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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23500 W Galpin Road Buckeye, AZ 85326

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693853

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

** Motivated seller. Ranch style home on nearly an acre lot with beautiful mountain views on a quiet cul-de-sac! Irrigated lot with your own private well! No water shortages here! Home features granite counter tops in both Kitchen & bathrooms. Huge laundry room with plenty of storage, and a large game room/ workout room with brick fireplace. Come check out this property today and see all the space you can have for your animals, toys & more!! No HOA, possibilities are endless!!

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17830 W Columbine Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$575,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,799 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699865

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

As you step into this home you will see pride of ownership throughout. With upgrades through out the down stairs. This sprawling 5-bed, 3.5-bath with a 4-car tandem garage 39'x19'. This home boasts charm and functionality throughout. There is a large office downstairs that is ideal for remote work. The farmhouse kitchen exudes warmth, with the living area off the kitchen. The large living room has a built-in fireplace with shelves and a cabinet with a large remote animal door. Walking upstairs, you see that a large loft offers endless possibilities. An RV gate on the side of the house leads to a great backyard space. The backyard is also plumbed for a gas grill. This is a must-see home in the West Valley.

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5526 S Grenoble Street Mesa, AZ 85212

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,020 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700408

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The things this home has to offer!!! From the 3 Beds, 2 baths, the Glass Doors Studio/DEN to the Tankless Gas Water Heater, the water Softener and water Filter, to the hidden Safe, extended cabinets at kitchen, the quartz countertops, Murphy Bed for your guests, to the surround system in the great room and the TV on the patio, colorful outdoor Jacuzzi to relax under the pergola, the outdoor lightening, Variety of Fruit Trees, and top it off with the separate doggy play area. Come see it and you will fall in love!

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7604 W Molly Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,882 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6708257

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful home in the gated community of Rock Springs featuring 3 Bedrooms/Den/2 Bathrooms and Pool! Don't miss this opportunity to purchase this low maintenance, upgraded, modern gem. Located on a corner lot, North/South facing, extended driveway are all exterior bonus features. The interior showcases an open-concept Great Room, modern kitchen with spacious island for entertaining, and recessed entertainment wall. The den or flex-room is located off of the Great Room and the two other bedrooms are split from the Master Bedroom. The upgraded garage has storage cabinets, overhead storage, and space for refrigerator. Energy efficiency and low utilities are other features of this well built home.

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3862 E Narrowleaf Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$575,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,940 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747524

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This charming home, located in the highly sought-after Bridges at Gilbert, is brimming with character and ready for its next owner. Meticulously maintained and turn-key ready, this residence features an open-concept floor plan that seamlessly combines a spacious living area with upgraded plank tile flooring, soaring vaulted ceilings, granite countertops, and modern cabinetry. The generously sized primary bedroom, tucked away at the rear of the home, offers privacy and direct access to the backyard. A Jack and Jill bathroom serves an oversized secondary bedroom, providing convenience and functionality. The split and open floor plan enhances the home's cozy yet private atmosphere. The RO system and Water softener are owned and convey with the property. With professional low-maintenance landscaping, impressive curb appeal, practical updates, community amenities, and an unrivaled location, this property is the perfect place to call home.

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142 W Ivanhoe Place Chandler, AZ 85225

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,619 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6711592

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Calling All Investors! Long term tenant in place currently paying $5,500 in rent until December 2024. Tenant willing to renew for minimum 12-18 month extension & Seller willing to do up to $150K seller carry back loan! Behavioral Group Home licensed up to 5 residents in Chandler AZ with long term tenant in place (Real Estate Only) - priced at over a 10% cap rate! Perfect investment opportunity or 1031 exchange opportunity to purchase a highly profitable and extremely easy rental income property. Tenant pays for utilities except solar payment. Property can be zoned for 10 with addition sq ft and fire sprinklers. The tenant has been running his business in the home since 2020. Complete rental history available including all operating expenses. Low overhead and easy rental income home.

