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

Last week’s economic reports included readings on pending home sales, construction spending and consumer sentiment. Case-Shiller Home Price Indices for June were released, along with several labor-related reports including national unemployment, ADP Payrolls and Non-Farm Payrolls were also released along with weekly readings on new jobless claims and Freddie Mac’s survey of average mortgage rates.

Case-Shiller: Home Price Growth Holds Steady in June

According to the Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index for June, average national home prices held steady with a seasonally adjusted annual growth rate of 5.10 percent in June. The top three cities for home price growth were Portland, Oregon with a reading of 12.60 percent; Seattle, Washington followed with a reading of 11.00 percent. Denver, Colorado home prices grew by 9.20 percent year-over-year.

San Francisco, California, which had posted highest year-over-year price gains in recent months slipped with a reading of 6.40 percent year-over-year in June. This could signify a cooling of rapid price gains in high demand metro areas where home prices have become unaffordable for many buyers.

Construction Spending Flat in July, Pending Home Sales Increase

While builder sentiment has been strong, construction spending was flat in July as compared to an expected reading of 0.60 percent and June’s reading of an 0.90 percent increase in construction spending. The Commerce Department reported that pending home sales increased 1.30 percent in July, which exceeded expectations of 0.90 percent growth and June’s negative reading of -0.80 percent. July’s reading appeared to even out June’s unexpected slump in pending sales, which are considered an indicator for future closings and home loan volume.

Mortgage Rates, New Jobless Claims Rise

Mortgage rates rose for all three loan types reported by Freddie Mac. The rate for a 30-year mortgage rate rose three basis points to 3.46 percent; the average rate for a 15-year mortgage also rose three basis points to 2.77 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage jumped by eight basis points to 2.83 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent, 0.50 percent and 0.40 percent respectively. Mortgage rates rose after the yield on 10-year Treasury Notes increased in response to a speech given by Fed Chair Janet Yellen that indicated that the target federal funds rate could be raised in December.

263,000 new jobless claims were filed as compared to expectations of 265,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 261,000 new claims. Job growth slowed in August; the Commerce Department reported a reading of 151,000 new jobs in its Non-Farm Payrolls report. Analysts expected 170,000 new jobs, which fell significantly short of July’s reading of 275,000 jobs created. Non-Farm Payrolls includes data for public and private sector jobs.

Labor Reports: Job Growth Slows, National Unemployment Holds Steady

ADP Payrolls also reported fewer private sector jobs created in August with a reading of 177,000 new jobs as compared to 194,000 private sector jobs created in July. Analysts characterized August jobs reports as “fickle” due to high numbers of summer vacations and company-wide summer holiday closures.

August’s reading for national unemployment held steady at 4.90 percent.

While slower growth in home prices and job creation could signal an economic slowdown, there was good news as consumer confidence rose to 101.7 in August; this reading surpassed the expected reading of 97.0 and July’s reading of 96.7.

What’s Ahead

This week’s scheduled economic news is lean due to the Labor Day holiday on Monday. In addition to weekly reports on new jobless claims and mortgage rates, reports on job openings and the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book report will be released.

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12253 N 115th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$2,600,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,718 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6773255
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
UNOBSTRUCTED FOREVER VIEWS! The views are absolutely breathtaking upon entering, encompassing the resort backyard, sea of green golf course & expansive vistas of the majestic McDowell Mountains. This is an entertainers dream home with wine cellar, wet bar, the living room wall of glass disappears into the wall for indoor to outdoor enjoyment. Ideal floor plan with Primary Bedroom opposite the additional 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms. Two of the large bedrooms share a bonus/flex room making it great for children or guests. The Gourmet Kitchen opens to the breakfast room & spacious family room all with fantastic views. The 5th bedroom, now an office has a private entry with bathroom & walk-in closet. In prestigious 24 HR Guard Gated Ancala Country club with a true sense of community. Please note the Seller owned 58 SOLAR PANELS. Large Upper View Deck with 360 Degree Views to relish the glowing sunsets and sparkling city lights. Wine Cellar hold 955 Bottles. Enhanced Sound System in ground in and around the pool. All pool equipment was replaced in 2018. HVAC's 2 are two years old, the 3rd is 10 years old. Age of Roof is 4 years. Ancala has a very active HOA making it easy to become involved with similar interest groups. Close proximity to desirable Scottsdale and BASIS schools, Mayo Clinic, hiking trails, fine dining, shopping & easy access to freeways. Membership to Country Club & the award winning Dye designed golf course is Optional.

