Department readings on housing starts and permits issued were lower for August Housing starts were lower in August at 1.142 million starts on a seasonally-adjusted annual pace. Analysts expected 1.182 million housing starts based on July’s reading of 1.212 million starts. Regional readings showed a dip in starts in the South. Severe flooding in Louisiana contributed to the lower reading for housing starts. August’s reading for housing starts was 5.80 percent lower than July’s reading and 0.90 percent lower than for July 2015.

Building permits issued were nearly flat in August; this was likely due to the prime building season winding down 1.139 million permits were issued as compared to 1.144 million permits issued in July. Single-family starts were six percent lower than for July and were 1.20 percent lower year-over-year.

Existing Home Sales Dip: High Demand, Low Supply Cited

Sales of pre-owned homes fell by 0.90 percent in August to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.33 million sales. Analysts expected a reading of 5.48 million sales; July’s reading for sales of pre-owned homes was 5.38 million sales.

Low inventory of available homes continues to impact housing markets as demand for homes increased and prices rose; the national average home price was $240,000 in August. Rising home prices continued to be driven by high demand and low supplies. These conditions also impacted first-time and moderate income home buyers who were pressured to keep up with rapidly rising home prices.

While mortgage rates remain relatively low, higher home prices and tight mortgage credit requirements remain obstacles for first-time buyers.

Mortgage Rates, Weekly Jobless Claims Lower

Freddie Mac reported lower mortgage rates last week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage fell by two basis points to 3.48 percent; the average rate for a15-year fixed rate mortgage fell on one basis point to 2.76 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was lower by two basis points at 2.80 percent.

Analysts expected new jobless claims to remain flat at the prior week’s reading of 260,000 new claims, but 252,000 new claims were filed for the lowest reading since July. The four-week rolling average of new jobless claims fell by 22250 claims to 258,500. The four-week reading is considered a less volatile reading than week-to-week readings.

Federal Reserve: No Increase in Fed Rate

The Federal Open Market Committee said in its post-meeting statement that the target federal funds rate would not be raised. In a press conference given after the FOMC statement, Fed Chair Janet Yellen said that although the economy continued to improve, the Fed had concerns over the labor market and decided not to raise rates. Any increase in Federal Reserve rates triggers increases in consumer lending rates.

What’s Ahead

This week’s readings include Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, readings on new and pending home sales and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

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9801 N Solitude Canyon Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$2,195,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
4,615 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757650
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this exquisite luxury home nestled within the guard-gated Eagle Mountain Golfing Community. This stunning residence boasts an impressive 4,615 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space, offering an ideal retreat for both relaxation and entertainment. The home features 3 spacious bedrooms, including 2 guest suites and a huge primary suite, this home is perfect for hosting family and friends. The dedicated office space, complete with built-in cabinetry, provides a serene environment for work/study/extra bedroom. At the heart of this home lies a gourmet kitchen equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, perfect for culinary enthusiasts. An adjoining built-in wine closet and host bar make entertaining effortless and enjoyable. Step outside to discover your private oasis with a heated pool and spa. There is a built-in BBQ with a large covered patio to relax and enjoy your peaceful surroundings. Step out of the home and onto the front balcony to see breathtaking mountain and golf course views. It's the perfect setting for morning coffee or late afternoon, and into the evening, gatherings for entertaining. The space flows from the inside directly to the outside allowing the doors to remain open at all times for guests and family to move about freely. This home combines elegance and functionality, making it the ultimate choice for those seeking a sophisticated lifestyle in a vibrant community. Don't miss your chance to own this extraordinary property. 2022 HVAC systems (3), 2021 roof re-coating.

7127 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 6011 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$2,195,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,406 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759582
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
EXCEPTIONAL, HIGHLY UPGRADED 2,406 SQFT 6TH FLOOR CONDO WITH TWO LARGE BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED BALCONIES, AND GORGEOUS VIEWS! This exceptional 3 bedroom 2.5 bathroom condo features extensive floor-to-celing glass, a spectacular and highly upgraded gourmet kitchen, a well conceived open floor plan, superior finishes, 2 beautiful and quiet balconies, gorgeous views, 2 designated parking spots, and an attractive and upgraded laundry room. All found within the luxurious Optima Camelview Village, with it's unbeatable location & state of the art architecture/amenities. Amenities include: Two Outdoor Zen Pools, Spas & Bbqs One on each side of the community (heated year round). 24,000 sq. ft. Fitness Center (Recently Remodeled). Mens & Womens Locker Rooms w/ Steam Rooms, Showers and Private Lockers. Indoor Lap Pool & 2 Spas (Heated year round), On-site concierge, Putting green, Hybrid Basketball / Pickle-ball Court, Racquet ball court, On-site restaurant (metropolis), conference room, 24/7 Security, Reservable party room and multi-purpose fitness/yoga room.

