What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 25, 2016

Housing Starts, Building Permits Issued Rise

Commerce Department reports on housing starts and building permits issued were released Tuesday. Housing starts rose to 1.189 million in June against expectations of 1.165 million starts and May’s downwardly revised reading of 1.135 million starts, Housing starts rose by 4.80 percent on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis. This is good news for housing markets, but analysts said that demand for homes continued to exceed available supplies.

Building permits issued also rose in June to 1.53 million as compared to May’s reading of 1.136 million permits issued.

Existing Home Sales Increase: National Association of Realtors®

Sales of previously-owned homes rose three percent year-over-year and reached their highest level since February 2007 in June. Existing home sales rose by 1.10 percent in June to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.57 million sales. Analysts forecasted a reading of 5.48 million sales of pre-owned homes based on May’s reading of 5.51 million sales.

Analysts said that first-time home buyers are returning to housing markets and helped boost June sales and cited changing buyer demographics that suggest a return to owner-occupant home sales. First-time buyers accounted for 33 percent of pre-owned home sales in July, which was their highest reading since 2012. First-time buyers are important to housing markets as their purchases of existing homes enable current homeowners to sell their homes to buy larger homes or to relocate.

Mortgage Rates Rise, New Jobless Claims Fall

Mortgage rates rose across the board last week according to Freddie Mac’s weekly report. Rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage averaged 3.45 percent, which was three basis points higher. The average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage also rose three basis points to 2.75 percent; rates for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage averaged 2.78 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for fixed-rate mortgage and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.

New jobless claims sustained their streak and fell last week to 253,000 against predictions of 260,000 new claims filed and the prior week’s reading of 254,000 new claims filed. Analysts hailed declining jobless claims as a strong indicator that the economy and labor markets continue to improve. New jobless claims have remained below the key reading of 300,000 for 73 weeks. The four-week rolling average of new jobless claims fell by 1250 claims to 257,750. This reading is considered less volatile than week-to-week readings and offers evidence of steady improvements in labor markets.

What’s Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic news includes the S&P Case-Shiller Housing Market Index, readings on new and pending home sales and the FOMC committee’s post-meeting statement on Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions. Analysts widely expect the Fed to hold firm on its current federal funds rate of 0.25 to 0.50 percent.

Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will be released along with a reading on consumer confidence.

3864 E Fruitvale Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85297

$500,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,692 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6666977
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This lovely single story home features 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths with an additional den (including a closet!) that could easily be converted into a 4th bedroom. The home is located in the quiet community of Coronado Ranch with beautiful tree-lined streets, affordable HOA fees, and close proximity to Gilbert Regional Park. Coronado Ranch is a ''buy and hold'' community and homes like this don't come up on the market often especially at this price. With the right offer, the seller will also include the washer, dryer, and refrigerator. Come see this gem for yourself!

7606 S Lone Pine Place Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

$500,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,776 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6668598
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Home in PERALTA Canyon**This well cared for home shows like a model home backing up to the desert & no home in front of you. As you enter in thru the custom iron security door, the home has 9' ceilings and a beautiful entry to display your art. Open Kitchen & Great Room w/ multi-sliding door to ENJOY the AZ Weather & Sunsets. Kitchen has white Shaker cabinets, quartz counter tops, gas range, stainless steel appliances & pantry. Primary Bedroom has walk in closet & beautiful En-suite w/ dual sinks, large shower & separate toilet room. Home also features crown molding, plank tile floors t/o, soft water system, tankless hot water, 3 car garage, expoxy garage floors, extended patio, view fencing, gas stub for BBQ grill plus much more! Hurry before this home is go

17398 W Superior Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85338

$500,000
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,525 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6669321
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Gorgeous single-story home with a pool, view fence, 3-car tandem garage and solar! This floor plan creates an open living concept, with a large living room tying into a gourmet eat-in kitchen with double wall ovens, granite countertops, a farmhouse sink and gas stove. The primary bedroom features an en-suite bathroom with a large soaking tub, separate shower and dual sinks. There are also 3 additional bedrooms, a den, full bathroom with tub/shower, as well as a half bath for the main living area, or your guests. Close proximity to shopping, dining, schools, freeway access and more!

21259 W Yale Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$500,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,322 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6672791
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
MOTIVATED SELLER! Priced reduced below comps! This meticulously maintained home has an expansive great room with wood-look tile flooring in the main areas. Natural light floods in through sliding glass doors, blending the indoor with the outdoor living. The kitchen displays recessed & pendant lighting, white cabinetry with crown molding, SS appliances, a walk-in pantry, granite counters, and a prep island with a breakfast bar. All large bedrooms have plush carpets! Primary retreat includes an ensuite with dual sinks, make-up desk, and a walk-in closet. #2 Bedroom is enormous!! PLUS! A unique feature of this property is the open den, offering boundless possibilities! Spacious backyard has a covered patio for unwinding. Mountain views, close to school, park, walking trails, and pool!

