What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 29, 2016

Last week’s economic reports included readings on new and existing home sales, a speech by Fed Chair Janet Yellen, and a report on consumer sentiment. Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released.

New Home Sales Rise in July as Pre-Owned Home Sales Fall

Sales of new homes jumped in July to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 654,000 sales, which surpassed expectations of 579,000 sales and June’s downwardly-revised reading of 582,000 sales. This was the highest reading for new home sales since 2008 and represented a 31.30 percent increase since July 2015.

Builders were seen by analysts as addressing the need for more affordable homes; this trend contributes to a healthy housing market by supplying homes for a wider range of buyers. First-time buyers play a vital part in housing markets as their purchases enable current homeowners to buy larger homes or relocate.

Sales of pre-owned homes fell 3.20 percent to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.39 million sales as compared to expectations of 5.59 million sales and June’s reading of 5.57 million sales. Year-over-year, sales were 1.60 percent lower. Limited inventories of available pre-owned homes have narrowed buyer options; increasing prices and narrow choices were seen as factors contributing to lower sales. There was a 4.60 month supply of available homes in July. Real estate pros typically consider a six months a normal reading for homes on the market.

Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors®, noted that a slowdown in home appraisals may have contributed to July’s lower sales reading for pre-owned homes. Low mortgage rates prompted a surge in refinancing which created a backlog in home appraisals. While low mortgage rates may entice home buyers, stricter mortgage requirements can also keep prospective buyers at bay.

Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen indicated that the stage could be set for a federal rate increase as early as next month. If the Fed hikes its target federal funds rate, interest rates for consumer credit and mortgages can be expected to rise.

Mortgage Rates Hold Steady; New Jobless Claims Fall

Freddie Mac reported that fixed mortgage rates for 30 and 15-year loans were unchanged at 3.43 and 2.74 percent respectively. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable-rate mortgage was one basis point lower at 2.75 percent. Discount points averaged 0.60, 0.50 and 0.40 percent.

New jobless claims were lower last week. 261,000 new jobless claims were filed against expectations of 264,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 262,000 new claims filed. Declining jobless claims can indicate strengthening labor markets, but can also indicate that workers are leaving the labor markets.

Consumer sentiment declined slightly in August due to concerns over the upcoming presidential election. Analysts expected a reading of 91.0 for August, but the reading for August was revised from 90.4 to 89.80.

What’s Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic news includes reports on pending home sales, inflation, construction spending and consumer confidence. National unemployment, non-farm payrolls and ADP payrolls are also scheduled.

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8009 W Desert Cove Avenue Peoria, AZ 85345

$449,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,636 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6612345
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
No HOA!! This Peoria home features 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and a 2-car garage with partial remodeling in recent years. Spacious living and dining rooms that open to the kitchen. The kitchen features newer stainless steel appliances including refrigerator, granite counter tops, tiled backsplash, recessed lighting, and a large walk-in pantry. Master bedroom is spacious and features a walk-in closet and the Master bath features double sinks and a walk-in shower! Newer 6-panel interior doors, ceiling fans, light fixtures, 2'' blinds, toilets, and hardware. Owned soft water system and windows are not original to the home. The backyard has so many wonderful possibilities. There is a children's play area, a fenced PebbleTec play pool, an extended covered patio, a large RV gate with slab parking for an RV or other toys, another area for gardening, and storage sheds. Close to the 101 and 60 Freeways, shopping, dining, and the State Farm Stadium!

11109 E Pima Circle Dewey, AZ 86327

$449,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,085 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6639904
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Great 2 story home located on a quaint & quiet cul-de-sac w/minimal HOA fees featuring a golf course, restaurant, fitness center, pool & sports courts. This home features two bedrooms upstairs w/a potential 4th bedroom or den/study downstairs. The primary bedroom is located on the main floor features a walk-in-closet, dual sinks, garden tub/shower & private toilet room. Large open concept w/vaulted ceilings & lots of natural light in the living, dining & option for formal dining or media room. The covered deck off the kitchen & living room opens to mntn & neighborhood views Separate laundry & powder room. Two fenced in yards for children, dogs or a possible garden. Room to park your RV, additional vehicles or toys. New roof, flooring & stairway carpet in 2023 w/ceiling fans throughout.

11929 W Alvarado Road Avondale, AZ 85392

$449,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,052 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6640101
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning 4 bedroom, 2 bath home located on a large north south facing lot in the Cozy Donatela Community. Nice open floorplan to provide a great room concept. Open kitchen with center island, many cabinets for storage & pantry. Large master bedroom with spacious bathroom, dual sinks Plus a large walk-in closet. The backyard is your very own private oasis with large pool, covered patio, low maintenance landscaping with the front and backyard. Owned water softener & RO. Leased Solar to keep those utility costs low. Great location for all your Arizona needs to include schools, parks, shopping, hiking Plus so much more!

8630 E Bella Vista Road San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$449,900
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,076 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6647747
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
A BRAND NEW Clayton Home is setup and ready for move in! 3% Seller concession offered with a full price offer! This 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home offers just under 2,100 square feet with an excellent layout. The very popular 'Nirvana' model has an exceptional floor plan with all the modern finishes. There is laminate flooring in all living spaces and carpet in the bedrooms. The luxury kitchen has upgraded cabinets, a huge quartz island, all appliances included, and more. There is a large master bedroom, with a stunning bathroom that includes dual sinks, separate shower/tub, and walk-in closet. This home is situated on approx 1.5+/- acres in a quiet area of San Tan Valley, but close to all local conveniences. Great property for horses or plenty of room to add on shops, storage, with no HOA!