3185 E Stella Lane Phoenix, AZ 85016

$2,195,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
3,303 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6776443
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled on a private cul-de-sac bordering a lush preserve, this residence is located in the prestigious, guard-gated Biltmore Greens community. As you enter, you'll be captivated by soaring vaulted ceilings and expansive, light-filled living areas. High-end sliding glass doors create a seamless transition to the vibrant backyard, where a private pool awaits.The modernized kitchen showcases sleek cabinetry, an oversized island with waterfall-edge countertops, and top-of-the-line appliances, including a built-in coffee maker and custom ice drawers. The primary suite serves as a luxurious sanctuary, extending to a private patio, inviting you to unwind in a spa-like atmosphere. The ensuite bathroom offers a large shower, a deep soaking tub, and finishes that emphasize a refined earthy palette. Ideal for entertaining or relaxing, this home is a fantastic opportunity to personalize and elevate your Arizona lifestyle in the beautiful Biltmore community. Don't miss the chance to make this sanctuary your own!

4327 E Capricorn Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$2,195,000
5 Beds
3.5 Baths
5,638 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702284
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream estate in the gated community of Vasaro in South Chandler. This luxurious home epitomizes elegance, with no detail overlooked. From the grand entrance to the stunning backyard, every feature exudes sophistication. Soaring ceilings, exposed wood beams, & custom finishes throughout. An open-concept Great Room connects seamlessly w/formal dining area, wine room, kitchen, & game room. A gallery hallway leads to the private owner's suite, featuring gas fireplace, dual closets & vanities, plus a bonus room perfect for exercise or a second office/craft room. The guest wing includes an office/library, half bath, media/playroom, & three bedrooms w/walk-in closets, one with an ensuite bathroom. Outside your backyard oasis is complete w/oversized play pool, custom rock features, & spa. Entertain on extended paver patios, under the gazebo w/built-in BBQ, or in the play area w/artificial turf. This estate is a must-see, offering unparalleled luxury & craftsmanship.

8418 E Windrunner Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,195,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,967 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6769956
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Another Southwest Urban Ventures creation, this stunning sophisticated remodel located in guard gated Talon Retreat at Grayhawk, is a true showcase of craftsmanship and elegance. This home perfectly balances comfort with functionality while embracing the latest design trends. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a redesigned open concept layout that effortlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen ares, ideal for modern living and entertaining. The spacious greatroom features expansive windows and glass door, allowing natural light to pour in and offering fantastic Arizona indoor / outdoor living. Custom built shelving and designer lighting add a touch of sophistication. The kitchen has been completely reimagined for the chef in mind, boasting high end appliances including a five burner gas range, wall oven with microwave (air fryer) combo and a sleek, oversized island with seating for casual dining. The walk in pantry is a masterpiece of design, featuring custom coffee station and plenty of storage for everything from dry goods to small appliances. Both master suites have been transformed into luxurious spa inspired retreats with freestanding soaking tubs, large glass enclosed showers, double vanities, and designer fixtures. The exterior spaces are meticulously curated for luxurious outdoor living. The pool area has been renovated to provide a lavish setting for relaxation and social gatherings, complemented by an outdoor kitchen with built in grill, cozy seating area, and linear water feature, ideal for year-round enjoyment. This home not only showcases the exceptional talents of Southwest Urban Ventures architectural and design team members, but also offers an unmatched lifestyle of luxury and comfort. Discover the unique charm and sophisticated elegance of this beautifully remodeled North Scottsdale residence. Grayhawk community luxury amenities include guard gated entrance, community heated pool and spa, lighted tennis courts, as well as walking and biking sidewalks. The Grayhawk Golf Club is open to everyone with two leading public courses, several dining options, rentable spaces, and beautiful views! This home is located within 10 minutes of many Scottsdale shopping, dining, and entertainment venues!!

9975 E Broken Spur Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,195,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,960 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6712549
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to Lookout Ridge Lot 1, a luxurious retreat nestled within the prestigious Desert Mountain community. This furnished 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home spans 2,960 square feet and features an open floor plan that perfectly frames the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, twinkling city lights at night, and stunning sunsets. Step inside to a freshly painted interior that exudes a light and bright ambiance, making every room feel inviting and serene. The spacious living area seamlessly flows into the outdoor patio, designed for ultimate relaxation and entertainment. The patio offers a heated spa, and a fun little putting green to practice with friends and family. This home is designed for easy living, offering a convenient lock-and-go lifestyle ideal for those . who love to travel or maintain a low-maintenance home. Membership is not available with this property, but can be purchased through the Desert Mountain Club, waitlist in place. Additional information on membership applications can be found in the document tab. Embrace the unparalleled lifestyle and luxury that Desert Mountain offers with 7 golf courses, 10 restaurants, Spa and workout facility, tennis and pickleball, 20+miles of private hiking trail and many other fun activities.

