What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 30, 2017

Last week’s economic news included readings on new and existing home sales and mortgage rates. Also released were reports on new jobless claims and consumer sentiment.

New and Existing Home Sales Lower in December

According to the U.S. Commerce Department, sales of new homes fell to 536,000 sales on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis. This reading was markedly lower than the expected rate of 595,000 sales and November’s reading of 598,000 sales. Analysts said that the drop in new home sales indicated that the housing sector is still experiencing a rocky recovery. December’s reading for new home sales was 10.4 percent lower than December’s adjusted reading of 598,000 sales. December’s reading was 0.40 percent lower year-over-year.

The median sale price of new homes was $322,500 in December, which was 4.30 percent higher than in November and 7.90 percent higher than in December 2015. The dip in sales has increased inventory of available homes to a reading of 5.80 months needed to sell all new homes presently available. Real estate pros typically consider a six-month supply of homes for sale a normal inventory.

In related news, sales of pre-owned homes were also lower in December. The National Association of Realtors® reported December sales at 5.49 million on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis; this reading was lower than expectations of 5.51 million sales and November’s reading of 5.65 million sales. The slower rate of sales may signal that home prices have topped out; there is also a very low inventory of available pre-owned homes for sale as compared to demand. Sales of pre-owned homes were 2.80 percent lower than November’s reading, which was the highest rate of existing home sales since 2007. Sales of pre-owned homes were 0.70 percent higher year-over-year.

Winter weather and holidays may have contributed to lower home sales in December, but higher prices, tough mortgage requirements and a low supply of available pre-owned homes were seen as obstacles to completed home sales for December.

Mortgage Rates Mixed, New Jobless Claims Rise

Freddie Mac reported higher fixed rates for mortgages last week. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose 10 basis points to 4.19 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage rose six basis points to 3.40 percent. The average rate for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage fell by one basis point to 3.20 percent. Discount points for fixed rate and 5/1 mortgages averaged 0.40 percent.

New jobless claims exceeded expectations of 250,000 new claims with a reading of 259,000 new claims and the prior week’s reading of 237,000 new claims. Analysts said that volatility is common with new jobless claims in January. There were few layoffs reported and good news that the new jobless claims rate remained below the benchmark reading of 300,000 new claims for the 99^th consecutive week. This milestone was last seen in 1970.

The four-week rolling average of new jobless claims fell by 2000 to an average of 245,900 new claims filed; this was the lowest reading since 1973.

Consumer sentiment rose to 98.5 which surpassed the expected reading of 98.2 percent and December’s reading of 98.1 percent.

What‘s Ahead

Multiple readings on housing and labor related data will be released this week. Scheduled releases include pending home sales, Case-Shiller Housing Market Indices and construction spending. Reports on inflation and core inflation are due along with readings on non-farm payrolls, ADP payrolls and the national unemployment rate.

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1274 E Waterview Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$489,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,582 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6647390

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This light & bright home is nestled on a spacious, golf course lot in the desirable, active adult community of Springfield. Home has an open, primary bedroom split floor plan. The kitchen has upgraded white cabinets with pull-outs, under cabinet lighting, bevel edge countertops with navy trim, breakfast bar, pantry & the refrigerator is included. The primary bedroom suite has a walk-in closet and dual sink vanity in the bathroom. Inside laundry room has sink, storage cabinets & the washer and dryer are included. More great interior features include bay windows in the living room/dining room & second bedroom and ceiling fans throughout. Low maintenance backyard has spacious patio overlooking the golf course. There's an option for 40-55 years young residents subject to Buyer verification. Springfield Adult Resort Community amenities include golf course, recreational pool, lap pool, hot tub, hobby rooms, fitness room, library and movie room. The recreation center has sport courts for tennis, pickleball, horseshoes, shuffleboard, bocce ball and basketball. The Springfield community calendar is full of activities, club meetings and many events. There is an adjoining restaurant with lounge and dining area that is a popular gathering place for residents. You are not just buying a home, you are buying a lifestyle!

