What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 6, 2016

Spectacular, golf course fronting, 6,297 square-foot, two-year-old, Contemporary-styled ultra-high-end, great room plan home with excellent golf and nearby mountain views, offered in prestigious Desert Mountain, in north Scottsdale, AZ. Desert Mountain is a mature, guard-gated, thirty-eight-year-old golf and outdoor recreation-oriented development set in the foothills of the Continental Mountains north of Phoenix with the private Desert Mountain Club a central attraction. Membership to the Club is by application, and the seller's sought after full privilege Golf Membership is available to the home's purchaser via a separate transaction with the Club, avoiding a long waitlist (see below for important details). This home, in the newest Desert Mountain village known as ''Seven'', is within easy walking distance of one of the Club's eight clubhouses, and the first tee of one of its seven golf courses. This one is an eighteen-hole, par-54 course (rated for handicap purposes) that is easy to walk. The dining venue at the Seven Clubhouse is an indoor/outdoor affair with a very casual atmosphere. Sort of a sports bar atmosphere and lively all the time, especially since it has a couple of excellent bocce courts, a very well-supported activity in Desert Mountain. The home was built by very highly regarded regional builder, Cullum Homes, known for durability and high-quality workmanship, appliances, systems, materials and finishes, not to mention forward-thinking design. These original owners selected what may be the premier site in Seven, with a larger yard, only one neighbor, and most importantly, protected, wonderful permanent, northerly views of the Continental Mountains, just four miles away, across the thirteenth hole of the Club's Renegade Golf Course. Cart path traffic is hard to hear at a distance of about eighty yards, and being on the thirteenth hole means golfers will be well past the home at twilight, helping ensure a very peaceful environment at that time of day. The home features four bedrooms, an office, a three-car garage with storage, and exceptional outdoor relaxation and entertainment areas. No expense was spared as the owners, long-time Desert Mountain owners and Club members, completed their dream home with over $1.2 million spent on upgrades, which you'll note from the jaw-dropping countertop stone selections, textured backsplashes, to hand selected custom fixtures and lighting. The home is particularly well-suited to the display of art, hanging or otherwise. The floor plan was customized to maximize the views and the setting. Walls of glass line the great room, bringing the outdoors inside and providing a picturesque scene from the kitchen, living, and dining areas. With a northerly exposure, you never have to worry about having to control harsh direct sunlight, and the amount of light coming into the home means a good balance between interior and outdoor light levels. The upstairs was expanded and converted to a spacious lounge with a full rooftop view deck. More on these later as we take the tour. Now let's take the guided tour! Approaching the home, follow the entryway path beyond the pristine, low-maintenance desert landscaping. Step through the secured courtyard gate, and the stunning mountain views will immediately take stage. Inside, the home begins with the great room, where tall, gently sloping ceilings create a grand yet comfortable space. The gas fireplace surrounded by natural stacked stone provides a gorgeous accent wall, and the wet bar with icemaker and lighted 200+ wine cellar make this the perfect setting for a dinner party. The open kitchen features eye-catching quartzite countertops topping neutral shaker cabinets custom built by Distinctive Cabinetry. A complete gourmet appliance package includes two Wolf ovens, combo microwave/convection oven, gas range, dishwasher, and Miele coffee maker, along with 72 refrigerator plus two additional refrigerator drawers in the island. There is plenty of storage in the abundant cabinet space, along with the 108sf pantry. The dining room has two full walls of windows; imagine the ambiance of al fresco dining in the comfort of your own home! The spaciousness of the great room continues in the primary bedroom, with full-length windows and glass sliding glass door framing the golf course and mountain views, clerestory windows for natural light, and a floor-to-ceiling fireplace. The primary bathroom exudes both luxury and tranquility, with His 'N Hers floating vanities, topped by the same beautiful quartzite countertops found in the kitchen, which you'll also find as the bench in the walk-in shower. The massive walk-in closet is intelligently laid out, providing the option for His 'N Her sections, but without a definite division, allowing for flexibility. Here you'll also find a secret passthrough to the laundry room, which is extremely convenient! Even the laundry room is upgraded, with a full wall of cabinets, extra refrigerator, sink area with tile backsplash, and access to the side yard with enclosed fencing for your pets. The main level features two large guest suites tucked away, providing privacy for your guests. Each suite contains an attractively upgraded ensuite