What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 2, 2017

Last week’s economic reports were in short supply due to the Christmas holiday. Events reported included Case-Shiller home price indices, pending home sales and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims. Consumer confidence was also released.

CaseShiller Readings Indicate No Slowdown in Home Price Gains

Case-Shiller’s October readings for its home price indices showed continued growth in home prices. In spite of rising home prices and mortgage rates, high demand for homes and slim supplies of homes for sale continued to fuel higher home prices.

According to Case-Shiller’s national home price index for October, home prices rose 5.60 percent on an annual basis as compared to September’s reading of 5.40 percent. The 20-city home price index rose to 5.10 percent from September’s reading of 5.00 percent. Case-Shiller’s 10-city index also gained 0.10 percent in October with a reading of 4.30 percent year-over-year.

Seattle, Washington, Portland, Oregon and Denver, Colorado had the highest year-over-year home price gains in October with readings of 10.70, 10.30 and 8.30 percent respectively. David M. Blitzer, Managing Director and Chairman of the S&P Indices Committee, said that “Home prices and the economy are both enjoying robust numbers,” but he also cautioned that rising mortgage rates and home prices growing faster than wages continue to pose obstacles for some home buyers. The Federal Reserve is expected to raise its federal funds rate in 2017, which is expected to prompt rising mortgage rates.

Mortgage Rates Mixed, Pending Home Sales Fall

Pending home sales fell 2.50 percent in November. Analysts said that post-election reaction helped to drive mortgage rates higher, which made homes less affordable for first-time and moderate-income buyers; Sellers and buyers may have postponed decisions to sell or buy as they waited for volatile post-election responses to ease.

According to the National Association of Realtors®, pending home sales fell to their lowest level in almost a year with an index reading of 107.30 in November. September’s reading was 110.00. The holiday season and rising mortgage rates were seen as contributing to fewer pending home sales.

Freddie Mac reported the ninth consecutive week that fixed rate mortgages rose. In the final mortgage rates survey for 2016, the average rate for a 30-year mortgage rose two basis points to 4.32 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was three basis points higher at 3.55 percent. 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rates averaged 3.30 percent, which was two basis points lower than the prior week. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for all three mortgage types.

New jobless claims were lower last week with a reading of 265,000 new claims filed. Analysts had expected 270,000 new claims filed based on the prior week’s reading of 275,000 new claims filed.

In spite of rising home prices and mortgage rates, consumer sentiment was higher than expected in December with a reading of 113.70 as compared to expectations of 110.00 and November’s reading of 109.40.

Whats Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic reports include Labor Department releases on Non-Farm Payrolls, and the national unemployment rate. ADP payrolls and weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will also be released. Financial markets are closed today in observance of New Year’s Day.

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17798 W Running Deer Trail Surprise, AZ 85387

$465,995
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,040 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6658921
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This single level Saphire is so inviting and well thought out. The home features 4 Beds, 3 Baths with a bonus den/teen room and a 3-car garage. The Sapphire floor plan welcomes guests with pavers and a covered entry. Off the foyer, you'll find two bedrooms and a full bath. Heading towards the great room you will find the fourth bedroom and den/teen room with a dedicated bath. The home features 9 ft ceilings, 8'6'' paneled interior doors and an extended entry which leads to an open layout kitchen featuring a large upgraded center island, 42-inch upper cabinets, gas SS oven range and a convenient dining area. The great room is nicely sized with a center-meet double sliding door giving the space a light and open feel gracefully leading to the covered patio. The split floor plan features an owner's suite with two walk-in closets and an attached bath. Located in the fantastic community of Desert Oasis features parks, playgrounds and a community pool. Close to the new Frys marketplace with convenient access to the Loop 303 and US-60, nearby Lake Pleasant, Surprise Stadium, Wildlife Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park in the fast-growing NW Valley. This beautiful home is done right and has so much to offer!

40930 W Agave Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

$465,990
4 Beds
3 Baths
2,142 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6641288
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
START PACKING... It's the Castellano.. This home has 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 3 car garage. Large walk-in shower at owner's bath. Multi slide door that leads out to the covered patio perfect for entertaining. Gas range for the cook in the family. Benton painted white cabinets with 42'' kitchen uppers and pull out trash drawer with two bins. DT One Quartz Evening Gray countertops in the kitchen and at the enhanced kitchen island. DT Marble Attache Matte kitchen backsplash and stainless steel undermount kitchen sink. 8' tall interior doors throughout the home. Upgrade flooring includes MZ Norwood Oak 6x24 tile in all areas of the home except bedrooms/closets. Gas drop to dryer, gas stub for BBQ, 8' garage door, garage service door and so much more.

12565 N 175th Drive Surprise, AZ 85388

$465,900 - 3Br/2Ba -  for Sale in Sarah Ann Ranch Unit 2, Surprise
New
$465,900
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,836 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6688259
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful property nestled on a desired corner lot! This gem displays a well-maintained front yard and a 2-car garage for your vehicles. The delightful interior features a spacious open floor plan, highlighting tall ceilings, a soothing palette, tile flooring, and soft carpet in all the right places. The kitchen is fully equipped with ample counter space, a walk-in pantry, rich wood cabinetry, recessed lighting, and an island with a breakfast bar, great for morning conversations. Double doors reveal a generous main retreat, offering a private bathroom with dual sinks and a large walk-in closet. Out the back, you'll find a covered patio for relaxing evenings after a busy day. Conveniently situated near schools, shopping, and parks. Stop searching!

1131 E Lowell Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85295

$465,900
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,575 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6673558
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The interior boasts an inviting open floorplan, encompassing 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a 2-car garage. Revel in the charm of beautiful wood and tile flooring, complemented by a tasteful two-tone paint scheme. The well-appointed kitchen includes a pantry, and all bedrooms feature spacious walk-in closets, with the master bedroom boasting an impressive two walk-in closets. Updated blinds and ceiling fans enhance each bedroom. Enjoy the home's North/South exposure and take advantage of its proximity to a playground, tennis courts, and an elementary school within walking distance. Spectrum, a highly coveted community in Gilbert, offers convenient access to amenities such as the 202 Expressway, San Tan Mall, Old Town Gilbert, golf courses, and much more!

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