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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15625 N Jerry Street Surprise, AZ 85378

New

$570,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,455 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787673

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully stunning 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom single level newer built surprise home. This home has upgrades throughout including marble floor throughout with no carpeting, upgraded baseboards, 9' ceilings and archways throughout, upgraded doors, fixtures window blinds and ceiling fans. This open floor plan home has a large living room and formal dining area with access easy access to the backyard patio. Stunning kitchen features granite countertops, tile backsplash, breakfast bar, upgraded soft-close cabinets, large island, separate walk-in pantry, gas range, dishwasher and refrigerator.

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28715 N 64th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85083

$570,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,820 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6784043

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss this open airy 3BR, 2BA floorpan with many modern amenities such as upgraded blackout shades throughout entire home. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring elegant white cabinets, a wall oven, microwave, gas stovetop, farmhouse sink, rounded quartz island & quartz countertops with a walk-in pantry. Included are a refrigerator and washer/dryer. Luxuriate in the spa like owners bathroom suite with an oversized tiled walk in shower w/bench, double sinks, and a large closet. Bedrooms are carpeted & tile flooring flows through main areas. A large coat closet & gas tankless water heater complete this inviting home! Enjoy outdoor living with a sliding door leading to a low-maintenance backyard with turf and brick accents, surrounded by mountain views and overlooking a scenic canal

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16180 W Glenrosa Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$570,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,066 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6651477

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Embrace the beauty of this wonderful 5-bedroom haven in Palm Valley! This home has a split floorplan, spacious primary bedroom with a remodeled walk-in shower, his and hers vanities and a walk-in closet. This home also features a MIL suite with it's own entrance from the courtyard and private bathroom PLUS an extended driveway with an RV Gate. The open-concept kitchen displays recessed lighting, a pantry, staggered cabinetry adorned with crown moulding, granite counters & backsplash and stainless steel appliances. Lastly, the backyard features a covered patio and a shimmering pool, perfect for warm summer days! Hurry! This gem will surely impress you!

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2135 S Bristol -- Mesa, AZ 85209

$570,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,883 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6709098

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of coveted Augusta Ranch, this home epitomizes elevated living. With its spacious open-concept floor plan boasting four bedrooms and three baths, it's an entertainer's dream. The family room and inviting kitchen areas are ideal for hosting gatherings. Enjoy the beautiful low-maintenance backyard, complete with a large pool that can be enjoyed year around thanks to a gas heater addition (2023). Updates like a new roof (2023) and renovated bath fixtures add modern convenience, while the community's amenities, including an executive golf course, bar/grill, abundant events, parks, and a school, ensure a lifestyle of comfort and enjoyment. This home is a must-see!

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3225 N Lost River Drive Camp Verde, AZ 86322

$570,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,640 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6727355

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

With a compelling offer, the seller is prepared to contribute to the buyer's interest rate buy-down or concessions. Updated 4 Bed, 3 Bath Home on 2 separate Parcels totaling over an Acre of Land. Brand New 2024 Roof. Brand New 2024 HVAC. All New LVP flooring & Fresh Carpet. Kitchen Boast New Quartz Countertops, Stainless Steel Appliances, & Tile Backsplash. Master Bedroom features Custom Walk-In shower, His & Her sinks, & Barndoor entry. New Light fixtures and Contemporary Fans throughout. Freshly Painted Inside & Out. Great for Animals or Extra Toys/RV's. Just Blocks away from the Verde River - Excellent Location!

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714 W Mesquite Street Gilbert, AZ 85233

$570,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,962 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750995

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Fantastic opportunity! Welcome to this stunning residence featuring a 3-car garage and a convenient RV gate. Discover a welcoming living room with vaulted ceilings, clerestory windows for natural light, contemporary track lighting, and tile flooring. The great room has a cozy fireplace for quiet evenings. The delightful kitchen boasts a charming breakfast nook, granite counters, abundant wood cabinetry, built-in appliances, recessed lighting, a pantry, and a two-tier island with a breakfast bar. The den is perfect for an office or study. The main bedroom includes French doors leading to the backyard, an ensuite with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The enchanting backyard displays a covered patio and a sparkling pool for cooling down on warm days. Make this gem yours!

