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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713 N Banning Circle Mesa, AZ 85205

$600,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,753 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730306

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

NO HOA** NEW ROOF, NEW AC, OWNED SOLAR AND FRESHLY PAINTED LIVING ROOM & DINING. This Meticulously maintained 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom tri-level home boasts a Huge game room \ Bonus room for all your entertainment or work at home needs! The Owner Suite includes a beautifully redesigned bathroom with contemporary fixtures and luxurious shower. Situated on a Cul De Sac lot and designed with an oversized driveway for ample parking for all your vehicles and recreational toys. Located in a prime location close to parks, premiere golf and a variety of dining options. Also very close proximity to Superstition Springs Mall, Fat Cats at Longbow, US 60 and Red Mountain 202 Freeways. Talk about a combination of Convenience and Leisure! Come see this AMAZING home for yourself

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7656 E Northland Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$600,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,440 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6725478

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Discover this beautifully remodeled, turn-key home in a prime location, ready for immediate move-in! This stunning property features new windows, doors, flooring, bathrooms, custom cabinetry, a custom storage shed, HVAC system, irrigation, sewer lines, insulation, landscaping, and much more. One of the few units to include a garage and security shutters, it offers convenience, great location, and lock and leave lifestyle. Enjoy the close proximity to Old Town, Fashion Square, and the Waterfront. Located in a 55+ community with low HOA fees, this home is perfect for those seeking a vibrant, low-maintenance lifestyle.

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11835 S 217th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326

$600,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,546 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6727734

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Unique opportunity! 5 Fenced Acres with electronic gate and additional gate access, Private well, 2 Power drops, Freshly painted exterior, NEW skylights. The large wrap-around outdoor patio area, indoor patio, and separate tiled front atrium are perfect for entertaining or relaxing in the shade and enjoying the gorgeous mountain views. Kitchen has been updated with a new farmhouse style sink and includes a built in refrigerator. Energy efficient adobe structure keeps cool in the heat of summer. Styled by custom wood ceilings and a stunning archway, you'll be sure to love the generous living area. Don't miss your chance to own

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14971 W Pinchot Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$600,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,810 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736779

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ALL the major items replaced!! Complete Roof replacement 2020. New Induction cooktop. Bosche dishwasher,Washer/Dryer LG approximately 6 yrs young, HVAC 2-zone w/filtration system (Trane)12 yrs. Hot Water heater 2022. OWNED SOLAR 48 panels, 7.8 kW! Home offers fantastic spaces for all! As you enter you will be greeted with a spacious foyer and 2 flex rooms with vaulted ceilings and large windows allowing natural lighting to shine in! Kitchen offers a phelora of cabinets and counter spaces, informal eating area, open to the space great room with a wall of shelves and even a library ladder, and both areas have easy access to the outdoor living area and heated swimming pool with water feature. Covered patio with additional pergola!! Extensive LED landscape lighting both (click more) in both back and front yard. Home offers 2 bedrooms with private bathrooms and another guest room. Primary bedrooms presents 2 walk-in closets, bath with separate shower/bathtub, dual sinks and linen closet! Laundry room w/LG appliances, built-in cabinets and counters, and additional space for perhaps an extra fridge? 3 full car attached garage. Lots of potential and great back /side yard. PebbleCreek is an award winning Active Adult Commuity with something for everyone to enjoy! 3 Golf Courses, Pickleball, tennis, Indoor/outdoor swimming pools, restaurants, fitness centers, and so much more! Be sure to put this home and community on your must view list!

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7030 N 12th Street Phoenix, AZ 85020

$600,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,688 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6753596

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! This charming 4-bed, 2-bath residence offers a gated carport for secure parking, a convenient RV gate, ample driveway space, and an inviting front porch. Discover a welcoming living room with vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, blinds, and stylish wood-look flooring. Enjoy cozy evenings in the family room, which is perfect for relaxing with loved ones. The delightful kitchen comes with granite counters, abundant white cabinetry, a mosaic tile backsplash, pendant/recessed lighting, stainless steel appliances, a pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. The main bedroom offers a private bathroom for added comfort. Venture outside to a backyard, complete with a covered patio, storage sheds, well-laid pavers, and a warn firepit for gatherings under the stars. Make it yours!

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1123 W Thomas Road Phoenix, AZ 85013

$600,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,966 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760309

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into a piece of history with this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom mid-century home in the Encanto Manor Historic District. Ideal as either a lucrative Airbnb investment or a serene family residence, this home boasts original details that capture timeless charm. Enjoy cozy gatherings around the wood-burning fireplace in the parlor or the gas fireplaces in the living room. The inviting interior features warm brick accents, graceful arched transitions, and period tiling, complemented by a modern kitchen with granite countertops and a pantry. Additionally, a separate guest quarters offers flexibility for visitors. Perfectly situated near Dark Hall Coffee, Sprouts Farmers Market, Chase Stadium, Encanto Park with its two nine-hole golf courses and an amusement park!

