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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2515 W Minton Street Phoenix, AZ 85041

$599,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,795 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755439

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Up to $10 GRANT OF PNC BANK. Please check if your client qualifies. A fantastic single-level home with four beds and three full baths awaits you! Offering attractive curb appeal, a three-car garage & RV gate/parking. The double-door entrance leads to a charming interior with a w/carpeted living & dining room, luxurious light fixtures, beautiful pillars, archways throughout, & neutral palette. Well-maintained kitchen is equipped w/SS appliances, double refrigerators, cabinetry w/crown molding, granite counters, mosaic backsplash, walk-in pantry, & a center island w/breakfast bar. The main bedroom has a double-door entry and a spotless bathroom w/dual sinks, a separate tub, & walk-in closet. Host fun barbecues in this spacious backyard with a w/covered patio, pavers, & storage shed.

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25398 S 227th Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$599,900

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,767 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762278

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully maintained home features a versatile layout with a second master bedroom downstairs alongside another bedroom, perfect for guests or extended family. Upstairs, there are three additional bedrooms, a cozy den, and a generously sized master suite. The homes centerpiece is a stunning oversized kitchen, seamlessly opening to the living area, ideal for entertaining and everyday living. Every inch of this home has been meticulously cared for, ensuring it is in pristine condition, ready for move-in, and perfect for both relaxation and hosting.

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5249 E Hobart Street Mesa, AZ 85205

$599,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,397 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758446

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

**1% Free Rate buydown for the 1st 12 months with preferred lender Craig Cusick, ** This beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home offers 2,397 sq ft of spacious living. The impressive kitchen is perfect for any chef, featuring ample cabinets and generous counter space. Enjoy cozy evenings in the living room with a fireplace, ideal for entertaining. The primary bathroom offers a relaxing retreat with dual sinks, a walk-in closet, and a separate tub and shower. Step outside to your sparkling pool, the perfect spot to host your next gathering. Same floor plan just sold in September for $620,000. This is a great value. DO NOT miss out—make this stunning home yours today!

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8129 W Ross Avenue Peoria, AZ 85382

$599,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,337 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759468

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This amazing fully upgraded home in the heart of Fletcher heights has one of the largest pie shaped private lots in the subdivision. This one offers brand new LVP flooring throughout the entire first level, upgraded stainless steel appliances in kitchen, new quartz countertops, built in custom fireplace in great room, upgraded light fixtures throughout, custom master shower/tub, upgraded bathrooms throughout, and so much more. 4 bedrooms and loft upstairs, large great room floor plan downstairs, and RV Gate with huge slab behind the gate. Take one look at the photos and get your buyers in the car. This home on this lot will go fast!

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1252 E Brentrup Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$599,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,875 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772127

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Convenient Tempe location with abundant upgrades throughout. Quartz countertops, refinished cabinetry, remodeled bathroom, laundry and hallways. New flooring in entry, great room, baths, laundry and hallways. New roof (replaced in 2021). New micro-pebble pool surface (2020) and new filter. Pergola covered patio with mist system and electric fireplace in great room. American standard 4-ton heat pump (2019). Insulated front door, French door with dual pane glass, Milgard dual pane windows, owned 6.3KW Photovoltaic solar system. Large lot with private backyard oasis to enjoy!

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9243 E Sector Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$599,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,810 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774300

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

FORMER MODEL HOME! Ready for Quick Move-In. 3 BR + study / 2.5 BA. Kitchen with island and ''Landen Maple'' Burlap cabinetry, white quartz countertops & white-grey herringbone kitchen backsplash with under cabinet lighting. Upgraded tile flooring in all living areas with upgraded carpet in bedrooms, hallways & closets! Dual vanity sinks in both full bathrooms. LED lighting and upgraded light fixtures throughout, smart switches, two-tone paint. This home also features a landscaped backyard with paver patio & washer, dryer, fridge & window treatments included!