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26028 N 66th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85083

$570,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,119 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6757394

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Location, location, location! Attention: Seller is offering a $10,000 credit at closing towards buyer updating and/or upgrades! This home has energy saving feature upgrades as well with newly installed premium Andersen windows with a transferable warranty and a fully owned 5KW solar system to keep your energy bills low. In demand north Phoenix Eagle Ridge location with mountain views! Homes do not come up for sale frequently in this idyllic neighborhood. Close to shopping, schools, and parks. Multi-level open floor plan with expansive vaults and skylights to let in lots of light. Recently updated primary bath with huge walk in shower. Large yard and covered patio for entertaining. Inviting pebble-tec pool with a removable fence and beautiful water feature will captivate you! The main level has a convenient 4th bedroom for guests or as an in home office. The heart of the home, the kitchen, features multiple pantries with abundant storage and pull out drawers in convenient locations, as well as easy access to both the living room and family room. Newer high efficiency AC and air handler installed by current owner as well as water heater. Durable bamboo and tile flooring in all the high traffic areas of the home as well. Your new home awaits you!

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11541 E Corbin Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$570,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,373 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767202

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is located in the highly desirable Warner Enclave subdivision in Mesa. With 2,377 sq. ft. of upgraded living space, this 2-story home offers a bright and open floor plan perfect for entertaining. The kitchen features stunning Valhalla granite countertops, soft-close cabinets, a large pantry, and stainless steel appliances, including a gas range. The primary suite boasts a spacious walk-in closet, dual vanities, and a separate tub and shower. Additional features include a cozy upstairs loft, a dedicated office space, and a convenient upstairs laundry. The home is ENERGY STAR certified with a low HERS rating of 51, ensuring excellent energy efficiency. Outside, you'll find a well-maintained desert landscape with a covered patio, perfect for outdoor relaxation. Located near top-rated schools such as Queen Creek Unified District, this home also offers quick access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Plus, with no rear neighbors, you'll enjoy added privacy. Don't miss out on this gemschedule your tour today!

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13408 W Lariat Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$570,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,781 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769987

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 2022 3bdrm 2bath home is on one of the larger lots in Rancho Cabrillo. The home includes an additional bonus room, extended driveway pavers, and a large side vehicle gate. The kitchen opens up to the great room and dining room. Four panel sliding glass doors open up to the backyard entertaining area which includes a covered back patio, built-in BBQ, pool with water feature, and sun deck. The pool deck is surrounded by travertine pavers. The backyard also includes a fire pit and artificial turf. You will enjoy plenty of pool parties, and BBQ's in this beautiful backyard. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind gem! Seller is related to Listing Agent.

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26322 W Firehawk Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$570,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,381 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772955

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

HIGHLY UPGRADED Serenity model w/Owned Solar & Updated 19 SEER Amana HVAC! Rare opportunity to own a 3 bedroom, 2 bath + Den home w/a Screened in Patio. You will be greeted by the Tuscan elevation & the Gated Paver Courtyard. Upon entering you will be impressed by the architectural touch of the tray ceilings throughout. Tile flooring leads you into the Chef Lux kitchen w/under cabinet lights, Granite counters, Tile backsplash, Pull-out shelves, Soft close drawers, Pendant lights & Walk-in Pantry. Cozy Gas Fireplace in the family room. Owner Suite w/a Bay window & Barn door that leads into the Bath w/dual sinks & Modern Walk-in Tiled shower for a spa like retreat! Enter the fully Insulated temperature-controlled garage w/cabinets, epoxy floors updated water softener & tankless water heater

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29810 W Bellview Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$570,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,900 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777916

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come and see this beautiful house with neutral tones through out, open floor plan, lots of natural light in the living area. Huge island in kitchen. Split floor plan, the back patio is huge, this house has pleanty of land, over 1 acre ready for you to give it your personal touch.

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5153 N Main Drive Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$570,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,640 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6690299

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 2.5 acres close to freeway, and surrounded by views, clear skies, city lights and peace and quiet! This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home has updating and room for the family. Updates include engineered wood flooring, Thermaster energy efficient windows, French doors, beadboard, stainless appliances, new roof and more. The great room is open concept with wood beams and a real wood burning fireplace. Bring your toys and horses as there is room for all! This horse property/mini farm has 2 stalls, a barn or 2 car garage, storage shed and a carport. Home has it's own well. The east 1.25 acres share a well with one other and can be subdivided. Easy to show. This property has something for everyone!

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