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1804 Meadowbrook Road Prescott, AZ 86303

$600,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,700 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761248

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Mid Century modern one level gem on a large level lot in the tall pines offering modern upgrades and amenities with room to park RV with power hookup and no HOA! Close to historic downtown Prescott's restaurants, shops and events, Thumb Butte trails, Dignity Health, Prescott and Yavapai Colleges, public and charter schools. Newer roof and windows. Open concept living with on-trend laminate flooring; updated kitchen featuring solid surface countertops, stainless appliances, island with extra counter space and storage, and tile backsplash; spacious living area with rock fireplace; primary suite with on-trend vanity and white subway tile surround in tub shower; two bedrooms with updated full bath; large family room (not included in square footage) opening to fenced backyard with dog run; small private office; laundry room. Tall trees, 10x12 workshop w/220, covered patio, gas fire-pit, two storage sheds and low maintenance native landscaping. Spotless and absolutely move-in ready.

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9036 E Halifax Circle Mesa, AZ 85207

$600,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,900 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765309

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Here's the home you have been looking for! This move in ready home has been updated throughout the years and features 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, vaulted ceilings, a private heated pool and a 2 car garage. This energy efficient home includes a brand new 19 seer AC unit, New windows throughout, and a new roof with a 10 year warranty. The updated kitchen consists of resurfaced cabinets, SS appliances including induction cooktop, corian countertops, custom tiled backsplash and an island. The kitchen opens to the family room and features a gas fireplace & a work station. The primary bedroom is split from the 3 guest bedrooms and includes french doors that lead to your private heated salt pool. Step out back to enjoy the low maintenance backyard including a built in BBQ, covered patio with extended pavers & walkway, expansive use of turf offering multiple seating areas, citrus trees and more. Additional upgrades include new security doors front & back, neutral paint, shutters, new garage door, new hot water heater and a new salt cell. All of this is conveniently located just off of the 202 freeway and offers easy access to shopping, schools, hospitals, restaurants, multiple lakes and the Salt River. Move this one to the top of the list before it's too late!

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41908 W Arvada Lane Maricopa, AZ 85138

$600,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

3,292 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764885

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning single-story home offering 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, and a versatile den/office, perfect for today's lifestyle. The interior showcases a great room with high ceilings, a soothing palette, wood-look flooring, and sliding doors that lead to the backyard. Enjoy cooking in the impeccable kitchen with abundant white cabinetry, granite counters, SS appliances, a large island, and a walk-in pantry. The main bedroom offers soft carpeting, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The in-law suite, complete with a private dinette and bathroom, provides added flexibility for guests or extended family. Energy efficiency is key with solar panels, helping reduce utility costs. This home blends comfort, functionality, and style—ideal for your next chapter!

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1909 E Libra Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$600,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,564 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772083

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 3BR/2BA Home with Pool, Garage, and 2024 Upgrades! This move-in-ready gem has it all! Featuring a sparkling remodeled pool and a new roof and AC installed in 2024, this home offers modern comfort and peace of mind. The completely renovated kitchen and baths boast fresh finishes, while new windows flood the space with natural light. Enjoy sleek, new flooring throughout and plenty of storage in the 2-car garage. Whether you're hosting poolside or relaxing indoors, this home is perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. Don't miss your chance—this one won't last long!

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3747 E Dover Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$600,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,344 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775227

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

$25k PRICE IMPROVEMENT! Welcome home to this beautiful 4-bedroom property! Located in the desirable Crosspoint neighborhood, near parks & restaurants, this fabulous house, will welcome you with w/a 2-car garage, grassy front yard, & a relaxing front patio. Inside, you'll find soaring vaulted ceilings, wood flooring, & comfortable great room w/an inviting fireplace. The living room is ideal for entertaining w/backyard access & bay windows in the dining area. The kitchen has shaker cabinets, granite counters, tile backsplash, & a peninsula w/breakfast bar. Tray ceilings, & an ensuite w/dual sinks, a fully tiled shower, a soaking tub, & a large walk-in closet are some of the features you will love about the primary suite. The backyard features grass and an in-ground trampoline.

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7507 E Roosevelt Street Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$600,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,180 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779019

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW what a gorgeous Property!!! This 3 bed / 2 bath home sits on a Generous Lot and has been Completely Remodeled by LICENSED CONTRACTORS. House Boasts: POOL, New White Shaker Soft Close Cabinetry, Custom Backsplash, Quartz Counters with Waterfall, New Appliances, Walk in Pantry, New Tile and Laminate Flooring, Remodeled Bathrooms, All new Electrical and Plumbing Fixtures, New Doors / Baseboards and Trim, Custom Finishes, Fresh Paint Inside and Out, Dual Pane Windows, Newer HVAC and Roof, New Landscaping, Covered Patio, Custom Gates and MUCH MUCH MORE!!! All for under 600k. Wonderful location close to Shopping, Dining and Entertainment. Loops 101 and 202 nearby for quick commute anywhere in the VALLEY. Tremendous School District. Do not miss out on this AMAZING OPPORTUNITY.

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