8710 E Lost Gold Circle Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$2,600,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,897 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770523
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Amazing interior modern Mediterranean theme by a true artist only 7 years old on a half-acre in the renown Lyle Anderson community of Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club, less than 35 freeway minutes from Sky Harbor & 20 minutes to Mesa Gateway. Only 1 traffic light separates residents from the Atlantic & Pacific Oceans. 24/7 manned gate, quiet streets, mountain views, & no traffic in Gold Canyon--Pinal County is 76%+ open space. BEST LOCATION/BEST VALUE. 36 holes Nicklaus-designed golf, 50Ksf clubhouse designed by award winning clubhouse architect. Fully upgraded & integrated w/today's lighter modern colors, finishes, & design features. 10+ ceilings, 8' solid core doors, attractive chiseled edge granite counters t/o & patio. Finest Thermador appliances, custom cabinets/lighting. Coveted north/south orientation. Updated throughout with black accents, fixtures, lighting and louvered shutters. Solid granite countertops with chiseled edges throughout the home and patio. The great room has 16' ceilings with soffits and opens to the kitchen with an immense island and upgraded Thermador appliances. New tile backsplash with floating natural Alder wood shelves, top-of-the-line LED shelf lighting, and new water fixtures. Large walk-in pantry. New light fixtures inside and out. Custom painted louvered wood shutters. Newly custom painted in most interior areas. Four total ensuite bedrooms with 11' ceilings, soffits, and custom walk-in closets. Large media room/office with a large walk-in closet. The 4th bedroom (wing) serves as a second primary/guest casita with a private entrance/exit to pool patio. A hall powder room makes a total of 4.5 baths. Split floor plan with the primary bedroom with 12' ceilings. This bedroom features an oversized sitting area, large walk-in shower, soaking tub, his and hers custom walk-in closets, soffits, and ceiling fans. The primary bath has double counters, large picture window, and private water closet. Great room: Disappearing motorized 10'x5' five panel glass doors provide an excellent mountain view with individual remote-control shades. 10' media room sliding glass doors with the mountain view with motorized shades remote control. Overall, vaulted ceilings, open floor plan with easy care wood grain tile flooring. All interior doors solid knotty Alder wood with 7 custom upgraded Alder wood-baseboards. Lovely arch accents throughout including ceilings. Oversized 3-car garage with extra storage closet and epoxy floors. Expansive laundry room with extensive cabinetry and tile backsplash. Audio system custom designed theater quality in Media & Great rooms. Media room with 85 Samsung TV, subwoofer and surround sound. The Great room has a 75 Samsung Frame TV and subwoofer to support the surround sound. The home is completely wired for sound including the primary bedroom/bath, front bedroom and patio. Home is custom wired for security and internet. Great room custom designer stone application with natural mineral wash and new natural crystal gas fireplace with-select-able automatic control. Kitchen bar: new wine cooler refrigerator. Interior new water purification and softening system. Rinnai tankless hot water system. Reverse osmosis is used for dispensing purified water and ice maker. AC, pool equipment, and watering system controlled by cellular app. Front landscape overhaul. Paver driveway. Additional landscaping in the rear creating sanctuary behind and around pool area; extreme privacy. New exterior 85 aluminum fans. Exterior Cantera stone accents on all windowsills. Covered patio portion has built-in gas Bull BBQ. Rear patio cantera stone pavers, a fireplace and putting green. Patio cooling misting system. Heated salt-water pool & spa with 'Illusion Edge' waterfall feature and new tile. Owner spent approximately $150K in interior improvements in 2023.

