What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 22, 2016

Last week’s economic news included the NAHB Housing Market Index, Commerce Department releases on housing starts and building permits issued. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released.

Shortages of available single-family homes have driven up home prices and increased competition among homebuyers; short inventories of homes for sale are affecting affordability in many areas, although buyers seem motivated by lower mortgage rates and some easing of mortgage requirements. Analysts have repeatedly said that the only solution to the shortage of homes is building more homes.

Fortunately, the National Association of Home Builders reported that builder sentiment concerning U.S. housing markets increased in August. The HMI moved up to a reading of 60 in August as compared to July’s reading of 58. Readings over 50 indicate that a majority of builders surveyed are confident about housing market conditions.

According to NAHB, home builders continued to face obstacles including shortages of buildable lots and skilled labor. Regulatory issues were also cited by some builders, but overall, builders remain optimistic about housing market conditions.

Housing Starts Up, Building Permits Issued Slip in July

Commerce Department reading s on housing starts and building permits issued were mixed; housing starts rose from July’s reading of 1.186 million permits issued to 1.211 million permits issued in August. July’s reading was the second highest since the recession but was driven by multi-family construction. Building permits were lower in August with a reading of 1.152 million permits issued against July’s reading of 1.153 million permits issued.

Analysts said that under present market conditions, there is little reason for homebuilders to increase single-family home production as current pricing has put many would-be buyers on the sidelines.

Mortgage Rates Mixed, New Jobless Claims Lower

Freddie Mac reported that average rates for 30-year and 15-year fixed rate mortgages dropped last week while the average rate for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages rose. The average rate for a 30 year fixed rate mortgage was 3.43 percent and the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was 2.74 percent; both readings were two basis points lower than for the prior week. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage was two basis points higher at 2.76 percent. Average discount points held steady for fixed rate mortgages at 0.50 percent; average discount points for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages were lower at 0.40 percent.

New Jobless claims fell by 4000 claims to 262,000 new claims, which was lower than analyst expectations of 265,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 266,000 new claims. Job security is important to home buyers and signs of strong labor markets can help propel would-be buyers into the market,

What‘s Ahead

This week’s scheduled economic news includes releases on new and existing home sales and consumer sentiment. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will be released on schedule.

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10860 W Lone Cactus Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

New

$499,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,261 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693476

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for a new home? Check out this charming, energy-efficient residence in Wildflower! Providing 4 beds, 2.5 baths, RV gate & parking, and a 3-car garage w/extended driveway. Discover an excellent floor plan showcasing a large living & dining room and an open-concept family room w/media niche! Natural light filled the spaces, complemented by a designer palette and stone tile flooring downstairs. The kitchen boasts SS appliances, a pantry, ample white cabinetry, recessed lighting, and an island. Carpet adds comfort to the bedrooms upstairs! Double-door main bedroom has a vaulted ceiling, a walk-in closet, and an ensuite with dual sinks & a separate tub/shower. Check out the spacious backyard offering a covered patio and a refreshing pool & spa combo for year-round enjoyment! Visit now!

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204 S Thunder Mountain Mountain Payson, AZ 85541

$499,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,378 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6690579

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for serene mountain living? Welcome to this exquisite 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offering the perfect blend of comfort and luxury amidst Payson's stunning natural beauty. This newly constructed home features an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, ideal for entertaining. The charming corner kitchen boasts new stainless-steel appliances and granite countertops. Easy-to-maintain vinyl flooring graces the main living areas, while plush, low-pile luxury carpeting adds warmth to the bedrooms. The bathrooms are adorned with elegant tile flooring. The expansive owner's suite includes an ensuite bathroom with a double vanity and an oversized walk-in glass surround shower. Relax on the covered back patio, perfect for observing wildlife or enjoying the summer monsoons. Located just an hour and a half north of Scottsdale, this home offers easy access to hiking trails, kayaking, and the fresh mountain air. Experience the tranquility of mountain living in this remarkable home.

