Little Change in Rates
While investors continued to closely watch the events in the Middle East, there were few new developments there during the week. As a result, this week's important economic data had the greatest influence on mortgage rates. Daily volatility was high as investors reacted to the major economic reports, but mortgage rates ended the week essentially unchanged.
Much stronger than expected economic data during the week caused investors to prepare for the possibility that the economy is growing more rapidly than expected. The Chicago PMI manufacturing index rose to the highest level since July 1988, and the ISM Services index rose to the highest level since August 2005. Weekly Jobless Claims dropped to the lowest level since May 2008. Meanwhile, the Fed's Beige Book reported that many companies were passing through price increases due to rising commodity prices. As expected, mortgage rates reacted to the data by moving higher.
The results from Friday's Employment report were strong, but they did not exceed expectations. Against a consensus forecast for an increase of 200K jobs, the economy added 192K jobs in February. The Unemployment Rate declined to 8.9% from 9.0% in January. The gains were strong nearly across the board, with the exception of the government sector. Over the longer-term, the private sector must produce new jobs to sustain a recovery, so strength in the private sector was a good sign for the future. Average Hourly Earnings, a proxy for wage growth, fell short of expectations, remaining unchanged from January. Some investors were prepared for a much higher jobs number, and the on target results prompted a reversal of the rise in mortgage rates from earlier in the week.
About The Utah Finance Guru!
- Cindee D. Stone
- Loan Officer Interview Q and A: How long have you been in the mortgage business? I have been in the mortgage industry for over 18 years. I have been very blessed and fortunate to have worked with so many wonderful people! How has the mortgage industry changed since you started, and what would you expect in the future? The mortgage industry and changed so much over the last few years. And, continues to change on a daily basis. It is very important to have a loan officer that has the experience to guide you through the process with success. What can borrowers do to insure a smooth mortgage underwriting process? The most common issue during the loan process is getting all of the documents from the borrowers. It is so different now and so much more is needed. This allows us to see the entire picture and make sure it all goes as smooth as possible. What provides you with the most satisfaction in your job as a Loan Officer? Even though the mortgage industry is harder these days, it will never take away the satisfaction and happiness with assisting someone getting into the home of their dreams! Or, helping a homeowner refinance and save money.
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