19912 E Natalie Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$2,599,999
6 Beds
5.5 Baths
5,313 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6658871
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to resort style living in the highly desirable Whitewing at Whisper Ranch community. This desert contemporary multi-generational home is located on a premium lot and features 6 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and 4 car garages which includes a casita. An inviting entry leads to a modern and timeless design with lofty ceilings in the extended great room. Exuding warmth, this contemporary home features wood tile flooring and custom Roman shades throughout. The Chef's kitchen is the heart of the home and features dual islands for entertaining large groups and has an abundance of storage. Kitchen has 42'' upper cabinets equipped with stainless steel appliances including 6-burner gas stove with griddle, 3 ovens, built-in microwave, separate 2 drawer fridge in island along with a 15 automatic ice maker. The large built-in fridge/freezer is equipped with RO filtered water and ice maker. The great room features an electric 74 fireplace and a 20' sliding wall of glass that seamlessly flows into outdoor living. Store and pour your beverages at the bar which includes a dual zone wine fridge, sink and plenty of cabinetry. Custom iron and glass doors adorn the office entry to provide a quiet workspace off the great room. The large primary suite offers plenty of space for a sitting area. The luxurious spa-like bathroom has a soaking tub, walk-in shower with dual heads, built-in bench, and an oversized mirror. Separate vanity area includes a lighted mirror with Bluetooth speaker. Large closet with wall unit for extra storage and a separate exercise room which could also be used as a second closet. This split floor plan offers four additional bedrooms on the east wing of the home along with a spacious bonus room featuring a wall unit for extra storage as well as direct backyard access. Each generously sized bedroom has walk-in closets and direct access to a bathroom. The sizable laundry room has entry to all 4 garages, an abundance of storage, utility sink and refrigerator. Garage upgrades include custom garage cabinetry from floor to ceiling, professional epoxied floors, and a built in workbench. Also included is a Kinetico Whole House Water Treatment System and two tankless gas water heaters. This energy efficient home is easy to keep cool as it has 4 individual air conditioning units along with sunshades on the windows. Escape to the resort style backyard and relax under the sun on the Baja steps on one of four Ledge Loungers. The 11' square raised spa with therapy jets is one of a kind and can comfortably seat 12 people. The pool and spa have an in-floor cleaning system. They are easily heated and controlled with a touch of a button from your phone or tablet along with the deck jets, bubblers and LED lighting. The private backyard is an entertainer's dream. The outdoor kitchen is complete with a built-in Hestan 42'' professional BBQ grill, gas burner, sink and commercial fridge, fully equipped for outdoor cooking and entertaining, complete with a media wall large enough for an 86 television. A commercial misting system has been installed on the 15' x 26' ramada and the covered back patio. The ramada also features an outdoor shower. Enjoy your morning coffee under multiple structures taking in the beautiful Arizona outdoor living with tranquility and privacy. Professionally designed and landscaped with front and backyard lighting and pavered walkways on each side of the house. In addition to the 10' RV gate, a third 4' gate was added to the west side of the home. Expansive pavered driveway offers additional parking. The casita is located off the courtyard and has its own separate entry featuring a family room, bedroom, walk-in closet with washer/dryer hookups, bathroom with a walk-in shower and kitchenette with 2 drawer fridge/freezer. Upgraded stone countertops and plenty of cabinets. Ceiling fans and a separate A/C unit provide a comfortable environment. Fully wired with the Unifi WIFI 6 system it incorporates 30 ethernet drops, 13 - 4K cameras throughout the property, NVR security camera recordings, 5 access points, 8 TB hard drive, CAT 6 as well as a networking closet that is rack mounted. Controlling the pool, spa, garage, thermostats, security system, tankless water heaters, kitchen ovens and smart locks have never been easier thanks to the many smart home features and dedicated apps easily accessible from your phone, computer, or tablet. The Whitewing at Whisper Ranch community offers impressive amenities which include front and back entrance gated access, a fully equipped and furnished clubhouse perfect for entertaining and hosting events, outdoor gas fireplaces and BBQ areas to gather, a bocce ball court, a fenced in dog run, luscious green belts, and a children's play area/park. Just a couple minutes away from the Queen Creek Marketplace, excellent schools, restaurants, shopping, and serene trails to walk, hike and bike around the Sonoqui Wash. In close proximity to all the community has to offer! Owner Agent