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391 N 158th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$489,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,109 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6657657

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the desirable Travis Park subdivision! This stunning 2017-built Richmond American residence offers luxurious living with a contemporary flair. Situated on a single story, this immaculate property boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and an inviting open floorplan designed for seamless entertaining. Step inside and be greeted by the heart of the home - a chef's kitchen that will delight culinary enthusiasts. Adorned with sleek granite countertops, a convenient walk-in pantry, and a gas cooktop, this kitchen is as functional as it is stylish. The centerpiece is undoubtedly the expansive center island, perfect for meal preparation or casual dining, all while overlooking the spacious great room, creating an ideal space for gatherings with friends and family. The master suite is a true sanctuary, offering a serene retreat at the end of the day. Pamper yourself in the master bathroom featuring double sinks, a luxurious walk-in shower, and a private water closet. Plus, you'll find ample storage in the huge walk-in closet, ensuring plenty of space for your wardrobe and accessories. Owned and Leased solar panels on the home. This home also caters to practical needs with a 3-car tandem garage, providing ample storage for vehicles and belongings, along with an RV gate for added convenience. Outside, the entertaining backyard beckons with its low-maintenance artificial turf, offering a perfect setting for outdoor enjoyment and relaxation. Conveniently located close to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as easy access to the I-10 freeway, this home offers both luxury and convenience in one unbeatable package. Don't miss your chance to experience the epitome of modern living in this Travis Park gem.

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3536 E Oak Street Phoenix, AZ 85008

$489,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,850 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6658684

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rent to Own OR Seller Financing Opportunity with low Downpayment. 4 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms, 1850 SF home that has been completely renovated and is MOVE IN READY. Spacious Kitchen with gas cook top, all appliances and ample storage. Second kitchen outdoors with barbecue island. Wood tile plank flooring throughout. Separate laundry room with utility sink and Washer/drier.

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15740 W Ironwood Street Surprise, AZ 85374

$489,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,588 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6665750

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully upgraded home nestled in the desirable Mountain Vista Ranch neighborhood. Boasting 4 bedrooms and 2 baths, this residence exudes modern elegance with new carpeting throughout, providing a luxurious and cozy ambiance. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring freshly painted cabinets and a convenient mini wine fridge. Downstairs, gleaming wood floors enhance the stylish aesthetic, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The meticulous attention to detail extends to the downstairs half-bath, guest bath, and primary bath, where cabinets have been expertly painted and the guest bathtub and surrounding areas resurfaced. The highlight of this property is the private, sparkling gated pool, offering a perfect retreat for relaxation and entertainment. This home seamlessly combines comfort and sophistication, making it an ideal haven for the discerning homeowner.

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7230 W Townley Avenue Peoria, AZ 85345

$489,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,624 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6669847

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to 7230 W Townley Ave! Nestled in a prime location, this charming residence offers an exceptional living experience in the heart of Peoria. Boasting a versatile layout, the home features a spacious den downstairs, providing the perfect space for a home office, study area, or entertainment hub. Additionally, convenience abounds with a half bath on the main level, ensuring comfort for residents and guests alike. The open kitchen layout enhances the sense of space and connectivity. Upstairs, four generously-sized bedrooms await along with a large den. Outside, the property offers low-maintenance turf and elegant pavers. Solar loan for assumption as well. Ring doorbell to convey.

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1149 E Harbor View Drive Gilbert, AZ 85234

$489,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,521 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6672756

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Get ready to fall in love with this wonderful 3 bed, 2 bath home in the Wind Drift lake community in Gilbert! Step inside to find formal living & dining room, plantation shutters, vaulted ceilings, neutral paint, cozy family room, and tons of natural light. The updated kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, large breakfast bar w/pendant lighting, pantry, and mosaic back-splash. Continue into delightful master suite that offers beautiful bath w/mosaic accents, step-in shower, dual sinks, and separate tub. Outside, relax in the covered patio w/extended paver or entertain yourself playing with your personal putting green. Don't wait to see this beautiful home!

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2016 N Mcallister Avenue Tempe, AZ 85288

$489,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,547 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6673485

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Indulge in the perfect blend of modern convenience and classic charm in this inviting 3-bedroom home, complete with a family room and bonus room, nestled in a community without the constraints of an HOA. Revel in the warmth of updated wood flooring that graces the interior, complemented by a kitchen transformation in 2019. A newer roof and HVAC system speak to the meticulous care and thoughtful upgrades this home has received. Embrace the beauty of natural light through sunscreen and dual-pane windows and the practicality of an RV gate adds to the appeal. Enclosed by block fencing, the backyard becomes a private retreat. This residence is not just a home; it's a testament to thoughtful updates, no HOA restrictions, and a lifestyle that seamlessly blends comfort and style!

