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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3402 E Carol Circle Phoenix, AZ 85028

$620,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,706 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777768

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Phoenix Home in Prime Location! This single-story home sits in one of Phoenix's most desirable neighborhoods - 3 beds, 2 baths, 1706 sq ft living area, 11,678 sq ft lot size, 2023 HVAC, 2022 interior paint, newer stainless steel kitchen appliances & shaker style cabinets. Open floor plan, travertine tiles & bright white interiors ready for your personal touch. Highlight of this property is the location & lot size. Love outdoor adventures or shopping? You'll be just minutes away from Phoenix Mountain Preserve, Dreamy Draw, shopping & dining. Plus, seller is offering $10,000 towards buyer's closing costs and/or as interest rate buy down with a full price offer. Don't miss this gem - come view it today!

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831 N Owl Drive Gilbert, AZ 85234

$620,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,166 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6767759

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Private cul-de-sac lot, the property boasts a huge yard perfect for entertaining. Relax by the recently upgraded pool (2022) and enjoy the large covered patio and grass. Spacious Tri-level home features 5 bedrooms and 3 baths. Master suite is located upstairs along with two other bedrooms, while two additional bedrooms and a game room in the basement, providing versatile space. 2x6 wood frame construction, Tile floors in the living spaces. New paint and New Carpet. The kitchen has painted cabinets and a double oven range . Primary bathroom is gorgeous with the tiled shower and beautiful vanity with double sinks The home's prime location offers the convenience of walking distance to the popular Highland High School. Large side yard with 2 storage sheds. Custom pool safety net.

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898 W Knox Street Pearce, AZ 85625

$620,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,245 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6777962

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Custom Built 3,245 sq ft Santa Fe home, with BRAND NEW $70,000, 815' Well with new electrical, equipment and water line to house, 40' x 60' fully insulated metal shop, complete with plywood walls & ceiling, solid concrete slab foundation, 220v power, 3/4 Bath, large utility sink, roll up door, 20'x60' lean-to, tack shed and horse corral. Home has fully equipped separate mother-in-law suite on East side of home AND 3 bedrooms 2 baths. 2 of the 3 bedrooms have private entrances onto the covered wrap around porch, AND a dedicated office with private entrance at front door that is equipped with High-Speed Fiber Optic Internet and custom-built Alder wood bookshelves. There is an attached 2 car garage, fully insulated, Electric door openers and tons of storage cabinetry. This home has Breathtaking mountain views and is nestled amidst the awe-inspiring foothills of the Cochise Stronghold - Coronado National Forest. Embrace all four seasons at an elevation of 4,560 feet, where milder summers make it ideal for escaping the Arizona heat. Beautiful Landscaping surrounds the property, creating a tranquil escape where you can soak in the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Gaze at the panoramic views of the majestic Cochise Stronghold were once the refuge of the great Apache Chief, Cochise, and his people. The amazing wildlife viewing opportunities that this allows is endless.

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6168 S Fairway Place Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$620,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,364 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748933

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This beautiful home in the prestigious Fairway Views gated community features 2 master bedroom suites, one upstairs and one downstairs. Both have walk in closets, showers and upstairs features a large soaking tub! Open concept great room with 22-foot ceilings, a den and a loft. There is a large balcony in front with panoramic mountain views of the Superstitions and a balcony in back overlooking the pool! The private pool has a heater for winter and there is a magnificent octagonal covered patio with mechanical sunshades and ceiling fans to enjoy year-round entertaining. Two new HVAC units installed in 2022 and pool pump and dishwasher replaced recently. There is a community pool, walking path and clubhouse and is next door to Gold Canyon Golf Resort! HOA includes water, garbage and exterior paint! Custom cabinets and doors throughout the home. The original owner was the builder for the subdivision so there are many upgrades and extras! Furniture can be purchased on a separate bill of sale.

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28340 N 132nd Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$620,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,308 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774617

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Presenting *The Jasmine*, a beautiful and nearly new home located in the prestigious Granite Hills Discovery Community of Vistancia. This home offers breathtaking mountain views & a floor plan perfect for modern living with a Honeywell Smart System. The main level features a guest bedroom & an office, while upstairs the owner's suite impresses with a luxurious bathroom including a Super Shower & a Gigantic walk-in closet. You'll also find 3 additional bedrooms, a generous loft, and a spacious laundry area. The heart of the home is the open-concept kitchen with gourmet GE Profile Smart Appliances & flows seamlessly into the great room, complemented by a formal living room. The backyard is a blank canvas, awaiting your vision to create the perfect desert oasis. Over 70k in Builder Upgrades.