bathroom and a walk-in closet. There is also an impressively styled half bathroom for dinner guests. Use either the elevator or the wide staircase to head upstairs. At the top of which, you'll find a space completely reimagined during construction to provide an unforgettable entertaining experience. Big-screen television, plenty of room for guests to sit or mingle. A full bar, where underlit onyx countertops will attract your attention. Icemaker, wine fridge, and two refrigerator drawers. Architecturally interesting ceilings give this space a fun twist, and double-sliding doors capture those soothing mountain views, while providing access to the rooftop deck overlooking the golf course. Completing the upstairs space, don't miss the office with extensive built-ins, an additional half bathroom, and another guest suite with full ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet. And last but certainly not least, the backyard! Step through the living room's full-wall sliding glass doors to the spacious patio. Here you'll find more than enough space for both seating and dining areas, topped by a ceiling fan and two built-in heaters, making this a comfortable retreat any time of year. Just outside the patio is the built-in BBQ with large countertop prep space, plus storage and lighting. Take a dip in the infinity edge pool, relax in the hot tub, or pull up a chaise lounge on the pool's large Baja step to take in some sun. As evening approaches, have a seat by the firepit and watch the magic as sunset turns the mountains from purple to fiery pink, followed by the starry night sky. This idyllic scene can be yours to enjoy every day! More on the Club membership... The separate transaction mentioned above involves paying the Club an initiation fee (currently $200,000 for the full Golf Membership). Please note that some level of club membership is required for all homeowners in Seven. Call the Club for details. All memberships include access to all the Clubhouses, including: the Sonoran Clubhouse (featuring premier quality swimming, tennis, fitness (equipment, classes, personal trainers, yoga, etc., pickleball, bocce, spa, and croquet), and all ten dining venues. Golf Members alone have full access to all seven courses and four practice ranges. Property owners have access to the amazing Bark Park (essentially a country club for dogs) and the over twenty miles of wonderful hiking/biking trails in the mountains at the back of the property. Considerable recent and ongoing investment is keeping Club facilities state-of-the-art, funded out of general funds, not through assessments. How close is it to what you want and need? Five minutes to excellent shopping and nightlife in Carefree and Cave Creek. Thirty minutes to Scottsdale Airpark, or less than an hour to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Two hours to Flagstaff (snow skiing), or continue north to the Grand Canyon or Lake Powell. Four and half hours to Las Vegas, six to Newport Beach. Desert Mountain is an 8,200 acre, gated, master-planned community with about 2,000 homes and about 200 homesites yet to be built upon. It is in a noticeably quiet, serene, safe (manned entry gates; security patrols), secure and beautiful location, spread east to west across the foothills of the Continental Mountains in the High Sonoran Desert on the northern edge of Scottsdale, with homes at elevations ranging from 2,600' to 3,500' ASL. The Tonto National Forest (fourth largest in the country), borders the community to the north. Desert Mountain has enjoyed significant success over the years. Buyers have come from all states and worldwide, but especially from California, Colorado, Oregon, Washington and the Upper Midwest. Most owners are Club Members, and virtually all of them seem to have made socializing and having fun a key priority. Another positive is real estate taxes strikingly lower than many places in the Northeast, Midwest, or West Coast. (2023 taxes on this home were only $7,548). Demand for homes has remained strong. Desert Mountain's weather is famously dry and sunny. Our risk of natural disasters is extremely low. Being higher and somewhat removed from the city means the stars are bright at night, the air typically much cleaner, and the daytime high temperatures can be about ten degrees cooler than the Valley floor, every day of the year. Summers are very enjoyable since it only gets over 100 degrees only about ten or twelve days a year here, compared to ninety days at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, with low humidity. At night in the summer, the temperatures drop fifteen to twenty degrees, a significant difference from life on the Valley floor. You would be amazed how comfortable 95 degrees is at night or in the shade. So, being in Desert Mountain on a year 'round basis is an attractive proposition. In addition to the foregoing, the owner of this home will be close to major league and collegiate sports, fabulous medical care (including the Mayo Clinic and hospital), terrific air service, and a wide variety of cultural attractions. Paradise does not overstate what Desert Mountain is for the people who get to live here. Thanks for your time. If this home and Desert Mountain sound like a possible fit for you, come take a look!