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491 Frederick Lane Prescott, AZ 86301

New

$499,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,054 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6692197

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to 491 Frederick Lane, a renovated home perched on an elevated lot, offering stunning views. Updated with care, this property blends beauty with functionality. The kitchen, a focal point, seamlessly combines modern amenities with timeless elegance, ready to cater to your needs. Enjoy the convenience of a split floor plan, with the master bedroom on the first level, featuring a renovated bathroom with a walk-in shower. Downstairs, two bedrooms and a bathroom provide comfortable accommodations. Outside, a new deck invites you to admire Arizona sunsets against the backdrop of Thumb Butte. With a two-car garage including a built-in workbench, this home offers both convenience and craftsmanship. Don't miss your chance to experience Prescott living at its finest!

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5818 S 55th Glen Laveen, AZ 85339

$499,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,099 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6690340

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 3 car garage home with a split floor plan is on a 10,000+ square foot lot in a gated community! Home also features dual pane windows, 2 inch wood blinds, ceiling fans throughout, paneled doors, and upgraded carpet. Large backyard with a covered patio and space for a pool. Just a couple of minutes from the 202 loop, you have quick and easy access to major major venues, dining, and shopping in both the east and west valley!

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12565 W Llano Drive Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

New

$499,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,284 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693959

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This single-story home in the desirable community of Wigwam Creek sounds like a wonderful find! Here's a closer look at the features and highlights: Wigwam Creek is a sought-after community known for its convenient location, amenities, and friendly atmosphere. The presence of a sparkling pool adds a touch of luxury and offers a refreshing escape during the warm Arizona days. With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, there's plenty of space for both residents and guests. Being on a corner lot often provides extra space, privacy, and possibly even better views. The home's fresh paint adds a clean and inviting atmosphere, making it feel move-in ready. The 3-car tandem garage offers ample space for parking vehicles, storage, or creating a workshop area. The recently updated kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large island. This is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional for cooking and entertaining. The family room is described as very spacious, providing a comfortable and inviting area for relaxation or gatherings. The master bedroom offers a spacious retreat with both a tub and shower, double sinks, providing convenience and comfort. Living in Wigwam Creek offers residents the opportunity to enjoy a true Arizona lifestyle, whether it's lounging by the pool, hosting barbecues, or exploring the nearby amenities. Overall, this home seems to offer a blend of comfort, style, and functionality. The combination of the sparkling pool, updated kitchen, spacious living areas, and corner lot location make it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing and convenient Arizona lifestyle in the Wigwam Creek community.

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4274 Sawbuck Way Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$499,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,744 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6600394

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move in ready home in Wickenburg Ranch, 55+ neighborhood. Home sits on one of the largest lots in this community and the backyard opens up to a wonderful common area which is fenced for privacy. The backyard also has a custom water feature, artificial turf and a nice sized covered pergola. Beautiful landscaping front and back. Enjoy the 10 ft ceilings, custom fireplace, walk in pantry, granite countertops in kitchen, extra wide hallway, custom cabinets in garage., floored attic which give you a large storage area. Your HOA fee includes play on the nine hole golf course, heated pool and spa, pickleball courts, state of the art gym, dog park, miles of walking paths, catch and release fishing in the Lake Park!!! With so many activities offered, you will never be bored. Owner/agent.

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263 E Alcatara Avenue Queen Creek, AZ 85140

$499,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,433 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6626180

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The ''St. Tropez'' within Encanterra features an open floor plan that allows for comfortable living, yet perfectly sized so maintenance won't interfere with you enjoying the almost 70,000 sq ft of amenities on just under 800 beautiful acres. You'll have access to private golf, 4 pools (2 with bar and grill), tennis, pickle ball, bocci, gym and fitness classes, social clubs, and so so much more! This home is located in the Non-Age restricted portion of the community, close to all amenities. The home features a large Kitchen Island, inside laundry w/ storage, walk in shower, extended garage w/ epoxy finish and MORE! The mature landscaping and ample outdoor space are perfect for evening gatherings around the fire pit.