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32716 N 50th Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$620,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,304 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780304

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fall in love with this rare opportunity. LOCK-AND-LEAVE 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms in the best location in Cave Creek. Bonus room downstairs makes a great office/exercise room. Upstairs the 3 bedrooms surround a huge loft/game room. Spacious master suite with oversized walk-in shower and large closet. LOW-MAINTENANCE backyard w/covered patio, privacy hedges & artificial grass.The breathtaking Sonoran Preserve nearby offers serene biking and hiking paths. Single family home, no shared walls, no neighbor above or below. This home offers the best lifestyle Arizona has for you. Less than 5 years old energy efficient home with tankless hot water heater, water softener/soft water loop, reverse osmosis, Wi-Fi Smart programmable thermostat, Carrier HVAC unit. Whirlpool appliances Refrigerator connected to R/O line, Stainless microwave/hood combination offers steam & sensor cooking. The range is gas for optimal cooking with a center burner, frozen bake, & speed heater burner.( Minutes from Scottsdale, 2 minutes to Sprouts, Target, and Starbucks. Only 5 minutes to the historic area of Cave Creek where the American West thrives with lively restaurants, nightlife, coffee shops, museums & galleries. 10 minutes to Mayo Clinic which would make it a fantastic rental for nurses and traveling physicians. Minutes to world class golf, Boulders, Dove Valley, Rancho Manana, Troon, Tatum Ranch. Whether this is for you or an investment, you cannot go wrong with this irresistible property that has incredible income potential! Highly-rated schools in the desirable Cave Creek School District.(

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10101 N Arabian Trail Unit 1020 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$620,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,262 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785496

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Absolutely SPECTACULAR first floor unit in the prized Casabella Condos in McCormick Ranch. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath condo with a 1 car garage was upgraded to the 9's in 2018 and features new: windows throughout, a/c unit, designer cabinets and granite throughout, laminate wood flooring, 3.5'' baseboards, paint, showers, wood blinds, all lighting fixtures and top of the line appliances. It is a corner unit and overlooks the pool. This incredible complex is steps from the McCormick Ranch walking greenbelt, the 101 freeway and a tremendous amount of incredible shopping. Whether you are looking for the perfect lock and leave property or a forever home, this is the one!

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2658 N 19th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85009

$620,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,857 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6786195

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

No Bank Or Qualifying Needed! Seller Finance Available with 10% Down, 5.25% INT Rate. No Balloon. Relax in your Great Room overlooking the Beautiful Views of the Encanto Golf Course. This Mid-Century Modern Home has some recent updates of the Kitchen, Custom Wood Cabinetry, Open and Entertaining Great Room with Wood Burning Fireplace. Comfortable addition of Recessed Can Lighting at Great Room. A Very Elegant Home, Plus Formal Dining Area. Farmhouse Kitchen Sink, Quartz Counter top at Kitchen, Designer Backsplash. Your Friends will love the Wine chiller that holds enough for an evening of friends gathering. Upgraded Electrical. Home sits far back on the lot away from the road, very quiet inside.

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20121 N 76th Street Unit 2022 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$620,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,854 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751819

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Discover this gorgeous 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo with a convertible den in the gated Vintage at Grayhawk community. Meticulously maintained, this home offers a perfect blend of modern elegance and comfort. The open-concept floor plan includes a spacious kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a cozy living area, and a private balcony with breathtaking views. Enjoy access to a heated community pool, gym, shopping, and dining. Recent upgrades enhance its appeal: hot water heater (2022), garbage disposal (2022), AC unit (2023), interior paint (2022), new flooring (2023), granite countertops (2023), and ROE tank (2024). This is a rare opportunity to experience Scottsdale's vibrant lifestyle in an exceptional home.

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77 E Atole Court Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$620,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,884 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770642

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your stunning and popular Refresh plan in the beautiful community of Encanterra! This home truly embodies an open feel perfect for entertaining! Every detail of the home is special with upgrades including a central vac, gourmet kitchen and custom window shades! The primary suite offers a private oasis, while your guests can enjoy their own privacy on the opposite side of the home. The 4ft extended 2-car garage will provide you with add'l space and built-in cabinets for plenty of storage. Outside you'll experience Arizona living with your own beautiful custom fire pit, built in BBQ, pergola with a color light remote system ideal for entertaining and relaxation. This incredible home is being offered furnished!

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27002 W Oraibi Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$620,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,529 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759792

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into style and comfort through a private courtyard w/a wrought iron gate. This stunning 3+ bed, 2.5 bath home boasts 10-foot ceilings, an elegant kitchen featuring a half-moon island w/seating for 4+,a convenient coffee bar and expansive pantry nearby. The open-concept main living area leads to a walk-out slider. The spacious owner's suite offers an extra-large walk-in closet and a luxurious bathroom with dual sinks and a generous walk-in shower. Additional highlights: a golf cart garage, an expansive covered patio surrounded by greenery and a mister system, large corner lot and automated blinds in the main livingroom. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication in this meticulously designed and maintained home. sophistication in this meticulously designed and maintained residence. Located in a 55+ community, pools, golf, community centers with a variety of amenities.

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5100 E Rancho Paloma Drive Unit 2043 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$620,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,074 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707699

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This beautiful condominium, built in 2022, boasts a spacious and airy open floor plan, designed for modern living. This unit offers privacy with breathtaking mountain views and an attached 2 car garage. This beloved second home, has been lightly lived in, ensuring its great condition. Equipped with smart home technology, allowing you to manage your home remotely with ease. Control lighting, security, and other essential functions from anywhere, ensuring your home is always ready for your arrival. Enjoy ''The Good-Life'' in this wonderful pet-friendly community, with a fitness room, a heated pool and spa. The Office can be converted into a 3rd bedroom if needed. The furniture is negotiable and can be conveyed separately on bill of sale.

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