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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12015 W Parkway Lane Avondale, AZ 85323

$579,638

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,480 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742829

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this ranch-style Townsend home, ready for quick move-in! Included features: a covered front porch; a relaxing great room with center-meet patio doors; a gourmet kitchen boasting 42'' cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, a generous center island and a walk-in pantry; a charming nook; a luxurious primary suite showcasing additional windows, a spacious walk-in closet and a private bath with double sinks; three secondary bedrooms, including on with an attached bath; a shared hall bath; a beautiful study; a central laundry and an inviting covered patio. This home also offers dramatic 10' ceilings, wood laminate and 9 x 35 stone tile flooring, cultured marble bath countertops, ceiling fan prewiring in select rooms, front yard landscaping and concrete pavers at the driveway and walkway. Tour today!

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36600 N Cave Creek Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$579,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,558 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765704

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Cave Creek! This beautifully designed residential condo features 2 spacious primary bedrooms, each with en-suite bath. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an open-concept living space that flows from the kitchen to the living room, perfect for entertaining or relaxing with family. Large sliding doors out to the balcony offer breathtaking views of the iconic Saguaro, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning desert landscape. The kitchen comes equipped with stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, and an inviting breakfast bar. Enjoy your meals with a view on your private patio, where you can soak in the tranquility of your surroundings. Residents of this community can take advantage of the fantastic amenities, including a sparkling, heated community pool available year round; with hiking trails literally right outside your door! Whether you are relaxing by the water or exploring the nearby hiking trails and local shops, you'll find plenty of ways to enjoy the serene desert lifestyle. This condo offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and location. Dont miss your chance to own a piece of paradise in Cave Creek!

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15170 W Corrine Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$579,500

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,928 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746709

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning home in the highly desirable Marley Park neighborhood combines charm, functionality, and energy efficiency with owned solar. The quintessential Marley Park front porch, accented with stone and a picturesque sidewalk, leads to a spacious interior designed for modern living. The primary suite is conveniently located on the first floor, featuring a luxurious bathroom with upgraded tile shower and bath surround, frameless glass shower door, dual sinks with granite counters, and two separate walk-in closets. Upstairs, four spacious bedrooms provide ample room for everyone, with two sharing a Jack-and-Jill bathroom and the other two enjoying a hall bathroom. Three of these bedrooms feature walk-in closets, ensuring plenty of storage space. The main living areas are adorned with white wooden shutters and beautiful flooring, with no carpetjust tile and high-quality wood-look laminate. The heart of the home, the kitchen, is a chef's dream with a large island, custom pendant lighting, quartz counters, white cabinets, a custom tile backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. A butler's pantry adds extra storage and convenience, complete with additional cabinets, a spacious food pantry, and a separate beverage refrigerator. A large den/office/bonus room near the front door offers flexibility for various uses, while the built-in organization nook with shelves, hooks, and a sliding barn door keeps clutter hidden. The laundry room, also located downstairs, features extra storage cabinets, a quartz counter, utility sink, and an additional storage closet. The home's powder room has been tastefully updated with a new vanity, mirror, and fresh paint. The backyard is a true oasis, featuring a heated pool with a pebble finish, custom LED resort lighting, and a tranquil water feature. The travertine pool surround and stone planter lined with mature ficus trees offer both beauty and privacy. Additionally, the side yard is equipped with artificial turf, perfect for pets. The home's 3-car tandem garage, with spotless epoxy flooring, built-in cabinets, and an overhead storage rack, along with an extra-long driveway, ensures ample parking and storage. With owned solar, this home offers energy efficiency to match its exceptional style. All of this located in the amazing community of Marley Park, featuring three community pools and 21 unique parks connected by an Arbor Walk and within walking distance to schools.

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5128 E Roberta Drive Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$579,500

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,943 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6720024

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Great value for this Tatum Ranch Gem. Discover your dream home on this private corner lot with breathtaking mountain views! This meticulously remodeled gem boasts a modern interior featuring sleek new cabinets, luxurious quartzite countertops, and elegant engineered hardwood floors. Indulge in spa-like retreats with the completely updated bathrooms. Brand new stainless steel appliances, fresh paint, and plush turf in the backyard complete this turnkey masterpiece. Enjoy peace of mind with a 4-year-old A/C system. Perfectly located near shopping, dining, and major freeways for ultimate convenience. Don't miss this opportunity!

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16026 W Alameda Road Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,378

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,674 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6649950

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE IN READY, BRIGHT GREAT ROOM PLAN , QUICK CLOSE!! 4 BEDROOM PLUS LOFT, 3.5 BATH , 9'CEILINGS, GOURMET KITCHEN LAYOUT, UPGRADE CABINETS , GRANITE KITCHEN TOPS, SPA SHOWER, TILED FLOORING. 2'WHITE BLINDS, CEILING FANS, FRONT YARD LANSCAPING COMPLETED, ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED HOME, INDOOR AIR PLUS. A SHORT DISTANCE FROM THE COMMUNITY POOL AREA, PICNIC AREA, TOT LOTS, BASKETBALL, PICKLE BALL COURTSAND SO MUCH MORE.

