What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – September 12, 2016

Few economic reports were released last week due to the Labor Day Holiday. The Federal Reserve released its Beige Book Report, which documents anecdotes shared with the Fed by its regional business contacts. A job openings report, weekly jobless claims and Freddie Mac’s survey of mortgage rates was also released.

Fed’s Beige Book: Approaching Election Dampens Business Growth

According to the Federal Reserve’s survey of business contacts within its 12 districts, November’s election is causing business owners to take a “wait and see” position regarding expansion plans. Commercial real estate contacts in several Fed districts cited modest projections for sales and construction for the second half of 2016. The Bank of Canada supported Fed contacts’ view of modest growth; it characterized U.S. business growth as “less certain.”

Analysts review the Beige Book report for indications of how the Fed may adjust its monetary policy including whether or not to raise the target federal funds rate. The Beige Book report did not reveal any compelling evidence for the Fed to raise rates before year-end, but Fed Chair Janet Yellen said in a recent statement that economic conditions were strengthening and favored a rate hike before year-end.

November’s election will likely delay any rate hike until December. Fed policymakers have repeatedly said that a combination of economic trends, current readings and news reports contribute to decisions relating to interest rates and other monetary policy issues.

Job Openings Rise, New Jobless Claims Drop

July job openings rose from June’s reading of 5.60 million openings to 5.90 million openings to hit an all-time high.  New jobless claims fell from 263,000 new claims to 259,000 new claims. The Labor Department also reported that hires increased from 5.17 million to 5.23 million in June. These readings are further indications of strengthening job markets and general economic growth.

Mortgage Rates Lower

Freddie Mac reported lower average mortgage rates last week; the average rate for a 30-year mortgage was two basis points lower at 3.44 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage was one basis point lower at 2.76 percent. The average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage was two basis points lower at 2.81 percent. Discount points averaged 0.60, 0.50 and 0.40 percent respectively.

What’s Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic reports include readings on retail sales, national inflation and consumer sentiment.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

8655 W Alvarado Road Phoenix, AZ 85037

$460,000
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,819 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6651919
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful Home in a great neighborhood with private pool for the hot summer! Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, living room, family room, open floor plan with vaulted ceiling, tile and wood floors, 3 car garage, cover patio, ramada, kitchen with island, new paint, close to schools, park , shopping and 101 & I-10 Freeways.

22348 N Braden Road Maricopa, AZ 85138

$460,000
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,912 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6654144
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This remarkable home is situated in the renowned golf community of Rancho El Dorado, offering a high-end resort ambiance with scenic walking paths, serene lakes, and a variety of dining options and nearby shopping. Located in the ever-growing areaof Maricopa, this Adorable 5 Bed/3 full Bath home is move in ready! Open floor concept, with spacious backyard, landscaped with beautiful green grass, perfect for entertaining! Upstairs features a loft with built in desks and entertainment area. Located near shopping and amenities.

5209 N 24th Street Phoenix, AZ 85016

$460,000
2 Beds
2 Baths
1,192 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6658777
Property Type Apartment
Price Type --
Don't miss this charming 2 bed/2 bath tucked away in the serene little community of Cloisters in the heart of Biltmore! Light and bright this property features an open floor plan with lots of windows, laminate flooring and fresh paint throughout. You will also find all new cabinetry, quartz countertops, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and upgraded fixtures and lighting throughout. The well maintained community is beautifully landscaped and offers amenities such as tennis courts, fitness center, and two pools, spa, tea room, and walking path. And all of this within a short walk to tons of shopping and great places to eat!

21233 N 30th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85027

$460,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,750 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6659219
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful north Phoenix home in a great location! Luxury vinyl plank flooring and new interior paint provide a bright, neutral landscape for you to personalize. An Arizona room makes a perfect sitting area with it's own mini split, office or gym space. Backyard with grass, patio and paved sitting area. White cabinets in the kitchen and new fixtures have modernized this great home. No neighbors behind, backs to grass field. Additionally, the inclusion of solar panels- OWNED, new Ecobbe thermostat and a Tesla charger highlights the home's commitment to sustainability and modern technology, offering both energy efficiency and convenience for electric vehicle owners. Overall, this property presents an appealing combination of comfort, style, and practicality.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.