What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 15, 2016

Last week’s economic news included reports on job openings, retail sales and recurring reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. Job openings and hiring increased, which provided further evidence of stronger economic conditions. Retail sales were flat in July, new unemployment claims dropped and mortgage rates changed little.

Labor Reports Suggest Stronger Economic Trends

The Labor Department reported more job openings in June with 5.60 openings as compared to 5.50 million job openings in May. According to the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey, 5.13 million workers were hired in June as compared to May’s reading of 5.15 million hires. June’ JOLTS report also showed that voluntary quits were nearly double the rate of quits during the worst part of the recession. Analysts consider quits an indicator of worker confidence in job markets; in times when jobs aren’t easily found, workers are more likely to stay with current jobs rather than risking uncertainties associated with quitting.

New jobless claims were lower with 266,000 new claims filed against the prior week’s reading of 267,000 new claims filed and expectations of 265,000 new claims filed. Last week’s reading continued a long streak of new jobless claims under 300,000 per week. Labor market trends impact housing markets, as prospective homebuyers typically consider job security as a significant factor in decisions to buy homes.

Mortgage Rates Show Little Change

Freddie Mac said that average mortgage rates held near steady readings last week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose by two points to 3.45 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was also two basis points higher at 2.76 percent and rates for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage averaged 2.74 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for all three loan types reported. Consistently low mortgage rates help to ease concerns caused by rapidly rising home prices caused by short supplies of available homes.

Consumer sentiment fell short of the expected index reading of 91.50 with a reading of 90.40 but surpassed July’s index reading of 90.00. Participants in the University of Michigan Survey cited concerns over increasing prices coupled with slow income growth. Analysts said that consumer participants had grown acclimated to low mortgage rates, which may have offset consumer concerns about stagnant wages and higher prices.

What’s Ahead

This week’s scheduled economic releases include the National Association of Home Builders Housing Market Index, Commerce Department Consumer Price Index and Core CPI reports along with weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims.

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2682 N 158th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$460,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,824 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6665928

Property Type Single Family Residence

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Now here's a really nice home, situated on a cul-de-sac lot, and priced to sell. This is the ever-popular Newport model offering: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, office, open concept living and more. The main suite is spacious with roomy bath and built-ins in the closet. All tile floors thru-out. The lot is connected to common area, so there's no walls to make you feel closed in. This is a well-cared for home that will be sure to please.

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17719 N 113th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85378

$460,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,934 SqFt

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MLS # 6663313

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Welcome to the Gated Community of Canyon Ridge West! This stunning home offers privacy with no neighbors behind and boasts a sparkling pool with a soothing waterfall feature, along with a convenient RV gate and added parking for all your outdoor storage needs. Inside, vaulted ceilings with tubular skylights and neutral tile floors create a spacious ambiance. The flexible layout includes a private den and ample living space. New HVAC in 2024! *Edited Neutral paint photos added.

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2150 W Alameda Road Phoenix, AZ 85085

$460,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

1,861 SqFt

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MLS # 6667331

Property Type Townhouse

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Lovely Townhome Ideally Situated in the Sought After Gated Community of Villagio at Happy Valley. This well-kept home boasts 4bds/3.5ba with the primary suite having its own balcony to enjoy Arizona's beautiful weather. Gourmet kitchen offers granite countertops, stainless steel appliance package, and breakfast bar that provides ample seating and overlooks your great room - ideal for entertaining! Enjoy community amenities that include a community pool, spa, BBQs, and spacious landscape areas. Prime location that has easy highway access to I-17, minutes from local attractions that include The Shops at Norterra, Desert Ridge MarketPlace, and Outlets at Anthem.

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4217 W Barbara Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85051

$460,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,064 SqFt

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MLS # 6668378

Property Type Single Family Residence

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Discover the allure of this tastefully updated single-story home with no HOA! It displays a desert front yard, a 2-car garage, an RV gate, and a private courtyard for welcoming guests. You'll love the spacious living areas filled with ceiling fans, recessed lighting, and one with a brick-wall fireplace and outdoor access. The home exudes charm with fresh paint, chic light fixtures, and wood-plank flooring. The kitchen provides SS appliances, granite counters, white cabinetry, a breakfast nook, a walk-in pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar. Retreat to the generous main suite, showcasing designer's paint, backyard access, a dedicated bathroom, and a walk-in closet. Plunge into the diving pool during hot weather days, and it is perfect for year-round entertainment. Visit now

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