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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16136 W Birdsong Court Surprise, AZ 85374

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,889 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773602

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your dream cul-de-sac property is within reach! This 3-bedroom gem features a 3-car garage for ample parking. Inside, you'll find a spacious great room with a neutral palette, plantation shutters, stylish wood-look flooring, and sliding doors that lead to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. The delightful kitchen comes with quartz counters, white shaker cabinets with crown moulding, chic pendant/recessed lighting, a subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, a pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar for casual meals. The primary bedroom boasts a quaint sitting nook, an ensuite with dual sinks, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. Outdoors, you'll find a covered patio with an attached pergola for enjoying the warm Arizona weather. Make it yours!

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4571 W Shannon Street Chandler, AZ 85226

$579,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,080 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6748421

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning two-story property boasts of FULLY OWNED TESLA SOLAR! It has a great curb appeal, a two-car garage, and a beautifully landscaped yard. Step inside to discover a cozy living/dining area complete with a fireplace. The eat-in kitchen boasts of upgraded cabinetry and granite countertops. The master suite has a walk in closet & separate shower/tub. The spacious loft, offers a versatile space that could serve as a media room, play area, or anything you envision. The backyard features a covered patio perfect for hosting. Ideally located near restaurants, grocery stores, public library & the Desert Breeze Park! The home has been cared for and upgraded by the seller over the years. NEW ROOF (2021), NEW ENERGY EFFICIENT WATER HEATER (2021), NEW GARAGE DOOR(2021)

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3034 E Marilyn Road Phoenix, AZ 85032

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,913 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6763014

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 3 bedroom 2 bath home with a 2 car garage in a great neighborhood with no HOA. This gorgeous home is move in ready with some nice upgrades like flooring, fixtures, ceiling fans, appliances, washer/dryer and remodeled bathrooms. Separate Living Room and Family Room. Windows have been updated and all windows have shutters or blinds. A/C was replaced in 2019. Ring Doorbell. Security Screen Door in front. French doors in back. There is an above ground spa that stays with the home (as-is). Sprinkler system in the front and the backyard. Beautiful mature trees, palms and citrus trees. Large laundry room plus extra storage room. Covered Patio and shed.

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16085 W Alameda Road Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,019 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772867

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The seller is offering a 3% concession PLUS a $5,000 allowance for landscaping. This beautiful, move-in-ready home features a gourmet kitchen with upgraded cabinetry, a stylish backsplash, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a walk-in pantry. The spacious great room opens to a backyard that is ready for you to create your ideal outdoor oasis. Bedrooms #2 and #3 share a guest bathroom and are separated from the primary bedroom for added privacy. Enjoy shutters and ceiling fans throughout, and soft water system. The community provides exceptional amenities, including an aquatic center, pickleball, sand volleyball, bocce ball, playgrounds, trails, zip lines, and frisbee golf! Special financing incentives are available on this property through SIRVA Mortgage.

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22410 N Arrellaga Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,684 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775501

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Presenting blue skies and green grass as far as the eye can see! This beautiful Arcada model is perfectly positioned on an elevated lot & on the 5th Fairway of Corte Bella Country Club. This home captures a stunning environment that's designed to make every day seem like you're on vacation. The covered patio spans the width of the house and pavers invite you to sit by the firepit or trickling fountain. The focal point of the living room is the designer entertainment wall with lighted niches. The dining area has a view! The kitchen includes gas stove and granite counters, Two spacious bedrooms and a den with double doors. The bonus space behind the kitchen can be used for a desk, hobby room, pet room, or air-conditioned storage. Most of the furniture is available outside of escrow.

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3200 W Black Oak Loop Show Low, AZ 85901

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,550 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6669326

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This Torreon golf villa offers a comfortable and convenient living space with its 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It is designed for a lock and leave lifestyle, providing you with peace of mind when you're away. The property features a detached 1-car garage, offering secure parking and additional storage space. Surrounded by a lush canopy of trees, this villa provides a serene and private atmosphere. The covered deck and patio area are perfect for relaxing or entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The open floorplan creates a spacious and airy feel, while the split layout ensures privacy between the bedrooms. Large spacious kitchen makes meal prep a breeze while guest can accompany around the breakfast bar. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or simply..

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3033 E Millbrae Lane Gilbert, AZ 85234

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,146 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6726711

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE-IN-READY!!! LOTS of CHARM & CHARACTER EVERYWHERE!!! This home is a MUST SEE!!! Full Bedroom & Bathroom DOWNSTAIRS!!! Upon entry, you're wowed by VAULTED CEILINGS, along with two separate living areas, a STUNNING KITCHEN overlooking the main living space, making this the PERFECT HUB OF THE HOME!!! Spend some time outback in your Sparkling POOL, or relax in tub HOT TUB, cook out in your BUILT-IN-BBQ, or even enjoy your very own PUTTING GREEN!!! This backyard is an Entertainer's Dream!!! Workbench area in garage, along with LOTS OF STORAGE!!! This home has it all!!! Home is steps away from a FANTASTIC park with playground area and Basketball courts!! Don't miss out on this one!!!