9441 N 129th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,195,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,462 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6715590
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover luxury in Scottsdale with this stunning home featuring 5 en suite bedrooms and an open floor plan perfect for modern living. The spacious layout seamlessly integrates the living, dining, and kitchen areas, making it ideal for both entertaining and relaxation. Enjoy serene hikes just minutes from your door, while the renowned Mayo Clinic and BASIS school are conveniently nearby. With upscale finishes, abundant natural light, and a prime location, this residence offers both comfort and convenience in one of Scottsdale's most sought-after neighborhoods.

7035 E Juniper Village Drive Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$2,195,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,125 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746488
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
$100,000 PRICE REDUCTION! GORGEOUS REMODEL CUSTOM HOME. OVER $400,000 IN UPDATES! Upgrade list is included in the documents. Owner is a professional interior designer. Newly designed back patio with pool, hot tub and spacious sitting area. You will feel like you are on a permanent vacation! Four bedrooms, all ensuite. Primary bedroom has two walk-in closets. Open kitchen and great room layout. Dining area with wine closet, and separate living room area with a bar that opens to the back patio. Contemporary plaster throughout the home. Beautiful stone and wood floors. Beamed ceilings. Home is on the 13th hole of the Prospector Golf Course. Gorgeous, mature landscaping surrounding the home. 1,925 SF ROOF DECK WITH TWO FIREPLACES PROVIDES PANORAMIC VIEWS OF THE GOLF COURSE, CITY LIGHTS, SUNSETS, SUPERSTITION MOUNTAIN and Silly Mountain. TWO JACK NICKLAUS GOLF COURSES. Not a golfer? Enjoy tennis, pickle ball, bocce, hiking and many other activities. Country Club living st its best. You will love it here! Buyer and/or buyer's agent to verify all pertinent information including square footage. Club amenities under a separate agreement.

11312 E Greenway Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,190,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,393 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782700
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --

10430 N 82nd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$2,190,000 - 4Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Paradise Park Trails, Scottsdale
New
$2,190,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,290 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6787039
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome Home to this 4bed/3.5bath McCormick Ranch gem, offering the quintessential McCormick Ranch setting inside the Arabian Loop. The home sits on a cul-de-sac, with greenbelt access allowing easy walk/ride to sought-after 3C schools. This fully renovated home embodies character and charm with designer finishes throughout, including engineered white oak flooring, limestone fireplace, wood beams, wall moldings, hand selected tile, luxury lighting, and black iron double entry door. The kitchen is light and bright with butler's pantry, plenty of storage, wine fridge, stainless appliances, and quartz countertops. The primary suite is a true retreat, boasting a large ensuite bath with a make-up vanity, fluted free standing tub, and plenty of storage, along with an oversized walk -in closet with storage island. Step Outside to enjoy a spacious .30 acre lot featuring a pebble tec pool, sport court, mature landscaping, and ample grassy area for children to play. New roof, new garage door, and new exterior paint ensure years of maintenance free living.

9825 E Sharon Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$2,190,000
6 Beds
4.5 Baths
5,555 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6726874
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located on a cul-de-sac lot in a gated collection of newer luxury homes in the heart of North Scottsdale, this 6 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom basement home features 14 foot ceilings, energy-efficient 2x6 construction, oversize garages with huge storage cabinets, and is available fully furnished and decorated, with all housewares, for a turnkey experience as a second home. Owner suite is 75 feet long and over 1,000 square feet, with huge closet, office/sitting room, and fireplace. Basement wet bar and booming Dolby Atmos 4K home theater with huge custom sectional. Private guest suite with walk-in closet and full bath. Heated pool, hot tub, waterfall, misters, gas grill, and in-ground trampoline. Dog door with 50-foot dog run. Large front courtyard with fireplace. Large Smart Home package included: Mesh Wi-Fi and wired Gigabit Fiber Internet, with App-controlled Thermostats, Pool, Garage Doors, LED Lights, and Fans. Home's exterior painted in June 2024, and entire home interior painted. Two new 5 Ton AC + Gas Furnace units in 2022. Neighborhood is adjacent to a park with lighted tennis, basketball, baseball, and sand volleyball. The elementary school (Redfield) ranks #4 out of over 1,300 Arizona K-8 schools.

10952 E North Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,190,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,656 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756082
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This sophisticated home is the jewel you have been waiting for! Easy lock n' leave, virtually maintenance free resort style living! Perfect for part time or full time enjoyment. Gated private 9 home community. Close to freeway, dining, schools, shopping and health care. Primary bed on main level with fab walk in closet!. Kitchen is beautifully appointed with stainless appliances and quartz counters.Oak Hardwood flooring throughout home. Wide open living space with soaring 15' high windows& 40' of glass on south side. Sliding doors open wide to south facing serene private backyard oasis. Custom pool with edgeless design & luminar lighting Retractable patio awnings. For more...please see feature sheet in Doc tab. Art work on back exterior wall does not convey.

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