Privately gated generational resort home directly opposite the prestigious new Ritz-Carlton & Palmeraie shopping and dining district, but with all the reasons people are flocking to Paradise Valley from all over the globe: Spacious acreage with custom distinctive architecture, assuring privacy and differentiation from neighboring parcels. Adding to this true walkability to the finest shopping and dining district that will exist in the Americas. This luxurious privately gated estate, boasting a main house just under 5,000 square feet, complemented by three poolside casitas, bringing the total living space to 6,655 square feet when fully occupied. Perfect for multi-generational or long-term guests, providing both cohesion and privacy for a multi-generational living experience. This custom built 2017 privately gated estate is MODERN AND BRIGHT, with no steps, no HOA, Fully manicured resort pool with large roll in ramped Baja beach entry and covered gazebo outdoor kitchen. As you approach the property, grand motorized gates open to a captivating GRAND ENTRY. A beautifully paved circular drive, lush green turf, and a RECEPTION COURTYARD with fireplace set the stage for passed hors d'oeuvres and cocktails with clear views of Camelback Mountain. The large circular paved driveway provides access to garages on both sides of the home for 5 cars garaged and space for twenty or more guest vehicles. Grand front steel and glass door opens to views of pool water features through the retractable 10 foot high wall of glass providing a seamless transition from open great room living to extensive covered patios creating true outside Arizona living. Richly detailed, timeless architecture with transitional styling, hand carved moldings, Dramatic Coffered Ceilings and rich craftsmanship. Outdoors features Gourmet Kitchen, Entertainer's pool deck with Baja beach entry, flanked by poolside Gazebo featuring 8-person high-top granite island adjacent outdoor kitchen with grill, frig, sink, warming drawer, built in speakers and A/V electrical hookup. The Primary Owner's wing is thoughtfully designed with a split layout, accompanied by its own private side-entry garage. The guest wing offers an additional garage and an indoor ''Costco-style'' bulk supply room for added convenience. Recent upgrades include new underground plumbing and various improvements, ensuring a modern and efficient living experience. The interior features a Dining Room and a spacious Office to either side of the Foyer, each with double doors leading to the courtyard. Additional highlights include a Game Room, Formal Dining area, Butler Pantry with Wine Closet, expansive laundry room, separate outdoor pool bath, and walk-in closets with luxurious wood organizers in all bedroom walk-in closets. The property also boasts an audio equipment room (equipment conveys). Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the dazzling heated pool with a large Baja shelf, gazebo, and an outdoor kitchen with a granite 8-seat island, A/V hookups for TV, and stunning views of Mummy Mountain. The estate's ample grounds extend to the west, offering additional land with an RV Gate and mature citrus trees. This space can be utilized for an additional garage, sports court, or pickleball court. Moreover, the convenience of walking to the new Ritz, set to open in 2024-2025, adds an extra layer of luxury to this already impressive property. The Ritz Villas and custom homes in progress nearby promise a vibrant community atmosphere, with one corner of the 110-acre site dedicated to the Scottsdale Palmeraie ''the most anticipated experiential shopping, dining, and living destination in North America.'' Embrace the epitome of upscale living in this extraordinary estate.