6035 E Hodges Street Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$2,599,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,025 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6763175
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This stunning, extensively upgraded home sits on an expansive cul-de-sac lot and offers a true entertainer's paradise. Located in the exclusive, gated Lone Mountain Palisades Subdivision, this property presents a rare opportunity to own one of the best lots in the community. This home offers 5 bedrooms plus a den with 4.5 bathrooms all spread over 4,025 square feet of living space. Step into a backyard retreat featuring a 50,000-gallon heated pool and spa, equipped with a state-of-the-art wireless Pentair system. Enjoy the waterslide, waterfall, grotto, splash pad, swim-up bar, and dramatic fire bowls that frame this oasis. The sunken ramada comes complete with an outdoor kitchen, BBQ, TV, and seating area, while additional features include an outdoor fireplace and fire pit. The backyard also boasts a putting green, walking path, regulation horseshoe pits, and a custom sport court. Inside, every bedroom offers custom-built closets, with dual closets in the master. The chef's kitchen, equipped with premium Wolf appliances, opens to a magnificent great room featuring a fireplace and expansive stacked sliding doors, blending indoor and outdoor living seamlessly. The kitchen is adorned with stunning cabinetry, including glass-lit upper cabinets for added elegance. The luxurious master bath offers a massive shower with multiple shower heads and a tub inside. The attached casita, perfect for guests or extended family, includes a separate entrance, living area, kitchenette, and an additional bedroom with a walk-in closet and full bath. With a three-car garage and ample built-in storage solutions, this home is as practical as it is luxurious. Don't miss your chance to own this one-of-a-kind property!

363 E Monte Vista Road Phoenix, AZ 85004

$2,599,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,577 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765895
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
One of the most beautiful Historic properties in Phoenix! Built in 1927 in the Los Olivos Community, a Historic Neighborhood adjacent to the Arts District developed by Dwight B Heard, this iconic Storybook Tudor is always showcased when researching historic homes in Phoenix. With its dramatic Tudor architecture and expansive 3/4 acre property, the curb appeal alone takes you back in time! The current owner has meticulously retained all the historical charm and elegance while updating and improving the property. Elegant community rooms with soaring wood beamed ceilings, artfully crafted solid Mahogany doors and paneling, paned windows, Italian cornices and draperies, Steuben and other antique chandeliers. From the foyer is the dramatic staircase with its original Terrazzo floors. Beautiful Chef's kitchen with island, Subzero and Miele appliances. Laundry Room with antique cast iron sink. 3 bedrooms upstairs including the large Primary Bedroom with William Morris draperies. Primary Bath with original and preserved Green Ceramic Tile. Charming Guest Bath with Dormered Ceilings. Detached Coach House (Garage) with Guest House offering a full bath, loft bedroom, and kitchenette. Backyard Oasis with long rectangular pool, flanked by Italian Cypresses and featuring an imported English water feature. Beautiful Gazebo with commercial grade mist system for year round enjoyment. Large AC cooled Chicken Coop and orchard sporting over 15 fruit trees conveys unrivaled rural living in the center of the city. Make this iconic historical home located in the heart of the city yours to showcase!

4422 N 75th Street Unit 8004 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$2,599,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,991 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766228
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
ONE OF A KIND ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS PENTHOUSE ON THE 8th FLOOR OF ENVY RESIDENCES with A+ VIEWS FROM THE 550' WRAP AROUND BALCONY overlooking all that OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE has to offer. PERFECT FLOOR PAN WITH OVER $200K IN NEW DESIGNER UPGRADES FEATURING FLOOR TO CEILING GLASS, hardwood flooring, huge waterfall kitchen island, Subzero and Wolf appliances with amazing wall accents touching almost every wall throughout this beauty. ENVY boasts absolutely state of the art amenities including a 4000 sq ft Fitness Facility, swanky Black Label Lounge, gorgeous pool and pool lounge area that rivals any Las Vegas resort, underground parking, 24 hr concierge/security and so much more. MUST SEE, walking distance to everything OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE has to offer.

8428 E Preserve Way Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$2,599,000
5 Beds
4 Baths
4,363 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6744641
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience unparalleled luxury at 8428 E Preserve Way in Scottsdale, Arizona. This exceptional residence has been meticulously remodeled with high-end finishes, seamlessly blending modern sophistication with the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert.The gourmet kitchen features a Wolf range, dual Cove dishwashers, and a Sub-Zero paneled refrigerator. The main living area includes a new chilled wine cellar and a sleek wet bar with a wine fridge. A spacious formal dining and living room open to the outdoor space through a multi-sliding glass door, perfect for indoor-outdoor living.The master suite boasts a show-stopping two-entry shower and soaker tub. Outdoors, enjoy an outdoor shower, a remodeled pool with an extended Baja step, a spa, a fire pit, a built-in BBQ, and a putting green.