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1250 N Abbey Lane Chandler, AZ 85226

$489,900

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,956 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6681966

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to the epitome of modern living at Rhythm, a gated community designed for resort-style luxury. Step into this impeccable move-in-ready condo boasting 2 bedrooms plus a loft and 2.5 baths. Upon entry, you're greeted by an expansive open great room seamlessly blending the kitchen, dining, and family areas. The kitchen is a chef's dream with its spacious island, corner window, and sleek stainless steel appliances. Entertain effortlessly in the family room, equipped with surround sound and offering access to one of two balconies, perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or evening breeze. Upstairs, discover a versatile loft area leading to the second balcony, strategically dividing the master suite from the second bedroom and bathroom. Your two-car garage boasts epoxy floors, adding a touch of sophistication to your parking space. Indulge in the community's lavish amenities, including lap and additional pools, a splash pad, full gym, basketball court, and outdoor entertainment areas featuring dining spaces, lounging areas, BBQs, fire pits, and TVs. Plus, there's even a dedicated dog park for your furry friends to enjoy. Convenience meets luxury with this prime location offering swift access to top-notch restaurants, shopping destinations, and major freeways. Experience the ultimate in resort-style livingwelcome home!

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5249 W Lydia Lane Laveen, AZ 85339

$489,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,222 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6684943

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this lovely home on a large lot. This single-story home boasts 2,222 square feet of living space, three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, a spacious primary bedroom with a large ensuite and a huge walk-in closet. Secondary bedrooms have walk-in closets. The oversized kitchen features granite countertops, DOUBLE OVENS, lots of cabinets and storage space, stainless steel appliances, gas stove top, and walk-in pantry. The stainless refrigerator conveys! The open concept great room floorplan is modern connecting the kitchen, dining, and living room areas. This home has beautiful tile floors, 2'' wood like blinds, coffered ceilings, a 3-car tandem garage with epoxy floor, soft water loop, a large grassy backyard with RV gate, and a service door leading to the backyard.

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2423 Oak Hill Street Sierra Vista, AZ 85650

$489,900

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,199 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6692035

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning two-story 2200 Sq. Ft. Custom built home in P.D.S Country Club ( NO H.O.A.) 3 Bedroom 2 Bath with Loft office area. New remodeled Kitchen with many upgrades, Granite counter tops/Oak pull out cabinets, Bar counter with wine rack. Samsung Appliances. Upgraded light fixtures/ceiling fans through out. Master bedroom walks out to it's own cozy sitting terrace, overlooking the Golf Course #2 fairway and large Pond. Spa bath complete with jet tub his and hers vanity sinks. Guest quarters with private patio.

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55460 N Vulture Mine Road Wickenburg, AZ 85390

Open House

$489,900

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,627 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6678239

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream oasis in Wickenburg, Arizona. nestled on 1.135 acres of picturesque desert landscape, with plenty of room for a horse set up to be built, or a generous sized rv garage/shop, the possibilities are endless. With its open-concept floor plan, this two bedroom/two bathroom 1,627 sq ft home is perfect for social and family gathering, along with the spacious fenced-in back yard and covered patio it is perfect for outdoor entertainment. The home also has seller-owned solar for huge saving cost! The location of this property is out of town limits yet close to town: 5 minutes from Safeway, 10 minutes to all the roping arenas in town.

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17621 W Caribbean Lane Surprise, AZ 85388

$489,888

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,091 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6673621

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully maintained home was given a fresh coat of exterior paint in April 2023 and new exterior lighting, to go along with fresh interior paint, updated kitchen appliances, new blinds, light fixtures, carpet and main living area tile in 2022. It features an open concept floor plan with a formal living and dining room, spacious kitchen with TONS of storage and island. The kitchen opens to a large family room. There are 2 bedrooms off the kitchen along with an indoor laundry room that opens to the garage and separate guest bathroom. Off the family room is a large office with built-in shelves. The large primary bedroom features a large linen closet, dual sinks, private water closet and large walk in closet. Outside there is a covered patio, play pool and large yard. MOVE-IN READY!

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