Welcome to Southwest Glory, a meticulously restored and redesigned Nance masterpiece nestled on a sprawling 1-acre lot in the heart of Paradise Valley. Modern Nest proudly presents this exquisite 4 bedroom, 5 bathroom home (plus casita) boasting 5295 square feet of luxurious living space. Step inside to discover the perfect blend of Southwest charm and design elegance. The original Saltillo tile floors grace the main living areas, while handcrafted wood flooring and artisanal tiles adorn the rest of the home. Experience warmth and ambiance with 4 fireplaces, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor living. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, showcasing custom-designed cabinetry, Wolf and Subzero appliances, and expansive windows overlooking the enchanting patio and lush landscaping. Entertain in style with a completely rebuilt/resurfaced pool, new hardscapes, and a resurfaced full-size sport court with commercial lighting. Indulge in the comfort of an oversized library/den complete with custom shelving and a state-of-the-art sound system. The attached guest casita offers a full kitchen, living space, and an additional private bedroom (5 total) with captivating backyard views. Relish in the comfort of a charming breakfast nook with a fireplace and a butler's pantry featuring a wine fridge, handcrafted tiles and custom cabinetry for optimal storage. The oversized mud/laundry room boasts custom cabinetry as well and dual washer/dryer units for added convenience. Outdoor living reaches new heights with multiple patio spaces, fountains, and cozy fireplaces, perfect for alfresco dining and relaxation. Luxurious lighting complements the meticulously restored wood beam ceilings throughout the home. Retreat to the primary suite, where a separate sitting area, fireplace, and large windows frame views of the back patio's limestone fountain. The spa-like ensuite bathroom boasts marble countertops, terracotta tiles, a freestanding bathtub, and a separate shower with steam capabilities, while the expansive closet offers custom built-ins for optimal storage. Additional features include a three-car garage, ample storage, new landscaping, outdoor lighting/sound system, stucco, and paint. Experience the epitome of luxury living at Southwest Glory - where modern sophistication meets timeless charm. Schedule your private tour today!

SINGLE LEVEL 4,712 SQ FT CUSTOM CULLUM HOMES BUILT HOME! READY FOR MOVE IN OCTOBER OF THIS YEAR! ENTRY THROUGH THE PRIVATE COURTYARD LEADS YOU TO THE FRONT DOOR/WALL OF GLASS. THE CHEFS KITCHEN WITH SUB ZERO/WOLF APPLIANCES, CUSTOM CABINETRY, QUARTZ COUNTERS AND PANTRY WRAPPED IN STONE ALL OVERLOOK THE ENTERTAINING GREAT ROOM WITH AN ENORMOUS CONTEMPORARY FIREPLACE WALL WITH FLOOR TO CEILING STONE, DINING ROOM AND FULL WET BAR AND WINE STORAGE. THE VIEW OUT THROUGH THE FLOOR TO CEILING WINDOWS TO THE POOL AND MOUNTAINS IN THE DISTANCE IS PEACEFUL. THE SPLIT FLOOR PLAN WITH THE PRIMARY BEDROOM AND OVER SIZED PRIMARY BATH IS IMPRESSIVE. THE FAMILY ROOM WITH THE WET BAR AND POKER TABLE AREA IS JUST OFF THE 2 EN SUITE GUEST ROOMS. PERFECT FOR COMPANY TO HAVE THEIR OWN SPACE. THE OFFICE OPENING TO THE COURTYARD IS PERFECT FOR GETTING WORK DONE. THE POWDER BATH, LAUNDRY AND EPOXY FLOORED 4 CAR GARAGE, LARGE ENOUGH FOR YOUR CARS AND TOYS, COMPLETE THE MAIN HOUSE. THE AMAZING COVERED OUTDOOR CHEF KITCHEN WITH BUILT IN BBQ, POOL, SPA AND TOWERING WATER FEATURE CREATES A WONDERFUL FALLING WATER AMBIANCE. ACROSS THE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING SPACE YOU WILL FIND THE ONE ROOM EN SUITE CASITA WITH A DRY KITCHENETTE WITH BEVERAGE REFRIGERATOR. THIS HOME ALL ON ONE LEVEL IS PERFECT FOR SOMEONE LOOKING FOR THAT RIGHT SIZED HOME. THE PARADISE VALLEY COMMUNITY OF 8 HOMES IS GATED AND CLOSE TO ALL THE SHOPPING AND RESTAURANTS OF YOUR CHOICE. COME SEE THIS HOME TODAY!