3630 E Coconino Court Phoenix, AZ 85044

$2,595,000
6 Beds
7 Baths
5,883 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6766692
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning One-Acre Lot in a Cul-de-Sac with Spectacular Views! This estate seamlessly backs to the preserve, offering amazing views and privacy, perfect for enjoying the incredible sunsets of Ahwatukee. The desirable floor plan boasts six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and 5,883 sqft of living space. The sweeping staircase leads to a private master suite with exclusive balconies. Plus, there's a rooftop deck perfect for evening relaxation, offering breathtaking views of your private mountainside estate. Don't miss the gate behind the water slide that provides access to hiking on your own hillside! This resort-style backyard is a true oasis, featuring a sparkling 11-foot diving pool, a spa, a sports court, and a built-in Wolf BBQ. Enjoy... the extended covered patio, synthetic turf, pond, and play area. This luxurious estate in Ahwatukee Custom spans 6,000 square feet and showcases a beautifully remodeled, inviting open floor plan, even earning recognition in Phoenix Home and Garden!

2928 N 83rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$2,595,000
4 Beds
5 Baths
3,572 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6760146
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning ''New Construction'' in a fabulous location just minutes to the shops, restaurants & night life in Old Town Scottsdale! This contemporary masterpiece features 16 foot soaring ceilings, 19 seer, 5 ton, variable speed HVAC, huge sliding glass patio doors, skylights, 3 gas fireplaces, 3 car garage w/electric vehicle charging station, RV Gate & RV Parking, NO HOA, tankless hot water heater, pool w/heater & chilling functions, Wellness Room w/cold plunge, exterior built in BBQ, synthetic grass. Over a 1/4 acre lot, home is all on 1 level with over 3,500 sq ft of interior living space, 4 total bedrooms (2 master suites), 5 baths, separate den/office, wet bar, built in wine refrigerator, 48''gas cooktop (Monogram Appliances) & kitchen island. Wired and plumbed for optional Guest House!

10040 E Happy Valley Road Unit 340 Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,595,000
3 Beds
3 Baths
4,031 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6652340
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
IMMEDIATE GOLF MEMBERSHIP AT CLOSE OF ESCROW! Charming southwest contemporary home situated on a private lot in the world renowned Desert Highlands. Light and bright throughout with large expanses of glass bringing the outside in. Formal living room with fireplace, wet bar and wall of sliding glass doors. Formal dining surrounded by a wall of windows and open space, adjacent built-in buffet. Gourmet kitchen with top of the line stainless steel appliances and Snaidero cabinets and granite counters. Spacious primary suite with office and sitting area. 2 guest bedrooms include bedroom + adjacent sitting rooms. Grand backyard with outdoor living room, el fresco dining space, gas firepit, heated Pebble-Tec pool and spa and outdoor cooking station with built-In BBQ, viewing deck. Designated a top 'Platinum Club of America'' golf club, Desert Highlands amenities include a Jack Nicklaus championship golf course, 18-hole putting course, award winning clubhouse featuring ''Jacks'' gastropub, state of the art fitness center, Highlands Racquet Club featuring grass, clay & pickleball courts,& more. A $150,000 membership fee is due from buyer at close of escrow

5434 E Lincoln Drive Unit 35 Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$2,595,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,881 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6707840
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome home to the prestigious guard-gated community of Colonia Miramonte. This charming residence features 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a spacious office, all meticulously maintained and upgraded by the current owner. Nestled next to the JW Marriott Camelback Inn, this move-in-ready home offers exclusive resort-style living in the heart of Paradise Valley. As a resident, you'll enjoy a host of luxurious benefits, including discounts at the resort's acclaimed restaurants and the convenience of room service delivered directly to your door. Experience the perfect blend of comfort, elegance, and convenience in this beautiful home. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this listing in Colonia Miramonte. Come and see for yourself what makes this community so exceptional.

10904 E Scopa Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,580,000
6 Beds
5 Baths
4,587 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6762371
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover desert luxury in this 2.85-acre estate within Monterey at Mirabel Village North. The single-level residence boasts dual living areas, a gourmet kitchen with Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances, formal dining, five bedrooms & four bathrooms. A separate casita adds versatility for guests or a home office. Indulge in resort-style living with a solar-heated pool, spa & five-hole putting green. Entertainment options include a theater room & whole-home SONOS system. The property features a lush courtyard, outdoor fireplace & stargazing areas. Recent upgrades include pool equipment, HVAC systems & a monitored security system. Smart home technology allows effortless control of lighting, climate & entertainment. An oversized 3-car garage & ample indoor storage complete this extraordinary home.

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