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16656 S 13th Street Phoenix, AZ 85048

$599,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,040 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780667

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Foothills home on an oversized, cul-de-sac, end lot with numerous upgrades. Nice back/side yards with lots of green landscaping and a large swimming pool. Multiple upgrades including newer kitchen with granite counters and stainless steel appliances (2016), laminate flooring upstairs (2016), hardwood staircase (2016), resurfaced pebble-tech pool with new filtration system (2021), new guest bath (2022), hot water heater (2022) and the master closet organizer (2023). High grade tile bathrooms with tub in master bath. Nice big loft is a great space for an office or bonus room. Move in ready!

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10733 W Swayback Pass Peoria, AZ 85383

$599,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,282 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785066

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This deal is a steal! Price includes 20k for rate buy down and closing cost, and is still priced below comps. The floorplan is 50 ft wide, nicely upgraded, and features 3 beds, plus a den, 3 full baths, and a 3 car garge, located on a large premium lot. The back yard is finished with pavers, turf, and a large covered patio. The setbacks are large for privacy, and there is a double gate on the east side. Bring your offer today.

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10847 E Forge Circle Mesa, AZ 85208

$599,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,092 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784548

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Do not miss this one in a kind home!! It features 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms with a large RV gate. The master bedroom is downstairs and has its own staircase leading upstairs to a private loft that overlooks the pool. The main staircase leads to upstairs to 3 oversized bedrooms, full bathroom and a massive loft. The main floor features an upgraded kitchen with granite, a backsplash, stainless appliances and a huge pantry with coffee station and extra storage. It is an open concept with a breakfast nook looking to the pool and a formal dining that can be used as office or another living space. The backyard is an oasis with beautiful pool, outdoor kitchen, fire pit and large ramada.

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907 E Rose Lane Phoenix, AZ 85014

$599,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,553 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784429

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming, custom-remodeled home, in the heart of North Central. Completely transformed in 2016, this residence has impeccable upgrades, making it move-in ready. Step inside to beautiful flooring throughout, featuring a mix of carpet and wood tile. The home is bathed in natural light, thanks to the dual-paned windows. The heart of the home, the kitchen, is a chef's dream with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, new lighting, and custom Shaker-style cabinets. It opens to a spacious family room, complete with a cozy fireplace and dual doors leading to the expansive backyard. The primary suite features a large walk-in closet, a recently updated three-quarter bath, and an additional secondary closet for extra storage. The large backyard is perfect for entertaining, with plenty of grassy space, a fire pit, and a 10x8 standalone storage unit. Parking is a breeze with a two-car carport and additional slab parking for up to four cars. Located with easy access to top Valley schools, popular restaurants, and shopping, this home offers the perfect balance of convenience and charm. Don't miss your chance to live in a neighborhood that everyone loves to call home.

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24686 N 175th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$599,900

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,192 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785461

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this 2022 platinum upgrade package (36k) Lennar built home situated on private lot due to drainage easement. You choose this home over a current Lennar build to capitalize on 150k of updates for almost the exact same cost as current models with-out. Professionally transformed basic ''builder grade'' lot into a magazine worthy masterpiece boasting a custom pool with sunbathing shelf, stunning travertine tile, waterfall feature, premium added lighting in both pool & landscaping, raised gas fire pit with pergola, outdoor kitchen/bar with built-in grill (never used), motorized sun shades, ceiling fan and built-in outdoor speakers & tv! (128k) Interior updates: 7 ceiling fans, pendant & cabinet lighting, epoxied garage floor, added built-ins, water softener and whole home audio 12k

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1018 W Park Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85233

$599,900

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,118 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786887

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Gilbert's most sought-after community! This stunning, competitively priced 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers peace of mind with a new AC, roof, and water heater, plus an owned water softener system. Perfectly situated on the largest corner lot in the neighborhood, the backyard is a paradise designed for making memories. Imagine summer days by the sparkling pool, evenings hosting friends under the stars, and plenty of space for kids and pets to play. The RV gate provides ample room for your toys and extra storage. Inside, you'll find spacious living areas and a thoughtful layout, ideal for raising your family and entertaining guests. Move in and start creating a lifetime of memories!

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