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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683 W Princeton Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85233

$588,000
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,416 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6779854
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Prepare to be amazed by this magnificent two-story gem in the desirable Community of Silverhawke! This beauty displays lush greenery, a mature shade tree, a 3-car garage, & an inviting courtyard. You'll love the immaculate interior, boasting spacious living areas perfect for welcoming & entertaining. The home exudes charm with its vaulted ceilings, chic light fixtures, & tile flooring. The impeccable kitchen is fully equipped with granite counters, a mosaic tile backsplash, recessed lighting, a pantry, & white cabinetry w/crown molding. Main suite is located upstairs & adorned with soft carpeting, a full ensuite w/a sliding barn door, & a generous walk-in closet. The home's elegance extends outdoors to the private backyard with a covered patio, fragrant citrus trees, & pavers. Act now! Vacant and easy to show. Appliances included. Additional incentives available.

4129 E Nighthawk Way Phoenix, AZ 85048

$588,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,782 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6782855
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Great bones on this home that is priced to sell. Owner bought this in 2010 and is ready to sell quick! Huge primary bedroom on MAIN FLOOR, 3 car garage, pebble-tec pool w/ pop up heads and heated spa! Don't forget the 3 car garage! Great area with NO HOA makes this a real find. Former rental that can be cleaned up w/ paint/carpet, etc (everything works just fine in the home) or fully remodeled and flipped.

375 E Citrus Hollow Way Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$587,979
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,678 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6629644
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
This brand new Valletta model is move-in ready! It features a spacious layout with plenty of natural light. The kitchen is fully equipped with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. It has a gourmet kitchen, gas cooktop and will be the perfect place to entertain your guests. Both bathrooms are highly upgraded with tile surround and upgraded fixtures. The resort collection at Encanterra offers you the perfect balance if you are a seasonal owner or full time. Book your tour today and start living the good life at Encanterra now!

3109 E Larkspur Drive Phoenix, AZ 85032

$587,700
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,550 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747596
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the epitome of versatile luxury with this stunning property, ideal for use as an income generating investment, or a personal residence. Imagine unwinding by your heated pool, grilling up a feast under your covered patio or perfecting your putt on your very own backyard green. This exceptional & fully renovated home boasts 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, & a host of premium features including granite countertops, stylish laminate wood flooring, an upgraded garage floor & ceiling fans in every room! Enjoy the added benefits of solar panels on a new roof, and the convenience of an option to purchase fully furnished for a seamless transition. With no HOA & easy access to freeways, plus a mere 15-minute drive to PHX Airport, this property offers both luxury and convenience.

7314 W Surrey Avenue Peoria, AZ 85381

$587,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,510 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719780
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
** FIRST LEVEL MAIN BEDROOM / BATH DOWNSTAIRS* also second bedroom / bath down stairs ** SWEETWATER RIDGE is where this gem lies. Meticulously cared for the past 13 years. Kitchen has been fully updated and remodeled from the original look. Newer paint throughout the home inside and out. Downstairs primary bath was remodeled in 2015 with soaking tub and separate shower. Lush carpet. Plank tile. *OVERSIZED BEDROOM UPSTAIRS with TWO CLOSETS. Outside features include RV GATE with concrete slab in front and back yard. Irrigation system for grass and plants in front and back yard. Back patio and aluminum pergola extend from one end of the home to the other end. Sunscreens throughout. Two car garage with enclosed workshop/storage. Near ASU WEST, AZ Christian University , Mid West University.

8776 W Peppertree Lane Glendale, AZ 85305

$586,999
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,126 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6659040
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Newley remodeled home with great curb appeal with a 3 car garage, Lennar home with a NEXT GEN Suite! - Ideal for parents, adult children, home office with reception or as potential rental income for you! Next-Gen Suite has a family room, kitchenette, bedroom, shower and much more! There is a separate entrance from the side of the home into the suite as well as one from inside the main home that allows you to check in on your guests or loved ones easily. This home has two fridges that both convey in the sale, the main home has a spacious open floor plan, eat -in kitchen w/breakfast bar seating and spacious bedrooms. Large back yard! Short distance to schools, Westgate Entertainment District, sports venues, state farm stadium and the Loop 101. ALSO FOR RENT!