Exceptional Estate for Sale in Guard-Gated Equestrian Manor, Scottsdale Step into a realm of timeless elegance with this breathtaking French provincial estate, nestled on a sprawling 1.6-acre lot in the exclusive guard-gated community of Equestrian Manor. This remarkable residence exudes sophistication and charm, making it a true forever home. Spanning an impressive 13,700 square feet, the estate features 7 luxurious bedrooms and 10 meticulously designed bathrooms. Step into a culinary paradise designed for both functionality and flair. This expansive chef's kitchen is a true entertainer's dream, featuring an abundance of workspace and top-of-the-line appliances that will inspire your inner gourmet. Host unforgettable gatherings in the resort-style outdoor kitchen, complete with a stunning diving pool surrounded by manicured grounds and lush landscaping. The tennis court adds to the recreational amenities, ensuring endless fun for all ages. Inside, experience the allure of wood-beamed and domed ceilings, along with 11 grand fireplaces that serve as stunning focal points. The hand-carved wood accents and stone walls add a touch of artisanal craftsmanship throughout the home. Enjoy cinematic experiences in the dedicated movie theater, featuring an impressive 167-inch screen. The game room promises endless entertainment options for family and friends. The exquisite wine room is perfect for connoisseurs, while the office/library provides a serene space for work or relaxation. Marvel at the custom iron work that adorns the estate, from the elegant fence to the striking stairwell and chandeliers, to the Juliette balconies, elevating the home's aesthetic to new heights. A spacious 8-car motor court offers ample room for your collection of vehicles. This estate is not just a home; it's a sanctuary of style, comfort, and grandeur, inviting you to create lasting memories in an unparalleled setting. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional property in one of Scottsdale's most sought-after communities.

Discover unparalleled refinement and charm in this breathtaking new construction nestled in the heart of Pine Canyon. Tucked at the end of a quiet cul de sac with stunning peak views, this gorgeous mountain retreat features two split-floorplan primary suites on the main level, a sprawling living space with huge compound slider leading to the massive back deck, high end Pella Impervia windows and doors, and so much more! This is a one-of-a-kind expansive estate, boasting almost 10,000 sq ft under roof and 6,169 livable sq ft. Enjoy luxuriously modern, high end finishes throughout. Estimated completion date: May 15, 2025.

BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION IS THIS SINGLE-LEVEL HOME, DESIGNED AND BUILT BY CULLUM HOMES. IRONWOOD GOLF VILLAS IS AN EXCLUSIVE COMMUNITY OF ONLY EIGHT CUSTOM HOME SITES. EACH SITE OFFERS ONE A HIGHLY DESIRABLE IN-TOWN LOCATION WITH ABUNDANT ROOM FOR A CUSTOMIZED ESTATE HOME. THIS PARTICULAR HOME OFFERS 4,568 SQUARE FEET OF LUXURIOUS LIVING SPACE WITH 4 BEDROOMS, AN OFFICE, 4.5 BATHROOMS, AND A 3-CAR GARAGE WITH A PRIVATE COURTYARD. CONTEMPORARY UPGRADED FEATURES AND DESIGNS ALL THROUGHOUT. VERY SPACIOUS OPEN FLOOR PLAN. ALL STAINLESS-STEEL, TOP-OF-THE-LINE APPLIANCES IN THE KITCHEN. ALL BEDROOMS HAVE OWN EN-SUITE BATH AND WALK-IN CLOSETS. COMMUNITY IS GATED FOR EXTRA PRIVACY AND SECURITY. LOCATED JUST MINUTES AWAY FROM OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE, PARADISE VALLEY, AND FASHION SQUARE MALL, OFFERING PLENTY OF OPTIONS FOR SHOPPING, RESTAURANTS AND ENTERTAINMENT.

This home has a beautiful presentation! It is an absolutely gorgeous walled gated estate. Enter thru a dramatic stone archway into an elegant courtyard with a large circular paver drive to the main residence which is not visible from the street. The 6 bedrm estate includes a full guest house w/ kitchen, bedrm + bathrm. The main home has beautiful architectural detail and hickory wood floors, as well as a master with separate sitting rm and expensive mahogany + glass woman's closet, a paneled library, theater + walk in wine rm. The extraordinary backyard has extensive lawns + features an award winning swimming pool with 4 firepits, spillways + waterfalls cascading from real boulders.The gourmet kitchen with 2 pantries opens to the inviting family room which opens to the large theatre.