3809 W Misty Willow Lane Glendale, AZ 85310

$500,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,818 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6683177
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Location, location, come expecting and be amazed! Starting with gorgeous curb appeal, lush grass, curbing, and mature landscaping. Upon entering the living room, you'll be in awe with the huge, vaulted ceilings, new carpet, custom paint, wood shutters & updated lighting. To the open kitchen, you'll see new cabinets, granite counter tops, granite sink, plus updated black stainless appliances. You'll love the inviting family room with a built-in fireplace and a custom glass slider to view the enormous backyard & extended covered patio set up for entertaining. The oversized owner's suite has vaulted ceilings, a walk-in closet, dual sinks, & remodeled shower. This home has a full 3 car garage, loads of storage space, new roof underlayment 2022, with solar purchase assumable, Come & see today!

606 S Fountaine Street Flagstaff, AZ 86001

$500,000
2 Beds
1 Bath
1,150 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6688896
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This charming fixer-upper with endless potential, sold ''AS IS'' for your creative vision to flourish right next to Northern Arizona University. This come has a comfortable living space that would be ideal for students or professionals. Don't miss out on this great opportunity.

3761 E Thornton Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85297

$500,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,647 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6688799
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Rare opportunity to own in Coronado Ranch. Located in 85297 near Gilbert Regional Park, this 4 bed 2 bath 1647 sqft home has vaulted ceiling and spacious back yard, great for gardening and entertaining. Neighborhood is family friendly, has two parks, and a splash pad. Built in 2001 this home has only had 2 owners. Grocery, gas, pharmacy, and other shopping all within 1-2 miles. In 2023 Higley Unified School District rated ''A'' by AZ Dept of Education. Owner/agent listing Home is being sold AS-IS.

1920 N 140th Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$500,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,931 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6691390
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Elegant, Modern & Energy Efficient. 2021 New, 1 Level, 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car Garage home with over $50K in builder upgrades! Located a mile north of i10, in the 'The Vistas' a exclusive, gated community of Palm Valley, in the A+ Agua Fria School District of Millennium High & Great Hearts, this open-floor plan home is designed around an amazing kitchen overlooking the Dinning-Great Room with 2 large sliding glass doors theres an abundance of bright, cheery natural light! Relax & unwind in your private backyard under the cover patio or have fun enjoying your beatiful community pool & grilling area, which this home butts up to! (Yes, this home has one of the best lot locations in The Vistas!). A tankless hot water heater and water softener are included with this must see home.

1914 N 140th Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$500,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,983 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6691426
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Elegant, Modern, Energy-Efficient, 2021 New, 1 Level, 3 Bed, 3 Bath (2.5), 2 Car Garage home with over $50K in builder upgrades! Located 1 mile N. of i10, in 'The Vistas' a exclusive gated community of Palm Valley'. Top Rated Schools, Great Hearts Charter & Millennium High, shopping, dining, and golf. This open floor plan home is designed around an amazing kitchen overlooking the Dinning-Great Rooms with 3 Lr sliding glass doors theres an abundance of bright, cheery natural light! Relax in your private backyard under the cover patio or have fun in your beatiful community pool & grilling area, which this home butts up to! Yes, this home does has one of the best lot locations in The Vistas! Tankless hot water heater & water softener are included in this must see home!

1924 E Monte Vista Road Phoenix, AZ 85006

$500,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,089 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6693409
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
In 1935, amidst the dust storms and Great Depression, one resilient home emerged from the arid landscapes of the American Southwest: the Adobe Home. Step into the timeless allure of Southwest living with this captivating Adobe Home, a masterpiece of rustic elegance nestled in the heart of Downtown Phoenix. Built in 1935, this meticulously maintained residence seamlessly blends historic charm with modern comfort. The thoughtfully designed floor plan encompasses 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, providing ample space for relaxation and entertaining. The kitchen, adorned with hand-painted cabinets and equipped with modern appliances. Perfect for culinary adventures inspired by the flavors of the Southwest. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of history in this iconic Adobe Home.

7021 E Earll Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$500,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,340 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6675259
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Downtown Scottsdale Condo! Coveted THREE bedroom, end unit with pool and spa right outside front door. Bright open gathering areas with TWO balconies to relax and take in the views. The kitchen has SS appliances, LARGE walk-in pantry, and access to roof-top balcony over-looking pool area. Beautiful master suite with updated bathroom, walk-in closet, and private access to balcony. Private garage right outside front door. Gated community. All this perfectly located in the heart of historic downtown Scottsdale... the center of top-rated restaurants, shopping, galleries, and entertainment all within a short walk!

11229 S Tomah Street Phoenix, AZ 85044

$500,000 - 2Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Ahwatukee Rs-6, Phoenix
Open House
$500,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,716 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6683790
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully remodeled home w/pool on a golf course! Spacious living room w/large windows provide views out to the covered patio, pool & golf course. Plus an area for a piano, office or formal dining. Remodeled kitchen w/granite counters, breakfast bar open to casual living space (or dining room) w/fireplace .Coffee bar/drop zone & large laundry room. The primary bedroom has 2 large closets, vanity area, & separate shower/toilet area & door to the patio. The 2nd bedroom w/door to the 2nd bath. The backyard w/low maintenance landscape, irrigation, covered patio, pool Plantation shutters, newer roof, AC, water heater, 2 car garage w/built in storage, 55+ community w/plenty of activities. Close to Ahwatukee rec center w/indoor/outdoor pool, clubhouse, pickle ball, exercise facility +more.