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.

19851 W Flower Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$470,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,304 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6636252
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
2%-3% in seller concessions available to the buyer to apply towards closing costs or interest rate buy down. Call Your agent right now. With an impressive split floor plan - 4 beds, 2 baths, and a 2-car garage on a spacious lot, this homes offers a seamless open layout for social harmony. Revel in the details, including tile flooring, a soothing color palette, and an abundance of natural light throughout. The kitchen features black appliances, granite counters, recessed lighting, a pantry, and an island with a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom boasts a HUGE walk-in closet and a private bathroom with dual sinks. The backyard is a blank canvas for your personal touch and room for a pool. Garage refrigerator included as well. Welcome home!

37063 W Oliveto Avenue Maricopa, AZ 85138

$470,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
3,618 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6648485
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Embark on a serene suburban journey at 37063 W Oliveto in Maricopa's Sorrento community. This 5-bed home, with a loft radiates modern family living. Upstairs, find elegantly renovated bathrooms with countertops and sinks, complemented by fresh cabinets and stylish mirrors. The kitchen, the heart of this home, features an enhanced island and beautiful granite countertops. Outside, a private pool and oasis, perfect for relaxation and entertainment, with north/south exposure for year-round enjoyment. Sorrento offers a close-knit community with amenities like biking paths, a playground, and a tennis court, balancing tranquility and convenience. This home isn't just a residence; it's a haven for a fulfilling, balanced lifestyle. Join the vibrant Sorrento community.

1233 S 16th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85007

$470,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,750 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6659031
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Brand new construction near Downtown Phoenix with close access to I17 and I10 freeways. Approximately 15 minutes from Sky Harbor airport. This is a 4bedroom 2bathroom approximately 1750SF home with a spacious open concept layout. Home also comes with a two car garage with a 50amp receptacle for Electric Vehicle charging. Bedrooms are spacious and all come with light/fan fixtures. Home has a covered patio with fan/light fixture already installed, it has a sizeable backyard. Backyard is an open canvas where the new owner can design their own landscape or even put in a swimming pool.

11130 W Dana Lane Avondale, AZ 85392

$470,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,382 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6665526
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Huge Price Reduction! 3 Bed/Plus LARGE Den/ Single Level w/Pool & 3 Car Garage has an open flowing floorplan w/lots of room! The Custom Security door greets you! The Formal Dining Rm sits separate from the step down spacious living rm! A large Family Rm is open to the Kitchen w/an island/Breakfast Bar/Breakfast Area & Pantry!Laundry rm is off the kitchen for convenience! Arcadia leads out to the Patio & Large Yard w/Pool! Good Sized Master Bedrm has a door leading out to the Patio! Master Bath has double sinks/separate Tub & Shower & Walkin Closet! 2 Secondary Bedrms & a Double Door Entry Den(4th Bdrm-No Closet)The Hall Bath w/Double Sinks/Separate Rm for the Toilet & Bath for Privacy! Round out the interior!The Backyard offers many options as it is a blank slate w/Pool! Call Now

18455 N 167th Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$470,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
2,061 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6687490
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your amazing 3 bedroom (plus a den) / 2 bath home in the very desirable Bell West Ranch subdivision in Surprise. Wonderful open floorpan features a great room perfect for entertaining. Nicely remodeled with vinyl wood plank flooring throughout. Kitchen is designed with white quartz countertops, white painted cabinets, and stainless appliances. Modern style ceiling fans and lighting fixtures are updated throughout the home. The 3 car garage provides ample storage. Very large backyard with RV gate and RV parking. With convenient access to shopping, dining, and entertainment, this home offers the ideal combination of comfort and convenience.

8031 W Monterosa Street Phoenix, AZ 85033

$470,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,920 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6694053
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover the beauty of Phoenix, Arizona through this exquisite property that embodies elegance and comfort. Featuring four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a stunning diving pool, this home is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories

22462 N 180th Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$470,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,895 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6699748
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Bring all your toys! This 3bed/2.5bath/1,895sqft Courtland home has everything you need! Premium corner lot includes extra parking to store your RV or 5th wheel (HOA APPROVED!) Tandem 3-car garage boasts plenty of room for your workshop, boat or UTV. Upon entering, you'll notice the upscale wood look tile, modern paint & updated light fixtures throughout. Entertain your friends & family in the open concept floorplan. Upgraded kitchen is equipped with double ovens, electric cooktop & large island. Unwind in your personal spa. Gazebo, artificial turf & pavers make for a low maintenance backyard. Walking distance to Copper Park! Community pool, splash pad, pickleball & basketball courts, baseball & soccer fields, dog parks, the list goes on! Don't miss the chance to own your dream home!