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18232 W Raymond Street Goodyear, AZ 85338

$499,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,396 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6626813

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This Beautiful home on a premium lot with great views is ready for you! Home Boast Large Formal Dining and Living area at entry, Tastefully designed kitchen and primary living area. Upstairs has loft with primary bedroom and 3 additional bedrooms as well as laundry. Views out the windows for days. If you are looking for a large yard your are in luck, this lot is huge has plenty of room for a pool, outdoor kitchen and entertainment.

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6223 N 12th Street Phoenix, AZ 85014

$499,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,461 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6627392

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Stunning and spacious 2 bed, 2.5 bath townhome located in a convenient and desirable Uptown Phoenix neighborhood. This townhome has been thoughtfully renovated with attention to detail and style. New LVP flooring and paint throughout, quartz countertops, shaker cabinets, designer hardware, and upgraded Stainless Steel appliances. Each bedroom has its own oversized walk-in closet and en suite bathroom with double vanities and Delta faucets. There are two private patios and a 2-car attached garage. Close to major highways, great restaurants, shopping, Sky Harbor Airport and more. Don't miss the opportunity to own this exceptional home in Uptown Phoenix! It won't last long!

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4122 S 185th Lane Goodyear, AZ 85338

$499,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,688 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6631109

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rates are too high client is willing to help with a 2/1 buy down. Ask your agent for details. This beautiful home check a lot of boxes. Owned solar panels, home over 2600 square feet, , wood flooring throughout. This beautiful home is made to entertain with the gourmet kitchen with open sight lines into the living room. Large walk-in closets and convenient upstairs laundry.

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10838 W Reef Circle Arizona City, AZ 85123

$499,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,995 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6632698

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Remarkable custom-built Lakefront home with panoramic views! Nestled on a cul-de-sac offering 5 beds, 3 baths, and a 3-car garage. You'll love the fabulous interior showcasing a welcoming living & dining room combo and an inviting family room paired with a fireplace & media niche, that seamlessly connects to the kitchen. Entertainment-ready, this gem provides surround sound & a wet bar! Abundant natural light, 10ft ceilings, excellent stairway banister, two-tone paint, & tasteful flooring enhance the overall ambiance. The large kitchen boasts built-in appliances, granite counters & backsplash, recessed lighting, a built-in desk, wood cabinetry, and an island w/breakfast bar. One bedroom downstairs! Head upstairs to find a cozy loft & 4 bedrooms. Grand main bedroom will surely impress you! Featuring a media center w/fireplace, wet bar, balcony access, and a sitting room that can be an office as well. Its ensuite includes dual vanities, jetted tub, snail shower, & a walk-in closet. Laundry room with attached cabinetry & sink for your convenience. Outside, your fantastic retreat awaits in the backyard! Natural grass, covered patio, and space for enjoying BBQ complete the picture. PLUS! Take advantage of the private boat dock for your water adventures. This value won't disappoint!

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6081 W Estancia Way Florence, AZ 85132

$499,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,737 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6636271

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home has many features you have never seen at this price point. There is an elevator from the living room to the loft for those who struggle with stairs. Yard has a gorgeous heat pump heated pool, patio with custom finishes, lots of LED lighting. A true place to relax and unwind. The house itself has all hard flooring. Fabulous kitchen with SS appliances, gas cook top, granite, island, pot rack. Great room plus formal living room/dining room. Den on 1st floor. Huge laundry room. Lots of storage. Beautiful loft area. All bedrooms have walk-in closets and master has an attached bath and 2 huge walk-in closets. 3 car garage has a mini-split and very upgraded electrical. And all in the resort community of Anthem at Merrill Ranch. Amenities galore.

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