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.

21382 E Estrella Court Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$500,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,730 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6698740
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream home! This meticulously maintained residence is a true gem, boasting a level of quality that surpasses even new builds. Step inside and be greeted by NEW hardwood flooring, NEW carpet in bedrooms and NEW fresh white paint T/O. This home features 3 spacious bedrooms, providing ample space. Need a dedicated workspace or a cozy reading nook? You're in luck - there's also a versatile den that can easily adapt to your needs. With 2 bathrooms, mornings will be a breeze, offering convenience and functionality for your daily routine. And here's the best part - no neighbors behind you! Enjoy privacy and tranquility in your backyard retreat, perfect for entertaining or simply unwinding after a long day. Situated in an ideal location, this home offers easy access to all the amenities of Queen Creek. Whether it's shopping, dining, parks, or schools, everything you need is just moments away.

7683 W Angels Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$500,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,685 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6695276
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
A corner lot with a huge backyard offers plenty of space and potential for outdoor activities, gardening or to add a pool. A side gate for toys suggests convenient access and storage for recreational equipment. Plank-style flooring and natural light can enhance the interior ambiance, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. And with 4 bedrooms and 2 baths, there's likely ample space for a family or guests. Overall, these features could contribute to excellent curb appeal and a comfortable living environment.

4623 S 23rd Way Phoenix, AZ 85040

$500,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,628 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6700235
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GATED COMMUNITY. FINISHED HOMES. Call for latest incentives and lot availability. With only 32 homes it is an excellent gated community to meet neighbors or even consider moving more of the family. Experience much of the entertainment of the city while being minutes from South Mountain and multiple golf courses. Granite or quartz for countertops and luxury vinyl plank flooring and carpet throughout the homes. All appliances included and the garage is even equipped with the power for an Electric Vehicle. Top it off with a dog door for your furry friend! Minimal effort will be required to enjoy these homes with the finished back yard and the front yard landscaping that is maintained by the HOA. Come see what this community has to offer! (Photos are of model)

12101 N 141st Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$500,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,062 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6692288
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Seller is offering $10,000 to buy down interest rate with acceptable offer. Upgrades galore in this popular Richmond American Floorplan. Property has just been remodeled. Vinyl Plank flooring throughout, Freshly painted interior, Tile surrounding tub and showers, New countertops (square sinks) and fixtures in all bathrooms. Kitchen features Quartz countertops and all new Stainless steel appliances including a popular gas stove. Inside laundry features a Laundry sink and a hookup for either a gas or electric dryer. 3 car garage with electric openers for easy access and plumbed for a water softener. All this and solar too!

4332 N 154th Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$500,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,230 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6692205
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this beautiful Palm Valley home! Enjoy a large open concept living room and kitchen. The kitchen features an impressive island with a electric stove, sleek granite counters and custom french country cabinetry. The floors have been replaced completely throughout the home with luxury vinyl. Freshly painted in a neutral tone. As you walk to the front door you'll find a gated entrance with a spacious patio. The large den with french country cabinetry to match the kitchen makes the perfect office space. Enjoy a separate entrance in the primary bedroom in addition to the primary bathroom which features a large soak in tub complete with travertine tile throughout. This home is a fresh canvas with beautiful touches throughout!

1046 S Sierra Street Gilbert, AZ 85296

$500,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Neely Farms Unit 3, Gilbert
Open House
$500,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,401 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6696454
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
AMAZING REMODEL in the heart of Gilbert! The minute you open the new front door & accompanying security door, you'll want to make this place YOURS! From the open concept plan to the vaulted ceilings & natural light from the NEW SLIDER, you'll be impressed with the attention to every detail. Modern QUARTZ COUNTERS & TILE BACKSPLASH the staggered cabinets. Tile throughout with 5'' baseboards, updated window coverings & newer lighting add to the clean style. Master features a CUSTOM TILE SHOWER, garden tub and new fixtures. Hall bath has an updated tub & there are newer vanities & toilets in both bathroom. Enjoy the shade of covered patio or sun on the extended paver patio. You'll love the energy efficiency of the HVAC - just 5 years old! WELCOME HOME!

2301 N 127th Avenue Avondale, AZ 85392

$500,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Rancho Santa Fe, Avondale
Open House
New
$500,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,335 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6707149
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Incredible opportunity for this well-maintained & super clean home! NEWER ROOF WITH WARRANTY! Spacious kitchen features quartz countertops & backsplash, gas stove & walk-in pantry. Huge master suite features a separate French door exit to the patio, bay window, extended shower with custom tile surround & glass block accents. Plank tile flooring. NEW INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINT. Newer baseboards. Newer faucets & door hardware. Remodeled baths include new mirrors & toilets. Vaulted ceilings, arched doorways & plant shelves with custom lighting. Laundry room cabinets. Sunscreens. 3 car garage w/ NEW epoxy flooring, NEWER garage doors & service door. Premium lot with no neighbors behind. Beautiful, front & back landscaping with mature trees & full-length extended patio with a gas stub & more!