3131 N Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85012

$470,000
1 Bed
1.5 Baths
822 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6386350
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
*Construction Completed* 3.5% buyer incentive can be used towards rate buy down, upgrades, closing costs, or combo of those! Introducing Edison Midtown Phase 2 with 60 new construction condominiums. This spacious 1 bedroom/1.5 bath condo offers an open floor plan with ten ft. ceilings, large master bedroom with ensuite bathroom, and a guest powder room. The chefs kitchen features expansive cabinetry, quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances including a gas range. Edison Midtown features incredible amenities for that perfect Urbanite lifestyle. A beautiful 50' lap pool, 2000 sq. ft. fitness center and lounge, and gated parking garage.

13537 W Banff Lane Surprise, AZ 85379

$470,000 - 4Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Litchfield Manor Parcel 10, Surprise
Open House
$470,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
2,261 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6702209
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this cozy home, designed with a neutral color scheme. Enjoy the warmth of a fireplace on chilly evenings and relax in the primary bathroom with double sinks and a separate tub and shower. The spacious primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet for ample storage. The kitchen, featuring an island and stainless steel appliances, is perfect for cooking enthusiasts. A walk-in pantry ensures plenty of storage space. Step outside to the covered patio and fenced backyard for outdoor dining or relaxation. Recent updates like new flooring and fresh paint enhance the appeal of this home. Experience comfortable and stylish living with convenient features for a modern lifestyle.

7908 S 7th Way Phoenix, AZ 85042

$470,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Villages At Verona, Phoenix
Open House
New
$470,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,734 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6704266
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful 3-bedroom property located in Villages at Verona is the one you've been looking for! Prepare to be impressed by an enchanting open layout featuring tile flooring, a soothing palette, recessed lighting, and sliding glass doors merging the indoor with the outdoor living. The fabulous kitchen boasts chocolate-stained cabinets adorned with crown moulding, subway tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, a pantry, and a center island with a breakfast bar. The main retreat offers soft carpet in all the right places, a private bathroom with dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. Enjoy a glass of your favorite drink and relax in the quaint backyard with a covered patio! This gem won't disappoint!

9551 E Redfield Road Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$470,000 - 2Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Redfield Park Condominiums, Scottsdale
Open House
$470,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,111 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6687019
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Looking for a move-in ready, turnkey townhome? Well you have found it! Check out this adorable, freshly painted townhome in prime Central Scottsdale location... with a recent price improvement too! The gated Redfield Park townhome community is located in 85260, which is in the heart of all that Scottsdale has to offer. This location is minutes from Gateway Trail with miles of beautiful Sonoran Desert hiking, or a short trip to Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter for high end boutique shopping and fine dining, or just a quick trip down the 101 freeway to Salt River Fields, Talking Stick Casino, or Butterfly Pavilion. This meticulously maintained townhome boasts 2 spacious bedrooms and 2.5 baths, and a host of recent upgrades, including fresh paint throughout: a blank canvas, awaiting your personal touches. Step through the private front courtyard entryway, as you are greeted by gleaming hardwood floors and soaring 9+ ft ceilings and a natural light filled interior. The main level showcases a seamless flow from the oversized great room into the gourmet kitchen, ideal for entertaining guests. Revel in the culinary delights of the open-concept kitchen, featuring a generous granite countertop bar perfect for casual dining or entertaining family and friends. This kitchen also offers plenty of storage and pantry space, complemented by a suite of modern appliances, custom tile backsplash and recessed lighting. Step outside to the ample sized North facing flagstone patio for coffee in the morning or enjoying a relaxing afternoon in the shade. Upstairs, are you going to find two ample sized bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a conveniently located laundry room. Looking for tons of storage for your car and toys? This 2 car tandem garage offers ample space for all the above... And again, just steps from the heated community pool, this unit is in a prime location within the community. Welcome home to luxurious living at its finest in Redfield Park.

613 W Park Avenue Chandler, AZ 85225

$470,000 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in College Park 6, Chandler
Open House
$470,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,728 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6693730
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Spacious haven without the constraints of an HOA! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home boasts a sprawling living space of 1,728 square feet, enhanced by a den and family room. Inside is a formal living and dining rooms. The kitchen offers a separate eating area, perfect for casual meals or morning coffee. Outside, the covered back patio provides a serene retreat overlooking the low-maintenance yard. With block fencing ensuring privacy and security, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and freedom. Welcome home to a lifestyle of relaxed living and endless possibilities.