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Show Low AZ 85901

$579,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,065 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6716176

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous New Home on the Fairway! You will love the open concept floor plan conveying furnished. Offering beautiful laminate flooring, 11ft granite kitchen Island, lg pantry, 8ft interior doors, stone gas FP, Master BR w/sitting area/office, granite in both baths, Trex decking, fenced, landscaped & more.

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22261 W Ocupado Drive Wittmann, AZ 85361

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,900 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6763926

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Are you wanting to live in a no HOA area? Would you love to have an RV garage? How about a BRAND NEW Home? Located close to Grand Ave. This home will be done before the holidays. This gorgeous home features 3 great size bedrooms, the master has a stunning huge tiled walk in shower. Custom cabinets through out home (Buyers choice from samples) and Beautiful granite countertops. There is wood look tile though out. The layout of this home is great, there is a walk through laundry with a wash station. The home also sits North/South which is highly desired. Builder will consider putting up a block wall around backyard. This can be negotiated into the purchase price. PHOTOS ARE FROM COMPLETED HOME!!

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6298 S Dean Road Buckeye, AZ 85326

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,639 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6720711

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming home that offers modern comfort on a quiet private street. This open floor plan concept has stainless steel appliances with a large kitchen island and rear covered patio sitting on 2plus acres! Conveniently located close to Sundance & Canyon Trails Towne Centers, schools, parks, and shopping, golf and more! Est. completion date Feb. 2025.

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1282 S Norbert Lane Lakeside, AZ 85929

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,501 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746098

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your charming chalet-style retreat nestled in the serene woodlands of Woodland Park! This picturesque home offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comforts, with a prime location boasting access to a private community lake and the stunning natural beauty of the nearby national forest. Step inside this cozy abode and be greeted by the warm ambiance of wood accents and vaulted ceilings, characteristic of the classic chalet design. The main level welcomes you with two inviting bedrooms and a well-appointed bathroom, providing comfortable accommodations for guests or family members.

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18225 W Paseo Way Goodyear, AZ 85338

$579,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,058 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760115

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 5-bdrm, 3-bath Ashton Woods home is nestled within the highly coveted Estrella Mtn. Ranch community. It offers over 3,000 sqft and is adorned with updated laminate flooring, lighting, ceiling fans, and stainless appliances, creating a modern and inviting atmosphere. This residence boasts a first-floor bdrm or office and full bath, complemented upstairs by a split primary suite, three additional generously proportioned bdrms, and a versatile loft space that can be customized to suit your needs. Out back there's an oversized covered patio with pergola, overlooking a mature landscaped backyard with a tranquil fountain and fireplace with large flagstone seating area. Home is a short distance from schools, grocery, residents club & lakes! Don't miss out on this one!

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26990 W Burnett Road Buckeye, AZ 85396

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,961 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760185

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Delightful 2-bedroom residence on a golf course lot! Be greeted by a 3-car garage, an impeccably designed front yard, & courtyard entry. The inviting family room boasts high ceilings, recessed lighting, a built-in media center, & surround sound speakers. Enjoy gourmet meals in the eat-in kitchen featuring granite counters, staggered cabinets w/crown moulding, stylish backsplash, pendant lighting, built-in appliances, a pantry, built in wine rack & an island w/breakfast bar. The primary bedroom offers an ensuite w/double sinks & walk-in closet. Den with French doors. Spend quiet afternoons in the enchanting backyard boasting a covered patio w/travertine tiles, a built-in BBQ w/dry bar, a warm firepit w/sitting areas, low-maintenance artificial turf & serene golf course views.

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21527 N 78th Lane Peoria, AZ 85382

$579,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,078 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768859

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN THE FORMER MODEL IS NOW AVAILABLE AND LOADED WITH EXTRAS/ EXCELLENT FLOORPLAN WAS DESIGNED FOR FAMILY LIVING W/ SPACIOUS FAMILY & LIVING ROOMS/ BAY WINDOWS IN BOTH DR & LR/ CUSTOM DISTRESSED WOODWORK AND DECORATIVE STONE ACCENTS GIVE THIS HOME THE ''FLETCHER FARMS FEEL''/ CUSTOM PLANTATION SHUTTERS COVER ALL OF THE WINDOWS/ TILE AND LAMINATE COVER THE FLOORS EXCEPT THE CARPETED BEDROOMS/ KITCHEN HAS UPGRADED CABINERTY, GRANITS TOPS, SS APPLIANCES, GAS STOVE, W/I PANTRY AND GREAT BREAKFAST BAR/ OTHER EXTRAS INCLUDE FANS IN ALL ROOMS, 9' CEILINGS, SECURITY SYSTEM, R/O & SOFT WATER, GAS HOT WATER & HEAT & SUNSCREENS/ THE 3CGARAGE HAS EPOXY FLOORS AND ATTACHED GARAGE CABINETS/ EASY CARE DESERT FRONT YARD AND GRASS REAR FOR THE KIDS/ NICE STORAGE SHED W/ ELECTRIC/ SPACIOUS PAVER PATIO WITH OVERSIZED GAZEBO/ YOUR OWN PARK IS DIAGONAL TO THE HOME A BALL THROW AWAY/ THIS HOME IS MOVE IN READY

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