11326 E Sandoval Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$500,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Keighley Place, Mesa
Open House
$500,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,794 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6701291
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this appealing residence with a tasteful neutral color paint scheme that creates a welcoming ambiance throughout. The primary bathroom offers a relaxing experience with a separate tub and shower, double sinks, and the kitchen has beautiful stainless steel appliances, a kitchen island, and an accent backsplash for added style. Fresh paint and new appliances give the interior a like-new feel, ensuring reliability and quality. The primary bedroom features a generous walk-in closet for storage needs. Outside, the fenced-in backyard provides privacy and space for gardening or leisure activities, while the covered patio is perfect for relaxation. This residence embodies comfortable and modern living, offering a perfect balance of style and functionality for your enjoyment.

2344 E Aldine Street Phoenix, AZ 85022

$500,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Cactus Gardens 2, Phoenix
Open House
New
$500,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,525 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6706254
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautifully Updated 4 Bedroom/2 Bath home in the heart of North Phoenix, w/No HOA! The spacious front courtyard welcomes you home! The stunning Kitchen opens to the Great Room & features Custom Cabinetry with Soft Close Drawers, Quartz Counters, Island w/Breakfast Bar, Stainless appliances, Pendant Lighting, & Slider Door. Bathrooms have been updated as has the flooring in main living & primary. Private Backyard with a Covered Patio & Artificial Turf offers plenty of room to relax & entertain! Corner Lot, 2 car Garage w/enclosed Laundry Room! Updates: 2024: New Roof, Garage Door Motor & Key pad, 2021: New HVAC, 2020: Exterior Paint, Interior Update inc Kitchen (see above updates), Bathrooms, Baseboards/Door, Interior Paint, Flooring. Great location & quick access to the 51. Welcome Home!

1838 N Mitchell Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$500,000 - 2Br/1Ba -  for Sale in Homeview, Phoenix
Open House
$500,000
2 Beds
1 Bath
943 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6705755
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Ready to put down roots in a vibrant, historic downtown community? This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home in the Coronado Historic District might just be what you've been searching for! With easy access to parks, shops, and restaurants, it offers the perfect blend of convenience and character. The 943 square feet feel surprisingly spacious, thanks to the open layout and clever use of separate spaces, like the cozy dining room nook. Sunlight pours in through the windows, illuminating the historic touches, such as the rounded wall corners, that give this home its unique charm. Come and make this place your own today—experience the warmth and character of the Coronado Historic District firsthand!

14406 W St Moritz Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$500,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Royal Ranch Unit 2 Parcel 9, Surprise
Open House
$500,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,391 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6700941
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover your own oasis in Royal Ranch, one of the most desirable communities in Surprise! This single-story gem features 4 beds, 2 baths, fresh paint, and has been meticulously maintained. The backyard paradise includes a pool, hot tub, waterfall, and misting system. With a 3rd car driveway, extended garage, and RV gate, there's ample parking for all. Just minutes from Surprise's attractions like Surprise Stadium, city center and Ottawa University. Don't miss out!

133 W Latona Road Phoenix, AZ 85042

$499,999
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,126 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6686503
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
New Construction! Ask about how to qualify for $0 down and a 4.99% interest rate! Ascend Communities proudly unveils Latona Fontaine, where 11 meticulously crafted lots offer unparalleled vistas of the majestic South Mountain. Introducing the Sage floorplan, a spacious retreat spanning 2126 square feet with 9 foot ceilings on both floors. Inside, the open living area seamlessly connects the living room to the dining area, offering scenic views of South Mountain through large windows. Upstairs, find four bedrooms, plus a versatile loft, catering to your family's needs. The Sage floorplan is designed for modern family living, blending comfort, style, and functionality. Finishes in this home include luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, can lighting, 40 soft-close white shaker cabinets in the kitchen, quartz countertops, gourmet kitchen backsplash, custom tile shower in the primary bathroom, black hardware throughout and pre-wiring for ceiling fans. Nestled at the intersection of Central Ave. and Baseline Rd. This vibrant community boasts an unbeatable location within walking distance of picturesque hiking trails at South Mountain, perfect for adventurous family outings. As an added delight, an exclusive pedestrian gate offers seamless access to the scenic highline canal, just a stone's throw away from your residence. Beyond nature's doorstep, enjoy seamless access to public transportation, urban conveniences, and easy connections to major freeways: Interstate 10, Interstate 17, and the 202. Embrace the best of both worlds - serene natural escapes and city accessibility, making Latona the ultimate choice for families seeking adventure and convenience.