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1326 W Juanita Avenue Mesa, AZ 85202

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,278 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6729599

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Incredible opportunity for investors looking to secure a property with tenant and lease already in place!!! Gorgeous updated 4 bed/3bath sits on a large lush lot. Updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Separate office/den/sunroom adjacent to family room with separate sliding doors to backyard. One bedroom downstairs with bathroom, with remaining 3 upstairs. Lots of updates and great potential for investment property!!!

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823 Sycamore Lane Chino Valley, AZ 86323

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,554 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748043

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This meticulously maintained home in central Chino Valley offers something for everyone, blending comfort, convenience, and style. Located just minutes from Chino Valley's main commercial areas and a short drive from Prescott and Prescott Valley, this home's prime location is ideal. Upon entering, you're greeted by a spacious great room featuring a vaulted ceiling, ceiling fan, and a striking 3-sided gas fireplace. The luxury vinyl plank and tile flooring throughout adds to the home's elegance. The adjacent kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting solid surface countertops, abundant cabinetry, a corner pantry, and a large skylight that floods the space with natural light. The dining room, perfect for hosting meals, offers direct access to the charming rear patio, making entertaining a breeze. Designed with a sought-after split floor plan, the large master suite features vaulted ceilings and direct access to the back patio. The master bath is equally impressive with a spacious walk-in closet, garden tub, dual vanities, and a walk-in shower with grab bars. On the opposite side of the home, two sizable guest bedrooms and a full bath are privately situated off the great room, ensuring comfort and privacy for all. The pristine exterior is equally inviting, with a massive screened-in covered patio perfect for year-round entertaining. This space includes a fabulous hot tub that conveys with the property. The home also offers abundant RV parking, with two separate water, sewer, and power hookup locations. Both the front and rear yards are beautifully landscaped and low-maintenance. The front patio boasts views of Granite Mountain, while the large, flat backyard serves as an excellent starting point for any outdoor hobby. The oversized 3-car garage provides ample parking and storage, complemented by an additional high-quality Tuff Shed on the property. Recent updates include substantial repairs and upgrades to the septic system, a thorough revamp of the drainage and rain gutters, new luxury vinyl plank flooring, steam cleaning and sealing of tile areas, a significant tune-up of the hot tub's hardware, and several new high-quality windows.

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8821 S 47th Place Phoenix, AZ 85044

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,195 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745563

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

A rare opportunity for totally updated residence w/ views in mountainside resort, gated community! Amazing 4 bed, 3 bath residence in Pointe South Mtn/ AZ Grande in Ahwatukee haven! Two master bedrooms/ two large bedrooms perfect for large family or multi generational living. Upstairs bedrooms have balconies. Downstairs master with outdoor access. Updates from 2024 include modern interior color palette (2023 colors of the year), ext paint, two luxurious tiled rain showers, SS appliances, granite counters in kitchen/ downstairs baths, new light fixtures, new plumbing fixtures, all new flooring (wood plank tile and carpet), feature wall, roof updated, new landscape design featuring artificial grass and nightscape. The joy of your own piece of resort living, totally updated!

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1453 E South Fork Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

$579,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,232 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747567

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Newly remodeled beautiful 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath home with Loft and Den in The Foothills Community. Fresh paint makes this home Open & Bright. Fireplace in Living room. Formal Dining, warm Family room w/tile. Large upgraded kitchen, backsplash, new stainless steel appliances , new quartz kitchen island and countertop. Good sized master bedroom upstairs with great view of Mountains , walk in closet. Master bath has double sinks , separate shower and tub and private toilet room. Downstair den can be converted to a bedroom. 90% Sun Blockage black screen. New equipment on pool 2024, exterior wall painted on 2023. Excellent Kyrene School District, quiet community, easy access to 202, only 10 mins convenient to shopping plaza and south mountain trail.

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2560 W Goldmine Mountain Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$579,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,242 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750598

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This spacious 3,242 sq. ft. home with 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms is located in the desirable Santan Heights community in Santan Valley. Price reduced! Now offered at $579,000. With a bright and airy interior, the home features large windows throughout, allowing for plenty of natural light to fill the space. Its large, open layout offers plenty of room for families and those who enjoy entertaining. The kitchen comes equipped with modern stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and plenty of cabinet space, making it both functional and stylish for everyday cooking or hosting. The living area leads directly to the backyard through sliding glass doors, opening up to a landscaped yard with green grass and palm trees, offering a peaceful and relaxing outdoor space. The backyard features a covered patio with ceiling fans, perfect for barbecues or family gatherings, and a pool, great for cooling off in the Arizona heat. An RV gate provides added convenience, and the home's solar panels are fully paid off, helping to lower utility costs. The primary suite includes a private balcony overlooking the pool, a perfect spot for unwinding or enjoying sunsets. The attached bathroom offers a walk-in shower, a soaking tub, and a large walk-in closet. In addition to the five bedrooms, there's an extra room upstairs that can be used as an office, nursery, or extra living space. The three-car garage provides plenty of space for vehicles and storage. Recent updates include the replacement of both AC units, adding to the home's energy efficiency. Located in a quiet neighborhood, this home is within walking distance of parks and is close to local shopping and dining options like Home Depot, Walmart, Starbucks, and more.

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