This exquisite custom estate is loaded with impeccable quality and unique design elements, and the soft contemporary vibe beautifully combines elegance and comfort. The island kitchen is absolutely gorgeous with every imaginable amenity, the great room is stunning with fully retractable walls of glass that open to the impressive backyard, and the dining room is another alluring space with a temperature-controlled wine room that holds more than 320bottles and french doors that open to a lovely outdoor patio. The magnificent primary suite has a fireplace, morning bar and spa like bath creating an ultra-serene environment, and the additional bedrooms are all ensuite. There's a newly built guest wing that includes another ensuite bedroom, bonus room, large family room and full bath and close

Set on nearly 1.5 Acres, this expansive lot offers UNMATCHED PRIVACY, STUNNING VIEWS, & MULTIPLE OUTDOOR AREAS. Originally built in 1975, added onto & rebuilt in 2007. Recently upgraded to high-quality syn. turf for low-maint. upkeep & water conservation. The floor plan is exceptional, featuring a Primary Suite that includes an executive office, a spacious exercise room with closet, a secondary laundry area, & completely separate his-and-her primary bathrooms. The Primary also enjoys a pvt. courtyard with built-in spa, fireplace, & mtn-view window. Featuring a total of 2 offices, a large primary laundry room, & an eat-in kitchen with views of the backyard. Additionally, there are 2 en-suite beds & a generous game room that can be converted into a 3rd bed. PLUS an attached GUEST CASITA... complete with living room, fireplace, full kitchen, bedroom w/ walk-in closet, and full bath. The grounds also features a discretely situated 'Taj Mahal' of henhouses and garden. Back of home parking with 2 slab spaces and a 4-car garage with large climate controlled storage room and 2 separate storage closets. Convert the storage room, 1 of the 2 powder rooms, and the 2nd office to make a spacious 7-car garage. End of cul-de-sac location with large circular drive and additional guest parking.

Remodeled in 2019 and 2024 this awe inspiring residence on a 1.5 acre lot with impressive views of the McDowell mountains. In the perfect cul-de-sac location in sought after Pima Acres Estates Community. Perfectly located to everything Scottsdale has to offer. Established desert landscaping with front patio, 4 car garage and circular driveway, space to the side for RV garage or sport court. Enter through the newly installed glass front door to find plantation shutters, wood floors, an extensive great room, two Heat & Glo gas fireplaces, glass wine cellar and wet bar area. The Chef's kitchen has Thermador/ Viking appliances, 2 dishwashers, 3 ovens, walk -in pantry, 2 oversized islands and a desk area all finished in quartz counters. There are 2 private offices, upscale baths with designer finishes , walk in closets and generous sized bedrooms. A large media/living room sits perfectly located off the kitchen seating area. Each room is a work of art. The split bedroom layout ensures privacy with a grand owner's retreat with a spa-like en-suite with a stand alone tub, walk-in shower, dual vanities and makeup area. The casita opens to the pool courtyard and boasts a full kitchen, dining and living areas. A fully owned solar system keeps energy bills down. The resort style backyard has a built in summer kitchen, pool with wrap around patio and fire pit all overlooking the extensive mountain views.

One of the most unique homes in Paradise Valley. You pause as the private gate opens revealing the stunning entrance framed by two custom fountains. As you open the incredible hand crafted front door you are overwhelmed by the view from the large. Courtyard. This meticulously well maintained home with lush landscaping offers alfresco dining alongside the sparkling 20' lap pool and spa. focusing directly on Camelback Mountain. Fourteen foot ceilings reign over the large sliding glass windows which disappear into the walls with the push of a button. This house was created for indoor outdoor entertaining. The kitchen, a chef's dream features Gaggenau appliances, a 6x11 soapstone island with Paul Henningsen's Artichoke Lighting above also includes a well appointed butlers pantry. The open kitchen concept embraces a spacious family room and inviting breakfast nook with corner fireplace. Massive exotic Tiger Wood barn doors are featured in the two en-suite guest bedrooms. Virtually every room captures our magical Arizona lighting and views from nearly every room of the three iconic mountains, The Preserve, Mummy and Camelback. Two separate offices, one with distinctive large fireplace allow more than one person to work while home. At the end of the courtyard visit the entertainment room or stay in shape with the private gym adjacent to the large self contained Casita. The air conditioned 3 car garage has additional storage for bikes and holiday decorations. Privately positioned with easy access to AJ's, Global Ambassador, Steak 44, Paradise Valley Country Club and PCDS. Minutes to Phoenix Airport, HWY 51 & 101.