2831 S Perkinsville Road Williams, AZ 86046

$586,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,198 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6676334
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --

17751 W Bloomfield Road Surprise, AZ 85388

$586,500
4 Beds
3 Baths
3,110 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6719168
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A beautiful 4 bed, 3 bath residence in Sarah Ann Ranch is now on the market! Nestled on a premium corner lot & featuring great curb appeal, a low-care landscape, and 4 car tandem garage! Discover spacious dining & living areas w/soaring ceilings, elegant wood-look flooring, soft carpet in all the right places, modern light fixtures, and custom palette throughout. The gorgeous kitchen is equipped w/everything you'll need for home cooking, white cabinetry w/crown moulding, a pantry, stainless steel appliances, and an island complete w/a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom boasts a walk-in closet and a full ensuite w/dual sinks for added comfort. You'll also find a cozy den ideal for an office or reading nook. Finally, the wonderful backyard includes a covered patio, attached pergola, extended paver seating area, fire pit, artificial turf, and a sparkling blue pool perfect for the warm summer days! What are you waiting for? Act now!

12737 W Auburn Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$586,500
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,798 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6729974
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful gently lived in 2-bedroom plus den property. Check out & fall in love with the large great room featuring tile flooring and plantation shutters. Spotless kitchen displays mosaic tile backsplash, recessed & pendant lighting, staggered cabinets & cupboards with crown molding ,stainless steel appliances, granite counters, and equipped with a roomy breakfast bar. Generous laundry room with plenty of cabinets and desk area .Make the sizable den a reading nook or bar area. In the bright primary bedroom, you will find plush carpet, a private bathroom with dual sinks, an enclosed glass shower, and a walk-in closet. Entertainers delight in the spacious backyard provides a covered patio, fire pit, and a built-in BBQ and hot tub. Shea Xero 20 year pre paid solar. Energy savings!!

1750 W Dion Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$585,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,080 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6750657
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Sharp 2 bedroom with a den, You will love the Beautiful airy feel of this home. The interior and exterior where painted in 2021 and new upgraded porcelain tile throughout. Hunter Douglas blinds. Spacious kitchen offers a ton of counter space for entertaining. Primary suite is Huge with beautiful appointments in the bathroom. Den offers double french doors for privacy and still an open feel. Culligan soft water system and R/O stay with the home. Come enjoy the Beautiful back yard that over looks the golf course and Mountain views. Built in BBQ and fire pit perfect for the fall evenings

16836 E Mirage Crossing Court Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$585,900
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,076 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6696664
Property Type Twin Home
Price Type --
: Exceptional Renovated 2-bedroom, 2- bathroom twin home in Fountain Hills, AZ, with its modern allure. The sunlit Arizona room seamlessly connects to a spacious covered patio, complete with a built-in-BBQ, perfect for entertaining, Your private outdoor oasis features a spool and putting green, adding an element of relaxation with meticulous attention to details, this residence offers an ideal winter retreat or Airbnb. Experience Fountain Hills and Arizona Sunsets!!

3149 W Golden Lane Chandler, AZ 85226

$585,900
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,231 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6740031
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers modern amenities and spacious living. The primary bedroom is conveniently located on the main floor, providing ease and privacy. The kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a large island, stainless steel appliances, including a microwave, range, and dishwasher, and seamlessly opens up to a generous living space, perfect for entertaining. The fully finished basement expands the living area with a large bonus room, an additional kitchen with refrigerator, and three more bedrooms, making it ideal for guests, extended family, or potential rental income. Washer/dryer combo units for main level and basement. This home combines comfort, functionality, and style in every detail.

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