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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7301 E 3rd Avenue Unit 402 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,395,000
2 Beds
3 Baths
2,447 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6783366
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Step into luxury living at its finest! This property offers awe-inspiring interiors , creston system for lights and music with meticulous attention to detail. Marvel at soaring ceilings, wood-look flooring, and a wine cellar. Enjoy expansive windows, recessed lighting, and stylish ceiling fans throughout. The spacious living room is perfect for entertaining. Indulge in the outstanding eat-in kitchen with high-end appliances, lavish marble counters, and a large island with a breakfast bar. Upstairs, discover a versatile loft ideal for a second room or entertainment area. Retreat to the grand main suite, flooded with natural light and featuring a sitting area with breathtaking outside views. Pamper yourself in the pristine ensuite with a walk-in closet. Don't miss out!

17770 E Paria Canyon Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$1,395,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,186 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
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?

8620 E San Miguel Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$1,395,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,677 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786774
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover this one-of-a-kind South Scottsdale gem, offering unparalleled style, comfort, and convenience. Featuring two master suites, an incredible backyard with a heated pool, and a fully remodeled interior with modern mid-century charm, this property is truly special. The home is turnkey, with all furnishings available for purchase. Outdoor amenities include natural gas hookups for a firepit and BBQ, plus a spacious 2-car garage with 4 additional parking spaces. Bright and inviting, this home captures the South Scottsdale lifestyle, perfect for foodies, winter visitors, and year-round residents. Our motivated seller is offering everything in the home at an attractive price with the right offer. Check out the EV Charging Station in the garage. Please pop over and visit us today!

4219 E Janice Way Phoenix, AZ 85032

$1,395,000
6 Beds
3 Baths
3,180 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786822
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
North Phoenix Living at Its Finest!! Discover this incredible property, perfectly situated on a sprawling 1/3-acre cul-de-sac lot. This unique home offers two living spaces in one, with separate yet connected additional quarters featuring their own entrance, two kitchens, and two master bedrooms—all on a single level. The backyard is an oasis of fun, complete with a massive heated pool, supported by two propane tanks, and ample space for relaxation or play. Fully furnished* and move-in ready, the home boasts a huge main living area and endless amenities designed for comfort and versatility. Truly a must-see, this property offers an exceptional lifestyle for families, entertainers, and anyone seeking space and style. (*Furnishings negotiable.) Please pop over and see us!

7222 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 136 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,395,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,776 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
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.

12271 N 74th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$1,395,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,250 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786017
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Nestled in the prestigious Buenavante neighborhood, surrounded by multi-million-dollar estates, this modern home has been spectacularly remodeled inside and out. The exterior showcases top-of-the-line EIFS stucco, a new garage door, upgraded front door, and stylish lighting fixtures. Inside, the sleek kitchen features stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and a double waterfall island. Luxurious bathrooms offer spa-like finishes, including a serene courtyard view from the primary ensuite. Major updates include new flooring, cabinetry, lighting, windows, doors, and essentials like a newer roof, A/C, and water heater. The lush backyard boasts a sparkling pool, gazebo, patio, and mature landscaping. Steps from Cactus Park and close to premier shopping and dining, this is a rare opportunity in one of Scottsdale's most exclusive neighborhoods.

6514 N 85th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$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!

5952 E Adobe Drive Phoenix, AZ 85054

$1,395,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
3,505 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713904
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Lesser price than recently sold in the neighborhood. Discover the exquisite Shea 5016 floor plan home in the exclusive Talinn gated community. This upgraded residence features 4 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, located within 3 miles of Desert Ridge Marketplace, High Street Mall, and Scottsdale Quarters. Upon entering, you're greeted by an elegant accent wall and marble-look flooring. The gourmet kitchen includes quartz waterfall countertops, a matching backsplash, upgraded cabinets, and a custom-built refrigerator. The first floor has a guest bedroom and a den with double doors, ideal for a home office. The living area boasts high ceilings, creating a grand atmosphere. Upstairs, find three additional bedrooms and a versatile loft for entertainment or relaxation. The private backyard oasis features turf and limestone landscaping, a built-in fireplace, pergola, built-in BBQ, separated plants, and mountain views with no neighbors behind. Prime Location: Minutes from Desert Ridge Mall, Scottsdale, Mayo Clinic, High Street, JW Marriott, and major IT hubs like American Express and PayPal. Nearby Desert Horizon Park enhances the appeal. Interior highlights include large-format marble-look tiles, soaring ceilings, over $300,000 in upgrades, a waterfall quartz countertop, and zebra shades. The entertainment-ready backyard has a large pergola, TV wall, bar with refrigerator, BBQ, two fireplaces, a sink, and a gas stove. Luxurious bathrooms feature quartz countertops and upgraded showers. The master suite offers custom-built closets. Modern amenities: state-of-the-art security, smart home capabilities, a three-car garage, high-efficiency water drop RO system, and water softener. Provisions for a projector in the main living area and multi-colored paint themes add personalized touches. The premium lot offers park views and no neighbors behind, ensuring privacy and prestige. Community features include gated access, parks, biking trails, a swimming pool, and a gym. Make this luxurious home yours today!