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3956 W Salter Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$575,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,590 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6718663

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to your future home! This BASEMENT property features 4 bedrooms and 4 baths with an open floor plan. In the kitchen, a functional island offers extra counter space and storage. The primary bathroom boasts double sinks, a separate tub, and a shower for added luxury. The primary bedroom includes a practical walk-in closet for ample storage. Outside, the patio provides a relaxing space to unwind or entertain, surrounded by a fenced-in backyard for privacy. Recent updates include partial flooring replacement, giving the home a fresh, modern feel. Every detail of this property has been meticulously planned to create a welcoming space for your memories. Come and see this beautiful home, which could be yours. Don't miss out on thi

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9624 E Thunderbolt Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$575,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

1,934 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722619

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BETTER THAN NEW Single-Level 5 Bedrooms & 3 Full Baths! Professionally Landscaped Backyard has low maintenance synth Grass & Pavers! Wood-Plank tile throughout entire home. Carpeted Bedrooms. Gorgeous Kitchen has white Cabinets with dark hardware, an upgraded Gas Stove/Range, HUGE Breakfast Bar, Quartz Counters, BIG Pantry! Private Split Bedroom & Bathroom is perfect for an Office or Guests. High-end Lighting fixtures & Ceiling fans! Designer touches everywhere! 9+ foot & vaulted Ceilings. Garage overhead Storage Racks. Tankless water heater. N/S exposure. Water Softener. Cadence HOA amenities - multiple lap & play Pools with water slides, Tennis/Basketball/Volleyball/Bocce Sport Courts, Fitness & Community Centers, Playgrounds, Dog Park. Schools close by. Don't miss this one!

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7513 E Mckinley Street Scottsdale, AZ 85257

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,312 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6736664

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Lovely 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Scottsdale home with NO HOA. NO Carpet. Large Covered Patio. Home updates 2020/2021: Kitchen Cabinets, Kitchen Countertops, Kitchen Appliances, Porcelain Tile Flooring throughout, Bathrooms, Water Heater, Large Primary Closet, Plumbing, Electrical and Electrical Panel. Patio Roof was redone July 2024. Minutes from Sky Harbor, Old Town, Fashion Square, ASU, Desert Botanical, Phoenix Zoo, 101, 202 and more! Can be turn-key as furnishings can be purchased on a separate bill of sale. Buyer to verify all facts and figures.

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5095 N Grand Drive Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,705 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733476

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy awesome Goldfield and Superstition Mountain views from this 3 bedroom, 2 bath home situated on 1.25 acre. The open floor plan is enhanced with lots of natural light, vaulted ceiling and tile floors. Kitchen is complete with ample cabinets, granite counters, center island, wine bar and all appliances. Master suite offers large walk-in closet, spacious tile shower, dual vanities and exit to the extended front patio...A perfect place to enjoy amazing sunrises and sunsets while relaxing in the hot tub. The block fencing ensures privacy and defines multiple areas for additional garage space, horse facilities or room to roam.

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1327 N Joplin Circle Mesa, AZ 85207

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,809 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734841

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Clean and move in ready home in the tranquil Saguaro Mountain gated community. Cul-de-Sac lot, original owner, lots of curb appeal, single level which means no stairs. Wonderful private community park with playground, basketball and volleyball courts. Close to Red Mountain Community Park, and Usery Mountain Park with hiking and biking trails throughout. Home offers an open floor plan which is great for entertaining. Large backyard with extended covered patio allows for a great place to unwind after a long day. Close to shopping, dining and entertainment. Come take a look at your future home.

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18118 W Golden Lane Waddell, AZ 85355

$575,000

5 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,548 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6735575

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled near the highly desirable White Tank Mountains, this wonderful home offers a perfect blend of country charm and city convenience. With over 3,500 square feet, it provides ample space for a large family. The home features a formal living room, dining room, family room, and a spacious loft. The generous-sized bedrooms include a downstairs master suite with a large walk-in closet. The expansive kitchen is a chef's delight, boasting an island and granite countertops. The backyard is primed for outdoor enjoyment, with enough space for a pool and a deck equipped with an electric movie screen, ideal for family movie nights. Additional highlights include a workshop, RV gate, 3-car garage, and a large laundry room. This home truly has it all for comfort and convenience. Solar too !

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