9768 E Balancing Rock Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,395,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,964 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6713491
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Indulge in luxury desert living in this beautifully remodeled home within the Golf Community of Balancing Rock at Troon North. Enjoy panoramic views of Pinnacle Peak & unique boulder outcroppings. With 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, every detail exudes elegance. The kitchen, now seamlessly integrated with the great room, boasts quartz countertops, newer cabinetry, & an induction cooktop. Entertain in the formal dining area or retreat to the separate office/den. The split master suite offers privacy, enhanced by plantation shutters, wood-like tile planks & leads into the ''spa like'' bath with an abundance of closet space.. Outside, a heated spool, built-in BBQ, and fireplace create a resort-style oasis. Experience the ultimate in desert living, embracing nature's beauty from your own backyard.

7127 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 4012 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$1,395,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,448 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6722940
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
This incredible luxury renovation is expected to be completed by November 1st 2024. Welcome to this breathtaking Optima Camelview luxury renovation masterpiece. This property features 2 bedrooms 2 baths, 1448sqft, two private parking spaces and a massive private patio. Boasting a breathtaking organic modern design throughout, you'll find custom raw stone & wood works, premium lighting designs, exquisite quartzite slab living room fireplace accent wall, thermador & wolf appliances, sonos surround sound, automated blinds and so much more. 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.

1075 E Ranch Road Payson, AZ 85541

$1,395,000
9 Beds
8 Baths
3,690 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6746854
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your next investment with Mountain Meadows Cabins! Just minutes from Christopher Creek, this nearly 2.7 acre property in Gordon Canyon offers a beautifully remodeled home and six cozy rental cabins. Each cabin features a fireplace, kitchenette, and air conditioning, with three boasting indoor spas/hot tubs and two private outdoor spas/hot tubs. A perfect retreat that doubles as an income-generating property! Property comes with main home (3/2 b/b, 1792 sq ft) and 6 cabins (sq ft as follows: 424, 3 cabins at 320, and 2 cabins at 256). Property can be split into 2 parcels later if Buyer holds ability to later split into 2 parcels with the county if desired.

9457 N 115th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$1,395,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,126 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6755174
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the pinnacle of elegance and modern luxury in the prestigious, guard-gated community of Stonegate. Recently transformed through a comprehensive remodel completed in 2022, this home showcases impeccable taste and sophistication. Set on a spacious 10,000 square foot lot, it offers a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living. At the heart of the home is a beautifully redesigned gourmet kitchen featuring high-end custom cabinetry, designer hardware, quartz countertops, and premium Fisher & Paykel appliances. Culinary enthusiasts will love the state-of-the-art induction cooktop. The built-in 62'' refrigerator and freezer, along with a wine fridge, add to the kitchen's functionality. The sleek cabinetry creates cohesion throughout the home, tying each room together with a sophisticated, modern aesthetic. The open concept living and dining areas are highlighted by soaring ceilings over 10 feet high and designer lighting, creating a welcoming ambiance perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. Step outside to experience a fully renovated Pebble Tec pool, new landscaping, a built-in BBQ, and breathtaking mountain views, all designed to enhance your outdoor living experience. Residing in a community that offers an Olympic-style heated pool, tennis, pickleball and basketball courts, and a wealth of recreational facilities, this home delivers more than just living space it offers a luxurious lifestyle. Conveniently located near top-rated schools, shopping, and hiking trails with easy access to the 101 freeway, every detail of this home has been thoughtfully curated for an unmatched living experience in Stonegate. This is more than just a home; it's a masterpiece waiting to be appreciated.

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